This summer, Spudnik Press Cooperative is presenting a five-part series to support the professional development needs of our members and artists throughout Chicago. With an understanding that artists are often involuntarily required to hone seemingly disparate skills while navigating a complex network of approaches to advancing their careers, this series addresses a variety of topics around the theme “What You Didn’t Learn in Art School…”.

Seven outstanding guest presenters will cover a medley of topics including how to professionally photograph art and how build towards a viable art-based business. The series begins with a FREE panel discussion with local arts experts Britt Skaathun (Open House Contemporary), MK Meader (writer, curator) and Michael X. Ryan (artist, SAIC) in conversation regarding what it means to be a part of the emerging artist scene in Chicago.

Following the free kick-off, Spudnik Press presents evening workshops the first four Tuesdays in August with special guests Margaret Paulson (copywriter, educator, storyteller), Helen Maurene Cooper (artist, photographer), Kenny Smilovitch (Duman Entrepreneurship Center) and Shannon Downey (Pivotal Chicago). Together, this network of workshops will help fill in the gaps that weren’t quite addressed back in art school…

What You Didn’t Learn in Art School…

Part I: Finding your Audience; Gaining Recognition  
Tuesday, July 12, 6-8pm, FREE

Part II: How to Talk About Your Art
Tuesday, August 2, 6-8pm $20 ($12 members)

Part II: Documenting Your Artwork for Under $100
Tuesday, August 9, 6-9pm $20 ($12 members)

Part IV: The Start Up: A Beginning Guide to Being Self-Employed
Tuesday, August 16, 6-8pm $20 ($12 members)

Part V: Contracts for Creatives: How to Protect Yourself and Your Artwork
Tuesday, August 23, 6-9pm $20 ($12 members)