FAQ

HOW DO I BECOME AN ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE?
Visit the MEMBERSHIP page and follow the instructions. Only persons focused on developing their art and career as an artist need apply. You do not have to make your living as an artist, but we need to know that you take the enterprise with a degree of professionalism.

AM I GUARANTEED AN ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCY?
We do our best to accommodate everyone. However, the number of artists we accept must be limited so as not to overwhelm the physical space. When we hit our cap we notify the applicant and place them on our waiting list.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MEMBER AND AN ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE?
A member can enjoy most of the same benefits as Artists-in-Residence including access to low cost health insurance, but only Artists-in-Residence can work in the BAG studios.

WHAT KIND OF WORK CAN I DO AT BAG?
Two-dimensional art such as painting, drawing, collage, and non-press print work. Three-dimensional art is also welcome but size and storage issues must be addressed prior to beginning the project. Highly toxic, annoying or flammable media or tools (such as spray paint or grinders) cannot be used.

DO I GET MY OWN SPACE?
The principle of BAG is that the space is shared. When you arrive to work you set up, and when you are done for the day, you put your materials away and clean up. There are also semi-private and private studios available.

WHAT ARE THE HOURS OF OPERATION?
BAG is open 24/7 for Artists-in-Residence. There is generally a staff person in the office from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1:00-5:00 on Sundays.

WHAT ABOUT STORAGE?
Artists store current work and supplies. Each member is given locker space in addition to access to a shared dry-storage rack that is 12” wide, and deep and tall enough to store almost any piece. Large pieces of equipment cannot be stored at BAG. BAG currently offers art storage beyond these limitations at a reasonable rate.

IS THERE LONG-TERM STORAGE FOR ART?
Yes. We have secure storage for art in the basement of the building. Both Members and AIRs can take advantage of this service. The storage area is accessible by appointment.

HOW DO I SHOW MY WORK IN THE BAG GALLERY?
Currently BAG curates shows throughout the year open exclusivley to Artists-In-Residence. To learn more about the BAG Gallery schedule and rent the BAG Gallery at a discounted rate contact Michele Jaslow at show@brooklynartistsgym.com

CAN I PLAY MY MUSIC?
All music and radio must be listened to with earphones.

CAN I BRING A FRIEND?
You can certainly bring anyone to BAG to show them your work. Guests may not do artwork or hang out. You can use a model, but you cannot leave the setup while you are not working. We do not encourage bringing children, except for a brief visit.

CHEMICALS BOTHER ME. HOW IS THE VENTILATION?
Chemicals bother everyone, and we all work together on this. We encourage the use of odorless media. We cannot allow very toxic or flammable materials. There are fans and many windows that open. The large space allows for a constant flow of good air.

HOW IS THE SECURITY?
There is a staff person present generally from 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and later during evening events. Each artist recieves a security code to access BAG and the BAG studio space. BAG staff can monitor when an artist enters and leaves the space.

HOW’S THE NEIGHBORHOOD?
The immediate neighborhood is industrial/residential. Within two blocks the neighborhood is exclusively residential. It is quite safe for walking at all hours of the day and night. Some members, of course, might feel more comfortable walking with a friend to the subway or to home, or taking a car service. Car service around Park Slope, for instance, will cost about $5.

DOES BAG OFFER PRIVATE STUDIO SPACE?
Yes. Contact Peter Wallace for availability.