The **Sault Area Art Center** (SAAC) is excited to announce a **FREE one-day business conference** tailored specifically for artists, writers, and performers! Mark your calendars for **July 14, 2025**, as this unique event aims to empower local creatives to elevate their artistic careers.
Unlocking Creative Potential
Join us at Lake Superior State University’s Kenneth J. Shouldice Library starting at noon for the Business of Being an Artist Conference. This event is designed to bridge the gap between artistry and entrepreneurship, showing participants how to transform their artistic passions into thriving careers.
What to Expect
The conference promises an enriching lineup filled with invaluable insights from seasoned professionals. Participants can look forward to sessions that cover the essentials of building a successful creative enterprise, including:
- Branding: Establish your unique identity in the art world.
- Business Structure: Learn how to set up your practice for success.
- Marketing: Find out how to effectively promote your work to a broader audience.
- Staying Inspired: Discover strategies to keep your creativity flowing.
- Tax Filing: Get practical advice on managing your financial responsibilities as a creative.
Conference Details
- Date: July 14, 2025
- Time: 12 PM to 5 PM (Check-in begins at 11 AM)
- Location: Kenneth J. Shouldice Library, 906 Ryan Ave., Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
- Cost: FREE and open to the public! Pre-registration is required at Sault Art Center.
“We’re thrilled to host this unique conference that brings together artists, writers, and creative entrepreneurs,” says Libbey Brown, SAAC operations manager. “Too often, the business side of a creative career is overlooked. This event is about giving artists the tools, knowledge, and confidence to sustain their practice and grow their work into something lasting.”
Engaging Sessions and Expert Presenters
The day kicks off with group sessions dedicated to core topics, leading into tailored discipline-specific breakout sessions for visual arts, performing arts, and literary arts. Attendees will receive a detailed agenda one week prior to the event to make the most of their experience.
Confirmed presenters include:
- Dave Berg, Visual Artist
- Mark Bowen, Performing Artist
- Julie Buchholtz, Children’s Book Author
- Katie Eberts, Illustrator
- Thelma Godin, Children’s Book Author
- Sue Harrison, Author
- Victoria Hussey, Visual Artist
- Craig Krouth, Financial Adviser
- Mike Peach, Poet
- Amy Peterman, Visual Artist
- Steve Seebohm, Visual Artist
This diverse lineup of experienced professionals is poised to share their journeys and invaluable lessons learned along the way.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
SAAC is proud to host this conference free of charge thanks to generous funding from the Roberts P. and Ella B. Hudson Foundation, established in 1954 to support educational and charitable endeavors in Chippewa County.
Join Us for a Day of Growth and Inspiration!
Preregistration is essential for this transformative event. Secure your spot by signing up on the SAAC website at www.saultartcenter.com.
About the Sault Area Arts Council
The mission of the Sault Area Arts Council is to inspire all individuals to lead more artful lives. Through opportunities to create, learn, and market the visual arts, SAAC fosters culture and education in Sault Ste. Marie and beyond.
For more about SAAC, visit www.saultartcenter.com to learn how to become a member or make a donation to support local arts.
This is an unmissable opportunity for anyone looking to seamlessly blend creativity with business acumen. Join us and take the first step toward transforming your passion into a rewarding career!
