Story by Debra Holloman, follow her on Instagram
June’s RAW Artist Showcase highlighted a Nossi College of Art student and graduate while fellow students and alumni stopped by to see and support the hard work put into each artist’s work. The artists showcasing were Sean Williams, a recent Illustration graduate and Jonte Swoope, a current photography student.
Sean describes himself as an Illustrator and Graphic Designer. He started Headdy Hardware, a company focusing primarily on traditional mediums and printmaking techniques.
“Music is my main inspiration, followed by a healthy dose of science fiction and horror stories,” said Sean. “I try to explore visual storytelling and transitions, how one idea flows into the next, no matter the relation.”
Jonte is a commercial photography student who enjoys capturing portraits, music events, fashion, and body art photography with JSwoope Photography. “With a photojournalistic approach, I am able to capture the personality of my subjects through their beauty,” said Jonte. He believes his photos offer unique and creative insight.
This RAW event, held at City Winery, included over 60 artists and craftsmen.
All art forms were represented including tattoo and body art, handcrafted art, fine art and performing arts of various genres. Although noisy and crowded, the event was a light-hearted and fun space where art could be viewed and purchased.
RAW Artists is a nationwide organization founded to serve independent artists “with tools, resources, education and exposure needed to thrive and succeed in their creative careers.”
“We believe that we are stronger together than we are apart. By joining together we can do more to share the creative culture of our generation. We think that every independent artist deserves the opportunity to be seen, heard and loved.”
Heidi Luerra, RAW CEO and Founder
Consider the Following When Representing Yourself at RAW, Art Markets and other Art events:
HOW TO REPRESENT YOUR WORK
- Think about how to best present both yourself and your art. Consider artists giveaways (sign up to win!), free stickers and of course business cards that people can take with them.
- Think about your price list and post it in a visible place at your booth. It should be clear and easy to read.
- Have some art framed so it is ready to hang once purchased.
- Ask people to log in to Instagram or Facebook and “Like” your page in order to be entered in a prize drawing.
- Hold a silent auction where visitors could bid for a piece of artwork or custom artwork.
- Consider a demo or an activity so visitors can be hands-on with your art. (This may depend on the venue/event having room).
- Apply early, you can possibly request booth location. It’s always beneficial to know where the stage is and announcements will be made so you are easily visible to all attendees and so patrons can interact with your booth.
The next Nashville RAW artist showcase will be held on September 4.
Partipciate in Upcoming Art Events Around Nashville:
First Saturday Art Crawl – First Saturday of Every Month – Downtown Nashville Arcade
Artober (all month long during October)
Check out more events and activities related to Nashville’s Art Scene
Check out the Urbaanite Guide and Do Nashville Differently.
Debra Holloman, View Labeille Creative