What if I’m not sure I have anything to offer an emerging artist?

This project is for everyone. If you are an artist with years of experience, you have a unique point of view and set of skills that can be a valuable asset to the next generation. Sometimes all that’s needed is a listening ear or a collaborator to move an idea forward. We need you.

I’m a professional photographer but recently started painting. Can I mentor in one media but get a mentor for another media?

Heck yes! How cool would that be? If you’re an expert in one area, your knowledge is so valuable! In the spirit of living a creative and curious life, pursuing something new and getting support as you do is perfectly aligned with the purpose of this project. Participate in whatever aspect of it you can.

Are the large group events mandatory?

The group events that are scheduled for every April and October are not mandatory, however, they will be a great place to connect with even more artists. As the project grows, it is intended to link artists across cultures and demographics. This event will be diverse and enriching. As mentorship pairs collaborate, we will see new work inspired by these connections and these events will be a great way to showcase this work, as well as hear from artists about what they’re learning!

Do you have plans to actually DO anything besides just get together and talk???

At the start of this project, the only goal is to pair up artists and get conversation going. Creative people are going to create. There are no limits to this project. Already, focus groups have envisioned regular art exhibitions open to the public, workshops, field trips, and eventually establishing group studio and gallery space. We also expect that as new friendships are formed, we’ll be helping each other out, possibly as studio assistants learning new skills hands-on.

If you have an idea, submit it here!

Is this just for fine artists? Is there room for illustrators/dancers/poets?

This project is for everyone. We’re building a community and not a clique. Inclusion and accessibility are important aspects of this project. Your facilitator will work to find a mentor within your field.

What if I don’t like the artist I’m partnered with?

The success of this project relies on participants having a curious, open attitude, ready to learn from their partner. This might be difficult at first! It’s ok. Everyone is encouraged to look past any differences to find common ground. Before being paired with a mentor, all participants will be asked to sign a code of conduct agreement. If, at any time, the agreement has been violated, it should be reported and another mentor will be assigned. There is be a zero tolerance policy for any harassing or bullying behavior.

What if my mentorship partner is such a good match we want to be paired again for another round?

That’s great! Every 6 months, prior to our group event, a survey will go out to get participant’s feedback. There will be an opportunity to communicate that you would like to stick with your mentor. Of course, this is a project — how this all works out is undetermined — guidelines will be flexible while we observe what works best for our artists!