Workshops Aim To Help NoVA Artists With Professional Development

FAIRFAX, VA — Three Northern Virginia arts organizations are jointly hosting free professional development workshops for artists living and working in the DMV.

“Northern Virginia is fortunate to have an eclectic mix of emerging and established artists, as well as arts businesses and organizations of various sizes. We are proud to offer learning and networking opportunities that benefit this diverse workforce,” said Stuart Holt, president and CEO of ArtsFairfax.

Northern Virginia Local Arts Agencies is a collaboration of ArtsFairfax, Arlington Cultural Affairs, and the City of Alexandria Office of the Arts. The organization announced the following upcoming workshops on Wednesday:

Nailing the Application: A Guide to Artist Open Calls (Part 1: The Narrative)

November 14, 2024, 12:00-1:30 pm, Zoom

• Many creative opportunities from residencies to exhibitions start with an open call. How can you ensure you’re putting your best foot forward when submitting these applications? Join Part 1 of a 2-part series, focusing on the written components, or narrative of the application. Learn from panelists where to find open calls for art exhibitions and residencies, how to determine if an opportunity is right for you, and common misconceptions about writing. This virtual workshop will be facilitated by the New York Foundation for the Arts. Time for Q&A will be provided.

Nailing the Application: A Guide to Artist Open Calls (Part 2: Work Samples)

November 19, 2024, 12:00-1:30 pm, Zoom

• Many creative opportunities- from residencies to exhibitions- start with an open call. How can you ensure you’re putting your best foot forward when submitting these applications? Join Part 2 of a 2-part series, focusing on the work sample portion of applications. Panelists will offer tips for compiling and presenting your work samples, common errors reviewers see among portfolios, and more! This virtual workshop will be facilitated by the New York Foundation for the Arts. Time for Q&A will be provided.

Marketing for Artists and Creatives

January 16, 2025, 12:00-1:30 pm, Zoom

• This presentation will focus on how artists can professionally and creatively develop content and build their audience, both digitally and through traditional channels. Marketing expert Molaundo Jones (Director of Marketing and Community Engagement, Flushing Town Hall) will advise how to effectively utilize marketing tools in accordance with your career goals. This session, facilitated by the New York Foundation for the Arts, will cover a host of strategies and techniques. Time for Q&A will be provided.

Inside Representation: Paths to Working with Galleries

February 13, 2025, 12:00-1:30 pm, Zoom

Attaining representation is a goal for many visual artists. While it’s seen by many as a marker of success and support, it’s often unclear how to get representation. This session will focus on how to attain representation with a gallery and provide an overview of industry standards. In this panel discussion, facilitated by the New York Foundation for the Arts, you’ll hear directly from artists on their paths towards reaching this milestone. You’ll also hear from galleries to get their perspective on what factors they consider when deciding whether to represent an artist. Time for Q&A will be provided.

Meet the Funders

February 27, 2025, 12:00-1:30 pm, Zoom

• Join us for an engaging workshop where you’ll gain invaluable insights into the world of philanthropic funding! This workshop will feature a panel of representatives from regional foundations who will share their expertise on how to effectively approach potential funders, build a relationship with them, and enhance your applications. Whether you’re a seasoned grant writer or new to the philanthropic landscape, this discussion will broaden your knowledge of the tools you need to approach the philanthropic sector with confidence. Time for Q&A will be provided.

Valuing the Invaluable: Pricing Your Artwork

March 13, 2025, 12:00-1:30 pm, Zoom

• How much should you sell your artwork for? Designed for artists who want to develop or adjust their pricing to create a thriving art business. Learn about the factors that go into a profit-focused pricing strategy and the basics of getting your work to the right price point. Participants will walk away with methods they can apply to their art business or practice. This workshop is facilitated by the New York Foundation for the Arts, and time for Q&A will be provided.

Marketing Tools of the Trade

April 10, 2025, 12:00-1:30 pm, Zoom

• Co-founders Rachelle Etienne-Robinson and Stan “Substantial” Robinson of Substantial Art & Music will lead a workshop on marketing. Topics include prioritizing social media networks and management tools, leveraging analytics to grow your audience and engagement, and how to build both passive income and monetization for both visual and performing arts. Time for Q&A will be provided.

Visit ArtsFairfax.org/NVLAA to register.