The Yoknapatawpha Arts Council works not only to present art programs but create opportunities for artists.“Our mission is to provide opportunities for artists to create, express and show their talent while offering the community the chance to experience works that enrich their lives,” stated Wayne Andrews Director of the Arts Council. The Arts Council will offer a workshop for artists designed to teach them the basics of marketing their work, July 9, 2009, at the Powerhouse Community Arts Center from 7-8:30pm
The idea for the workshop was the result of a roundtable discussion with several of the leading artists in the community. Pamela Massey, a Board Member for the Arts Council, shared,“We asked local artists how the Arts Council can help them. One of the ideas suggested by local artists was marketing support for their work. Many artists did not know the basics of how to market themselves online to a wider audience.” The Arts Council approached a local marketing consultant and web designer to create a simple program to educate artists on the value of managing their online presence. Steven Hopper, a graduate of the University of Mississippi, whose marketing firm manages projects for regional chambers of commerce agreed to create a special program just for artists.
The workshop entitled,“Simple Steps to Modern Marketing,” will be held Thursday, July 9, 2009, at the Powerhouse Community Arts Center in Oxford. Steven Hopper, of Hopper Creative, will offer simple steps that artists should take to quickly and efficiently establish a marketing presence for themselves and their art on the internet and through social networking tools. The program will be from 7:00pm-8:30pm and will feature a question and answer session following the presentation.
Mr. Hopper, who in addition to being a marketing consultant is an artist, expressed,“I thought this was a great opportunity to share my knowledge and ideas to help other artists. I hope it is part of building a community of artists that look to each other to enhance their craft.” The Arts Council is underwriting the workshop but hopes those who attend will make a suggested donation of $5 to support similar programs. To reserve a seat or for more information contact the Arts Council at yacoperations@gmail.com.