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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Visual Artists Association
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260312T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260312T140000
DTSTAMP:20260504T102848
CREATED:20260223T143238Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T143238Z
UID:10005218-1773320400-1773324000@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Mentor Hour
DESCRIPTION:Mentor Hour with Amy Jobes and Louise Minnaar\nThursday 12th March\, 1pm UK time – Online (45 min) \nDeveloping a successful and sustainable art practice requires clarity\, confidence and access to expert guidance. In this Mentor Hour\, we invite you to join artist mentor Amy Jobes for an open Q&A session designed to support artists at every stage of their career. \nThis session offers an opportunity to ask your artistic and professional development questions directly to an experienced mentor who has worked across galleries\, auctions\, consultancy and artist representation. Whether you are building momentum\, navigating challenges\, or planning your next steps\, this hour will provide practical and grounded support. \nArtists are invited to ask questions on topics such as: \n\nStrengthening your artistic direction and confidence\nDeveloping a portfolio and preparing submissions\nPricing your work and increasing sales\nApproaching galleries and seeking representation\nCreating sustainable creative habits\nPlanning exhibitions or building a collection strategy\nUnderstanding the art market and positioning your work\nStaying accountable and progressing towards your goals\n\nPlease come prepared with any questions you would like to discuss. The session will be guided by the topics you bring. \nAmy Jobes – Artist Mentor\n\n\n\nAmy has been an artist for over 20 years and is a graduate of the University of Exeter. She previously worked in communications whilst building her practice and has been a full-time professional artist since 2012. \n\n\nShe is an experienced arts marketing professional and has completed two years of the VAA Mentorship programme\, under the tutelage of Shirley-Ann O’Neill who holds 25 years of Arts Marketing experience\, MA in Marketing\, and FCIM (fully chartered).  Amy has also undertaken several CPD courses at Imperial College London\, as well as other institutions\, covering  High Impact Writing training\, Content Management System Web Publishing\, Social Media\, and Small Project Management Training. \n\n\nAmy has secured Gallery Representation with several galleries.  She has a highly profitable art business and a loyal client base. Her work has been featured on the BBC\, Devon Life (Luxury Magazine) as well as regional press and with Artists & Illustrators Magazine. She also teaches oil painting workshops and undertakes Portfolio reviews for artists across several genres. \n\n\nAmy’s areas of arts marketing knowledge include Getting Gallery Ready\, Limited Edition Prints\, Branding\, E-marketing\, Websites\, Partnerships and Charities\,  Artist’s Collectives\, and Artist Residencies. \n\n\n\nLouise Minnaar – Artist Mentor & VAA Events and Partnership Coordinator\nLouise brings over eight years’ experience in the international art industry\, from global art auctions to commercial galleries. She has supported collectors from emerging buyers to those acquiring major works by artists such as Picasso and Miró. Drawing on her background in arts education and gallery practice\, Louise facilitates supportive conversations for artists and will also introduce the VAA Mentorship Programme during the session. \nJoin us for this opportunity to receive expert guidance\, ask your questions directly to a mentor and gain valuable insight into strengthening your artistic and professional journey. \nThis session is free and open to both VAA members and non-members.Booking is essential. If you experience any issues\, please contact events@visual-artists.org.
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/mentor-hour-2/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Opportunities,Member Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260310
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260311
DTSTAMP:20260504T102848
CREATED:20251201T140236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251201T140236Z
UID:10005183-1773100800-1773187199@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:VAA Support for Members - Helpdesk Sessions
DESCRIPTION:Navigating an art career comes with big decisions and sometimes you need clear\, expert guidance right when the question arises. That is exactly what our Helpdesk Sessions are for. Designed exclusively for VAA Members\, these focused consultations give you direct access to professional support so you can move forward with confidence and momentum. \nArtists use the Helpdesk for concise\, practical guidance on: \n– Strategic planning and setting direction– Marketing\, visibility and promoting your work– Pricing and positioning within the market– Building networks\, opportunities and partnerships– Finance\, tax and professional administration– Any specific challenge where expert advice can help \nAfter you submit your enquiry\, a member of the VAA team will contact you for a brief assessment so we can determine the most effective way to support you. Depending on your needs\, guidance may be provided via email\, phone\, or a scheduled Zoom session. \nPlease note:– Helpdesk Sessions are subject to availability and intended for one-off\, targeted advice.– If a quick solution exists\, we may direct you immediately to the relevant resources. \nTo request Helpdesk support\, email hello@visual-artists.org or book directly via our Calendly system:https://calendly.com/visualartistsassociation \nShirley-Ann O’NeillShirley-Ann is an arts director\, curator\, and co-founder of the VAA with over two decades of experience helping artists build sustainable\, successful careers. She is co-author of the bestselling books Good Art Does Not Sell Itself and Securing Representation\, and her curatorial work has been featured by the BBC\, Sky News and the International New York Times.As Programme Director for the VAA’s CPD and mentorship programmes\, she leads initiatives such as the Art Sales Academy and Artist Momentum. She also hosts the Art Insider podcast and has served on the selection panel for The Other Art Fair London by Saatchi Art. \nWe are committed to supporting your artistic and professional growth – if you need direction\, clarity or a trusted sounding board\, the Helpdesk is here for you.
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/vaa-support-for-members-helpdesk-sessions-3/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Member Events,Hepdesk Sessions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Helpdesk-Sessions-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260305T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260305T140000
DTSTAMP:20260504T102848
CREATED:20251211T102536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T102536Z
UID:10005189-1772715600-1772719200@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:VAA Virtual Artist Studio Visit: Anikó Boda
DESCRIPTION:5th March\, 13:00 – 14:00 UK time | Online via Zoom \nStep inside the studio of award-winning artist Anikó Boda for an intimate behind-the-scenes session exploring the creative habits\, working rhythms\, and inner world that shape her practice. Known for her innovative approach to trompe l’oeil and fresco-inspired surfaces\, Anikó’s work merges classical technique with a contemporary edge\, earning international recognition from MEAM Barcelona\, the ARC Salon\, Fine Art Connoisseur\, and the VAA International Exhibition & Scholarship Prize. \nIn this live virtual studio visit\, Anikó will open the doors to her creative environment – sharing how she structures her days\, prepares for new work\, sustains momentum through long projects\, and balances experimentation with routine. We’ll explore the objects\, tools\, and quiet rituals that support her process\, as well as the unseen challenges and unexpected inspirations that influence her philosophical and psychologically attuned artworks. \nThis session offers early-career and established artists alike a rare chance to learn how a working artist maintains focus\, nurtures discipline\, and cultivates creative energy day after day. The event will conclude with a message of guidance from Anikó for artists developing their own practice and studio life. \nThis is a free event for VAA Members as part of their membership benefits.If you would like to join the VAA and access events like this\, visit: https://visual-artists.org/join/ \nFor any questions\, feel free to contact us at events@visual-artists.org.
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/vaa-virtual-artist-studio-visit-aniko-boda/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,members,Member Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Virtual-Artist-Studio-Visit.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260217T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260217T140000
DTSTAMP:20260504T102848
CREATED:20251201T205106Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260113T100738Z
UID:10005184-1771333200-1771336800@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Masterclass: The Psychology of Collectors - Understanding Buyer Behaviour
DESCRIPTION:Masterclass: The Psychology of Collectors – Understanding Buyer BehaviourTuesday 17th February\, 1pm – 2pm (UK time) \nUnderstanding why collectors buy art is essential for building meaningful relationships and strengthening your sales strategy. In this insightful masterclass\, we will delve into the emotional and psychological drivers behind art purchasing\, helping you engage your audience with greater confidence and clarity. \nThis Masterclass will be delivered by David Venon \nDavid Venon – born in France and having moved to the UK over twenty years ago – holds a formal Visual Art education alongside a Fashion Design technical degree. He has over 20 years of experience in the service industry\, managing communities and creating content. David has also spent the past six years at Artfinder\, a global art marketplace and B Corp with a mission to help artists make a living from their passion\, where he worked as a Community Leader and later as Head of Artist Recruitment & Engagement. He now works freelance as an artist coach and event speaker. \nGuest Speaker: Addi Aegisdottir\nAddi is the Creative Director at Mall Galleries\, home to the Federation of British Artists. As a visual arts charity founded in 1961\, Mall Galleries is dedicated to empowering artists through a not-for-profit programme of exhibitions\, events\, prizes and awards with a strong focus on figurative art. \nServing on the senior leadership team\, Addi works closely with the CEO\, Chair\, and Board of Trustees to provide artists with exceptional learning and engagement opportunities. With a specialisation in the culture and heritage sector\, sales development\, e-commerce\, marketing\, and brand development\, Addi possesses a genuine passion for empowering artists at all stages of their careers. Over the past three years\, Addi has successfully launched Mall Galleries Art Consultancy\, a bespoke service catering to private and corporate clients seeking to commission and curate art by both emerging and established artists. \nAddi has extensive knowledge of the primary and secondary art market\, having built collections for high-profile national and international private collectors and institutions. Prior to working with Mall Galleries\, Addi held positions with Everard Read\, Africa’s oldest commercial art gallery representing over 60 contemporary artists from South Africa and Europe and the UK’s leading private Fine Art Dealers travelling extensively for clients and placements of artwork within leading art fairs\, including Tefaf Maastricht\, Frieze and The Armory Show. \nWe will explore: \n\nWhat motivates collectors when purchasing art\nHow emotional\, psychological and practical factors guide buyers\nThe different types of collectors and how to engage each group effectively\nHow artists can refine their sales conversations and presentations\n\nThis masterclass is exclusive to VAA Members. \n\nPremium Members: Free access to all masterclasses\nStandard Members: £12.49 per session\n\nTo join the Visual Artists Association\, visit: https://visual-artists.org/join
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/masterclass-the-psychology-of-collectors-understanding-buyer-behaviour/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,members,Masterclass
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Masterclass-2-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260211T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260211T140000
DTSTAMP:20260504T102848
CREATED:20251211T104653Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T122718Z
UID:10005190-1770814800-1770818400@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:From Entry to Exposure: Making the Most of Art Prize Platforms
DESCRIPTION:From Entry to Exposure: Making the Most of Art Prize Platforms11th February | 13:00 GMT | Free Online Event \nEntering an art prize is more than a submission – it’s an opportunity to elevate your visibility\, expand your network\, and strengthen your creative career. \nJoin the Visual Artists Association and the Visual Art Open for a panel discussion designed to help artists make the most of prize platforms at every stage of the journey. Whether you’re applying for the first time or looking to convert recognition into meaningful opportunities\, this session will guide you through practical strategies for using prize entries to build momentum. \nSpeakers:\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 Professional Artist Award and the International Exhibition and Scholarship Prize. 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. \nRebekah Balshaw (she/her) is a curator\, artist\, Director of Short Supply and a dedicated creative producer with a strong track record in project management\, audience engagement\, and community-led practice. With a background in visual arts Rebekah has built her career supporting artists and audiences who face systemic barriers to participation in the arts. In her previous role as Learning & Engagement Coordinator at With-you\, she specialised in delivering inclusive\, responsive programmes that empowered people through peer-support. Rebekah brings a unique blend of administrative precision and empathetic leadership\, making her an invaluable force in shaping and delivering Short Supply’s innovative\, artist-first projects. \nLi Hao is a contemporary artist whose work explores the relationship between the individual and the collective through mirrored environments\, transparent materials\, light\, and interactive technology. Originally trained as an architect\, he graduated from the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) in 2008 before transitioning fully into artistic practice in 2016. His installations are rooted in narrative\, perception\, and shared human experience — inviting audiences into reflective spaces where identity\, community\, and self-awareness converge. Li Hao also leads Program SPARK\, an award-winning socially engaged public art initiative created with left-behind children and rural communities across China. The project combines industrial materials with local cultural languages to address social issues such as educational equity and has received major accolades including the International Award for Public Art (Asia and Southeast Asia) and the iF Social Impact Prize. Li Hao’s works have been exhibited widely across China\, including at the Inside-Out Art Museum (Beijing)\, Art Hengsha Island (Shanghai)\, and Glow Shenzhen. Li is the overall winner of the Visual Art Open 2025 Award. \nShirley-Ann\, 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 and currently hosts the popular new art podcast\, Art Insider. \nKristine Nason is a multidisciplinary artist based in the south of England\, whose career spans equestrian art\, portraiture\, illustration\, and contemporary oil painting. Beginning as a young equine artist\, she later worked in fine-art publishing before establishing herself as a successful watercolourist and educator\, earning full membership of both the Society of Women Artists and the Society of Equestrian Artists. Since 2020\, her practice has expanded into expressive oil painting\, navigating between equestrian subjects and semi-abstract narrative works inspired by her family’s Ghanaian heritage and her life in coastal Accra. Through themes of identity\, belonging\, and cultural memory\, her work brings dynamic energy and emotional depth to each subject. Kristine exhibits widely across National Art Societies and has received numerous accolades. \nThe Women in Art initiative seeks to promote and support the visibility\, representation\, and contributions of women in the art world. This movement addresses historical imbalances and advocates for greater inclusion of female artists\, curators\, and critics in exhibitions\, galleries\, and art institutions. \nKey aspects of the initiative often include: \nExhibitions and Showcases**: Organising exhibitions that specifically highlight the work of women artists\, showcasing their diverse perspectives and contributions. \nEducational Programs**: Offering workshops\, lectures\, and panel discussions aimed at raising awareness about the challenges women face in the art world and promoting their achievements. \nMentorship and Networking**: Creating opportunities for emerging female artists to connect with established figures in the art community\, fostering support and collaboration. \nResearch and Advocacy**: Conducting studies and publishing reports on gender disparities in the art world to inform policies and practices that promote equity. \nOverall\, the Women in Art initiative aims to create a more inclusive and equitable art landscape\, celebrating the vital role women play in shaping artistic expression and cultural dialogue. \nThey hold a yearly annual award for women artists @womeninartprize_ which opens on the 8th March for international women’s day www.womeninartprize.com \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis relaxed\, insight-packed conversation is ideal for artists at any stage who want to develop a stronger\, more strategic approach to art prizes. \nPlease ensure you book your place in advance. For any questions\, just email us at events@visual-artists.org
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/from-entry-to-exposure-making-the-most-of-art-prize-platforms/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,Opportunities,Open Calls
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Featured-Events-3-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260210
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260211
DTSTAMP:20260504T102848
CREATED:20251201T091421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251201T091421Z
UID:10005180-1770681600-1770767999@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:VAA Support for Members - Helpdesk Sessions
DESCRIPTION:Navigating an art career comes with big decisions and sometimes you need clear\, expert guidance right when the question arises. That is exactly what our Helpdesk Sessions are for. Designed exclusively for VAA Members\, these focused consultations give you direct access to professional support so you can move forward with confidence and momentum. \nArtists use the Helpdesk for concise\, practical guidance on: \n– Strategic planning and setting direction– Marketing\, visibility and promoting your work– Pricing and positioning within the market– Building networks\, opportunities and partnerships– Finance\, tax and professional administration– Any specific challenge where expert advice can help \nAfter you submit your enquiry\, a member of the VAA team will contact you for a brief assessment so we can determine the most effective way to support you. Depending on your needs\, guidance may be provided via email\, phone\, or a scheduled Zoom session. \nPlease note:– Helpdesk Sessions are subject to availability and intended for one-off\, targeted advice.– If a quick solution exists\, we may direct you immediately to the relevant resources. \nTo request Helpdesk support\, email hello@visual-artists.org or book directly via our Calendly system:https://calendly.com/visualartistsassociation \nShirley-Ann O’NeillShirley-Ann is an arts director\, curator\, and co-founder of the VAA with over two decades of experience helping artists build sustainable\, successful careers. She is co-author of the bestselling books Good Art Does Not Sell Itself and Securing Representation\, and her curatorial work has been featured by the BBC\, Sky News and the International New York Times.As Programme Director for the VAA’s CPD and mentorship programmes\, she leads initiatives such as the Art Sales Academy and Artist Momentum. She also hosts the Art Insider podcast and has served on the selection panel for The Other Art Fair London by Saatchi Art. \nWe are committed to supporting your artistic and professional growth – if you need direction\, clarity or a trusted sounding board\, the Helpdesk is here for you.
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/vaa-support-for-members-helpdesk-sessions-2/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Member Events,Hepdesk Sessions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Helpdesk-Sessions-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260205T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260205T140000
DTSTAMP:20260504T102848
CREATED:20251201T101233Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T122401Z
UID:10005177-1770296400-1770300000@visual-artists.org
SUMMARY:Accountability Circle
DESCRIPTION:VAA Accountability Circle\nStarts: Thursday\, 5th February 2026Time: 13:00 GMT (UK time)Format: Weekly online group sessionsPrice: £39 per month or £300 for the full year \nThe VAA Accountability Circle is a weekly accountability programme for artists who want to build momentum\, stay focused\, and make steady progress in their creative and professional practice. \nIt’s designed for artists who work well with structure and shared commitment – whether you’re developing a new body of work\, preparing for exhibitions\, applying for opportunities\, or simply trying to stay consistent and motivated. \nThe programme combines guided weekly sessions with peer accountability\, practical goal-setting\, and a supportive artist community. \nScheduleThe programme begins with four Thursday sessions (5th–26th February).From March onwards\, sessions continue weekly on Tuesdays\, with timings rotating monthly to support artists in different schedules.All sessions are recorded\, with summaries shared for those unable to attend live. \n\nWho It’s For\n\nArtists seeking structure\, motivation\, and accountability\nArtists working towards specific creative or professional goals\nArtists who value peer support and shared progress\nArtists at any career stage who want to stay connected and consistent\n\n\nWhat to Expect\n\nWeekly live group sessions with a mentor and fellow artists\nSpace to set intentions\, share progress\, reflect\, and troubleshoot challenges\nA clear accountability framework to support consistent action\nThe app (Google Classrooms): track goals\, tasks\, wins\, access resources\, and watch recordings\nWhatsApp group for informal connection and ongoing support between sessions\nOccasional sessions led by additional VAA mentors and invited industry specialists\n\n\nLead Mentor\nKaren van Hoey Smith \nKaren is an artist mentor\, independent art broker\, and curator with over 20 years of experience across the art market. Her background spans auctioneering\, gallery management\, art consultancy\, and publishing. She has represented and brokered work by leading artists and has supported hundreds of artists in building sustainable\, confident\, and commercially aware art careers. \nEligibility\nThe Mastermind is available exclusively to VAA Members. \nTo join VAA\, visit: https://visual-artists.org/join/
URL:https://visual-artists.org/event/vaa-rise-mastermind/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Events,members,Opportunities,Member Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://visual-artists.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Accountability-Circle-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
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