Shake Rag Alley Introduces ‘Business of Art’ Virtual Workshop Series
MINERAL POINT, Wis., March 23, 2021—Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts is pleased to introduce a new seven-week virtual and interactive workshop series designed to help artists of all types explore a variety of topics critical to their success as creative entrepreneurs.
Led by Galena, IL-based woodworking artist and entrepreneur Paul Pendola, these virtual workshops will share a format: The first portion will consist of a presentation by Paul, and in some cases, include invited experts in the field. The remainder of the session will be given over to Q & A. Students are invited to submit a case study prior to the workshop. Every effort will be made to address your particular situation, time permitting. To register for one or all sessions, which are priced at $50 each, see www.ShakeRagAlley.org.
April 12: The Online Store
It seems that many businesses have stayed afloat by adding an online presence to their sales channel assortment – or have gone completely virtual. How is a web-based selling platform best created and conducted? Looking at aspects of layout, hosting, payment processing, and other practical matters, Paul will provide examples of best practices for producing a compelling online store.
April 19: Art & Craft Fairs, Festivals, and Tours
We may have had a year off from gathering at fairs, festivals, and art tours -- most were canceled, or went virtual -- but these outlets will be viable again in 2021 and beyond. Paul has taken his Galena Spoon Company on the road for art fairs as well as thematic festivals, and has opened his studio doors during tours. He’ll share the highlights, lowlights, and many lessons learned through these experiences.
April 26: Leading Workshops
You know how to create something special. You have developed a unique process. You are passionate about your art or craft, and love sharing. You want to lead a workshop! Paul had these feelings and has gone on to teach spoon carving to groups and individuals, whether at art fairs, art centers, or from his studio. Get some practical advice and tap into another way to generate income via your art making.
May 3: Leveraging-up Social Media
Love it or hate it, it’s not going away, so learn to use it to your advantage. Social media is an increasingly important – and effective – way to promote yourself and your product. Expand your audience. Enhance your brand. Network with like-minded folks. Paul and a guest lecturer who is an expert in the field will share best practices and examples of winning strategies in the social media realm.
May 10: Pricing Your Product
You created it, you love it, and now it’s time to sell it. Sure – but for how much? For the first part of this workshop, Paul will address that oh-so-difficult topic of how to put an appropriate price on the things you make. Multiple considerations like the cost of materials, time spent on production, local and regional market forces, wholesale pricing, commission arrangements, stature of the artist, and gallery representation will be addressed.
May 17: Managing the Business End
Not every creative individual is inclined toward “the business end” of their artistic practice, but if you’re going to actually make money with your art, you do need to know some company management and structure basics. For instance, how can you tap into low- and no-cost marketing opportunities? Paul will apply his substantial academic background and corporate work experience in laying out the nuts and bolts of the business side of being an artist.
May 24: Supportive Organizations & Memberships
You spend quality “alone-time” in your studio, but when you get back out into the world, you’ll find there are associations and collectives that exist to assist, aid, and advance your creative and entrepreneurial endeavors in a variety of ways. Interact with Paul and your fellow students to share examples of how local, regional, and national organizations -- as well as state and federal programs -- may be helpful to an individual artist.
For more information and Shake Rag Alley updates throughout the year, see the website, subscribe to twice-monthly e-newsletters and follow Shake Rag Alley on Facebook and Instagram. To request a 2021 catalog, call (608) 987-3292 or email [email protected]. Staff will be glad to assist with workshop registrations and lodging reservations (workshop students enjoy a 10 percent discount off Shake Rag Alley lodging).
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About Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts
An independent nonprofit school of arts and crafts founded in 2004 by local artists and community members, Shake Rag Alley’s 2.5-acre campus at 18 Shake Rag St. in Mineral Point (population 2,500) is a national destination for participants of adult workshops, a robust summer youth program and a host of annual special events. In addition, Shake Rag offers on-site lodging and custom facility rentals for meetings, events and celebrations. For additional information about Shake Rag Alley’s workshops and events, or to request a catalog and information about facility rentals and volunteer opportunities, see www.ShakeRagAlley.org or call (608) 987-3292.