The Power of Groups to Accelerate Your Art Business
I shyly hit the button to apply for Emily Jeffords’ first mastermind group in the spring of 2018. I had no idea that decision would change my life. I met amazing women doing amazing things, and I respect and will call them friends for life.
I’ve joined other groups and signed up for quite a few classes. I’m ashamed to say that I didn’t always even finish the classes I bought. But the good ones are beautiful and life-giving.
Because of these groups I’ve developed an email list, learned to launch collections, created prints and holiday items, developed a pricing philosophy, learned to create beautiful packaging, stood up for myself as an artist, diversified my income, expanded my network and on and on.
Community is transformative because it brings accountability, vision and empowerment.
I’ve been nervous before I bought/joined each group. And yes, they are usually somewhat expensive but good ones are worth way more than they cost and end up paying for themselves in my experience.
Here are my favorite groups/classes that I have personally profited from. I’m so so grateful for these groups and the women that host them.
For the artist who wants to make prints: LaurieAnne Gonzalez's "Art to Print":
LaurieAnne Gonzalez's "Art to Print" course empowers artists by teaching them the intricacies of transforming their artwork into high-quality prints. From selecting the right tools to editing and production, LaurieAnne offers a comprehensive understanding of the art-to-print process, opening doors to new opportunities and revenue streams.
I watched this course about a year after I started making prints and I so wish I had taken it earlier. It would have saved me soooo much money. LaurieAnne is a sweet friend and a great teacher.
2. For the artist who wants to turn art into a business: Emily Jeffords' "Make Art Work" course and her Mastermind group:
Emily Jeffords' "Make Art Work" class takes a holistic approach to empower artists to build successful and sustainable careers. This course offers valuable insights into turning creativity into a thriving profession. Emily’s emphasis on fostering an authentic connection with the audience and cultivating a resilient mindset sets artists on a path towards sustainable growth. I also was a part of her first mastermind group and it was life changing.
I am forever grateful for Emily, and I eventually became her studio mate, so I know she is an absolute sweetheart.
3. For the artist who wants passive licensing income: Juliet Meeks' "Licensing for Artists":
Juliet Meeks' "Licensing for Artists" course explores the exciting world of art licensing. Through a step-by-step approach, participants gain practical knowledge for developing licensable artwork, creating licensing agreements, and understanding the licensing industry's nuances. Juliet has a heart of gold and made each of us feel valued and heard. She keeps classes small so that she can answer all questions.
4. For the artist who needs help with finances: Shanna Skidmore's "Blueprint Model":
Shanna Skidmore's "Blueprint" course offers a comprehensive roadmap to transform your passion into a profitable business. This is a financial course for any creative entrepreneur. It was so good, and I especially loved the Blueprint Summit at the end of the course where I met a lot of artists that are part of my network today.
Bonus resource: I have to mention one more resource that is not necessarily a group or a class but it is almost one because it is so helpful.
For the artist who wants to put art on products or for the artist who is tired of searching for great vendors: Simply Jessica Marie’s vendor guide called the “The Printing and Production Partners Guide”
The Printing and Production Partners Guide is so helpful that it’s almost like having a mentor and purchasing it gets you into Jessica’s “Print Sisterhood” Facebook community where you can get answers to lots of questions about printed products. She has helped me figure out where to buy beautiful ribbon, where to get candles made and more.
I’ve been in two groups with Jessica (she’s in both group photos above) and she is a force, a super sweet force. She has generously offered a coupon code for this guide for my community: enter code LAURIE10 at checkout for 10% off the guide.
I know the things that are holding you back all too well— the timidity, the imposter syndrome, the overwhelm, the fear of wasting money . . .
I did and often do experience all of those things but I’m so grateful for the bursts of courage that led me to commit to the classes and groups that have and continue to help and encourage and enrich myself and my work. Let me know if you have any questions about any of these courses.
I am an affiliate for some of these groups and may receive a small commission when you make a purchase at no cost to you.