HBUS-320: Pro Practices for Artists

The pursuit of art today can sometimes seem like a capricious and daunting endeavor; there is clearly no one path or plan that serves all artists' aspirations or guarantees success. This course presents practical advice for artists that can aid in achieving the various satisfactions derived from a life in art. Some topics explored include: tools for documenting your achievements and assessing your objectives; choosing a graduate school; setting up a studio; putting together a professional portfolio and resume; project proposals and artist statements; foundations, grants, and artist-in-residence programs; legal issues, contracts, and copyrights; finances, accounting, and bookkeeping; art sales, representation, and galleries; critics, curators, and collectors; art teaching and academia; and what skills you will need for various art-related employment options. Class discussions will also touch on how best to deal with the inevitable challenges of being a working artist--pressures, motivation, competition, and rejection. This course will present an overview of the numerous opportunities that exist today for artists, and strategies for accomplishing your dreams.