Whenever a new idea is born it is often greeted with awe, disdain or simply, ‘What?’

When the synapses in my brain aligned to create a class on artist empowerment and prosperity, it was crystal clear as to the concept and worth of what I was manifesting. However, the idea of Artist As Brand is so unique to any education taught in any school, college or university out there, so it's understandable that there are some questions about what it is I teach exactly. This post is going to clarify the principles/manifesto of this course (some call it a movement) and exactly what value you will receive from your time and $295 investment.

What is Artist As Brand?

The goal of Artist As Brand is to connect the individual to their purpose, art and prosperity. Connecting your art deeply with your truth creates a mark that is so authentic and profound it embodies a unique power. Align this vision with your individual collectors through targeted marketing techniques and you begin to build a one-of-a-kind art empire that can sustain you financially for the rest of your life.

ARTIST art·ist [ahr-tist]–noun 1. A person who produces works in any of the arts that are primarily subject to aesthetic criteria. 2. A person who practices one of the fine arts. 3. A person whose trade or profession requires a knowledge of design, drawing, painting, etc… A commercial artist. 4. A person who works in one of the performing arts, actor, musician, singer; dancer, public performer. 5. A person whose work exhibits exceptional skill.

BRAND [brand]–noun and verb 1. Kind, grade or make, as indicated by a stamp, trademark or the like. 2. A mark made by burning or otherwise, to indicate kind, grade, make, ownership, etc… 3. A kind or variety of something distinguished by some distinctive characteristic. 4. To impress indelibly. 5. A brand name.

The essence of these two words together can be defined thus: A creator who has made their mark!

Some fine artists scoff at the word brand. Whether you like the word or not, all visionary creators throughout time who have made their mark on humanity are brands. They are remembered for their impact on the collective consciousness of the planet and many are household names. I call the Artist As Brand workshop an artist boot camp because it is highly focused with the intention of aligning and defining (in some instances re-aligning and re-defining) the purpose and direction of an individual's career path. We start deep in the heart and move outwards connecting your talent to your marketing, patrons and collectors so there is perfect alignment.

The knowledge for this workshop is derived from 28+ years working as a professional artist inside and outside of the publishing, film and gallery industries as well as teaching higher education.

The following is an outline of the course and what students will learn and come away with. This is an evergreen online course. Students get lifetime access to the course including all future updates and resources.

MODULE ONE: DECLARE YOUR PURPOSE: You will learn your Core Virtue. Knowing your core virtue is the first step to establishing a foundation which your career is built upon. This intimate part of yourself is a driving force in your life. It goes deeper than your art. Declaring your core purpose aligns your heart with your art in a profound manner.

Design a Personal Logo/Heraldic Shield: You will create a simple image that will represent what you just learned about yourself. It will represent your Core Virtue.

Design a Vision Board: This template is defined by everything you love in your life—what turns you on and keeps you motivated as a unique individual. The Vision Board represents the niche markets that will be your domain and will make up your one-of-a-kind art empire.

Practice The Art of The Blurb: You will learn how to introduce and represent yourself to people. Most artists do not have a clue how to speak with others about who they are and what they do. This exercise is designed to increase your confidence and generate interest in who you are and what you have to offer.

Every workshop includes special lectures by esteemed individuals who encompass the Indie Art Spirit. Guests include art writer Peter Clothier, licensing expert Maria Brophy, social media master and botanical perfumer Roxana Villa.

MODULE TWO: PLAN YOUR BRAND: You will learn to design your art and product line. We will look at artists who are successful in this area and discuss new approaches to making income from your art. We will define what art and products can manifest from your Vision Board.

Create An Innovative Marketing Blueprint: You will learn to create a marketing blueprint that integrates high tech and high touch medias. We look at these two very different but synergistic marketing models. You learn how to best utilize these promotional mediums.

Learn The Simple Yet Powerful Art of Business and Commerce: Are you an art hobbyist or an art professional? This is a short lecture on straight up, common sense business practices. If you are selling art, you are a business. Start acting like one.

Connect With Artist Entrepreneur Leaders: Learn to create a community and hook up with those who are successful in order to keep yourself inspired and in the company of great people.

MODULE THREE: EMPOWER YOUR PROSPERITY: Commit to sustainability. You will design a five-year marketing strategy that takes a serious look at your finances, living situation and overall goals personally and professionally. What is possible? Connecting to your BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal).

Recognize the Potential of Team Building and The Power of a Mastermind: Your peers can be some of your greatest assets from a personal, professional and moral support capacity. You will start this process right in the class!

Conceptualize a Product Ready for Manufacture: We begin to look at the details of what it’s going to cost in labor, time and materials to create a product from start to finish.

Review: In addition participants will have access to other career enhancing promotional opportunities only available to Artist As Brand students! Some of these details can be found on the ABOUT page. Now you are ready to create your own Art Empire!

I hope this information helped to clarify the purpose and design of my class. Come on and join the Indie Art Revolution! Sign up today! Lifetime access is included and you may complete the class online at your own pace.

See what participants are saying.

To Your Artist Empowerment and Prosperity,

—Greg

Whenever artists decide to go it alone, make their own way,  fear comes along for the ride.

As freelancer for so many years I understand where this fear comes from. The goal of being secure in your finances, being safe in general  (food, clothing, shelter) are real considerations and pounded into our brains since we were kids. However fear is also an illusion. What would it feel like if the concept of security was an illusion too? Would it freak you out?

We live in an unpredictable world. What I have learned over these many years of going it alone is that security is an illusion. Making friends with that reality brings a sense of freedom and empowerment. I can do what I can in this moment to live in my highest potential and reap the fortunes of what life has to offer. It is a mind set most people are not used to.

The following is short post by Chris Guillebeau that touches on this concept too:

“Micro-entrepreneurship is changing the world. The best opportunities in the new economy are centered on creating your own assets. It doesn’t matter who wins a U.S. election, at least not in terms of how the economy affects you. No matter what happens, the unemployment rolls will continue to be full. Perhaps even worse, many people will remain underemployed by working at jobs that offer few benefits and little opportunities for advancement.

Speaking of opportunities, however, there are now more than ever before. It’s never been easier to take matters into your own hands. All over the world, people are thinking differently about risk and security, and many of them are taking action on their new perspectives. This is a good thing.

What is risky? Whether you work a “real job” or strike out on your own, relying on someone else is risky. What is secure? Creating your own freedom through side projects, independent work, instant consultancies, and creative self-employment of all kinds. What is freedom? The ability to make your own choices. Ultimately, freedom relates to value, which is taking responsibility for yourself by making something valuable for someone else. More...

I am creating an Artist As Brand® Online Class. This comprehensive course will be akin to my college level classes, but entirely online. Posts for this website are on hold until the course is available, which is slated for early 2018.The AAB website will return with a new design and purpose. I will still be available for consultations and one on one workshops during this time. I shall be updating the progress over the next few months.Keep living in your art spirit!

sdsugroup

Presented another Artist As Brand Workshop, this time at San Diego State University. Another amazing group of talented individuals guided along by their professor, and amazing artist Neil Shigley.Neil and I met in New York during the late 80's while pursuing our illustration careers. We are both alumni of Art Center College of Design and love creating figurative art. We both gravitated toward social/political commentary in our work, and stressed the importance to the students of exploring life and the planet with the intention of experiencing something new and bringing those stories to life for others to experience.This was an emotional group and I look forward to seeing what visions they create.

Freelancing is an option for artists who want to work in the industries of publishing, film, games, etc.  while they build up their patron/collector base. Graphic Designer James Grieg has put together an email course called "Before Going Freelance" that helps you get your head around some of the details of becoming a freelancer. Part of the course is free so check it out.Many art colleges prepare students for this art career option. You can always send questions my way too if this is something you really want to do as I freelanced as an illustrator for three decades! In a way when you follow the Artist As Brand principles you are aligning yourself with freelancing concepts, but you are building the industry around your self as opposed to relying on other businesses for your income.But check out Grieg's class and let me know what you think of it.

©Greg Spalenka

This post by Daniellexo, Etsy’s Seller Education Coordinator reflects on the evolution of ideas and how a good idea can spark a great one.

One morning I woke up to a Facebook message from one of my favorite college professors. I was excited to hear from her; she taught me so many lessons about creativity, and I often think about her when I’m sketching or working on new designs. Soon after we connected on Facebook, I caught one of her updates,

“Even if they seem like good solutions, avoid ‘clenching’ ideas. Hold them lightly, let them evolve and swim. Good ideas often transform into great ones if you give them enough room to play!”

I think I’ve had good ideas, but I know I often don’t give my ideas enough room to play. I wondered why that was, and I set out to write my own plan of attack. Here’s that plan-

©Greg Spalenka

Whenever artists decide to go it alone, make their own way,  fear comes along for the ride. As freelancer for so many years I understand where this fear comes from. The goal of being secure in your finances, being safe in general  (food, clothing, shelter) are real considerations and pounded into our brains since we were kids. However fear is also an illusion. What would it feel like if the concept of security was an illusion too? Would it freak you out? We live in an unpredictable world.What I have learned over thirty years of going it alone is that security is an illusion. Making friends with that reality brings a sense of freedom and empowerment. I can do what I can in this moment to live in my highest potential and reap the fortunes of what life has to offer. It is a mind set most people are not used to. The following is short post by Chris Guillebeau that touches on this concept too:Micro-entrepreneurship is changing the world. The best opportunities in the new economy are centered on creating your own assets.It doesn’t matter who wins the U.S. election, at least not in terms of how the economy affects you. No matter what happens, the unemployment rolls will continue to be full. Perhaps even worse, many people will remain underemployed by working at jobs that offer few benefits and little opportunities for advancement.Speaking of opportunities, however, there are now more than ever before. It’s never been easier to take matters into your own hands. All over the world, people are thinking differently about risk and security, and many of them are taking action on their new perspectives. This is a good thing.What is risky? Whether you work a “real job” or strike out on your own, relying on someone else is risky.What is secure? Creating your own freedom through side projects, independent work, instant consultancies, and creative self-employment of all kinds.What is freedom? The ability to make your own choices.Ultimately, freedom relates to value, which is taking responsibility for yourself by making something valuable for someone else.More...

Cedar City Airport

I departed the plane at Cedar City airport and walked into what appeared to be a living room or a snuggly lodge in the mountains. Plush chairs, side tables with plants, wood paneling and a fireplace greeted me with a down home quality I had never experienced in an airport before. It was really nice!When Ben Sowards invited me to present a workshop at Southern Utah University I jumped at the opportunity. Ben had taken the workshop at BYU two years earlier and now wanted to share the experience with his students.Cedar City is known for Bryce Canyon Natl. Park. and its Shakespeare Festival. It has many cute Inns and Bed & Breakfasts. I stayed at the Big Yellow Inn an elegant Georgian Revival Bed & Breakfast.

The students, faculty and alumni at SUU were so warm and friendly I felt embraced like family. Ben took me to the Centrum Arena where I lectured to an audience of two hundred.

Some of the SUU Workshop Participants (Ben is on the left)

The workshop was more intimate and filled with a group of enthusiastic students, alumni and faculty. I love seeing the lights go on in people's hearts and minds when they dive into the work and see themselves clearly. For many it is a powerful and cathartic when this happens so there are always tears at my workshops. This group jumped in with open hearts and much transformation was realized.

After that first realization they focus on melding their talent with the entrepreneurial spirit. There is real excitement when they recognize the potential of their unique ideas becoming reality. Building an industry around their creations instills a sense of freedom. It still takes fortitude and hard work but at the end of the day the productions are their own and so is the prosperity.

Student, Vachelle Thomas had this to say: "The Artist As Brand workshop was truly transformational. I feel so hopeful, like I have never felt before, and I want to thank you. I've spoken about the workshop daily, with people who attended and with others, to refine my core virtue statement and to sound out opportunities."

That's the spirit, Vachelle! I am looking forward to seeing the results of this group's passion.

The morning before I flew back to LA, Ben took me to see the sun rise over Zion's Kolob Canyon.

It was spectacular.

Thanks Ben! And thank you to all my new art spirit friends in Cedar City.

All photos by Ben Sowards.

Christine Brown

One of the best parts of teaching, lecturing and presenting workshops for higher education is the people I meet. I love connecting with all the talented, passionate individuals who enjoy teaching and inspiring others to greatness. Some of these special people work in the Career and Professional Development departments. Recently, I lectured at the AICAD and CIAD conferences at Ringling College of Art and Design and learned much about this group of professionals who guide students toward career opportunities.

Let's celebrate one of them!

Christine Brown is the Director of Career and Professional Development at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University.

GS: Tell us about your journey to becoming a Director for Career and Professional Development at Kendall.

CB: Like most people it was not a straight and narrow path but more like a bouncing balloon. It was a journey of learning about myself. I started out in college studying biology and chemistry, then becoming very interested in law and finally graduating with a Business and a Paralegal degree. There was something common in my choices of the various majors and it became more apparent when I began to volunteer at the local Women's Resource Center. I wanted to empower people. I discovered that whatever occupation I chose, working with people to improve their quality of life had to be a big component of the job. Whether graduating with a law degree and working for children's and women's right's or becoming a health care provider I wanted to make a difference.I had a couple of wonderful mentors who saw my passion. They provided me with the opportunity and training to work and volunteer helping students in a college environment as well as at the Women's Center. You cannot help but grow and flourish when you are doing what is your passion. I worked in Career Services at the business college where I received my degree, then asked to interview for the Director of the Career Office at Kendall in 1998. I have been here since and enjoy coming to work everyday.

Besides the paycheck, the real pay off is the box of letters and thank you notes I receive from people who feel that I made a difference.

.GS: It is wonderful when your work is aligned with what you love. What do you feel is the most important and fulfilling facets of what you do?

CB: That I have the opportunity to meet so many students, alumni, and people in the business community, then bringing these constituents together.GS: After returning from the AICAD and CIAD conferences it was apparent that much of the career councilors work is gathering statistics for government funding, fulfilling accreditation requirements, and seeking out job openings for graduates. The amount of bureaucracy you must wade through is immense. How do you prioritize these responsibilities and how does the student fit in?CB: We have had to be smarter in the way we work. Technology has become and important part of the equation in delivering services and information to our students and alumni. I am a one person office with an assistant which I share with another director. When I started enrollment was 550. We are now at an enrollment of 1400 so I have to be creative. I believe my mission is to prepare these students to be self-sufficient and resourceful. I still meet with students one-on-one, but the traffic is down due to the technology we have implemented. Students today like having 24/7 access online to services.GS: Self-sufficiancy is vitally important to sustainability. How do you learn the needs, and ambitions of your individual students?CB: Shut-up, Listen and Observe!GS: Sounds like good advice!It appears that the success of much higher education today is determined by its job placement capabilities. Preparing and plugging graduates into industry positions is a priority. I have never seen curriculum that focuses on creating an industry around an individual's talent and vision. Any thoughts on this?CB: I do not place people in jobs. I provide them with the skills to manage their careers whether it is job searching or starting their own business. Many of our alumni who come to the college and share their stories with our students are running their own consultancies. I personally would like to see more business-related classes geared towards artists and designers. West Michigan has some great support resources for anyone wanting to start a business. Just by the nature of art and design, most artists/designers should be prepared to negotiate contracts, work with clients, price their work, understand their markets and create new markets.GS: It has been my experience especially over the last decade that more and more students as well as professional artists are looking for ways to create a living from their own creations and stories. Have you noticed this shift at Kendall?

Yes, entrepreneurialism is on the rise.

.With the all the new community resources, business education and venture capitalists in West Michigan, I see more people making that leap. It is great to see how many of our graduates have opened their own design studios, art businesses and galleries. I recently met with our new college President who asked me what ideas I see in the future for Kendall. My response was to develop an entrepreneurial center/incubator for artists and designers. Guess what? He liked the idea and said he was sure there were grants and funding for this type of endeavor.

GS: Wow, that is awesome. Go to the top when you want to get something done!  The entrepreneurial center/incubator for crowd funding etc. are ideas all colleges/universities can implement now.You were instrumental in bringing me to Kendall last year to present an Artist As Brand workshop, and are now having me return again this November. What has been the feedback of the students, faculty and alumni?CB: I had students and alum who attended the weekend session call or stop by my office to thank Nancy and myself for sponsoring your visit. It was a great success and attendees felt they were connecting the dots of their life, aspirations and their work. There was excitement in the room because they felt like they had a focus and a direction. It was always there inside of them, but you gave them the window to look inside and discovery it themselves.

Artist As Brand Workshop at Kendall 2011

GS: That is wonderful to hear, thank you. I look forward to returning! One of the goals in the workshop is to bring clarity to an artist's personal vision, then connect that to a plan of action. I find that there is tremendous empowerment when tapping into ones own volition and seeing success rise from it. How do you define success?

Success to me is living the best life you can and becoming an inspiration to others.

GS: Sounds like a Heart Virtue to me!Art is like fashion, it changes and morphs throughout the years. Any suggestions for an artist’s sustainability and final pearls of wisdom?

CB: Stay connected with your art community and do whatever it takes to remain inspired to create.

1.  If you're not making mistakes, you're not taking risks, that means you're not going anywhere. 2. Don't be afraid to ask for help! 3. Trust yourself.

Inspiration is the word! Thank you Christine for sharing your journey, and insight into the world of Career & Professional Development! See you soon!And thank you to all the Career Service professionals who are beacons of light for students everywhere.

If your work is well done, has integrity and is imbued with love it will most likely reflect exceptional value and longevity. So it is with Blog posts. The following post by Chris Guillebeau is from 2010 but still vital as ever:I’m a big fan of Jim Collins’ work, especially the modern day classic Good to Great.Even if you’re not interested in business, the book is inspiring and practical. Nine years after publication, it’s still kicking ass, and deservedly so.I recently re-read my favorite passages, and I especially liked the introduction Jim used to convey how much the book meant to him before publication.

As I was finishing this manuscript, I went for a run and an odd question popped into my mind: How much would someone have to pay me not to publish Good to Great?It was an interesting thought experiment, given that I’d just spent the previous five years working on the research project and writing this book. Not there isn’t some number that might entice me to bury it, but by the time I crossed the hundred-million-dollar threshold, it was time to head back down the trail. Even that much couldn’t convince me to abandon the project.

One hundred million dollars! Can you imagine creating something you love so much that you wouldn’t part with it for less than that? Wow.Aside from making sure I have enough to live responsibly and have my adventures, I don’t focus a lot on money. But I think Jim’s right: most of us have some kind of walk-away price. It’s good to know what it is, because then you know how valuable your work is—even if it’s something you keep to yourself. More...

Pinterest is one of the new stars of the social media world.Set up an account at Pinterest.com. You can then start creating boards where you can "pin" photos and videos around a common theme that you find on the Web. This is another way of sharing your story, your lifestyle, and connect to others who love what you love too. I have not started a board yet but Roxana is obsessed and creates some of the most beautiful ones I have seen. Check them out HERE.Here is an article on Copyblogger explaining "56 Ways to Market Your Business on Pinterest."Who is using Pinterest and how is it helping you?

Every so often I will see a movie whose essence reflects a strong independent vision, purpose and soul. The movie can be fictional or documentary but the common thread is a story that focuses on the goals and aspirations of an individual or individuals whose  commitment, and sometimes sacrifice to succeed becomes a powerful testament to the human potential. My goal with Artist As Brand is to see a world filled with empowered art spirits sharing their art and stories, being appreciated and supported. I love films that remind us to stay true to our dreams and not to give up.Bill Cunningham is an 80+ New York Times photographer. For decades he has been chronicling fashion trends and high society charity soirées for the Times Style section in his columns "On the Street" and "Evening Hours." This documentary is about an artist who works in industry, but you almost never know it because of  Cunningham's passion for his craft, humanity and love of people. You will be touched by Bill Cunningham New York, directed by Richard Press.If you have other films you feel have a strong AAB message please share them with us.PeaceGreg

I am honored to be returning to the Academy of Art University in San Francisco to present a two day Artist As Brand workshop.

***

Academy of Art University

July 7-8, 10:00- 8:00, Saturday/Sunday

540 Powell st. San Francisco, CA 94105

Limited to 20 participants

Do you have stories and visions you want to share with the world? Whether you are a student who is ready to start an art career, a teacher who wants to make income from their creations, or a professional artist who is tired of pumping out work for the film, game, publishing, and advertising industries, this workshop is for you. Get ready for the future of art career sustainability.Come prepared for some serious introspection on personal goals as well as mind bending concepts on perceiving your art career differently. You will learn how to connect with your fans, patrons and collectors directly. I guarantee you will not look at your talent the same way again.

Some testimonials from last years AAB workshop at AAU

“I want to thank you for your dedication and hard work. You are amazing. I believe that small business ventures are essential to the health and wealth of our country. You have found a path through the forest of corporate trees and soon it will be a well traveled road.” -Shelley Masters, Artist, Muralist, Teacher“I’m very thankful to have taken your workshop. I’ve learned so much. I’ve even blogged about you on my artblog check it out dianepascual.blogspot.com" -Diane Pascual, Artist, Writer“Greg’s seminar will provide the spark to get your creative fire burning bright!” -Dan Dion, Photographer“Clarity and direction have been issues for me… The workshop helped me take my broad ideas and narrow them down to manageable starting points.” -Summer Love, Environmental Designer“Thank You Greg!! For planting seeds in my mind for what is possible in developing an art business.” -Cameron Chun, Artist

The Artist As Brand Gang in Kansas City.

May 15-20 in Kansas City, MO was a special week indeed. Not only did I have a rocking group of talented artists who ranged from student to professional, coming from eight states for the Artist As Brand workshop, but Spectrum Fantastic Art Live opened a door to the future of art career sustainability. We had Alex Ruiz from California, David Frizell- Kansas, Tyler Davis-Utah,  Sue Cornelison and Paul Micich- Iowa, John Wagenman- Texas, Tara Chang- Washington, Sean Fitzgibbon- Arkansas, Julio Morales and student Jake Gorman- Missouri.

This was an awesome opportunity for the participants to see how what they learned in the workshop could be applied in an event like Spectrum Live. Arnie and Cathy Fenner did a great job with the convention for its grand opening even though the crowds were on the light side. The future is bright for this event. See more here.

Paul shot video from his iPhone of everyone voicing their core purpose. Your innate purpose, truth, virtue, is the foundation of your being and an attribute we align with in the workshop. It is beautiful and profound.

One of my goals with this work is to bring clarity to your career path. For instance Tyler had difficulty making a decision between teaching full time or focusing on creating his art. He just sent me this email, "I decided to put off large scale teaching until I have a few more years of experience and am going to sell my art products to build my empire!"

Right on brother! Go for it. I am with you!

Sarasota here I come! I will be presenting two Artist As Brand lectures at Ringling College of Art and Design as well as performing a two day Artist As Brand workshop. All Florida artists are invited.I am honored to be to speaking at the AICAD and CIAD conferences June 6, and 8 which are being held at Ringling this year. AICAD (Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design) is a consortium of 42 leading art schools in the United States and Canada. CIAD (Careers In Art and Design) is for Career Services professionals who work with artists and designers helping define career goals, direction, and advancement. My goal is to inspire higher education to advance curriculum in the area of independent art businesses.

***

The Artist As Brand workshop will be held at the Marriott Hotel.

June 9-10, 10:00- 8:00, Saturday/Sunday.

$295 for Ringling students, faculty, alumni.

$395 for all others.

REGISTRATION CLOSED

If you are serious about the future of your art career sustainability, this seminar is for you. Come prepared for some serious introspection on personal goals as well as mind bending concepts on perceiving your art career differently. You will learn how to connect with your fans, patrons and collectors directly. I guarantee you will not look at your talent the same way again.

Last week Roxana and I were invited to West Liberty University to be a part of their annual MadFest (Media Arts and Design Festival) and to present a one day Artist As Brand workshop. Essentially it was two very full days of presentations, looking at portfolios, judging artwork, web design, animations etc. as well as presenting awards to the winners. High schools from the surrounding area were invited which brought a youthful vitality to the event.The workshop was filled with 21 faculty, students, and alumni who came to some striking realizations about themselves and their artful path. One of the students Seth Miller, a talented photographer is creating a short film based on their interviews. I can't wait to see it!The past two days have not only left me feeling spiritually and emotionally invigorated, but have immensely enhanced my confidence and eagerness to begin working as a freelance artist. Thank you so much again for taking the time to plant seeds of knowledge in West Liberty's creative minds. The wisdom you share and bring out in fellow artists is truly priceless.-Victoria Lavorini, Graduating Student

"I have a clearer vision of where I want to go as you have greatly helped with the HOW.  Thank you for your insights..."-Bev Beatty, Alumni"Your generosity and sharing of experiences was greatly appreciated."-Brian Fencl, Chair Journalism, Communication Studies & Visual Arts

"The Artist as a Brand Workshop was very beneficial for me. It helped me define my purpose in relation to my artwork and made me believe in myself and the possibilities I will have as a freelance artist."

- Chloe Woods, Student

"It was very inspiring! I would like to stay in contact with you and keep you updated on my work and progress through the rest of my time at college, and as an artist.

"

-Sean Ritner, Student

In July 2010 I met a young artist name Ray Sumser selling a poster of his art in front of the San Diego convention center during Comic Con. I included him in an article I wrote about street artists called Artist As Brand Grassroots. At the end of last year I noticed he had started a Kickstarter funding event that did very well.For those who are not familiar with Kickstarter.com it is the world's largest funding platform for creative projects. Every week, tens of thousands of amazing people pledge millions of dollars to projects from the worlds of music, film, art, technology, design, food, publishing and other creative fields. It is a new form of commerce and patronage. This is not about investment or lending. Project creators keep 100% ownership and control over their work.It is such hit that sponsors will curate pages. Even colleges like SVA and RISD have gotten into the action supporting their alumni and students.

What's amazing is the amount of money some projects acquire. How about Joshua Harker's, Crania Anatomica Filigre sculpture which pulled in $77,271. Or the comic The Order of the Stick which pulled in a whopping $1,254,120! What?! You heard right, check it out.

Bottom line is if you have a great idea Kickstarter can help you start funding it.

2012 will be year of the artist entrepreneur ______________

Arnie and Cathy Fenner, the organizers of Spectrum Fantastic Art Live to be held in Kansas City this May sent me this email "Looks like we are all ahead of the curve on what we're doing." I am presenting an Artist As Brand workshop in conjunction with the event.They connected me to this article by Michael Wolf about artists taking control of their prosperity:While 2011 was a big year for political unrest, another uprising was afoot in the world of content creators and artists. Everywhere you look, artists are taking more control over their own economic well being, in large part because the Internet has enabled them to do so. You see it in all forms of content, from books, to video to music.A few examples from this year:e-books: Probably the most active area in large part because there is huge shifts taking place in digital publishing. From former mid-list writers like Barry Eisler to superstars like JK Rowling, writers are increasingly making waves in digital publishing.Video: The story of the year for artists-as-entrepreneur came at the tail-end, with Louis CK saying no thank you to corporate middlemen and putting his new concert video online for $5 a pop.Radio/Music: All sorts of independent entrepreneurs are putting audio entertainment online, from the rise of podcast kings like Leo Laporte to a huge number of independents like Adam Carolla and Marc Maron. Music artists are being given freedom too, through new platforms to create and share their music like Soundcloud.So what is driving this movement towards the artist-entrepreneur that will give it huge momentum in 2012?More...

I love people whose passion is to inspire and empower others. This is one of the reasons I enjoy bringing special guests to my workshops! There is such a wealth of knowledge to be gained.As a writer, private art-career coach, and entrepreneur who grew up in a family of artists, Ariane Goodwin, Ed.D., has learned that it is possible for an artist’s creative right-brain, and career-strategy left-brain, to become smooth-as-silk dancing partners. Ariane considers herself an artist’s ally, especially when artists understand that presenting artwork with confidence and credibility is as basic as good art supplies. Ariane uses the knowledge from her doctorate in Human Development and Creative Behavior to create a wide range of art-career materials, and events, to help visual fine artists catapult their careers to the next level. Besides authoring, "Writing the Artist Statement: Revealing the True Spirit of Your Work"– she is also the founder and host for a professional development conference for visual artists— the smARTist Telesummit.Greg: Tell me why you love what you do?Ariane: Here’s what I deeply believe: What artist do for our collective society is essential to our humanity. Many studies show us that wherever the arts are thriving, the entire local economy around those arts is also thriving. This reality has to fight tooth and nail against the multiple myths of the starving artist. The outsider. The rebel. And even though these myths have sprung out of Zeus’s head of truth, it is not the whole story – or even a major portion of the story. Changing this collective perception begins at home, with the artists. My work is about all the ways I can support visual artists to do this by successfully putting their work into the world.

Josephine A. Gieger- Middleton Courthouse Majestic Oak- smARTistTelesummit Alumni

G: I love that! How would you define artist empowerment?A: Empowerment is a state of being activated by every decision and choice we make. As we make our choices, if we pay attention to the small, quiet flame of life energy in our hearts,  we can easily feel, or see, when a choice is increasing that flame of life energy, or decreasing it. That’s where our true power lies.Empowerment is an inside -> out reality.  A big mistake in our current culture is the way making money – an outside -> in phenomenon – has become the benchmark for how we value ourselves and what we create. Money is an essential element that supports us best when it’s in harmony with the rest of our life. However, when money flow runs the show, it steals our ability to be self-empowered and blinds us to the creative power that is the elemental wellspring of all empowerment.G: I agree with you completely. Living from the inside out is the foundation of empowerment. Prosperity flows from that place too. Tell me about your book, Writing The Artist Statement, Revealing the True Spirit of Your Work .A: An artist statement is a first person account of what, how, and why you do what you do, from the artist’s perspective. The secret lies in how an artist statement builds a psychological bridge between the artist and the audience. An effective statement creates a personal connection to the artwork and stimulates our human thirst for story. This in turn triggers longer memory storage about the artist by immersing the viewer in two languages: visual and linguistic.For people who see your work, a well-written statement keeps your name in front of them even longer. Name recognition, or branding, as it’s know in business-speak, is nothing more than remembering -- out of a virtual storm of cultural stimulation -- what has struck a deep chord within us. Another secret is that the artist statement is not just for art patrons and gallery owners. It is also for the artist. Writing an artist statement gives artists another way to reflect on their work. When you dare to climb this small, professional Mr. Everest, a surprising view of your own work awaits you at the top.

Tricia Simmons- Silver Pod with Australian Boulder Opal- smARTistTelesummit Alumni

G: Speaking your truth this way sounds like a perfect fit with living from the inside out! I am curious about the smARTist Telesummit this January 26/27 with MasterMind Panels and January 30 – Feb 3 with 10 Keynote speakers. Tell me more.A: Seven years ago, when I trolled the Internet, I searched in vain for a professional development conference for visual artists. I couldn’t even find the term “art career” connected to the key words: visual fine artist. Oh sure, I could find it in the “How to Have An Art Career Illustrating Children’s Books” categories, but not in the fine art arena. That took me by surprise in the same way I was taken by surprise years earlier when I discovered that artists thought artist statements were a worse fate than having a root canal. In fact, until the first conference (for that’s really what smARTist is: a virtual conference), you simply could not find anyone talking to visual artists about a “career.” About a business, yes. About how to market, yes.  But a “career?” It just hadn’t evolved to that point in our collective consciousness — yet.My opening remarks at that first conference, January 2007, was all about the need for artists to embrace what they did at the level of a career because that was the key for turning around the starving artist myth. It was the key to shifting our cultural, collective awareness of who artists really are! In 2007, “telesummit” was part of a new, online vocabulary designed to create a clear distinction between events in our non-virtual world and our ever-expanding, transforming online world. Today, the word “telesummit” has morphed way beyond the concept of a brick and mortar conference. But the event of smARTist is still that: the equivalent of an offline, professional development conference for visual fine artists and artisans.I tell all my keynote speakers, “Give all the deserving artists, who come year after year, the best material you have in you! After all, they shower our collective humanity with the magic and power of their creative flow, and deserve nothing less.”

Judith Gleason Glover- Hollyhocks- smARTistTelesummit Alumni

G: Bravo! How do you feel the Telesummit differs from what participants may learn in college, or other art institution?A: First off, college and art institutions have, for the most part, completely neglected any preparation for the reality that an artist is simultaneously an entrepreneur, a business person. Even if an artist manages to find someone to take on that role for them, they are their brand. They are inextricably tied to their art even after they’ve produced it. In many ways, college and art institutions have fostered the myth that an artist shouldn’t “soil their hands” with the dirty business of business. It’s a hierarchy of myths slapping each other on the back: that somehow business is a lower order of human experience/expression than art. The result is that many artists have become handicapped because of a mindset, a perception, which, as far as I’m concerned, is as easily shifted as one shifts a camera’s focus from a mossy stone to that soaring eagle.At the smARTist Telesummit, we aim to expand an artist’s creative experience from the studio to the artwork’s journey into the world. There is no reason for any artist to stop respecting the vision and gift of their creativity because the artwork has been produced. In fact, ushering your artwork into the world is a vulnerable and tender act of continued commitment and care. I liken it to having a baby and not leaving it in a basket on someone else’s porch.Each year, this professional development, online conference has a new focus. This year its about learning how to connect with collectors and communicate with confidence so you get more sales.With a doctorate in Creative Behavior and Human Development, I hold a strong belief that we learn best when it’s combination of practical art-career information (with 10 leading art career authorities speaking to you over 7 days you get a lot of “practical”), and raising our inner awareness (which, this year, centers on how to define and establish your value as an artist).

Barb Beckman- Angular Reflections- smARTistTelesummit Alumni

G: It has been my experience teaching at colleges that the business of art is neglected. Most higher education teach art making skill sets with an eye on preparing artists for the gallery world, or  publishing  and entertainment industries. What would be your suggestions for artists graduating with this mind set and do you feel its sustainable?A: There’s always room for multiple ways to be successful. Publishing, galleries, and the entertainment industries are all viable options. However, there are even more options. However, an artist’s survival depends on multiple ways to create cash flow, which is another reason the conference is so critical because it introduces artists to new ways to create income with their art.G: I read that one of your participants came up with an idea for a TV show focused on 'Plein Air Painting' where he could combine his passion for painting with travel. Within a few months he had negotiated an agreement with a television network. Those kinds of stories are a testament to the inspiration your conference brings to artists. Can you share another promotional strategy that has helped artists?A: I could pull out specific strategies, only after five conferences over five years, 46 speakers, and 62 topics, it would be like offering you one grain of sand instead of the whole, crystal white beach.What seems much more valuable to me is the huge shift that happens in an artist’s mindset. Because the conference offers such a wide expanse of ongoing, information (especially about how artists can best interface with the New World online), and 7 days of lively connection and exchange with fellow artists (the forum is a goldmine of stories, shared resources, priceless feedback, brainstorming – artists all a buzz with each other about what they are learning and how they are going to apply it to their art careers-right now!)--an artist’s entire career can catapult forward.You can see why I’m juiced to get up every morning to do this – spend 10-hr days for months at a time preparing for one event—because I hear back from artists about how it transforms their entire vision of what’s possible for their art careers.

Laura Muir- My Garden Next Year- smARTistTelesummit Alumni

G: Sounds like a treasure trove of inspiration and ideas for artists to build from. Thank you Ariane, for your artful wisdom and information concerning the smARTist Telesummit. Artists can save $60 right now on registration until this Friday, Jan 6th. Read testimonials here.

© 2011 Greg Spalenka and Artist As Brand ®

"The Artist As Brand Workbook is an easy read and jam packed with all kinds of resources. It's great to keep looking back to."-Miranda Sharp, Student, Kendall College of Art & Design, Michigan"I received a map and tools—where to go and what to do when I got there. And confidence, that I CAN be an entrepreneur with my own art and not have to rely on other people giving me work."-Gina Terzino, Artist, Los Angeles"You have finally put it all in perspective. I understand how to make my unique voice heard. I see the power and goodness of where my heart is telling me to go. I can finally stop waiting and dive into a new blue sea."-Kari Christensen, Professional Illustrator, New York

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THE ARTIST AS BRAND WORKSHOP IN A BOOK

You can now own the official PDF (digital) textbook participants use while taking the Artist As Brand Workshop. It is for serious creative individuals, students and professionals who want to manifest prosperity from their art, on their own terms. You will learn about the history behind Artist As Brand as well as it's synergistic principles. It has live links throughout that can be utilized while reading through the material.What's included?

DECLARE YOUR PURPOSE

• Learn your Core Virtue. Knowing your Core Virtue is the first step to establishing a foundation which your career is built upon. This intimate part of yourself is a driving force in your life, it goes deeper than your art. Declaring this core purpose aligns your heart with your art in a profound manner.• Design a Vision Board. Learn how to target the exclusive niche markets that will make up your one of kind art empire.

PLAN YOUR BRAND

• Design your art and project/product line.

We look at artists who are successful in this area, and new approaches to making income from your art. Define what art and projects/products can manifest from your Vision Board.

• Create an innovative marketing blueprint that integrates high tech and high touch medias. These are two very different but synergistic marketing models. You learn how to best utilize these promotional mediums.• The simple yet powerful art of business and commerce. Are you an art hobbyist or an art professional? If you are selling art you are a business, start acting like one.• Connect with artist entrepreneur leaders. Creating community and hooking up with those who are successful will keep you inspired and in the company of great people.• Your Name, Tagline, and art of the Blurb. The name of your business, and how you represent it is a reflection of your professionalism whether it is online or in person. Learn how to introduce and represent yourself to people. Most artists do not have a clue how to speak with others about who they are and what they do.

EMPOWER YOUR PROSPERITY

• Commit to sustainability. You will design a five year marketing strategy that takes a serious look at your finances, living situation, and overall goals personally and professionally. What is possible? Connecting to your BHAG.• Recognize the potential in team building, and the power of a Mastermind. Your peers can be some of your greatest assets from a personal, professional and moral support capacity.Read the book, do the work, take the steps even if they are little ones, and you will reap the rewards. Dive into the Artist As Brand Workbook and begin to see your art career in a new and unique light.

$49.95

"Greg, I wanted to thank you for giving us the tools to really go forward with our art businesses.- Diana Levin, Artist, Los AngelesI gained perspective on my future and myself. There is a world of possibilities for artists."-Tannie Duong, Student, San Francisco Academy of Art"I finished the Artist As Brand Workbook and really liked it. It has everything an artist needs to know to get started."-Mariana Benkovic Zeljko, Artist, Croatia

*All sales of the Artist As Brand® Workbook are final and there are no refunds.