Artist collectives and shared studios in the Bay
Ask who holds the lease, how dues are set, what access you receive, and how a member leaves. Tour the actual workspace and check security, loading, storage, tools, ventilation, noise, and insurance expectations.
Learn how decisions are made. Does the group have a cleaning schedule, visitor policy, equipment rules, conflict process, and reserve fund? A friendly open studio night is useful, but it is not an operating plan.
The best collective makes collaboration easier without making ownership or responsibility mysterious.