Apply as an Institution

Thank you for your interest in joining CIMAM as an Institutional Member!

First of all, please read CIMAM’s membership criteria before applying. Institutional membership is available to museums that have been open to the public for more than 5 years. They should be not-for-profit. They should demonstrate an appropriate governance structure following the ICOM definition of a Museum*, with key museum functions (collection, conservation, research, exhibition, and mediation) undertaken by professionals.

Three key aspects of institutional membership are the modern and contemporary art focus, collection quality, and public and civic mission. Institutional applications should be evaluated based on their focus on modern and contemporary art, their mission, and their collection.

The role of modern and contemporary art in museums should be the driving force within the institution. It is vitally important that the museum produces exhibitions and programs, and has a professional team hired.

A significant collection is crucial. The collection's significance should be based on its impact on the institution's work and audience. The collection should be one of the main functions of the museum.

To be an Institutional Member, applicants must prove that the collection is factually owned in a manner that ensures it will continue to serve as a public collection and guarantees it will remain public.

Institutional membership beneficiaries are restricted to the director, curatorial, exhibitions, collection, public programs, and education staff, while administrative, registrar, development, and financial staff are excluded.

*"A museum is a not-for-profit, permanent institution in the service of society that researches, collects, conserves, interprets and exhibits tangible and intangible heritage. Open to the public, accessible and inclusive, museums foster diversity and sustainability. They operate and communicate ethically, professionally and with the participation of communities, offering varied experiences for education, enjoyment, reflection and knowledge sharing.”

Institutions willing to join CIMAM’s membership program agree to the ICOM's Museum Definition, ICOM Code of Ethics, CIMAM Ethical Clauses of Governance, CIMAM’s Principles of Deaccession and CIMAM’s Code of Ethics. Applications can be submitted at any time. You do not need to be an ICOM member to apply to CIMAM membership. For those working in institutions ruled eligible, individual membership may be an option.