What is the IAA Card?
An international identity card for professional artists, the IAA Card is available to UK artists through membership of a-n. a-n The Artists Information Company is the UK National Committee of IAA Europe and as such is the only UK organisation that can distribute the IAA Card.
The card provides free or discounted entry to galleries, museums and cultural institutions around the world. It supports lifelong learning and professional development, and provides professional artists similar access to art exhibitions, art events and art collections as that granted to researchers, art critics and journalists.
What is the IAA?
The International Association of Art (IAA/AIAP) is an non-governmental organisation working in official partnership with UNESCO (affiliated since 1954). It supports international cooperation and artistic exchange and aims to improve the economic and social position of artists. IAA Europe is one of the five cultural regions of the IAA and comprises a network of over 40 national committees that each represent professional visual artists in their countries.
Who can apply?
The IAA card is available to UK artists who have an Artist membership of a-n. It is not available to a-n Arts Organiser, Student or Organisation members.
How do I get my IAA Card?
If you are eligible, apply here: IAA Card Application Form
How much does it cost?
The IAA Card is part of your existing membership, with a small charge of £2 made to cover printing and postage.
How long does it last?
IAA Cards are currently available for 2023 to 2024. Cards are valid from date of purchase to 31 December 2024.
To reduce plastic waste, we will be encouraging members not to request a new card upon expiry. Instead, you will be able to order a new holographic date sticker for 2023/2024 which can be affixed to the front of the existing IAA Card.
Where can I use it?
Several European countries provide lists of institutions that accept the IAA Card. A list produced by the IAA is also available.
Many more institutions worldwide accept the card but not all countries keep official lists. The back of the card asks directors of institutions to grant free entry, so cardholders are advised to produce the card and see what happens.
Can I choose how my name appears on the card?
Yes. This can include initials, middle names, familiar names or professional names.
Do I need to provide a photo?
Yes. You’ll need to upload a photo during the application process. Please follow accepted conventions for passport photos – head and shoulders, plain facial expression, nothing covering your face etc. Your photo must be:
- JPEG or PNG format
- at least 400×500 pixels
- no more that 5MB in file size
Will you keep my photo on file?
No. We will delete it from our system after a maximum of 90 days.
Do I need to sign the card?
Yes. Please sign your card as soon as you receive it.
How long will it take for my card to reach me?
Please allow up to 28 days for us to process your application and post your card to you. We will endeavour to get it to you quicker than this.
What if I lose my card?
Unfortunately, you would need to purchase a replacement card.
Do I need to renew my card?
Cards expire on 31 December 2023. To reduce plastic waste, we encourage members not to request a new card upon expiry. Instead, you’ll be able to order a new holographic date sticker for 2023/2024 which can be affixed to the front of the existing IAA Card.