The power of networking should not be underestimated. Networking involves interacting and developing relationships with professionals in your chosen industry. During your degree, you will have studied alongside the same students and seen the same academics every day but now it is time to break away from the structure of education and break into the creative industry. This can sound daunting for emerging artists stepping into the professional world – striking up conversation with people you do not know in a formal setting. However, developing the skills to networking can be integral to enhancing your creative career after graduation.
On the surface, networking can sound like a linear process whereby you connect with an individual, repeating this process as you meet more people in the industry. Karen van Hoey Smith, Mentor for the VAA, proposes that the concept of networking would benefit by changing the name to ‘Web Weaving’. The idea of Web Weaving perfectly captures the intricate connections that can be created through networking with those who work in the industry. Web Weaving conjures the analogy of a spider’s web where you are at the centre. Think of each connection that you make like the radial lines on a spider web. You create connections with professionals that you network with, but your connections also have connections, so the web is ever-expanding as you establish relationships within the industry. Once you have established your network, it can act as a support system as you develop your career. Connecting with people in the industry provides you with the opportunity to learn and seek advice from professionals.
“The word Networking seems to still hold connotations with having to be ‘working the room’ and being physically interactive with the ‘right’ people. But perhaps we need to change the word to Web Weaving. All webs need a starting point and connecting strings; follow people online such as artists in your field or those you admire, follow galleries, critics, curators, associations and anywhere you feel you could contribute to the larger artistic conversation. Join webinars and meet people virtually. Comment on people’s work/shows and don’t forget to thank people… it goes a long way.”
Karen van Hoey Smith advises that art graduates should follow artists, galleries, critics, curators and associations in an effort to expand your network. This will allow you to immerse yourself in the art world, providing inspiration and motivation from a plethora of sources. In addition, consuming content from people involved in different aspects of the industry will equip you with an insight into how these areas operate and what these roles involve.
Networking can take place both in person and online – both of which can be beneficial to your career.
“Go everywhere in person. If you are invited, go.”
Aniko Boda (Visual Artists Association Best International Artist 2024).
In an interview with the VAA, Aniko Boda stresses the importance of meeting professionals in person as a way to build a strong rapport with the professionals that you meet. Boda advises that “sitting at home won’t lead anywhere” and encourages graduates to be proactive by seeking out opportunities to meet and connect with new people. Attending networking events provides you with an opportunity to ask questions and gain knowledge from professionals, providing you with a unique insight that you may not be able to obtain elsewhere. The VAA suggests that buddying up at networking events can help you feel more confident because you are not facing the room alone. In addition, it is a great way to build relationships with individuals who are in the same position as you in their career.
However, you can also network successfully online by reaching out via social media or LinkedIn. It is important not to view networking as a transaction whereby you expect something from the professional you are trying to connect with. The VAA recommends that you should intend to establish meaningful relationships with the professionals you want to connect with rather than solely seeking to further your career. It will be more beneficial to have a meaningful conversation. Asking about their role and their career progression will provide you with an insight into their career. These conversations may introduce you into a new path that you had not previously considered that can be pursued after graduation.
“As a recent graduate, you are likely to be younger and less experienced than many of those working in your field, and approaching people to make contacts, suggest collaborations, or even just ask for advice, make be a scary prospect. It’s important not to let this put you off.”
The VAA recommend sharing opportunities with your network – if you see something that is suited to someone you know, reach out and share it with them. Hopefully they will reciprocate the gesture and share opportunities they find with you. This is how opportunities are born. Sharing opportunities is a perfect way to create meaningful relationships with people who have the same aspirations as yourself and who are in a similar stage of their career where they are actively seeking new opportunities in the creative industry.
“Most people will remember that they, too, were once at the start of their careers and many may have positive memories of someone who gave them a helping hand. They are likely to be pleased that you have identified them as someone you admire or feel you could learn from. Good networking benefits everyone, at any stage of their career, so focus on the positives that you have to offer, and have the courage to take that first step.”
Professor Chapman stresses that the professionals you want to connect with were once in the same position as you at the beginning of their careers. Therefore, professionals will empathise with your position. It is difficult to break into the industry when you do not know anyone. Professionals will want to connect with you and bridge this gap in a similar way that professionals did for them when they were at the start of their own creative career.
Finally, joining an association like the Visual Artists Association can expand your network and your knowledge of the industry. The VAA host online events, including Members Meetings and Weekly Catch-ups, where you can meet new people and regularly reconnect with them. Once you’ve made a connection, regularly check in with them to maintain the relationship.
Networking – Weaving Your Web as an Art Graduate
Guest Written by Lola George Hammerton
University of Liverpool Student