Upstart

Overview

The free Upstart program introduces college students to basic arts-related legal and business matters and VLAA’s services. In addition to featured working artists, speakers can be sent to dance, theatre, and creative writing classes. Volunteer attorneys are available to address specific topics such as Copyright Basics and AI & Copyright. To book a speaker, please complete the form.

Working Artists

These dynamic artists discuss their careers, show samples of their work, and present an overview of copyright, contracts, and financial matters. Students receive free copies of the Upstart Essentials publication.

Speakers & Topics

• NEW! Demystifying Pricing: Sukanya Mani presents common sense guidelines that will allow emerging visual artists to enter the marketplace with confidence.
• Negotiation Skills: Presented by award-winning actor Michelle Hand, this interactive session covers negotiation styles, transforming adversarial interactions into problem-solving collaborations, and sharpening negotiation skills through role-playing.
• Financial Tips for Artists: Michelle Hand discusses multiple income streams, the “paying yourself first” savings strategy, and recordkeeping for taxes, drawing on her personal experience as an actor.
• Careers in Arts Administration: Kevin Ginty introduces students to career options in arts administration and offers suggestions for landing a first job.
• Grant Writing 101: Funding Your Creative Vision: This presentation provides an essential guide to grant writing for arts students, from an overview of the funding landscape to effectively communicating creative projects to potential funders. Students will learn about fiscal sponsorship, grants for individuals, and key components of a compelling grant proposal.

Featured Artists

• Visual Artists: Andy Cross, Brea Youngblood, Sukanya Mani, Steenz Stewart
• Musicians: Ryan Marquez, Gabe Mueller
• Filmmakers: Doveed Linder, James Jackson
• Fashion Designer: Brandin Vaughn