Our Helpdesk Sessions offer quick advice and personalised support for members facing specific challenges in their creative career. If there’s something you’d like to discuss in more detail, we encourage you to sign up.

These short consultations are ideal for topics such as:

• Strategic Planning
• Marketing
• Pricing Your Work
• Networking
• Tax and Finance
• Or any other focused area you need support with

After you submit your request, a member of the VAA team will be in touch via email to carry out a brief initial assessment. Depending on the nature of your query, the support will then be delivered via email, a phone call, or a Zoom session.

Please note:

• Helpdesk Sessions are subject to availability and designed for focused, one-off advice.
• We may be able to assist you straight away by sharing relevant resources.

Submit your Helpdesk inquiry here:
https://form.jotform.com/251042760618049

April 2025 Helpdesk Dates

22 April – Laura O’Hare
23 April – Shirley-Ann O’Neill

Meet the Experts

Laura O’Hare 
Laura leads the artistic and business development at the Visual Artists Association and is a founder of the VAA. She has been working in the Fine Arts sector since 2012 and is currently Director of the Visual Art Open Prize, the Professional Artist Award, and the International Exhibition and Scholarship Prize.
With an extensive background in supporting artists at all stages of their careers, Laura brings deep insight into navigating the art world, developing artist careers, and building professional relationships. Prior to working in the arts, Laura was a solicitor specialising in Employment Law for over 15 years.

Shirley-Ann O’Neill 
Shirley-Ann is a seasoned arts director, curator, and co-founder of the VAA, with over 20 years of experience supporting creatives. She is co-author of the internationally bestselling books Good Art Does Not Sell Itself and Securing Representation.
She has curated exhibitions featured by BBC, Sky News, and the International New York Times, and serves as Programme Director for the VAA CPD & mentorship offer—including the Art Sales Academy and Artist Momentum. Shirley-Ann is also the host of the Art Insider podcast and has previously been on the selection committee for the Other Art Fair London by Saatchi Art.

We’re here to support you.
If you have a quick question or need guidance on a particular issue, don’t hesitate to get in touch.