Choose-Peace-22

Custom-made “Choose Peace” shoes, created and made by Vicki Rosenthal

An Artist’s Journey from Activist to Entrepreneur

As a child, my parents tried to guide me to become a professional artist. However, I was never inspired to use my art as a career until the beginning of 2018 when I realized that…

As a child, my parents tried to guide me to become a professional artist. However, I was never inspired to use my art as a career until the beginning of 2018 when I realized that my advocacy work of many years combined with oil and acrylic on canvas could create a platform for discussion / education to promote social change.

While at an event at a Broward County library, I picked up Art Hive Magazine for the first time. I was thrilled to find this amazing publication and within that edition was the advertisement for the upcoming 2018 Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute.

From that point, I researched this opportunity and had a chance to speak with George Gadson of the Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Atlantic University’s Division of Research. He was very helpful in business guidance; however, he knew that we, my husband and I, would greatly benefit from AEI and encouraged us to attend.

In June, my husband and I attended Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute (AEI) that was held at ArtServe in Fort Lauderdale. Based on its hours and commitment, it was like an intense college course, and every part of the Institute was valuable from the reading materials and worksheets to the expert speakers.

I took notes and I still refer to them like a bible as I have ventured into my own business. AEI gave me the foundation to create my art business, to promote my work, and to make time to do art. The Institute provides an achievable guide towards a road to success. I converse with many artists in the community that could benefit from AEI as they have familiar reasons for not pursing their dreams. 

“Create Social Change” shoes created and designed by Vicki Rosenthal

One of many important takeaways from my AEI experience is that art has an important place in history marking this moment in time on current issues – socially, politically and environmentally. As artists, it is our responsibility to utilize our talent to acknowledge and express this moment in time.

I was inspired the first day; I get chills thinking about it now and so grateful that Broward County Cultural Division, ArtServe and other organizations within our area are earnest about promoting the arts.

Thank you.

Vicki Rosenthal

Artist’s Connections

> Facebook.com/VRosenthal.art
> Instagram.com/vickirosenthal.art/
> Twitter.com/GlobalSW_VR_Art


Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute (AEI)

AEI  returns for its 13th year this June on four consecutive Saturdays.
Learn more about the Institute and other opportunities for artists at one of the following free info sessions:
 
During 2019 we will be holding free informational sessions across South Florida. 

Explore the Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute (AEI) program and other opportunities offered by Broward County Cultural Division for funding and professional development.

Opportunities for Artists in South Florida – West Palm Beach

Mon, March 25, 2019, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach
411 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
RSVP >

Opportunities for Artists in South Florida – General Provision

Wed, March 27, 2019, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT
General Provision FATVillage
525 Northwest 1st Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
RSVP >

Opportunities for Artists in South Florida – ArtServe

Wed, April 3, 2019
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM EDT
ArtServe
1350 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
RSVP >

Opportunities for Artists in South Florida – Miami

Thurs, April 4, 2019
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM EDT
Ventura Cafe Miami
1951 Northwest 7th Avenue, #600, Miami, FL 33136
RSVP >