Your next opportunity might not be in your home country.

For many artists, the idea of building an international career feels out of reach – something that happens to other people, in other circumstances. But the artists who have done it often say the same thing: it started with understanding how different art markets actually work, and knowing where your work fits.

What you will take away

• A clearer picture of which international markets might be right for your work and why
• An understanding of what collectors, galleries, and curators in different countries are actually looking for
• Practical first steps for building relationships and visibility in new markets
• Honest insight into what has worked, what hasn’t, and what to do differently
• What artists wish they had known earlier about taking their career international

Who is this for?

Artists at any stage who want to think more strategically about where their work could go – whether you are just starting to think internationally or ready to take concrete steps. Early-career and established artists both welcome.

Speakers

Shirley-Ann O’Neill is a Director of the Visual Artists Association and a core figure in VAA’s mentorship and artist development programmes. With extensive experience supporting artists at all stages of their careers, she works closely with artists to help them grow their practice, build visibility, and navigate the professional art world with confidence. Shirley-Ann brings a strategic, artist-centred perspective to everything she does and has a deep understanding of what it takes to build a sustainable and internationally recognised career.

Tamara Andjus is a Swiss-based artist known for her vibrant abstract figurative paintings, characterised by dynamic brushwork, layered compositions, and emotionally charged colour. Originally trained in law, she followed her lifelong passion for painting and has since exhibited across New York, Paris, London, Dubai, Barcelona, Rome, and Zurich. Represented by Fame Gallery in Zurich and Gallery Steiner in Vienna, she has built a genuinely international career while also curating exhibitions for other artists in Switzerland and engaging in humanitarian and community projects. Her work is held in private collections worldwide.

Laura O’Hare is a co-founder and Director of the Visual Artists Association, with over a decade of experience in the fine arts sector. She leads the artistic and business development of VAA and serves as Director of the Visual Art Open Prize, the Professional Artist Award, and the International Exhibition and Scholarship Prize. With an extensive network spanning arts organisations, galleries, collectors, and commercial partners, and a background as a solicitor specialising in Employment Law, Laura brings a rare combination of creative and professional expertise to supporting artists at every stage of their careers.

For any questions, feel free to contact us at events@visual-artists.org