Emerging Chicago artists come together to improve their arts-based businesses.
03.11.2011– Chicago– On March 23rd The Institute for Arts Entrepreneurship will host Retail It! with Flourish Studios at 3020 N Lincoln Avenue from 7 to 9pm. Emerging artists and arts entrepreneurs will come together to share a conversation around best practices of merchandising and retailing in the arts.
Designed to serve as a think tank for existing Flourish Artisan Program members, as well as others interested in establishing a brick and mortar presence, Retail It will be lead by Nancy Plummer, a 20-year veteran image consultant, trainer and retail industry expert.
The March 23rd workshop will:
• Feature Flourish artist and photographer, Kathleen Warner, who will share how she is building her business, what’s working and what’s not.
• Offer an opportunity from a professional in the retail environment to comment on displays, pricing, and overall general impression of each featured artist.
• Allow for all participants to network, ask questions and meet other emerging arts entrepreneurs.
“If you are launching a new line, explore options for your merchandise, or looking for innovative ways to further develop your current marketing strategies, Retail It will teach you best practices for marketing and selling your work in a retail environment,” stated Lisa Canning, Executive Director of The IAE.
For more information on the Retail It!, visit http://www.instituteforartsentrepreneurship.com/Flourish_Artisan_Program.html. You can also contact Jess Kaswiner at Jess@TheIAE.com or call The IAE at 773.756.2163 ext 700.
Retail it is on Tuesday March 23rd, at 7pm at Flourish Studios 3020 N Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL. Tickets are $5.00 at the door but because seating is limited it is suggested you purchase your ticket in advance at
http://artisanbusinessreview.eventbrite.com/
ABOUT THE PRESENTERS:
NANCY PLUMMER brings over 20 years of knowledge in the retail industry. Her clients have included Neiman Marcus, GAP Stores, Levis Strauss & Co. and Lazarus Department Stores. Known as an image consultant, Nancy frequently consults individuals, organizations and companies, as well as leads workshops and seminars. Nancy received a Bachelor of Science Degree (BS) in Retailing from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and earned her Master of Arts in Training and Development (MATD) from Roosevelt University in Chicago, IL
KATHLEEN WARNER, is a self-defined mother, sister, daughter, aunt, neighbor and friend. As an artist entrepreneur and a photographer, she describes herself as a joy filled seeker of hidden treasures and possibilities that guides women to unearth their own hidden brilliance through her own artistic expression. “I want to be a stand for vivaciousness among and because of women in the vibrant versatile second half of life. ‘Broken to whole’ is a theme in my art, my life and empowerment of others. I am constantly finding beauty in the ordinary and unexpected thus helping others to see with different eyes.” Kathleen is an arts retailer in the Flourish Artisan Program.
About The Institute for Arts Entrepreneurship
The Institute for Arts Entrepreneurship™ is a two-year program to teach artists how to earn a living. With a curriculum that combines experiential learning, mentorship and a personalized classroom environment that provides one-on-one time with the faculty of successful artist-entrepreneurs, artists are taught how to build their own arts based business while still in school. Founded by 25-year business veteran and serial artistic entrepreneur Lisa Canning, The Institute is based on her enthusiasm for the new wave of whole-brain thinking and the firm belief that the arts –and artists—can and must be allowed to contribute to the world’s financial recovery. Enrollment is limited to 45 students. Applications are available online to apply for the institute. There is no age limit for enrollment and the requirements to apply simply include artistic excellence and a desire to be self- sufficient. For more information about the school, go to www.TheIAE.com.
