Art Source South Africa’s Services

Professional Practice in the Visual Arts seminars were initiated in 2009 followed by Business of Art workshops. The aim of this training is to add value by providing a context and platform where artists interactively engage with the informed content thereby stimulating them to consider their approach and practice. Often presented in association with partner organisations they address a need in the industry for basic business skills training.

Art Source South Africa’s training programmes target artists and allied professionals requiring information on the workings of the visual art industry.

The Professional Practice 3 day seminar in Wilderness on Sat 26, Sun 27 and optional art critique session Mon 28th October.
This seminar focuses on critical aspects and art sector information artists need to consider to effectively develop and manage a visual art career.

With industry information, a clear strategic career plan and an understanding of the business of art you can develop and grow your art career! The proven success of this informative programme is suitable for artists at any level.

Artists working in the solitude of their private studios can find themselves isolated whether they are practicing professional artists or those aiming to become more serious about their career. This can be exacerbated if artists are not networked or linked to an academic institution, arts organisation or group which is active in the sector. Individual private coaching and mentoring sessions addresses this isolation.

Les Cohn has many years of experience managing and curating exhibitions on behalf of artists in association with commercial galleries as well as museums. Art Source South Africa offers exhibition planning and management as well as curatorial services to artists.

Private Galleries. An artist’s exhibition in association with a private gallery involves a three party agreement or MOA signed between the artist, gallerist and Art Source South Africa. This MOA would state the terms and conditions, as well as roles and responsibilities of each party in respect of the collaboration or association.

Museums. Les Cohn has years of professional experience in managing and curating museum exhibitions and has presented many solo exhibitions at various South African museums. She is well networked in this sector and her expertise enables her to advise artists on all aspects of a museum exhibition – from exhibition curation and presentation to logistics co-ordination and management. Museum exhibitions require advance planning.

The process is a slow one! Artists need to consider planning a minimum of two plus years ahead if they wish to consider a museum exhibition. Each museum has specific, individual requirements and therefore it needs a knowledge of the organization, its criteria and focus area before submitting an exhibition proposal to enhance the chances of success. A Selection Committee comprising of an independent panel of experts, make the final selection of shows the museum will include in their exhibition schedule.

How does Art Source South Africa work?
After a consultation a Scope of Work is submitted for consideration and approval by the artist or client. This Scope defines the services required by the artist or client. It states Art Source South Africa’s deliverables and the fees applicable. Upon acceptance the Scope of Work is signed by the artist or client and Art Source South Africa.