If you are a photographer, hobbyist, photo collector, photo-book collector or simply want to learn more about photography as a fine art, the Photo Forum (formerly the Collectors Group) provides an opportunity to exchange ideas with members who have similar interests. We invite you to join us. Your support will enable you to further explore the world of photography, while making possible MoPA’s collecting activities described below, and assisting the Museum of Photographic Arts in acquiring photographs for its permanent collection.

 

HISTORY OF THE PHOTO FORUM

Originally known as the Collectors Group, the group was founded in 1998 with the mandate of supporting the collecting efforts of the museum. It is dedicated to the education of its members and the public about all aspects of the art and history of photography. The Photo Forum is a unique component of the museum. Seventy percent of dues goes directly toward the purchase of photographs. Members vote from a selection made by the director and curator to determine which photographs will be purchased and added to the collection. The remainder of membership dues supports educational events for the group.

PHOTO FORUM BENEFITS

The Photo Forum normally plans six educational events per year. Some of the events and benefits the group has enjoyed in the past are:

· Curator-led trips to national and international destinations including visits to private photography collections, commercial galleries, museums and other art-related events.
· Visits to photographers’ studios.
· Trips to national photographic print expositions.
· Private tours of MoPA exhibitions with director Deborah Klochko or curator Carol McCusker.
· Educational events featuring photographers, critics, writers, educators and dealers.
· Curator-lead photography book discussion club, with occasional visiting authors.
· The culmination of each year’s activities is the annual acquisitions meeting and dinner.

* Collectors Print Program: this provides the opportunity to start or add to your collection. The images are hand-printed photographs or archival digital prints produced exclusively for MoPA under the direction of the artist.

JOIN

$1000 per year for a couple
$500 per year for a single person

Seventy percent of membership dues goes directly toward the purchase of photographs. The remainder of membership dues supports educational events for the group. Membership dues are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

***To join the Photo Forum, you must first be a current MoPA member. Not yet a MoPA member? Join here.

Prospective Photo Forum members are invited to attend an event as a guest to more fully understand the advantages of joining. Please call 619-238-7559 x202 or email george@mopa.org to receive information on scheduled events.

Join the MoPA Photo Forum online or by calling 619.238.7559 x202.