Summit Artspace’s annual Artist Launchpad program is seeking a new cohort of artists for a comprehensive seven-week intensive that aims to enhance their artistic practice.

The Saturday-morning sessions empower creatives from all genres (visual, performing, literary and cross-discipline) to embrace the business aspects of their work. But it goes even further, inviting participants to dream, organize resources, and build peer-learning networks for sustained growth. Applications for this year’s cycle, which takes place in April and May, open March 1.

“Artist Launchpad nurtures artists whether they are rediscovering their passion, recently graduated from school, or are self-taught,” explains Director of Artist Resources Natalie Grieshammer Patrick. “Through fun, inquiry-based learning modules, they receive artist-centered support and gain a built-in network of artists and local professionals.”

As a wraparound service provider for local artists, Summit Artspace is committed to making Artist Launchpadaffordable. With a self-selecting fee of just $50 to $250 (and generous funding from Akron Community Foundation and ArtsNow’s ArtsForward grant program) the organization ensures that financial barriers won’t impede participants’ artistic growth.

“We create an inclusive space where artists can connect, collaborate, and learn from one another,” notes Executive Director Heather Meeker. “Launchpad catalyzes artist-to-artist and artist-to-community connections and aligns perfectly with the Akron/Summit Cultural Plan’s priority of helping local talent to thrive.”

Alumnus Georgio Sabino III echoes the program’s value: “It’s a comprehensive, invaluable toolkit for building a successful artistic career. I learned practical skills and techniques, but also gained knowledge to navigate the art world with clarity and purpose.”

“I would 100% recommend this,” says Shannon Timura. “The opportunity to take a good look at yourself as an artist while connecting with like-minded individuals is priceless!”

Dee Fairweather agrees: “Hearing from so many artists with different paths and practices was inspiring. We bounced ideas off one another and had conversations rather than being talked at.”

For those seeking a renewed sense of the why and how of their arts practice, Artist Launchpad offers a meaningful and supportive foundation.

Applications open March 1 and can be submitted at summitartspace.org. For inquiries and applications, contact Natalie Grieshammer Patrick at natalie@summitartspace.org or 330.376.8480 ext. 1.

SUMMIT ARTSPACE
140 East Market Street
Akron, Ohio 44308
summitartspace.org
330.376.8480