Signature Status with the FCA stands for a high level of excellence achieved by the individual artist. There are two types of Signature Status:

• Associate Membership (AFCA)
• Senior Membership (SFCA)

The core difference between these two levels is, while an Associate member has acheived an extremely high degree of technical skill, an SFCA is seen to have also found their own artistic voice.

Jurying for both levels of Signature Membership is done by the Selection Committee which consists of between 20 and 30 Senior Signature members. This is a jury by peers; by people who themselves have decades of experience as professional artists.

While acceptance into exhibitions is part of the process of becoming a Signature member with the Federation, having been accepted into exhibitions is not sufficent to be awarded Signature status. To be accepted into exhibitions an artist must paint at a quality level of an Active member. The level of quality expected from Signature members is considerably higher.

Intake for jury is twice per year; spring and fall. Artists may apply once per calendar year and we will accept no more that 60 applicants for every intake. Make sure to apply early to avoid dissapointment and delay.

For application deadlines please see the annually updated application form below. 

 Please find the 2024 Signature Status Application below:

(click here)

 *** PLEASE NOTE ***

due to staff shortage applications will be delayed.

Please plan in extra time and apply early.

Benefits and responsibilities associated with Signature Status can be found in the FCA Policy Manual.

If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact our Membership Coordinator via membership@artists.ca or 604-681-2740.

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Before you apply please review these videos of past year's successful applicants. This is a good indication of where your work should be before you consider applying.

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