I’m really excited that I was awarded a grant, in fact the first grant that I’ve applied for from the Center for Cultural Innovation in California in January 2024.

The grant is for professional development as an artist. I am currently in an art workshop from Shoebox Lab in Los Angeles.  It’s a 6 week intensive virtual workshop, How to Get Your Work Exhibited with Kristine Schomaker.

Some of the topics  included are learning the ins and outs and behind the scenes look into the business side of art, creating your own opportunities as an artist, (ex., juried shows, gaining invitations, putting together a solo show, exhibition proposals) and  fundamental tools for success as a professional artist.

While I’m an emerging artist without formal art training, unless you count highschool art classes and a class at the Academy of Art in Cincinnati,OH where I grew up, There is much to be gained and learned in this Workshop.

As of writing this post I’ve been in three of the six sessions and have learned much that I can apply,  such as telling you about this grant, that I’ve learned. The workshop is from January 21st to February 25th. An exhibit will follow in May at Shoebox Art in  The Brewery in downtown Los Angeles with the participating artists, which is a really exciting opportunity.

“Gold Dance” by Janet Gervers, 2024 was included in  the May 2024 exhibit at Shoebox Arts group exhibit.