VAO x FOLLOW.ART — Networking Event
Join us for a relaxed networking evening as part of the VAO x FOLLOW.ART programme, bringing together artists, curators, collectors, arts professionals and those interested in the future of contemporary art.
This is an informal opportunity to meet new people, exchange ideas and connect with others working across the visual arts. Whether you’re looking to build new relationships, discover different perspectives or simply enjoy a conversation about art, everyone is welcome.
VAA staff will also be on site, offering an opportunity to meet the team, ask questions and learn more about the work of the Visual Artists Association.
What to Expect
- Meet the people shaping contemporary art — Connect with artists, curators, collectors and arts professionals from across the sector.
- Make meaningful connections — An informal space to expand your network, share ideas and discover potential collaborations.
- Explore new ways to support artists — Hear different perspectives on how audiences, organisations and individuals can engage more actively with the visual arts.
- Chat with VAA & FOLLOW.ART — Meet members of both teams, ask questions and find out more about their work and opportunities for artists and arts professionals.
Speakers & Hosts
Evelīna Gorbačova — Head of Digital Development, FOLLOW.ART
Evelīna guides digital products for artists and arts professionals at FOLLOW.ART. With a background spanning traditional art institutions, including the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Rothko Museum, alongside experience in technology, she is interested in creative tech, new ways of supporting artists and engaging the public with contemporary art.
Veronika Gorbačova — Head of Curatorial Collaboration, FOLLOW.ART
Veronika leads the curatorial department at FOLLOW.ART, running curatorial roundtables, developing institutional partnerships and organising on-site events for artists and curators. Her work focuses on exploring different support mechanisms for visual art professionals, bringing wider audiences into contemporary art and encouraging them to become more active supporters of the people and practices behind it.
VAA Staff
Members of the Visual Artists Association team will also be on site throughout the event, providing an opportunity to meet the team and connect with the organisation.
Amy Quinn – Programmes & Marketing Coordinator
Amy Quinn, Marketing and Awards Assistant at the VAA, is an award-winning artist from the North West. Holding a First-Class Honours degree in Three-Dimensional Design, she has exhibited her work nationally and collaborated with organisations including the Festival of Making, Escape2Make, and Patagonia. With experience as an arts educator and her involvement with Northern Design Festival, she brings a passion for art, design, and marketing.
Sarah Birkenhead – Digital Marketing Executive
Sarah is a Digital Marketing Executive at the VAA, having first joined the organisation as an intern before progressing into her current role. With a degree in Business Management from the University of Chester, specialising in Marketing and Entrepreneurship, she is passionate about connecting people through creative and strategic marketing. Sarah brings over 10 years of experience in content creation, digital campaigns, and audience growth across sectors including beauty, hospitality, travel, and tattooing. Recently recognised as 1st Runner-Up for Intern of the Year at the University’s Career and Employability Awards, she combines her enthusiasm for marketing and the arts to help grow the VAA community and support artists at every stage of their careers.
Matilde Tariello – Events and Sponsorships Coordinator
Matilde brings over seven years of experience across the international art market, including roles with leading platforms such as Artsy, where she managed relationships with over 300 galleries and advised on artist development, presentation, and market strategy. Alongside her industry roles, Matilde is a guest lecturer and mentor, supporting emerging artists and students in refining their portfolios and professional practice. She brings a practical, market-informed perspective to portfolio reviews, helping creatives strengthen their artistic identity and navigate opportunities within the contemporary art world.
Friday, 10 October
Time: 1,30-2,30 pm
The Minster Building