Knowledge bank
A rich and timely resource for all working in the
visual arts
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Practical guides
How do I set up in business, organise events, make proposals? What are my responsibilities on copyright, insurance and health and safety? What's the best way to price work, approach galleries, get legal advice and collect debts?
Use these guides from artists, curators and arts experts as an introduction to being professional as an artist.
Guides
Setting up an artist-led space
Russell Martin's guide to running your own gallery demystifies the process of setting up an artist-led space and highlights the issues to consider before taking such a step. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk June 2007
Setting up an event
A guide by Paul Stone on how to successfully plan, develop, manage and promote an artist-led event. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk April 2003
Setting up an organisation
When two or more people work together on a project or enterprise, the point usually comes when they need to decide whether to form a new organisation. This guide by Nicholas Sharp looks at the different types of legal structures that can be used and the implications of each. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk August 2007
Social media: Blogging
For this video guide, Chris Unitt of Meshed Media talks to Charlotte Frost about different blog platforms, getting the most from a blog, and some of the creative and innovative blogs around.
Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk January 2011
Social media: Facebook
For this video guide, Tate's Digital Communications Manager Jesse Ringham talks to Charlotte Frost about how to set up and tailor your Facebook page, plan your content, establish your voice and engage with your audience. Plus Jesse offers his top tips on how artists and organisations can build a fan base and use Facebook as part of their social media strategy. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk March 2011
Social media: Twitter
For this video guide, Katy Beale and Charlotte Frost discuss micro-blogging with particular reference to Twitter and how it can be used for research, marketing and collaboration, plus a look at how artists are using Twitter in innovative ways that connect with their practice. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk January 2011
UK arts councils
This guide lists UK arts councils whose role is to support, encourage and enable arts activities nationally and regionally and to widen public participation in the arts. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk April 2003
What is a contract?
A contract is an agreement between two or more people that is legally binding. It can be verbal or written. This guide by Sheena Etches and Nicholas Sharp outlines: essential ingredients of a contract, offer and acceptance, and implied terms. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk April 2003
When a contract goes wrong
This guide by Sheena Etches and Nicholas Sharp is one of a number of documents on the site written to assist artists when they are planning and making professional arrangements. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk April 2003
Why use a written contract ?
Although a contract need not be in writing to be legally valid, the advantages of having a signed written contract usually easily outweigh the risks of not having one and are outlined on the following pages. By Sheena Etches and Nicholas Sharp. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk April 2003
Why volunteer in the visual arts?
A guide for artists and organisers, with comments from artists and good practice checklist. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk March 2009 (Updated August 2010)
Working abroad
UK artists are increasingly involved in activity abroad. This guide by Rebecca Farley offers expert advice to help you prepare for and make the most of your visit. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk April 2003
Working from home
Working from home can be a good solution and is usually straightforward, but sometimes difficulties occur. This guide by Rebecca Farley offers advice on some common problems. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk April 2003
Working with people
Artist's skills are valuable and can be applied in community, outreach and educational projects. This guide by Rosemary Shirley offers practical advice for artists wanting to gain experience and develop their practice in this area. Read on…
Guide, a-n.co.uk April 2003
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