Artist Workshop Series | Beyond The Studio at Frayser Library – Memphis Public Libraries – Memphis, TN

Beyond The Studio: Building a Sustainable Art Practice Through Networking

What Yancy has planned for this workshop:

Artists are often taught how to create, but rarely how to build a sustainable art practice. Yet relationships, community engagement, and authentic networking are often what open the doors to meaningful opportunities. In this workshop, cultural and socially engaged artist Yancy Villa shares practical strategies for artists who want to expand their networks, build authentic relationships, and create opportunities for their work to grow. Drawing on her experience building a multidisciplinary practice spanning public art, civic design, and cultural engagement, including presenting work with her team at the 2025 Venice Biennale, Yancy will explore how artists can move beyond the studio to connect with communities, collaborators, institutions, and funders.

Participants will leave with tools to approach networking with confidence, clarity, and authenticity, transforming connection into opportunity while staying true to their artistic voice.

Outcomes:

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

• Learn practical strategies to build authentic relationships within the art ecosystem

• Understand how networking can lead to collaborations, commissions, exhibitions, and funding opportunities

• Identify ways to communicate their artistic vision clearly and confidently

• Develop tools to expand their professional network without feeling transactional