A few weeks ago, there was some rather intense discussion on the listserve about reintroducing different scales of membership. This was proposed as a way to enhance our 'public image' as a professional organization, as well as giving our members recognition for their standard or work, and in some cases a goal to aspire to. Since that discussion there has been a great deal of behind the scenes work on the same subject. The Board appointed an ad hoc committee to discuss it, and the results (as voted by the Committee and ratified unanimously by the Board) can now be announced. The levels and definitions are as follows:

#1) Associate Member:

Any non-artist interested in astronomical art or space art. Dues $40.

#2) Artist Member:

Any member who produces astronomical art or space art in any medium or discipline whether as a student, amateur, semi-professional or professional. Dues $45.

#3) Fellow Member:

Artists/ illustrators, who will either have submitted their work to a jury, or have been recommended to this grade by at least two other "Fellow Members" because of their known contributions to our genre, and been approved by a Special Committee of Fellows. These members will be entitled to use the initials "FIAAA" after their name. Dues $50.

#4) Transition between levels:

Members of (1) and (2) may at any time apply for advancement to the next higher grade. In both cases the appropriate new fee will be payable, and in the case of (2) to (3) the criteria stated above must be met.

#5) In the above usage, the terms 'astronomical art' and 'space art’ are meant to describe astronomical and space-related themes expressed not only in painting and sculpture, but in any artistic medium or discipline, including photography and computer-aided artwork, as well as music, poetry and the performing arts, such as dance and drama.

The committee is still in session, in order to decide how Fellows should be selected. However, it is already agreed that all members will be able to take part in this process.

David A. Hardy