Name: Professional Development for Artists Workshop Series
Start: 2024-09-29T10:00:00-04:00
End: 2024-09-29T12:00:00-04:00
Location: Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

Professional Development for Artists Workshop Series

This professional development workshop series is for artists who are interested in taking their careers to the next level. Whether you are curious about best practices for handling, documenting, and installing art, or craving a creative community to engage in contemporary art discourse with, we are here to help you grow.
Please register for each workshop you would like to attend:
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR ARTISTS: PHOTOGRAPHY & THE VISUAL BRAND
with Judith Soule
Saturday, July 27
10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Members $60; Nonmembers $75
Unlock the power of photography to elevate your artistic career! Through a blend of theory, hands-on practice, and insightful discussions, this program is designed to help emerging and established artists use photography to enhance their professional presence. We’ll practice technical aspects of photographing artwork and explore storytelling techniques specific to artist portfolios. We’ll also discuss strategies for defining and refining your artistic identity and leveraging online platforms to showcase artwork. Whether you’re seeking to expand your online reach, cultivate a distinctive brand, or enhance the visual presentation of your artwork, this class offers invaluable insights and practical guidance to artists of all levels.
Please bring a sample of your artwork, a camera or cell phone, and a laptop. There will be a 30-minute lunch break, so please bring along a bagged lunch.
Register → https://virginiamoca.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/virginiamoca/eventRegistration.jsp?event=16588&
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR ARTISTS: ART DIALOGUE, DEVELOPMENT & CRITIQUE
With Nadd Harvin
Sundays, September 29–October 20, 2024 (skip October 6)
10:00 AM–12:30 PM
Members $100; Nonmembers $115
In this class we will study the work and processes of artists from across the state and critically explore their motives for creating. We will learn how to “read” the work of contemporary artists to understand how to engage with, interpret, and be inspired by their intentions. We will then use this research to guide the development of personal work with our own unique concepts.
The class will be structured into three main parts. First, we'll have open group discussions in the galleries where we explore artists, techniques, practices, and inspirations. After that, we'll move into the studios to strategize and plan our individual work. Following this, we will take a week off to work on our own before reconvening to review the progress of our projects, practices, and understandings. This is an opportunity for everyone to become comfortable with critically analyzing their art and engaging with peers to refine their concepts before continuing with their practice. In the final class meeting, we'll present our work as a group, receive feedback, and discuss future projects.
This program is designed for artists of all levels who are interested in tapping into their creative community, honing their practice, and engaging in contemporary art discourse.
Register → https://virginiamoca.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/virginiamoca/eventRegistration.jsp?event=16593&
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR ARTISTS: ART HANDLING AND INSTALLATION
Saturday, November 2
10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Join Dave Culpepper, Virginia MOCA gallery and exhibitions manager, to discover the essentials of art handling and installation. Explore universal art handling techniques including how to properly pack, handle, and install two-dimensional and three-dimensional objects. We’ll discuss hardware, hangers, and tools—surveying their role in creating secure and visually pleasing displays. Learn optimal hanging heights and various wall-hanging layouts, and investigate the fundamentals of lighting to create captivating atmospheres. This comprehensive workshop empowers you with the knowledge and skills to confidently care for and install your own art.
Register → https://virginiamoca.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/virginiamoca/eventRegistration.jsp?event=16583&
Virginia MOCA is committed to ensuring that our professional practices match our values, which include accessibility and connection to community. We can offer a limited number of fee waivers for these programs to those who may need one. If you need a fee waiver, please send an email to [email protected], and we will assist you.