VAA ArtLaunch

Kickstart Your Creative Career

Empowering the Next Generation of Artists

 

Whether you’re fresh out of art school or taking your first steps into the creative industry, VAA ArtLaunch is here to support your journey. Developed by the VAA, this service is dedicated to helping emerging artists build confidence, gain exposure, and thrive professionally.

 

 

Support Your Graduates with ArtLaunch

 

ArtLaunch, is a funded programme designed to support art students and recent graduates as they take their first steps into the professional art world. We’re reaching out to universities and institutions that are passionate about championing creative careers and equipping students for success beyond graduation.

By working together, we can provide tailored resources, mentoring, and practical guidance to help your graduates build sustainable art careers. To find out more about how we can collaborate, please get in touch with Shirley-Ann O’Neill, Director at the VAA, via email sao@visual-artists.org – we’d love to start the conversation. 

 

What is ArtLaunch?

 

ArtLaunch is a career development and support service exclusively for art students and recent graduates. Through mentorship, professional resources, portfolio reviews, and exhibition opportunities, we help you transition from student to working artist.

 

Who’s It For?

 

Current art students

Recent graduates (within 3 years)

Self-taught or returning artists looking to start fresh

Creatives ready to take their art to the next level

 

WHAT YOU WILL GET WITH ARTLAUNCH

Get personalised feedback on your work from industry professionals.

Free Entry into the Artist of the Year Awards.

Engage in Group Sessions with established Artists and Curators.

Learn how to price your art, market yourself, and find buyers or galleries.

Access to VAA-Curated group exhibitions and online showcases.

Join a growing network of emerging artists across the UK and beyond.

About the Online Skills Programme

 

All sessions will be delivered by Karen van Hoey-Smith ( Artist Mentor & Coach), however, Karen will also be supported by other of our Mentors – Amy Jobes, Artist & Mentor, Emma Barnard, Artist, Educator and multiple successful grant applicant and Richard Kalman, Art Gallery Director & Specialist in student & graduate Mentorship.

Enhance Your Visibility/Branding and Network

This online session is tailored specifically for Students and Graduates. In this engaging workshop, you will learn essential strategies on how to build a compelling profile and identity that not only showcases your work but also increases your visibility in the arts community.

What You’ll Learn

– Techniques to create a strong personal brand
– Tips for optimising your online presence
– Insights into effective networking strategies
– How to leverage social media to connect with fellow artists and potential clients
 

Unleash Your Artistic Voice

This online session is designed specifically for Students and Graduates. In this informative workshop, you will explore how to effectively write about your work, articulate your artistic voice, and enhance your funding applications. 

What You’ll Learn

– Strategies for articulating your artistic vision and work 
– Tips for writing compelling project proposals 
– Insights into successfully applying for grants and funding opportunities 
– Best practices for showcasing your identity as an artist 
 

Engaging with Communities as an Artist

This online session is tailored specifically for Students and Graduates. his engaging workshop will focus on effective strategies for connecting with diverse communities, securing gallery representation, and exploring artist residencies. 

What You’ll Learn

– Techniques for engaging with different artistic communities 
– Insights on how to secure gallery representation 
– Steps to apply for and succeed in artist residencies 
– Networking strategies to enhance your visibility in the art world
 

Open Q&A Session

A dedicated session held before the start of group mentorship, designed to explore the key areas artists would like to focus on. This is an opportunity to ask questions, raise topics of interest, and shape the direction of your upcoming mentorship journey.

 

How To Get Involved

 

Register your interest to join the next cohort of ArtLaunch and begin your journey towards a thriving art career. 

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST  >

 

 

Real Artists. Real Results.

Join VAA ArtLaunch

Ready to elevate your art career? Become part of a community that’s here to support your creativity and growth.

📅 Applications Open on June 10th

📍Open to UK and international artists

FREE for Students | 50% off Membership for Art Graduates (within 3 years)

GET CAREER READY

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Exclusive to our Members, the Vault contains a range of guides, templates, video diaries and articles that are designed to support and grow your business.

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Head to our calendar to take a look at the Masterclasses, Art Cafes, and Online Short Courses that are taking place throughout the year.

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The Artists Opportunities portal is full of Open Calls, Residencies, Events and Exhibitions to take part in.

📬 Got Questions?

We’re happy to help!
📧 Email us at hello@visual-artists.org
📱 Follow us on Instagram @visualartistsassociation

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