The Art Ladder Programme

The Art Ladder is an ongoing mentoring programme for artists. Every month, gain new insights to navigate the art world and reach the next step in your career. See the upcoming programme, and available recordings, below ⬇️ 

Level 1: Watch monthly webinars with art professionals, including gallerists, curators, collectors, and critics. Gain valuable experience and advice from recognised figures in the contemporary at world. Join here.

Level 2: Get step-by-step guidance from our team, sharing our 30+ years of experience and answering your questions in surgery sessions about collectors, galleries, funding, pricing, marketing and more. Join here.

Level 3: Receive personalised mentoring. Benefit from monthly webinars with art professionals and surgery sessions with our team, plus two one-to-one sessions annually. Join here.

Scroll down to explore The Art Ladder's programme. Upcoming events will be available to watch live on Zoom or later on recording. Past events are accessible to watch on replay.

Upcoming

Jennifer Scott

Wednesday 4 December, 5pm.

Join us for a session with Jennifer Scott, Director of Dulwich Picture Gallery, as she shares her vast experience leading some of the UK’s most prestigious art institutions.

With a career spanning from her role as Curator of Paintings at the Royal Collection Trust to Directorships at both the Holburne Museum and Dulwich Picture Gallery, Jennifer brings unmatched insight into museum leadership.

In this session, Jennifer shares her approach to managing prestigious collections, her expertise on Dutch and Flemish painting, curatorial practices, and the role of public art galleries today.

Don’t miss this chance to learn from an art world leader’s perspective. Join Level 1 or above to watch this session.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

Masterclass for Artists

Monday 9 December, 5pm.

Join our annual FREE Masterclass for Artists and take the next steps in your career. 

Join Emma, Penny, and Marine as they share 35+ years of experience and unpack strategies to work with galleries, sell your work and plan your goals.  

With practical advice and actionable tips from our team, this Free Masterclass for Artists is your guide to building a sustainable career.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to set yourself up for success! 

Watch the workshop free.
Watch for free

Writing Artist Newsletters

Wednesday 11 December, 5pm. 

Ready to make your mark with an engaging artist newsletter?

Join us for a session where we dive into the art of creating newsletters that resonate and reflect your practice.

Learn how to share your process, promote new works, and connect with your audience in a meaningful way. From writing compelling subject lines to planning content, this session will give you the tools to build and maintain a following through email.

Don’t miss out on top tips to build your own artist newsletter. Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Planning Your Year

Monday 20 January, 5pm. 

Join us for an invaluable session with our Co-Founder Penny Harris, focused on planning your year as an artist.

In this interactive session, Penny will guide you through setting realistic goals and building a strategic roadmap to achieve them.

Learn how to prioritise projects, create a sustainable schedule, and set yourself up for success in the art world.

With her business background and extensive experience, Penny understands the unique challenges artists face.

Don’t miss this chance to plan your year with purpose and gain insights from someone dedicated to helping artists thrive.

Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Kate Henley

Tuesday 28th January, 5:45pm.

Join us for a session with Kate Henley, as she shares her experience founding and directing 'Art In Offices'.

Katie founded  her organisation 'Art in Offices' in 2012, keen to encourage companies of any size to put original art on their office walls by making it affordable. Her mission is founded in her firm belief in art increasing workplace productivity, and the power of art to reflect a company's brand values.

In this session, Kate shares her insights into the world of corporate art buyers, as well as her experience of starting her art company from scratch, and what she looks for in an artist's work.

 Don’t miss this chance to learn from an art world leader’s perspective. Join Level 1 or above to watch this session.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

Past Recordings

Kelsey Corbett

Thursday 28 November, 5pm.

Join us for an in conversation with Kelsey Corbett, Head of Research and Programme Curator at Unit Gallery in London.

Kelsey’s expertise lies in post-colonialism and the ways in which art and display strategies can engage with complex historical narratives.

She has held research and curatorial roles at prestigious institutions including Thaddaeus Ropac, The Museum of Modern Art, and Tate Modern and holds an MA in Curating the Art Museum from the Courtauld Institute of Art and a dual BA in Art History and English from the University of St Andrews.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from an experienced curator. Join Level 1 or above to watch this session.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

Basics of Money and
Business for Artists

Tuesday 26 November, 5pm. 

Join us for an invaluable session with Mark Mulberry, an experienced accountant and tax advisor with nearly 30 years in the field.

As the head of a general accountancy practice in Surrey, Mark brings a practical approach to finance, focusing on helping clients make informed business decisions beyond just “ticking boxes.”

In this session, he’ll cover essential accounting and tax strategies for artists, share practical advice, and answer your questions about managing finances effectively.

If you want to take control of your financial success as an artist, don’t miss Mark’s expert insights and approachable guidance.

Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Helen Armon-Jones

Wednesday 30 October, 5pm.

Join us for a session with Helen, founder of The Art Buyer, as she shares her journey of merging a lifelong passion for art with a successful career in commercial marketing.

With a background in Art History from Manchester University and experience at Sotheby’s and Hiscox Insurance, Helen has cultivated deep connections with some of the UK’s most exciting contemporary artists.

Helen will share insights on demystifying the art world, building meaningful relationships, and her mission to support artists and charitable causes.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Helen’s expertise and love for art. Join Level 1 or above to watch this session.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

Organising and Archiving
Your Work

Tuesday 29 October, 5pm. 

Maintaining an archive of your work is a crucial best practice for any artist. In this session, we will explore simple and effective methods for recording and organising your artworks, helping you create a current inventory that saves time and resources.

You’ll also learn about loan agreements and how to keep up-to-date records of your pieces, ensuring smooth management of your portfolio. Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Online Marketing:
Ask Us Anything

Monday 30 September, 5pm. 

In this session, we dive into the essentials of online marketing and answer all your burning questions. 

Learn how to effectively promote your work across social media platforms, build a strong online presence, and engage with your audiences.

Whether you’re new to marketing or looking to enhance your skills, this session offers valuable insights and tailored advice to help navigate the ever-evolving world of online marketing. 

Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Lucy Bawden

Monday 16 September, 5pm.

Join us for a discussion with experienced arts consultant Lucy Bawden and get insider tips to make your projects come to life.

Lucy has held roles at Orleans House Gallery, Richmond Council Arts Service, Nine Elms Partnership and was the Creative Programmes Manager at Here East.

Since founding Pocket Creatives in 2012, she has launched the Open Art Spaces festival and organised numerous pop-up galleries and cultural events across London.

She now splits her time between London and the South of France, working within artistic communities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from her extensive experience. Join Level 1 or above to watch this session.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

Sell Your Art Online - Free Workshop

Wednesday 28 August, 5pm.

Unlock the secrets to selling your art online with our FREE 1-hour workshop, designed specifically for artists looking to grow their audience through social media.

Join Emma, Penny, and Marine as they share a step-by-step process to help you showcase your work effectively on Instagram without sacrificing valuable studio time.

This session will guide you through understanding social media basics, attracting the right audience, and creating meaningful connections that turn followers into buyers.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your art career.

Watch the workshop free.
Watch for free

Reviewing Artists' Instagrams

Thursday 22 August, 5pm.

Join our session dedicated to enhancing your Instagram presence.

We’ll review your artist Instagram pages and provide tailored advice to make your profile stand out in this interactive session.

Don't miss this opportunity to get an expert's pair of eyes on your Instagram and showcase your work on social media with confidence. Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Louise Fitzjohn

Monday 12 August, 5pm.

Join us for an insightful session with Louise Fitzjohn, Margate-based Curator and Founder of Liminal Gallery.

With a focus on representing contemporary artists across the UK and Ireland, Liminal Gallery provides a dynamic platform through curated exhibitions and the Liminal Gallery Podcast.

Fitzjohn leverages her 15+ years of experience in commercial galleries to challenge traditional norms and foster inclusivity in the art world.

Join Level 1 or above to get started and discover Louise's approach to curating. 

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.
Join Level 1 to watch

Pricing Your Work

Wednesday 24 July, 5pm. 

This session is designed to answer all your questions and unpack the complexities of pricing your artwork.

Gain insights into industry standards and practical tips to boost your confidence in pricing decisions and learn the strategies to set prices that reflect the value of your work while appealing to different market segments.

Whether you’re aiming to appeal to galleries, collectors, first time buyers, or secure commissions, we’ll address all your questions and concerns.

Don’t miss this opportunity to price your work for success. Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Kathleen Soriano

Monday 1 July, 5pm.

Hear from Kathleen Soriano, curator, strategic consultant and broadcaster.

As a judge of Sky Arts Artist of the Year and Chair of the Liverpool Biennial and ArtUK, Kathleen's illustrious career spans over 35 years, encompassing roles at institutions such as National Portrait Gallery and the Royal Academy of Arts. With a wealth of experience in curating exhibitions and shaping public programmess, Kathleen's expertise is unparalleled.

Join us for this session where Kathleen shares insights gleaned from her extensive career. 

Join Level 1 or above to tap into her knowledge. 

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.
Join Level 1 to watch

Shipping Your Work

Tuesday 25 June, 5pm. 

Save time, energy and resources with this invaluable session dedicated to the essentials of shipping your work.

Navigate the complexities of shipping and transporting, from understanding the costs to ensuring the safety of your artwork.

Get best practices to send your work to buyers or curators, and reliable shipping options to protect your work during transit.
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and confidence. Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Jack Bullen &

Lizzie Glendinning

Tuesday 4 June, 5pm.

Join Jack Bullen and Lizzie Glendinning, Co-Founders of Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair, in this upcoming session. 

As Director and Co-Founder, Jack brings expertise as both a painter and printmaker, dedicated to educating collectors on printmaking processes. Lizzie, with over 15 years in curating, directs the fair to offer accessible art engagement.

Join Level 1 or above to gain Jack and Lizzie's invaluable insights, experiences, and vision for the future of contemporary printmaking.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.
Join Level 1 to watch

Social Media Tips and Trends

Tuesday 14 May, 5pm. 

In this Surgery Session, we'll cover the latest Instagram trends of 2024 and delve into what works for artists seeking to grow their audience online.

Discover essential tools and strategies to enhance your social media presence and effectiveness, learn time-saving automation techniques and gain insights into understanding social media algorithms.

This Surgery Session is for all artists who want to grow their audience online... but don’t want to spend hours doing so. 

Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Alison Bevan

Tuesday 7 May, 5pm.

Discover the secrets to success in the art world with Alison Bevan, Director of the renowned RWA (Royal West of England Academy) in Bristol.

With a wealth of experience spanning her entire career in public art galleries, Alison has curated exhibitions, presented work from artists at all stages of their careers, and secured funding for projects and shows. Under her leadership, the RWA has become one of Bristol's most beloved cultural institutions, offering enriching creative engagement to diverse communities.

Join us as Alison shares her expertise on navigating the art world, curating exhibitions, and fostering artistic growth. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from a true leader in the field. Available for all artists eager to unlock new opportunities in their artistic journey.

Join Level 1 or above to gain enriching insights from an art writer and curator. 

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.
Join Level 1 to watch

Get Gallery Ready

Wednesday 17 April, 5pm.

Join us for a free workshop where we'll unveil the key insights you need to navigate the world of commercial galleries.

In this 1-hour session, you'll gain invaluable knowledge on approaching galleries, creating a standout portfolio, and increasing your visibility as an artist. Learn proven strategies to identify the right galleries for your work and understand what curators are seeking.

Don't miss this opportunity to get practical tips and a step-by-step process to save time and boost your confidence. Watch live on Zoom on Wednesday, 17th April at 5pm UK time, or catch the replay until 30th April. Free for everyone—simply sign up and take your first step towards gallery success!

Free 1 hour Workshop.
Sign up to watch

Writing Funding Applications

Tuesday 16 April, 5pm. 

Join us for an essential session on mastering the skills and techniques of writing funding applications.

Learn how to write proposals, effectively communicate your ideas and budget in a way that resonates with funding organisations.

Gain invaluable insights into structuring your applications, addressing selection criteria, and maximising your chances of success.

Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your funding applications. Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Paul Carey-Kent

Tuesday 9 April, 5pm.

Hear from a versatile art writer, curator, and member of the International Association of Art Critics, Paul Carey-Kent.

As the Visual Arts Editor of Seisma Magazine, Paul uniquely merges art with science, offering unparalleled perspectives.

His contributions to art publications including Art Monthly, FAD and Artlyst, showcase his depth of insight into contemporary art. He has also curated over 50 exhibitions.

Join Level 1 or above to gain enriching insights from an art writer and curator. 

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.
Join Level 1 to watch

Reviewing Artists' Statements

Tuesday 12 March, 5pm. 

Writing about art is far from being easy... But it's an essential skill to have if you want your work to be seen by the right people.

Join us for an interactive session where we dive into the art of crafting compelling artists' statements and "about" pages for your website.

Receive invaluable feedback from art professionals to ensure your online presence makes a great first impression.

Don't miss this opportunity to get an expert's pair of eyes on your website and showcase your work with confidence. Join Level 2 or above to watch this session.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Jon Sharples 

Tuesday 5 March, 5pm.

Unlock the secrets of protecting your creative work with Jon Sharples, a respected intellectual property and commercial art lawyer. 

A leading advocate for artists' rights in the UK, Jon will share his expertise on navigating the complex legal landscape of the art world.

From safeguarding your intellectual property to negotiating commercial contracts, Jon's insights are invaluable for artists at all stages of their careers. 

Discover practical strategies for safeguarding your art, and ensuring your rights are protected in the ever-evolving art world.  

Join Level 1 or above to gain valuable insights from an intellectual property specialist. 

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.
Join Level 1 to watch

Writing About Your Work

Wednesday 7 February, 5pm. 

If you find it difficult to put your art into words, this transformative session will help you write about your work with less effort and more ease. 

Learn what to include on your website, email newsletters and social media so they resonate with your audience, buyers and curators.

Gain time-saving tips and discover how tools like ChatGPT can make writing a lot faster. Don't miss this opportunity to open a door into your work. Join Level 2 or above to watch on replay.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Sid Motion

Thursday 18 January, 5pm

Hear a young gallery owner's point of view with Sid Motion, Director of Sid Motion Gallery. 

With a wealth of experience gained from prestigious galleries like Max Wigram and David Zwirner, Sid Motion brings a fresh perspective to the art scene.

Since she established her gallery in 2016, she has curated over 50 exhibitions, showcasing emerging talents and organising an annual art trail to foster the artistic community around her.

Join Level 1 or above to gain valuable insights from a gallerist.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.
Join Level 1 to watch

Cynthia Corbett

Wednesday 20 December, 5pm

Delve into the international art market with Cynthia Corbett, esteemed American art historian and curator.

Cynthia founded the renowned Cynthia Corbett Gallery in London since 2004, and brings a wealth of experience in representing emerging and established contemporary artists.

Her gallery hosts a diverse annual exhibition programme, and the artists she represents have gained recognition globally, with their works published and acquired by major museums, institutions, and private collections. Join Level 1 or above to gain valuable insights from the commercial art world.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.
Join Level 1 to watch

Pricing Your Art

Wednesday 13 September, 5pm.

Are you struggling which pricing your work? This can be a complex topic for many artists, especially if you want to reach different audiences - from first-time buyers to long-term collectors - or work with commercial galleries. 

Learn expert pricing strategies, including how to set prices, when to increase them, and how to effectively communicate with buyers. Don't miss this opportunity to grow your skills and confidence, join Level 2 or above to watch.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Liz Gilmore,
Director, Hastings Contemporary

Thursday 7 September, 5pm. 

Hear from a seasoned art professional with a career across museums, public galleries, and arts funding.

Starting as Education Officer at the National Gallery, Liz Gilmore fostered engagement with diverse audiences. Then, as Head of Visual Arts for the Arts Council, she managed projects and supported organisations in the South East.

Today, as Director of Hastings Contemporary, Liz Gilmore shapes the museum's curatorial vision, and helps foster a thriving local arts community. Join us on Level 1 or above to learn from her experience.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.
Join Level 1 to watch

Reviewing Artists' Websites

Thursday 24 August, 5pm. 

Explore artists' websites across various media and styles, get practical examples, and gain actionable insights into building an impactful online presence for your practice.

Learn how to show your art in its best light by making your website easy to navigate, user-friendly, and cohesive.

Is your website appealing to buyers, gallerists and curators? Join Level 2 or above to find out.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Tabish Khan,
London Art Critic

Thursday 7 August, 5pm. 

How can you get art critics to review your work? Tabish Khan, also known as the London Art Critic, answers artists' burning questions.

Tabish reviews hundreds of exhibitions - from emerging art to blockbusters - for Londonist, FAD Magazine and Culture Whisper. 

Learn how to attract journalists' attention, maximise coverage for your exhibitions, craft effective emails, and more. Join Level 1 or above to watch on replay.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

How to curate your website

Thursday 27 July, 5pm. 

Discover the key components of a successful artist's website, from the home page to the contact form, available work, newsletter, and more.

Understand what different audiences want to see on your website, including potential buyers, collectors, galleries, and art professionals.

Learn to showcase your work in its best light, curate your website effectively, and craft an engaging online presence. Join Level 2 or above to watch on replay.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Free Social Media Masterclass

Thursday 20 July, 5pm.

This free masterclass answers your most frequently asked questions about using social media as an artist.

Learn how to show and sell your art online, reach your target audience, and leverage the power of social media while preserving your studio time. 

Discover proven strategies to enhance your online presence, for artists of all levels. Beginners and technophobes, this masterclass is for you too!

Free to watch on replay.
Watch for free

Caitlin Heffernan & Jon Tutton,
Art Fair Organisers

Monday 17 July, 5pm. 

Learn how to prepare a successful open studio and curate your next art fair booth. Hear all the dos and don'ts from two experts.

Caitlin Heffernan, Programme Manager for Surrey Artist Open Studios, orchestrates a large summer event showcasing artists' work, and engaging visitors with demonstrations and workshops across Surrey.

Jon Tutton, co-founder of Tutton & Young, organises acclaimed art and craft events such as Brighton Art Fair and Made London, offering a platform for artists and makers in the UK and worldwide.

Join Level 1 or above to discover how to prepare for a memorable open studio or art fair.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

How to fund your practice

Tuesday 27 June, 5pm. 

Discover new ways of funding your artistic practice. This session will demystify the funding landscape, exploring various sources you can tap into, from public grants to corporate sponsorship.

Discover 7 types of funding available to artists, including commissions to create new work, local funds, donations, research grants and many more.

Worried about budgeting? Don't be! We'll guide you through creating balanced budgets for your exhibitions, without drowning in financial jargon.

Join Level 2 or above to watch on replay and learn how to access new funding streams.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Auriel Majumdar,
Creative Coach and Educator

Monday 17 June, 5pm. 

Feeling creatively stuck or battling impostor syndrome? Watch our webinar with Auriel Majumdar, Creative Coach, and discover strategies to preserve your creativity.

Learn how to make time and mental space for your studio practice amidst life's demands. Gain tips on time management, finding your artistic voice, and overcoming perfectionism and overwhelm.

These insights could be just what you need to hear in order to move forward with your artistic journey... Join Level 1 or above to get started.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

How organise your own exhibitions

Tuesday 27 May, 5pm. 

Learn the ins and outs of organising your own exhibitions. From choosing a venue and setting a date to balancing your budget and orchestrating a busy private view, this step-by-step guide will easily take you through all stages of exhibition planning.

Whether it's a solo or group exhibition, this session will equip you with a practical checklist, from creating a new body of work to curating a successful show. 

A well-executed exhibition begins with effective planning.  Watch our session and get a 10-page checklist by joining Level 2 or above.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch

Lizzie Collins,
Founding Director, Zuleika Gallery

Thursday 18 May, 5pm. 

In this webinar, Lizzie Collins, Founding Director of Zuleika Gallery, answers your burning questions and helps you navigate the artist-dealer partnership...

What makes your portfolio attractive to a gallery? How do gallerists discover new creatives to work with? How can artists build a successful relationship with a gallery? 

With a background in auction houses, Lizzie founded Zuleika Gallery in 2015 to showcase Modern British and emerging contemporary art. 

Discover her advice to make your work appealing to galleries like hers. Join Level 1 or above to watch now.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

Sandra Higgins,
Curator and Art Advisor

Tuesday 25 April, 5pm. 

Gain decades' of art world insights from Sandra Higgins, curator and advisor based in Bath.

Sandra has worked in the art business for many years, first in her hometown of Chicago, then in the UK as an art curator and gallery owner.

Sandra’s curatorial roles have taken her across the globe. She has a valuable network of galleries, museums and artists with whom she actively collaborates.

Hear her in-depth understanding of market trends, and understand how to navigate the commercial art world. Join Level 1 or above to tap into her knowledge.

Webinar - Level 1, 2 and 3.

Join Level 1 to watch

How to work with galleries

Monday 17 April, 5pm. 

For artists seeking gallery representation, this session unravels the workings of commercial galleries, providing clear insights into what they look for.

From researching to approaching and establishing relationships with galleries, we cover it all. Discover how to make your work stand out and attract the right gallery's attention.

Don't miss out on the 1-hour session recording and downloadable 12-page workbook. Join Level 2 or above to access these resources now.

Surgery Session - Level 2 and 3.
Join Level 2 to watch