Artist
Development Workshops
Creative Nexus Artist Development Workshops—a series designed to equip artists with the tools, strategies, and insights needed to build sustainable and fulfilling careers. These workshops provide practical guidance on topics such as career planning, branding, and more, helping artists from all disciplines sharpen their skills, expand their reach, and achieve their creative goals. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your artistic practice, this series offers invaluable opportunities to learn, connect, and thrive in today’s competitive arts market.
Artist Development Workshop
March 5, 2025
6:00pm-8:00pm
Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center
525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota, FL 34236
"Career Planning for Artists" is designed to support artists from all disciplines in navigating their careers with confidence and clarity. This workshop will help you identify your career aspirations and develop a roadmap to achieve them, regardless of your specific artistic focus. Learn to set realistic goals, explore diverse income opportunities, and effectively manage your artistic portfolio. Whether you are a painter, sculptor, digital artist, performer, or any other type of creative professional, this session will equip you with the strategies to pursue a sustainable and fulfilling career in the arts.
​​​
Meet the Speakers
​
​
​
​
​
​
LaMichael Leonard Jr.
LaMichael Leonard Jr. is an internationally recognized dance artist and Booker High alum. He returns to Sarasota from The Lido Cabaret in Paris, France, where he was the first black principal dancer and Master of Ceremonies after a nine-year tenure with Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company and a soloist career with The Martha Graham Dance Company in New York City. He has a BFA from New World School of the Arts and is currently an MFA candidate at Jacksonville University.
​​​​
​
​
​
Jess Pope​
​
Jess Pope is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice encompasses dance, performance, photography, videography, and installation. She received a BA from Ringling College of Art and Design and an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts. They have danced with Moving Ethos Dance Theatre since 2008 and have shown work at the Micro WIP residency at the Ringling Museum of Art. Squeaky Wheel Fringe Festival, SPAACES Gallery, Festering Liberation Show at the University of Minnesota Morris, and more.​​​
Branding for Interdisciplinary Artists
Crafting Your Unique Identity
Artist Development Workshop
April 16, 2025
6:00pm-8:00pm
Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center
525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota, FL 34236
"Branding for Artists" is tailored to help artists from all disciplines create a distinctive and resonant brand. This workshop delves into the essentials of developing a strong visual identity, effective communication strategies, and leveraging social media to engage a broad audience. No matter your artistic specialty, discover how to craft a brand that encapsulates your unique vision and connects meaningfully with your target audience, helping you stand out in the competitive arts market.​
​
Sponsors and Affiliates
