This specialist course is aimed at creative professionals who would like to expand their career opportunities internationally.
Students will gain confidence and learn how to explain their work in English with conviction. They will be exposed to and gain an understanding of the international art market, and how to access it. Also, they will learn how to create a career development plan.
During the mornings, students will attend English classes focusing on the necessary language and vocabulary for creative professionals. In the afternoons, there will be seminars or workshops on career orientation, the legal and business aspects of being an artist, meetings with industry professionals, and practical exercises for writing powerful biographies, artist statements, gallery applications and portfolio creation.
Sample Plan of Afternoon Activities and Workshops
Week 1. The Business of Being An Artist
Day 1. Introduction
- Artists/designers/illustrators – who we are and what we do
- Personal artistic goals and achievements
- Development options
- The international art market and how it works
Day 2. Strategy
- Business strategy and personal branding
- Pricing
Day 3. Field trip to an auction house
Day 4. Marketing in the art world
- Targeting the right audience
- Social media and promotion
- Side projects
Day 5. Legal aspects
- Copyright and intellectual property
- Negotiation
- Contracts
- Commissions and fees
Weekend – Optional London sightseeing tours
Week 2. Professional Image and Branding
Day 1. Your Bio
- Writing a successful artist biography
- Basic principles
- Clichés
- Objectives
Day 2. Your Artist statement
- Purpose
- Tips
- Types
Day 3. Field trip to various galleries
Day 4. Your Portfolio
- Options
- Mistakes
- Benefits
Day 5. Meet an artist – Q&A
Weekend – optional activities and excursions to various locations (e.g. seaside, historical places, grand gardens, etc).
Week 3. Professional Opportunities (Optional)
Day 1. How to get a gallery representation/exhibition
- Methods
- No-nos
- Advice
Day 2. Competitions and residences
- How do they work?
- Making a strong application
- Benefits
Day 3. Meet a gallery owner with a chance to showcase portfolios and Q&A
Day 4. The Virtual Market
- Online platforms selling art
- How they work
- Development strategy
Day 5. Conclusion
- The secret to success
- Curating/mentoring
- Networking
