Artists in Their Communities Archives

Nestle In to Your Artist Community

As a student of art history, I love reading about communities of artists that evolved organically over the centuries. Oh, to have been a fly on the wall in the Cedar Tavern in the 1940s and 50s!

Oh, to have been a fly on the wall in the Cedar Tavern in the 1940s and 50s!

I believe that an artist’s work is better when there are other artists around to question, critique, challenge, and, yes, to praise.

Artists’ communities are all around. Among other spots, you’ll find artists’ communities in:

Coffee shops and bars
Residencies
Classes and workshops
Conferences and events
Online (pick your favorite spot)
Studio spaces
Creative workspaces

Search for a group where you feel at home and nestle in. If you come up empty, you can always start your own.

The Value of Community

There are at least 5 key reasons to seek out and become an active part of an artists’ community.

Nestle In to Your Artist Community Read

©Gail Haile, Setting Sun Mandala. Photo collage. Used with permission.

The Strength of Artists as a Community

I struggle for ways to acknowledge this solemn anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks. Should I ignore the date on my calendar, or try to write something profoundly moving? Usually I ignore the date in my emails and on my blog, which seems more appropriate for my audience. This year I had an idea to

The Strength of Artists as a Community Read

The Generosity of Artists

Artists are amazingly generous with their time and talents. You are among the first to respond to a disaster and to help out those in need. You give full out with our heart. Bravo! Here are a few recent artist philanthropy feats that I’d like to acknowledge.

The Generosity of Artists Read

Beware of Poisonous Relationships

The second principle of no-excuse self-promotion, according to I’d Rather Be in the Studio is: “Connections are critical to your success. To succeed, you must make an effort to meet new people and to maintain relationships.” But not all connections are equal. Some connections can be detrimental to your art, your emotional well-being, and your growth.

Beware of Poisonous Relationships Read

Jill Powers’ piece, Color in a Changing Forest, in a Live Motion performance. Photo by David Silver.

Multiply Your Exhibition Audience with Collaborative Programs

We were pitched exhibition ideas daily when I worked in art museums. When trying to decide on an exhibition schedule, we considered things such as funding sources, gallery space, scholarship, budget needs, and audience interest. But one of our biggest concerns was always: Can we program this?

Multiply Your Exhibition Audience with Collaborative Programs Read

How I Collaborate

I want Conspiracy members to be proactive and seek out relationships that will further their careers. I want that for you, too. Perhaps sharing these lists about how I collaborate in my business might trigger something for you – a way you can make collaborations work for you.

How I Collaborate Read

3 Ways to Be a Rock Star in Your Art Community

Be seen at openings, lectures, and events, and show your work – a lot! Be supportive of arts organizations and of other artists. Be a reporter.

3 Ways to Be a Rock Star in Your Art Community Read

Educate Those Who Ask for Donations of Your Art

Fiona Purdy offers a solution to artists who are bombarded with requests for donations. She shares a letter she wrote recently in response to a donation request – a letter that educates the fundraisers.

Educate Those Who Ask for Donations of Your Art Read

Kristina Bell DiTullo, Affect/Effect I (detail). Sheer and clear adhesive bandages on clear plastic shower curtain.

6 Limits for Donating Artwork

You cannot possibly donate to every organization in need, so consider and set your donating limits now to have your response ready when receiving these inquiries.

6 Limits for Donating Artwork Read

Collaborate & Advocate on Behalf of Your Art

I encourage you to stop and think about what it means to be part of a worldwide community of artists. Really. Stop now. Think about it. Even if the proclamation of National Arts & Humanities Month (October) is for the U.S., we know that national boundaries are fuzzier because of the Internet. We feel a

Collaborate & Advocate on Behalf of Your Art Read

Artists in Their Communities

The Value of Community

You're invited!