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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260625T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260625T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260430T083821Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260527T204957Z
UID:10005229-1782392400-1782396000@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:OpenSpaces 2026 - Meet Our Partner Venues
DESCRIPTION:A virtual introduction to some of the spaces and partners joining the OpenSpaces 2026 global art trail \nWhether you are still deciding where to exhibit\, already have a venue secured\, or simply want to understand what an OpenSpaces exhibition looks like in practice – this session is for you. \nJoin us online to hear from a selection of our confirmed partner venues and partners. Each will introduce themselves\, share what they offer\, and answer your questions. It is an informal\, Q&A-style session – come with your questions. \nJoining us on the day: \nSEESAW – an arts and culture venue\, café and co-working space in the heart of Manchester city centre\, based in a listed building on Princess Street. Their foyer space – a large\, street-facing entrance lobby – will be available to exhibiting artists throughout November 2026. \nLongsight Art Space – an open-layout gallery and community hub in Longsight\, Manchester\, offering a flexible space with a strong community ethos. Available 2nd–16th November 2026\, with workshops and events running alongside exhibitions. \nBooks on the Walls – a characterful independent bookshop and café bar in Chester city centre. A small\, intimate space with a loyal local audience\, available throughout November 2026. \nFOLLOW.ART – a digital platform built by art world insiders\, designed to give artists and curators visibility and connection outside of traditional market structures. FOLLOW.ART will be extending the reach of OpenSpaces 2026 online\, bringing exhibitions to an international audience. \nWho this is for: Artists considering joining OpenSpaces 2026 | Artists already accepted who are exploring venue options | Artists who have secured their own venue and want to learn more about how partner spaces and businesses engage with the trail \nEvent details: Thursday 25 June 2026 | 1:00pm BST | Online – link provided upon booking | Free to attend \nFor any queries contact events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/openspaces-2026-meet-our-partner-venues/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,OpenSpaces 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/VAA-Events-Visuals-2026-3-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260630T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260630T150000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260223T181945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260525T160904Z
UID:10005222-1782828000-1782831600@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Art Café: Crossing Borders - Building an International Art Career
DESCRIPTION:Your next opportunity might not be in your home country. \nFor 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. \nWhat you will take away \n\nA clearer picture of which international markets might be right for your work and why\nAn understanding of what collectors\, galleries\, and curators in different countries are actually looking for\nPractical first steps for building relationships and visibility in new markets\nHonest insight into what has worked\, what hasn’t\, and what to do differently\nWhat artists wish they had known earlier about taking their career international\n\n  \nWho is this for? \nArtists 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. \nSpeakers\nShirley-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. \nTamara 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. \nLaura 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. \n  \nFor any questions\, feel free to contact us at events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/art-cafe-crossing-borders-building-an-international-art-career/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Art Cafe
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Art-Cafe-4-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260506T210330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T210330Z
UID:10005231-1782997200-1783000800@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Masterclass | Getting Ready: Planning\, Curating & Promoting  Your Exhibition
DESCRIPTION:Masterclass | Getting Ready: Planning\, Curating & Promoting Your Exhibition \nThursday 2 July | 13:00 BST | Online | OpenSpaces 2026 Artists \nYou’ve secured your space. Now what? \nThis practical masterclass is designed specifically for artists taking part in OpenSpaces 2026 – walking you through everything you need to plan\, curate\, and promote your exhibition with confidence. \nJoining the session is Kristen Palana\, a multidisciplinary artist\, educator\, and VAA OpenSpaces 2025 participant whose exhibition in Rome formed part of the world’s largest global art trail. Kristen brings a rare combination of artistic depth and practical teaching experience – having delivered art and design education across North America\, Europe\, Asia\, and Africa\, and to thousands of students in 191 countries online. \nShe will share what she learned from her own OpenSpaces experience\, what she would do differently\, and the practical steps that made her exhibition work – from curation and presentation to promotion and audience engagement. \nWhat we will cover \n\nHow to plan your exhibition from concept to opening day\nHow to curate your work effectively in a non-traditional space\nHow to promote your show to the right audience before\, during\, and after\nWhat OpenSpaces 2025 participants learned and what you can apply to your own exhibition\n\n  \nWho is this for? \nAll artists registered for OpenSpaces 2026 who want to approach their exhibition with clarity\, structure\, and confidence. \n\nFor any questions\, contact events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/masterclass-getting-ready-planning-curating-promoting-your-exhibition/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,OpenSpaces 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Featured-Events-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260716T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260716T150000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260511T091551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260517T110431Z
UID:10005233-1784210400-1784214000@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:How Creatives Build Lasting Careers
DESCRIPTION:How Creatives Build Lasting Careers Art100 International | The Long Game \nThursday 16th July | 14:00 BST | Online | Free \nSuccess in the art world rarely happens overnight. This event is for artists who are thinking beyond the next opportunity and building something that lasts. \nTogether with our guest speakers\, we’ll explore why repeated exposure matters more than single wins\, how institutional recognition opens doors to the secondary market\, and why inclusion in a physical publication like the Art100 Industry Book creates something no social media post can – permanence. \n  \nWho is this for? \nThis session is for artists at any stage who want to think more strategically about their long-term career – how to build lasting visibility\, gain institutional recognition\, and create a body of work and reputation that compounds over time. Early-career and established artists both welcome. \n  \nMeet the Speakers \nTom Best | The Auction Collective Trained at Christie’s and one of the youngest auctioneers in the company’s history\, Tom Best has sold everything from contemporary art to rare collectibles across 14 countries and four continents. In 2018 he founded The Auction Collective\, helping artists\, organisations\, and brands run their own auctions — including through free auction software Indy.auction. A passionate advocate for using auctions to support good causes\, Tom has raised over £20 million for more than 300 charities worldwide. He brings a rare combination of art market expertise\, commercial acumen\, and genuine enthusiasm for helping creatives succeed. \nBen Edmonds | Senior Curator\, Artfinder Ben plays a key role in shaping Artfinder’s artistic direction\, bringing over 15 years of experience across artist management\, talent scouting\, and publishing. He is currently focused on growing Artfinder’s global community with emerging and innovative talent\, and has a strong track record of identifying artists at the start of careers that go on to matter. \nShirley-Ann O’Neill | VAA Founder & Director Shirley-Ann is a seasoned arts director and curator with over 20 years of experience working with creatives worldwide. She is the co-author of the internationally bestselling art business books Good Art Does Not Sell Itself and Securing Representation\, and leads the Visual Art Open Prize and VAA Artist of the Year Awards. Her curated exhibitions have been featured on BBC\, Sky News\, and the International New York Times. She has previously served on the selection committee for The Other Art Fair London by Saatchi Art. \nFor any questions\, contact events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/how-creatives-build-lasting-careers/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/How-Creatives-Build-Lasting-Careers-The-Long-Game-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260721T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260721T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260223T160249Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T135100Z
UID:10005220-1784638800-1784642400@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Legal Hour: Working with Galleries
DESCRIPTION:Legal Hour: Working with Galleries\nTuesday 21st July\, from 13:00 BST (UK time) | Online\nGallery relationships can be one of the most rewarding parts of an artist’s career and one of the most complicated. \nThis Legal Hour session focuses on the practical legal questions that arise when working with galleries: from consignment agreements and commission structures to what happens when a gallery closes\, a work goes missing\, or a payment doesn’t arrive. \nPierre Valentin brings his extensive experience advising both artists and galleries to help you understand your rights\, know what to look for in an agreement\, and feel more confident navigating these relationships. \nArtists are invited to ask about topics such as: \n\nWhat a consignment agreement should and shouldn’t include\nHow commission splits work and what is considered standard\nWhat to do if a gallery hasn’t paid you or is holding your work\nWho is responsible if a work is damaged or lost while in a gallery’s care\nHow to exit a gallery relationship professionally and legally\nWhat to check before signing an exclusivity clause\n\nWhether you are approaching your first gallery relationship or navigating a long-standing one\, this session will give you the knowledge to protect yourself and your work. \nGuest Speaker Pierre Valentin – Art Lawyer Pierre is one of the most respected art lawyers practising today and a leading figure in art and cultural property law. With over 25 years of experience\, he has advised collectors\, galleries\, artists\, museums\, auction houses\, private banks\, and institutions across the UK\, Europe\, the USA\, the Middle East and Asia. A specialist in copyright and resale rights\, and an accredited mediator for the World Intellectual Property Organisation\, Pierre is widely recognised as a “go-to lawyer” in the global art market\, praised for his expertise\, clarity and strategic approach. \nThe session will be recorded and a replay link will be shared with everyone who signs up. If you would like to submit a question in advance\, please email events@visual-artists.org with the subject line Legal Hour Question. \nThis session is exclusive to all VAA Members. Booking is essential. If you experience any issues\, please contact events@visual-artists.org \nTo join the Visual Artists Association\, visit: https://visual-artists.org/join
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/legal-hour-working-with-galleries/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Member Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Legal-Hour-Working-with-Galleries-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260805T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260805T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260111T111650Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T203529Z
UID:10005234-1785934800-1785938400@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Members Meeting
DESCRIPTION:VAA Members Meeting \nWednesday 5 August | 13:00 BST | Online | Members Only \n\nAre you actually using everything your VAA membership gives you? \nThis is your dedicated hour with the VAA team – a chance to get up to speed on what is available to you right now\, ask anything you have been meaning to ask\, and make sure you are getting full value from your membership going into the second half of the year. \nVAA Team will be on hand to walk you through key resources and opportunities\, share the latest VAA updates\, and answer your questions directly. \nWhat we will cover \n\nThe latest VAA updates and what is coming up across the programme\nKey resources\, opportunities\, and member benefits to be aware of right now\nYour questions answered directly by the team\n\nWho is this for? \nAll VAA members – whether you joined recently or have been with us for years. If you want to stay connected\, informed\, and make the most of your membership\, this is the session to attend. \nFor any questions\, contact events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/members-meeting/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Member Events,Members Meetings
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Members-Meeting-3-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260813T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260813T150000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260413T100551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T201613Z
UID:10005227-1786629600-1786633200@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Art Café | Building Multiple Income Streams as an Artist - What Actually Works
DESCRIPTION:Art Café | Building Multiple Income Streams as an Artist – What Actually Works \n  \nThursday 13 August | 14:00 BST | Free Online Discussion \nMost artists rely on one income stream. The ones who sustain long careers rarely do. \nSelling original work is just one piece of the puzzle. Teaching\, licensing\, commissions\, corporate work\, residencies\, prizes — the artists who build lasting careers tend to combine several of these in ways that feel natural to their practice and realistic for their lives. \nBut knowing where to start\, what to prioritise\, and how to make it work alongside your creative output is another thing entirely. \nIn this free Art Café session\, three speakers who have built genuinely sustainable practices will talk honestly about what multiple income streams actually look like in the real world – what works\, what doesn’t\, and what they wish they had known sooner. \nWhat we will cover \n\nHow to identify the income streams that are right for your practice – not just the ones everyone talks about\nHow to price confidently across different types of work and different audiences\nHow to build visibility that opens doors to commissions\, corporate work\, and teaching opportunities\nHow to manage multiple strands of income without losing focus on the work itself\n\n  \nWho is this for? \nAny artist who wants to move beyond relying on a single source of income — whether you are just starting to think about this or ready to take the next step. Early-career and established artists both welcome. \n  \nMeet the Speakers \nEllie Damant | Artist Winner of the Dubel Art Prize 2025/26\, Ellie is an Oxford-educated artist with two MAs — in Fine Art and Philosophy — and is currently completing PhD research in art and aesthetics. Her practice spans original work\, teaching\, and research\, and her work features in the collection of Magdalen College\, Oxford and has received international recognition from the Abu Dhabi Arts Society. She is also a qualified teacher in art\, philosophy\, and art history. \nLaura O’Hare | VAA Director Laura co-founded the Visual Artists Association and leads its artistic and business development. With over a decade in the fine arts sector and a background as a solicitor specialising in Employment Law\, she brings a rare combination of legal\, commercial\, and creative expertise to helping artists build sustainable careers. \nShirley-Ann O’Neill | VAA Director & Author Shirley-Ann co-founded the Visual Artists Association and is the co-author of the internationally bestselling art business books Good Art Does Not Sell Itself and Securing Representation. With over 20 years of experience working with creatives worldwide\, she leads the VAA’s CPD and mentorship programme and has supported thousands of artists in building professional\, sustainable practices. \n\nFor any questions\, contact events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/art-cafe-building-multiple-income-streams-as-an-artist/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Art Cafe,Featured Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Art-Cafe-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260818T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260818T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260511T112343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T112343Z
UID:10005237-1787058000-1787061600@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:OpenSpaces 2026 | Group Mentorship Session: Troubleshooting Your Exhibition Plans
DESCRIPTION:OpenSpaces 2026 | Group Mentorship Session: Troubleshooting Your Exhibition Plans \nTuesday 18 August | 13:00 BST | Online | Free for participating artists \n  \nYou have your space. Now let’s make sure your exhibition plan actually works. \nPlanning an exhibition in an everyday space comes with its own set of challenges — and most of them only become obvious once you are deep in the process. This group mentorship session is your chance to bring those challenges to the table before they become problems. \nIn this open\, informal session\, participating OpenSpaces 2026 artists can share where they are with their plans\, ask questions\, and get practical guidance from the VAA team. Whether you are still figuring out the logistics\, unsure about how to promote your show\, or simply want a second pair of eyes on your thinking — this is the session to attend. \nWhat we will cover \n\nPractical troubleshooting on exhibition planning\, layout\, and presentation\nGuidance on promoting your show to the right audience\nAdvice on working effectively with your venue\nOpen Q&A — bring your specific questions and challenges\n\n  \nWho is this for? \nAll artists registered for OpenSpaces 2026. This session is free and exclusive to participating artists. \n\nFor any questions\, contact events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/openspaces-2026-group-mentorship-session-troubleshooting-your-exhibition-plans/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,OpenSpaces 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/VAA-Events-Visuals-2026-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260511T113601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T135027Z
UID:10005238-1789650000-1789653600@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:OpenSpaces 2026 | After the Opening: Press\, Documentation & Long-Term Opportunities
DESCRIPTION:After the Opening: Press\, Documentation & Long-Term Opportunities \nOpenSpaces 2026 | 17 September 2026 | 13:00 | Free for participating artists \nYour work is live – now what? Showing in a global art trail is a significant moment\, but the real value often comes from what you do with it afterwards. This workshop is designed to help OpenSpaces 2026 participating artists make the most of their involvement long after the opening weekend has passed. \nWe’ll explore the essentials of professional documentation – how to photograph your work in situ\, what written records to keep\, and how to build an archive of your participation that will serve your practice for years to come. Good documentation isn’t just about memory; it’s a career asset that underpins applications\, pitches\, and proposals. \nWe’ll also look at press and media coverage – how arts journalism works\, how to identify the right writers and publications for your practice\, and how to craft a compelling pitch that tells your story beyond the press release. Whether you’re aiming for a local feature or a broader audience\, we’ll walk through what makes a story land. \nFinally\, we’ll think about the longer arc: how to translate a group exhibition credit into meaningful opportunities\, from residency and grant applications to building relationships with curators\, collectors\, and venues. OpenSpaces 2026 is a platform\, this session is about using it strategically. \nFree and exclusive to all OpenSpaces 2026 participating artists. 
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/openspaces-2026-after-the-opening-press-documentation-long-term-opportunities/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,OpenSpaces 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/VAA-Events-Visuals-2026-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260928T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260928T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260420T130144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T130705Z
UID:10005228-1790600400-1790604000@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Masterclass: The Artist Guide to Video Marketing
DESCRIPTION:VAA Masterclass: The Artist Guide to Video Marketing \n28th September | 13:00 UK Time | Online \nVideo is one of the most powerful tools an artist can use to share their work\, grow an audience and build real connections online. But knowing where to start is the hard part. \nThis masterclass brings together VAA Director Shirley-Ann O’Neill and social media strategist Alex McCann to walk you through exactly how to use video to market your art practice\, without it feeling overwhelming. \nWho is it for? This session is ideal if you are an artist who knows you should be doing more with video but are not sure how\, or if you have dabbled with Reels and Stories but want a clearer strategy behind what you are doing. \nWhat you will learn: \n\nWhat kinds of video actually work for artists on social media\nHow to shoot simple\, effective content without expensive kit\nHow to plan your video content so it feels manageable\nHow to use video to grow your following and reach new collectors and opportunities\nHow to present yourself and your work confidently on camera\n\n  \nYour speakers: \nShirley-Ann O’Neill\, founder of VAA\, is a seasoned arts director and curator with over 20 years of experience working with creatives. She is the co-author of the internationally bestselling art business books ‘Good Art Does Not Sell Itself’ and ‘Securing Representation.’ Her passion for global artist outreach and discovering new talent is evident in her curated exhibitions\, which have been showcased on BBC\, Sky News\, and International New York Times. Shirley-Ann leads the Visual Art Open Prize and VAA Artist of the Year Awards\, driving the VAA CPD & mentorship programme with courses on Art Curation & Exhibition Management\, Art Sales Academy\, and Artist Momentum. She has previously served on the selection committee for the Other Art Fair London by Saatchi Art. \nAlex McCann is owner of Altrincham HQ – a social media management and training company based in Cheshire that has worked with 1000s of local business developing their social media strategy. Over the past 10 years Alex has built up an impressive training client list including the BBC\, Manchester City\, NHS\, The Midland Hotel\, University Of Manchester\, Manchester Arndale and many more Each month Altrincham HQ spend 200+ hours per month managing marketing campaigns for businesses so witness Social Media changes in real time and action them. A former journalist\, whose blogs have been read by over half a million readers\, he has also successfully ran an events company putting on 60 events a year which included a 15\,000 capacity arts & music festivals in Manchester. Alex has 400+ LinkedIn testimonials and is ranked number 1 for Social Media Marketing in the UK via independent customer reviews on Freeindex. Altrincham HQ works with businesses across the UK on all aspects of Social Media including Twitter\, LinkedIn\, Facebook\, Instagram and blogging for business success. For more info check out http://www.altrinchamhq.co.uk \nTickets: Free for VAA Premium Members £12.49 for VAA Standard Members – please make sure you login to your VAA account first before securing a place. \n#VAAMasterclass #VideoMarketing #ArtistLife #VAAWorkingArtist #SocialMediaForArtists #UKArtist
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/masterclass-the-artist-guide-to-video-marketing/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Masterclass
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Masterclass-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261001T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261001T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260111T112503Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T203835Z
UID:10005235-1790859600-1790863200@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Members Meeting
DESCRIPTION:VAA Members Meeting \nThursday 1 October | 13:00 UK Time | Online | Members Only \n\nThe final quarter is the most important one. Are you making the most of it? \nOctober marks the start of Q4 and for artists\, that means exhibitions\, open calls\, end-of-year sales\, and planning for 2027 are all on the horizon. This Members Meeting is your chance to connect with the VAA team\, find out what opportunities are coming up\, and make sure you have everything you need to finish the year strongly. \nThe VAA team will share the latest updates across the programme\, highlight key resources and opportunities to have on your radar\, and open the floor to your questions. \nWhat we will cover \n\nWhat is coming up across VAA in Q4 and beyond – events\, opportunities\, and programmes to add to your diary\nKey resources and member benefits to be making use of right now\nOpen Q&A – bring anything you would like to ask the team\n\n  \nWho is this for? \nAll VAA members. Whether you want to stay connected\, plan ahead\, or simply catch up with the team\, this is your space to do it. \nFor any questions\, contact events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/members-meeting-2/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Member Events,Members Meetings
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Members-Meeting-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261007T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261007T150000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260507T083423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T083423Z
UID:10005232-1791381600-1791385200@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Art Café | From Studio to Biennale & Art Fairs: Breaking Into Major Exhibitions
DESCRIPTION:Art Café | From Studio to Biennale & Art Fairs: Breaking Into Major Exhibitions \nWednesday 7 October | 14:00 UK Time | Online | Free \nGetting into a major exhibition doesn’t happen by accident. \nBiennales\, art fairs\, and large-scale group exhibitions can be career-defining moments for an artist. But for most\, they feel like closed doors — events that happen to other people\, through connections they don’t have\, in systems they don’t fully understand. This Art Café session is about changing that. Three speakers with direct experience of how major exhibitions work — from the inside — will share what it actually takes to get your work into the rooms that matter. \nWhat you will take away \n\nA clear understanding of how biennales\, art fairs\, and major group exhibitions actually work and how artists get selected\nWhat curators\, fair directors\, and selection committees are really looking for\nHow to position your practice and present your work to the right people at the right time\nThe practical steps to take now\, whether you are applying for the first time or looking to break into a higher level\nWhat artists wish they had known before their first major exhibition\n\nWho is this for? \nArtists at any stage who want to understand how to access major exhibition opportunities and take concrete steps towards them. Early-career and established artists both welcome. \nMeet the Speakers \nLaura O’Hare is responsible for leading the artistic and business development at VAA. Laura has been working in the Fine Arts sector since 2012 and is a founder of the VAA. Presently\, Director of the Visual Art Open Prize\, the Artist of the Year Award and the VAA Art500 International Award. Laura has a wealth of experience in managing relationships with artists and understanding their needs. Laura has an extensive network including arts organisations\, galleries\, publishers and commercial partners. Laura has helped hundreds of artists figure out how to thrive at all stages of their fine art careers. Prior to working in the arts industry\, Laura was a solicitor specialising in Employment Law for over 15 years. \nDr Stephanie Dieckvoss is a Senior Lecturer in Art History and Co-Convenor of the MA in Art and Business at the Courtauld Institute in London\, which she joined in 2024. Her research focuses on contemporary art markets\, particularly emerging and alternative models\, institutional dynamics\, and the micro-geographies of artistic production and consumption. Her current work centres on the histories and practices of art fairs\, drawing on archival methods and oral histories. Her TECHNE-funded PhD examines DIY approaches within alternative art fairs in the 1990s and is currently being turned into a monograph. She has published widely in academic journals and edited book volumes. \nA Courtauld alumna\, Stephanie also holds an MA in Art History from the University of Hamburg\, an MBA (Public Services) from Warwick Business School\, and a PGCert in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education from UAL. Prior to joining The Courtauld\, Stephanie worked as a senior lecturer at Kingston School of Art and Central Saint Martins. \nPrior to her academic career\, Stephanie gained more than 15 years of experience in cultural management in Germany\, France\, and the United States\, working in senior roles across commercial art galleries\, art fairs and public institutions. She remains closely connected to developments in the art market as the art market correspondent for Handelsblatt and has also written for Apollo and the Neue Zürcher Zeitung. \nShirley-Ann O’Neill\, founder of VAA\, is a seasoned arts director and curator with over 20 years of experience working with creatives. She is the co-author of the internationally bestselling art business books ‘Good Art Does Not Sell Itself’ and ‘Securing Representation.’ Her passion for global artist outreach and discovering new talent is evident in her curated exhibitions\, which have been showcased on BBC\, Sky News\, and International New York Times. Shirley-Ann leads the Visual Art Open Prize and VAA Artist of the Year Awards\, driving the VAA CPD & mentorship programme with courses on Art Curation & Exhibition Management\, Art Sales Academy\, and Artist Momentum. She has previously served on the selection committee for the Other Art Fair London by Saatchi Art. \n  \nFor any questions\, contact events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/art-cafe-from-studio-to-biennale-art-fairs-breaking-into-major-exhibitions/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Art Cafe
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Art-Cafe-3-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261014T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261014T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260518T111035Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T111155Z
UID:10005240-1791982800-1791986400@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Masterclass: The Artist's Newsletter
DESCRIPTION:Masterclass: The Artist’s Newsletter \n14th October 2026 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm UK Time | Online via Zoom \n  \nMost artists know they should have a newsletter. Very few actually enjoy writing one and even fewer know what makes people want to read it. \nThis masterclass is not about technology\, templates\, or marketing tactics. It is about something far more valuable: how to write a newsletter that sounds like you\, connects with the people who care about your work\, and keeps them coming back. \nIn this session\, led by Karen van Hoey Smith\, you will hear how Alison approaches her newsletter\, what she puts in it and why\, and what she has learned from years of writing to her audience as an artist. There will be real examples\, an open Q&A\, and plenty of practical takeaways – whether you are starting from scratch or want to make what you already have feel more like you. \nAlison Aye sews collage from found papers and fabric\, calling attention to ‘throw-away society’ and embracing humour\, popular culture and current affairs. \nDaughter and granddaughter of seamstresses and coal miners\, she could sew at an early age\, and makes contemporary work that respects traditional craft and class struggle. \nHer methods are slow\, not just the tiny hand-stitching\, but also the meticulous recording of materials on Instagram\, which form an integral part of the process. Some pieces can take years to complete\, ignoring the misogynistic hierarchy of the art world\, where needlework is often neglected. \nOriginally from North-East England\, she now lives and works in South London. \nShe has been entering work for the Summer Exhibition for thirty-one years\, unsuccessfully until 2024. In 2022 she was featured on the BBC’s ‘Joe Lycett: Summer Exhibitionist’\, when her work was smuggled into the RA on Varnishing Day and displayed on the buffet table. \nWhat you will take away \n\nHow to find your voice and write in a way that feels natural rather than forced\nWhat to include in a newsletter as an artist and how often to send it\nHow to build an audience of people who are genuinely interested in your work\nWhy authenticity matters more than polish and how to put that into practice\nHow to approach your newsletter as part of your practice\, not a chore on top of it\n\nWho is this for? Artists at any stage who want to start a newsletter\, improve an existing one\, or simply understand what makes one worth reading. \nFor any questions\, contact events@visual-artists.org \nFree for VAA Premium Members | £12.49 for Standard Members | £19.99 for Non-Members \nHeadshot photography: Michelle Richards (@michellerichardsphotography)
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/masterclass-the-artists-newsletter/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,members,Masterclass
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261020T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261020T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260223T161218Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T105318Z
UID:10005221-1792501200-1792504800@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Legal Hour: AI and the Law
DESCRIPTION:Legal Hour: AI and the Law\nTuesday 20th October\, from 13:00 GMT (UK time) | Online\nArtificial intelligence is changing the art world faster than the law can keep up and for many artists\, that raises urgent and unsettling questions. \nThis Legal Hour session tackles one of the most pressing issues facing visual artists today: what AI means for your rights\, your work\, and your livelihood. If you have ever wondered whether an AI model can legally train on your images\, what to do if your style or work appears in AI-generated content\, or how copyright law applies in this rapidly shifting landscape — this session is for you. \nPierre Valentin brings his expertise in intellectual property and cultural property law to help artists understand where the law currently stands\, where it is heading\, and what practical steps you can take now. \nArtists are invited to ask about topics such as: \n\nWhether AI companies are legally permitted to use your work for training\nWhat rights you have if your work or style has been replicated by an AI tool\nHow copyright law currently applies to AI-generated images\nWhat the UK legal frameworks say about AI and creative work\nHow to document and protect your practice in an AI-saturated environment\nWhat emerging legislation might mean for artists in the near future\n\nThis is a fast-moving area of law\, and there are no easy answers\, but this session will give you clarity on where things stand and confidence in navigating what comes next. \nGuest Speaker: Pierre Valentin  \nArt Lawyer Pierre is one of the most respected art lawyers practising today and a leading figure in art and cultural property law. With over 25 years of experience\, he has advised collectors\, galleries\, artists\, museums\, auction houses\, private banks\, and institutions across the UK\, Europe\, the USA\, the Middle East and Asia. A specialist in copyright and resale rights\, and an accredited mediator for the World Intellectual Property Organisation\, Pierre is widely recognised as a “go-to lawyer” in the global art market\, praised for his expertise\, clarity and strategic approach. \nThe session will be recorded and a replay link will be shared with everyone who signs up. If you would like to submit a question in advance\, please email events@visual-artists.org with the subject line Legal Hour Question. \nThis session is exclusive to all VAA Members. Booking is essential. If you experience any issues\, please contact events@visual-artists.org \nTo join the Visual Artists Association\, visit: https://visual-artists.org/join
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/legal-hour-ai-and-the-law/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Member Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Legal-Hour-AI-and-the-Law--scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261103T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261103T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260526T073341Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T073505Z
UID:10005241-1793710800-1793714400@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Masterclass | Your Art\, Your Income: How to Earn More from Your Practice
DESCRIPTION:Your Art\, Your Income: How to Earn More from Your Practice \nDate: Tuesday 3rd November 2026 | 1pm-2pm UK Time | Online via Zoom \nBuilding a sustainable income as an artist doesn’t have to mean compromising your creative vision – it means getting smarter about how your work reaches the world. \nIn this practical masterclass\, we’re joined by Jo Scott\, aka The Travelling Artist\, who ditched the traditional art world rulebook to build a thriving creative business entirely on her own terms — from a motorhome. Jo will be in conversation with VAA’s resident artist mentor Karen van Hoey Smith\, sharing what’s actually worked\, what hasn’t\, and how artists at any stage can start earning more from what they already do. \nAbout Jo Scott \nJo Scott is an award-winning artist who swapped a fixed address for a motorhome and built a thriving creative business entirely on her own terms. Working under the banner of The Travelling Artist\, Jo has carved out a distinctive niche in animal portraiture\, capturing the personality and character of animals through routes that have little to do with the traditional fine art world. Her work has been displayed in the windows of Selfridges and recognised with a National Calendar Award\, built on a career that has threaded through greeting card design\, licensing\, and commission work. Jo’s business has grown not through galleries or the conventional art establishment\, but through understanding how art can live in homes\, and in the hands of people who simply love animals. \n@joscottartist\nFollow the Travelling Artist here \n\nThis session is for you if:\nYou want to diversify your income but don’t know where to start\nYou’ve explored licensing or commissions but haven’t made them work yet\nYou’re done waiting for galleries to discover you\n\nPlease check your local time for this webinar here: https://www.timeanddate.com/ \nFor VAA Members\, please log in first to secure your ticket.\nNon-members are welcome to join for £19.99. \nIf you have any questions\, please reach out to VAA’s Events team – events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/masterclass-your-art-your-income-how-to-earn-more-from-your-practice/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Masterclass
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Masterclass-5-scaled.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261119T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261119T140000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260113T103844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T160347Z
UID:10005239-1795093200-1795096800@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Mentor Hour
DESCRIPTION:Mentor Hour for Visual Artists\n19th November | 1pm UK Time | Online | Free \n\nAn hour with the right mentor can change everything. \nMentor Hour is a live\, open Q&A session with Karen van Hoey Smith – one of the UK’s most experienced artist mentors – giving you direct access to expert guidance you can actually use. \nWhether you are trying to sell more work\, approach galleries with confidence\, price your art correctly\, or simply figure out your next move\, this is your chance to ask the questions that have been holding you back and walk away with real\, practical answers. \nThis is not a lecture. It is a conversation\, led entirely by the questions you bring. \nBring your questions on: \n\nStrengthening your artistic direction and confidence\nBuilding a portfolio and preparing submissions\nPricing your work and increasing sales\nApproaching galleries and seeking representation\nPlanning exhibitions or building a collection strategy\nUnderstanding the art market and positioning your work\nStaying accountable and moving forward\n\nKaren van Hoey Smith  \nKaren is an artist mentor\, independent art broker and curator with over twenty years of experience across galleries\, auctions\, consultancy and artist representation. She has brokered work by Banksy\, Picasso and Bomberg\, and has supported hundreds of artists in developing their practice\, increasing sales and gaining recognition in public and commercial settings. \nFree and open to VAA members and non-members alike. Booking is essential. \nBooking is essential. If you experience any issues\, please contact events@visual-artists.org.
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/mentor-hour/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Opportunities,Member Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261208T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261208T150000
DTSTAMP:20260613T143504
CREATED:20260511T103219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T103219Z
UID:10005236-1796738400-1796742000@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Annual Celebration: Sharing Artists' Successes
DESCRIPTION:Sharing Artists’ Successes & What’s Coming in 2027 \nTuesday 8 December | 14:00 GMT | Online | Free \nThis is one of our favourite sessions of the year and the one that reminds us why we do what we do. \nAs 2026 draws to a close\, we are bringing the VAA community together to celebrate the artists who have shown up\, taken risks\, and built something meaningful this year. We will hear directly from members about the moments that mattered – the exhibitions\, the sales\, the breakthroughs\, and the lessons learned along the way. \nAnd because every great year deserves an even better one to follow\, we will also be sharing an exciting first look at what the VAA has planned for 2027. \nWhether you have had a landmark year or one of quiet\, steady progress – this is a conversation worth being part of. \nFull speaker details to be announced shortly. \n  \nWhat to expect \n\nVAA members sharing real highlights and turning points from their 2026\nHonest reflections on what it means to keep building a creative career\nA first look at the VAA programme and opportunities for 2027\nAn open\, warm conversation to close out the year together\n\n  \nWho is this for? \nAll artists – members and non-members welcome. Come ready to be inspired\, reflect on your own year\, and go into 2027 with renewed energy and direction. \n  \nFor any questions\, contact events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/annual-celebration-sharing-artists-successes/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Featured Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Annual-Celebration-scaled.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR