As a freelance artist, so much of our work depends on the whims of gatekeepers. Seeing myself and behaving as a business-person has given me a real sense of agency and control.
If you too would like to seize the reigns and become the CEO of your ragtag “business” here are the first 5 things I’d recommend doing…
So, you’ve got a solo show, or one in the works, and you want to make contact with some theatres to see if they’ll program it or help you develop it… but you’re feeling shy and scared and freaked out at the prospect of emailing them.
To help get you over this stumbling block, I have created a How-To Email Programmers Guide
Read MoreAt the best of times talking about your work and pitching projects can be spooky, sweaty and stressful.
A One-Pager is a single-page electronic document that contains the essential info about a creative project (in-development or complete) that serves as a “calling card” when pitching it.
You know you want to make a show. You can see what it could be and even how to get there, but you need money to make it happen!
Grant applications can be intimidating, loads of hand-wringing, sweaty work and all round overwhelming.
Read MoreIf you find yourself panicking when you think of your relatives (or strangers at various events), asking you things like: What do you do? And how’s that going? What’s the end game here?
To help you through those crunchy encounters, I've created a Guide to Talking to Your Family About Your Work, with some tips and a handy mad-lib.
Read MoreAn artist statement is a short piece of writing, that introduces an artist's work. Your artist statement is often how the public, or audiences who don't know you, will find out about what it is that you DO and what you want your ART TO DO in the world.
Read MoreI started sending cards to my various employers and colleagues a few years ago. It’s a relatively cost effective way to do something that feels good and thoughtful and fxxxing classy.
Read MoreA blurb is a 200-word (ish) description of a project, that is the basis for all other written materials about that project. It goes on your website and in emails to potential collaborators, presenters, funders. It’s easily adapted for grants and marketing copy, cut down and fleshed out.
Read More