Hello Bournemouth

This coming weekend I shall be in Bournemouth. I am honoured to have been asked to speak about my practice at this exciting new conference: Design Your Career, alongside some very notable figures in the industry. I understand their are a few tickets left, so if you're planning a design / applied arts business, then this is the event for you.

Entirely unrelated, but very serendipitously, you can also see some of my work on show in Bournemouth University (Kimmeridge House) at the moment. They are showing a number of my framed jacquard artworks and some Resonate wall panels, including 'Grid Weave' (above). I also be part of a bigger exhibition there later this year entitled 'The Art of Making: Textiles and texture’ from 19 Sept – 7 Dec.

Flourish: Continuing Professional Development for craftspeople’ at Craft in the Bay.

Below are the details of the final 3 professional development workshops and seminars for crafts that I've organised for Craft in the Bay, Cardiff. Hope to see you at one (or more) of the events....


Make craft pay! Jules Mallory Skinner

30^th May 2012, 11-4.30pm

Jules Mallory Skinner will present a one day workshop covering all aspects of managing a sustainable craft business. He will present ideas and methodologies for creating a sales package; creating sales platforms and relationships; market research; targeting key customers; pitching via the phone or in person; pricing; closing deals and getting paid; range building; and online sales as well as in person sales.  Be prepared for an energetic and inspiring day which will ask you the hard questions about your business and leave you full of ideas for moving forward.

Jules Mallory Skinner has been actively engaged in the Cultural Industries as a creative practitioner and entrepreneur since 1977 and as a creative industries educator and mentor since 1983 when he started an innovative advisory service for musicians and creative entrepreneurs in London. He set up Creative Enterprise Consulting in 1994 becoming an independent advisor to creative businesses, universities, colleges, professional associations and industry initiatives working in this capacity alongside his own creative and business projects to the present day.

Jules will also be joined by Tom Beardshaw who is a social media expert and who owns Native HQ based in Cardiff.

Cost: £55 for non members, £49.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

NB: lunch is not included, but there is an on-site cafe where you can buy food and drinks should you wish. 

 To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

‘Thinking Big – exploring the opportunities for craft in public art’

15^th June 2012, 1-5.15pm

Are you curious to find out more about how you could scale up your craft practice to work to commission in the public art arena? Need some inspiration / information / confidence to apply for large scale projects that could stretch your practice into exciting new areas both in terms of scale and concept?

Five high-profile speakers will make inspirational presentations about the various facets of craft in public art.

·         Sue Lawty is an internationally renowned tapestry artist who also works with lead, stone and other materials. She will discuss the many and varied public art projects she has undertaken, as well her major residency at the Victoria and Albert Museum.  (NB Sue will be running a 2-day tapestry master class at Craft in the Bay on the 16-17^th June – please see the Craft in the Bay website for further details.)

·         Brigid Howarth is an established art strategy consultant with extensive experience across the cultural industries. Brigid will discuss her role as the Co-Project Director of the Museumaker programme managing a £1 million programme connecting contemporary crafts with museums and heritage centres across England resulting in 18 major craft public art commissions. Brigid will discuss the diverse Museumaker projects in detail along with the associated community engagement events. She will also highlight what makes a good application for commissions such as Museumaker.

·         Rodney Bender, iGP (Innovative Glass Products) has produced inventive architectural glass artworks and interventions to major buildings and sites across the UK and further afield. iGP also offers a unique service working with artists and other developers to realise their designs in glass. Rodney will discuss his own practice in the public art and architectural field alongside the services and processes he can offer to makers to help them realise their own projects.

·         Nathalie Camus, is the Senior Officer for Applied Arts with the Arts Council Wales (ACW). Following a major strategic review of the Arts Council of Wales, Nathalie will present the new public art strategy for Wales highlighting its key priorities, partnerships and the opportunities for makers based in Wales.

 Cost: £35 for non members, £31.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

 To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

Internet Strategy, Pete Moseley

12^th July 2012, 11-4.30pm

Want to learn how to take advantage of the internet to promote you and your business using no-cost or low-cost options?  Are you somewhat bewildered by Twitter, Facebook, Blogging, RSS Feeds, Flickr, LinkedIn, etc?  This workshop will demystify these topics in clear and accessible language, examining the various pros and cons, and how these online tools can be put into practice as part of your marketing strategy.

·            Arts websites – the good, the bad and the ugly!

·            The use of directory and ‘aggregator’ sites – how the ‘long tail’ works

·            Blogging – and how Blogs and websites work together synergistically

·            RSS and  social bookmarking

·            The use of Google Analytics to measure traffic

·            Keyword testing techniques

·            Getting visible on Google and other search engines.

·            Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and social sharing

·            Flickr, YouTube, Behance, Pinterest – and other useful social sites.

·            Email applications e.g. Constant Contact and MailChimp

·            How to set up an email database and use it effectively

·            A/B email testing, subject lines and CTA’s (calls to action)

·            Email etiquette

Pete Mosley works exclusively with artists and arts organisations. His primary focus is providing bespoke coaching and mentoring to artists and makers, either face to face or through training sessions and seminars.

Pete is a strong advocate of the internet as a powerful tool for artists and makers to market their work using traditional media such as websites and email newsletters or through social media such as Facebook and Twitter.

Pete is also Business Editor for craft&design magazine, writing regular articles and features for the printed magazine, website and e-newsletters. He also maintains the magazine’s Facebook and Twitter presence and has grown the Twitter fanbase to over 4000 in the space of 12 months.

What to bring: a laptop, although it is fine to share one with another delegate.  Pete will bring the workshop presentation on a CD which you can take home with you.  This will enable you to follow up elements of the workshop on your own computer.  Also bring a pen and paper to make any further notes. 

Cost: £55 for non members, £49.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

 NB: lunch is not included, but there is an on-site cafe where you can buy food and drinks should you wish. 

 To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

‘Flourish: Continuing Professional Development for craftspeople’ at Craft in the Bay.

Below are the latest CPD workshops, talks, and seminars I've coordinated for the Makers Guild in Wales. Hope they might be of interest.......
How to cost your time & your craft work, Laura Thomas

1^st March 2012, 11-1pm

 
New to the craft business and need some guidance on how to price your work? Laura Thomas will take you through the basics of working out your cost and retail price of your handmade products. She will also cover working out your daily rate for freelance projects or commissions.

What to bring: a calculator! Handouts will be given, but bring a pen so can make extra notes if you wish.

Cost: £20 for non members, £18 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

Exhibiting at Craft Fairs, Sarah James

1^st March 2012, 2-3pm

Sarah James, Director of Made by Hand (Newport), The Contemporary Craft Fair (Bovey Tracey) and Co-Director of www.madebyhandonline.com will present a short session about selling at craft fairs. With the impending deadline to apply to exhibit at Made by Hand at Tredegar House in Newport, Sarah will introduce the craft fair to you along with how to compose a successful application. She will discuss good photography, effective stand design and ideas for promotion.

 Cost: £8 for non members, £7.20 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

An introduction to Adobe Illustrator, Ray Nicklin

22^nd March 2012 10.00 – 4.30pm

A one-day course introducing the principles of the Adobe Illustrator CAD programme, specifically focused on the needs of craftspeople.  The emphasis will be on creating imagery for patterns to be either digitally printed (i.e. onto fabric) or laser cut. (NB, the workshop does not actual include doing laser cutting or digital printing, just preparing the artwork). This workshop will be hosted at Cardiff Metropolitan University (Llandaff Campus, UWIC) and led by Ray Nicklin one of their highly experienced members of staff. This workshop is suitable for complete novices to the Illustrator programme, but requires reasonable computer literacy. We will be working on Macs.

What to bring to the workshop: notebook and pen, memory stick. You could also bring drawings/images (max size A3) which you would like to modify/adapt using the programme. Other source images will be provided too.

There is parking on site - pay and display £2 per day.

IMPORTANT: please arrive by 9.50am at the latest and meet at the entrance to the N-Block, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Llandaff Campus.

Cost: £85 for non members, £76.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

NB: lunch is not included, but there is an on-site cafe where you can buy food and drinks should you wish. 

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

Sell Yourself! The art of effective communication, Noleen Mathias & Erin Martin

24^th March 2012, 10 - 4pm

Applied for lots of grants, exhibition opportunities, commissions, residencies or projects haven’t been successful? Are you not getting leads from your website or from your speculative letters and emails?  Whilst your creative work might be strong, if you’re not presenting yourself well in the written form, you’re likely to fall at the first hurdle. For many artists and makers, getting your CV and Artists Statement right can be real challenge. Likewise many struggle with making formal applications, attending interviews and having the confidence to talk clearly and confidently about their practice to a variety of audiences.

This workshop is designed to increase your skills and self-confidence in the areas of presenting yourself and your work, in a variety of contexts. Alongside analysing successful written communication whether it be digital or print, you will also learn how to become a more confident communicator using both verbal and non-verbal language to help achieve positive outcomes.

This will be a lively workshop designed to encourage real self reflection and to reinvigorate your confidence and enthusiasm. It will interactive and allows for plenty of opportunity for individual and group advice.

This one day seminar forms part of the M+M ‘Professional Development for Artist Programme “The Art of Success | Making Creativity Pay” which is a collaboration between Noleen Mathias and Erin Martin.

Noleen Mathias has over twenty years experience in Arts and Business Management. Prior to setting up the Mathias Agency, Noleen was Co-Director of Artworks Wales the National Organisation for Public Art in Wales and Director of Finance and Operations for Public Art Agency, Safle. She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and a Trustee of the National Federation of Artist Studio Providers (NFASP).

Erin Martin is an experienced education professional and an Accredited Personal and Business Coach with many years experience of coaching for success in a wide variety of contexts. She has a particular interest in Creativity Coaching and in the issues of aspiration, motivation and self-belief as they relate to artists and writers. Erin recently returned from China where she was an education adviser with VSO.

Before the workshop, you will be sent a questionnaire by Noleen and Erin which will help them understand your background and needs, as well as encouraging you to evaluate your current strengths and weaknesses.

Cost: £55 for non members, £49.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

NB: lunch is not included, but there is an on-site cafe where you can buy food and drinks should you wish. 

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

Make craft pay! Jules Mallory Skinner

30^th May 2012, 11-4.30pm

Jules Mallory Skinner will present a one day workshop covering all aspects of managing a sustainable craft business. He will present ideas and methodologies for creating a sales package; creating sales platforms and relationships; market research; targeting key customers; pitching via the phone or in person; pricing; closing deals and getting paid; range building; and online sales as well as in person sales.  Be prepared for an energetic and inspiring day which will ask you the hard questions about your business and leave you full of ideas for moving forward.

Jules Mallory Skinner has been actively engaged in the Cultural Industries as a creative practitioner and entrepreneur since 1977 and as a creative industries educator and mentor since 1983 when he started an innovative advisory service for musicians and creative entrepreneurs in London. He set up Creative Enterprise Consulting in 1994 becoming an independent advisor to creative businesses, universities, colleges, professional associations and industry initiatives working in this capacity alongside his own creative and business projects to the present day.

Cost: £55 for non members, £49.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

NB: lunch is not included, but there is an on-site cafe where you can buy food and drinks should you wish. 

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

‘Thinking Big – exploring the opportunities for craft in public art’

15^th June 2012, 1-5.15pm

Are you curious to find out more about how you could scale up your craft practice to work to commission in the public art arena? Need some inspiration / information / confidence to apply for large scale projects that could stretch your practice into exciting new areas both in terms of scale and concept?

Five high-profile speakers will make inspirational presentations about the various facets of craft in public art. 

·         Sue Lawty is an internationally renowned tapestry artist who also works with lead, stone and other materials. She will discuss the many and varied public art projects she has undertaken, as well her major residency at the Victoria and Albert Museum.  (NB Sue will be running a 2-day tapestry master class at Craft in the Bay on the 16-17^th June – please see the Craft in the Bay website for further details.)

·         Brigid Howarth is an established art strategy consultant with extensive experience across the cultural industries. Brigid will discuss her role as the Co-Project Director of the Museumaker programme managing a £1 million programme connecting contemporary crafts with museums and heritage centres across England resulting in 18 major craft public art commissions. Brigid will discuss the diverse Museumaker projects in detail along with the associated community engagement events. She will also highlight what makes a good application for commissions such as Museumaker.

·         Ann Catrin Evans is an established metalsmith based in North Wales. As well as making jewellery and domestic ironwork for interiors, a key aspect of Ann Catrin’s practice has been working on significant public art projects from large scale sculptures through to metal door furniture for the Wales Millennium Centre. Ann Catrin will discuss her various commissions and the associated design challenges and considerations for craftspeople scaling up their practice.

·         Rodney Bender, iGP (Innovative Glass Products) has produced inventive architectural glass artworks and interventions to major buildings and sites across the UK and further afield. iGP also offers a unique service working with artists and other developers to realise their designs in glass. Rodney will discuss his own practice in the public art and architectural field alongside the services and processes he can offer to makers to help them realise their own projects.

·         Nathalie Camus, is the Senior Officer for Applied Arts with the Arts Council Wales (ACW). Following a major strategic review of the Arts Council of Wales, Nathalie will present the new public art strategy for Wales highlighting its key priorities, partnerships and the opportunities for makers based in Wales.

Cost: £35 for non members, £31.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

Internet Strategy, Pete Moseley

12^th July 2012, 11-4.30pm

Want to learn how to take advantage of the internet to promote you and your business using no-cost or low-cost options?  Are you somewhat bewildered by Twitter, Facebook, Blogging, RSS Feeds, Flickr, LinkedIn, etc?  This workshop will demystify these topics in clear and accessible language, examining the various pros and cons, and how these online tools can be put into practice as part of your marketing strategy.

·            Arts websites – the good, the bad and the ugly!

·            The use of directory and ‘aggregator’ sites – how the ‘long tail’ works

·            Blogging – and how Blogs and websites work together synergistically

·            RSS and  social bookmarking

·            The use of Google Analytics to measure traffic

·            Keyword testing techniques

·            Getting visible on Google and other search engines.

·            Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and social sharing

·            Flickr, YouTube, Behance, Pinterest – and other useful social sites.

·            Email applications e.g. Constant Contact and MailChimp

·            How to set up an email database and use it effectively

·            A/B email testing, subject lines and CTA’s (calls to action)

·            Email etiquette

Pete Mosley works exclusively with artists and arts organisations. His primary focus is providing bespoke coaching and mentoring to artists and makers, either face to face or through training sessions and seminars.

Pete is a strong advocate of the internet as a powerful tool for artists and makers to market their work using traditional media such as websites and email newsletters or through social media such as Facebook and Twitter.

Pete is also Business Editor for craft&design magazine, writing regular articles and features for the printed magazine, website and e-newsletters. He also maintains the magazine’s Facebook and Twitter presence and has grown the Twitter fanbase to over 4000 in the space of 12 months.

What to bring: a laptop, although it is fine to share one with another delegate.  Pete will bring the workshop presentation on a CD which you can take home with you.  This will enable you to follow up elements of the workshop on your own computer.  Also bring a pen and paper to make any further notes. 

Cost: £55 for non members, £49.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

NB: lunch is not included, but there is an on-site cafe where you can buy food and drinks should you wish.  

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

If you are a maker based in Wales you may be eligible to apply for a small training grant from the Arts Council of Wales to support your attendance at one or more of these CPD sessions. Contact your local Arts Officer to discuss further. http://www.artswales.org/what-we-do/funding/funding-advice-and-guidelines/individuals

Flourish: Continuing Professional Development for Craftspeople at Craft in the Bay, Cardiff

Got my CPD Coordinators hat on again today! Just want to share with you the forthcoming seminars and workshops that I've booked for Craft in the Bay, Cardiff.
To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611. If you've got any queries, drop me a line: cpd@makersguildinwales.org.uk




October 28th 2011 – Craft Photography with Toril Brancher

11am – 4.30pm

Are you aware that your photographs are not showing your work to its very best potential? Want to create more eye catching photographs to attract press coverage? Want to learn how to get the very best out of your digital camera?

Following the great success of the oversubscribed workshop with notable photographer Toril Brancher led last year, we are delighted to welcome her back by popular demand. This one day workshop with begin with an analysis of what makes a successful photograph, what the common errors are and how to take striking photographs with minimal periphery equipment. This will lead into a practical photography session where you will apply the theory to photographing one of your craft objects.

Toril Brancher is an established documentary and craft photographer, as well as a regular photography tutor with Ffotogallery in Cardiff. Recent significant commissions in the craft sector include photographs for the Resonant Colour exhibition catalogue at Llantarnam Grange and catalogue photography for Warp + Weft, a major touring exhibition of contemporary woven textiles.

What to bring: your digital camera and card reader (or connecting lead to view your images on a PC); a laptop if you have one (so you can download your images and view them on screen); some pieces of your work that you’d like to photograph; notebook and pen.

Cost: £50 for non members, £45 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales



14th November 2011, What Buyers Want, Sara Gatoff and Maureen Cook, Buying Vision Ltd.

10.30 - 4.30pm

Do you want to wholesale your handmade products into the retail sector? Does the idea of approaching commercial buyers make you feel apprehensive? Want to know how to get your foot in the door? Have you had unsuccessful dealings with buyers thus far, and feel the need for some insider’s knowledge?

The Makers Guild in Wales is delighted to welcome Sara Gatoff and Maureen Cook of Buying Vision Ltd to share their unique and high level experience of the retail buying sector. Sara and Maureen have a combined background of over 40 years experience of working in UK buying offices up to senior levels at retailers such as Harrods Plc and Tesco’s as well as the independent sector.

This is a rare opportunity to glean valuable advice and guidance on how to effectively approach and impress buyers. The workshop will be divided into two sessions as follows:

Session 1 – “Preparing to meet Retail Buyers”

• Understanding yourself and your business, what kind of business you are looking to have and why. Here we would look at the values and motivations behind the business decisions we make.

• PS! Product Strategy. What is it? Do you need one? How to develop one?

• Defining a plan of markets and customers to approach, we call this “developing a route to market plan.”

• Starting to determine how you are different from your competition and why a Buyer may want to buy from you.

• Understanding Retail Buyers, what they may be looking for and why.


Session 2 – “Selling and Driving Sales”

• Building a Sales Pitch – what to say, in what order and why?

• Making a good Presentation – and handling a sales meeting, keeping control of it even when you are the seller.

• Combating nerves and learning when to talk and when to present your product.

• Communication, getting it right for your audience and projecting the right message to the Buyer.

• Different Ways of meeting Buyers.

• Cold calling, how to do it.


What to bring: notebook & pen.

What to think about before the seminar: what shops and boutiques (both multinational and independents) would be your dream retailer of your products?

Cost: £55 for non members, £49.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales



14th December 2011- Develop A Marketing Strategy That Works & Select The Right Tools! Kelly Monroe from The Concept Club

1.30 – 5pm
Aimed specifically at craftspeople, designer-makers and other creative businesses, this workshop will introduce you to the basic elements of creating a manageable marketing strategy for your business and to select with confidence marketing tools that will bring a return on investment or objective for your business.
You will be encouraged to think about the specific goals you want to achieve for your personal marketing strategy, whether it be to increase sales, develop a new service or launch a new craft retail space. The seminar will give you a structure and framework to use day in day out to ensure you turn your plans into reality thus demystifying the art of marketing.

During the seminar we will also look at the variety of marketing tools you can use to develop your profile from traditional print media through to online social marketing websites. The seminar will give you an over view of the array of tools you can utilise and how to select the right tools.

Kelly Monroe is an experienced business & marketing consultant and training professional with over 10 years industry experience. Kelly has spent many years supporting SMEs in Wales to become productive and profitable. Kelly has trained with seasoned professionals and believes in inspiring people with confidence.

What to bring: notebook & pen.

What to think about before the seminar: your marketing goals.

Cost: £35 for non members, £31.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales


Coming next year:

26th January – 11.30am. Membership of the Makers Guild in Wales.

26th January 1.30pm. Arts and business organisations that support makers in Wales. Confirmed speakers include representatives from Wales Arts International, Association of Contemporary Jewellers – Wales and the Arts Council of Wales. Further speakers to be announced very soon.

February – Stretching your practice. Speakers confirmed so far include textile artist Debbie Smyth and jeweller / stylist Anna Lewis.

March – Sell Yourself! The art of effective communication, with Noleen Mathias and Erin Martin

April – An introduction to Adobe Illustrator.

30th May – ‘Make Craft Pay’, Jules Mallory Skinner

June – ‘Thinking Big’, a number of guest speakers will discuss crafts in the public art sector. Confirmed speakers so far include tapestry artist Sue Lawty, blacksmith Ann Catrin Evans and Brigid Howarth who will discuss the successful Museumaker programme.

12th July – ‘Internet Strategy’ Pete Moseley. Again back by popular demand following his successful workshop in 2010.

Further details and dates to be confirmed very soon!

Selling Craft: two CPD workshops at Craft in the Bay

Got my CPD @ Craft in the Bay Coordinator hat on again today. There are a couple of spaces left on two brilliant workshops taking place next week. They are both looking at different aspects of selling craft.  As they are linked topics, we have a special offer where you can book a place on both the listed workshops for £80. Otherwise each workshop is £45 (10% discount for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales). To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611.



Developing a Retail Strategy for Craft, Michelle Bowen


Monday 25th July 2011, 11am - 4.30pm

We are delighted to welcome Michelle Bowen to Craft in the Bay to deliver this insightful workshop specifically aimed at craft galleries and retail outlets, although individuals who regularly sell at craft fairs will also benefit.

In these challenging economic times the need to have a coherent retail strategy is critical. The workshop will cover the following points

• What does your gallery / brand stand for and what are the unique selling points? How does it differ from the high street? What are you really offering?

• Developing a retail mission statement, encapsulating what you are about and use it to focus on the purpose of the work you are doing

• Understanding who your customers are? Why do they visit? What are they looking for? How to provide quality of service, telling stories and the human factor, up- selling… delivering a unique experience

• Improving your sales environment & point of sale information. Are you presenting work in a fresh way? Understanding the influence of fashion and lifestyle, referencing magazines and media.

• Developing a community of interest: using your friends scheme / mailing list, developing collectors, using social marketing and web site etc. How do you get your customers to come back and keep buying?

Michelle Bowen has a wealth of experience in the creative industries having not only managed a gallery, but also worked for the Crafts Council as the Professional Development Officer, and for the Arts Council of England as Visual Arts Officer with specific remit for the strategic development of craft and design. Since establishing her independent creative consultancy in 2010, Michelle has delivered strategic & retail development and project management for organisations including Brighton Pavilions, Harley Gallery, New Art Exchange and Northamptonshire County Council.

Cost: £45 for non members, £40.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales
 

Sales Techniques for selling craft, Anne Derbyshire MA Sales, Cert Ed, MIBC, FInSMM
Thursday 28th July 2011, 10.30am - 4pm

The primary aim of this workshop will be to develop knowledge and expertise in professional sales techniques, but tailored towards the unique craft market. Led by Anne Derbyshire, a finalist BESMA Sales Trainer of the Year 2011, the day will be highly interactive and enjoyable with discussion and practical activities. Based at Model House Craft and Design Centre, Anne has a tangible understanding of the craft and design sector, as well as delivering training to clients such as The Oxford University Press, The Maltese Government, Procter Brothers, UK Steel Enterprise and Chapter Arts Centre.

Workshop Benefits:

• To be able to develop excellent customer relationships and understand each client’s

specific buying needs.

• Understand how to structure a sale so that the customer moves from interest, to desire and then to action (purchase)

• Learn to competently sell the benefits of different craft products.

Key Topics

• What makes a successful salesperson- the key ingredients

• Understanding why people buy- the decision making process and how we can help this process to happen. (people like to buy but they don’t like to be “sold” to)

• Communication skills. Body Language

• How to project the desired image.

• The 8 steps to a successful sale

• The art of questioning and listening

• How to offer craft work as a benefit to the customer

• Understanding buying signals

• Handling objections (for example “it’s too expensive”)

• Closing- achieving the business


Cost: £45 for non members, £40.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611

For queries please contact me!

‘Flourish: Continuing Professional Development for Craftspeople' at Craft in the Bay

Got my CPD Coordinator hat on today......

In case you don't already know, I organise 'Continuing Professional Development' workshops, seminars and talks for The Makers Guild in Wales at Craft in the Bay in Cardiff. These sessions cover various aspects of business and professional development specifically for those working in the craft sector.

Got two brilliant sessions coming up in June which still have some places available. Details as follows:


Develop A Marketing Strategy That Works & Select The Right Tools!



Kelly Monroe from The Concept Club

Date: Thursday 2nd June 2011

Time: 10am to 2.30pm


Aimed specifically at craftspeople, designer-makers and other creative businesses, this workshop will introduce you to the basic elements of creating a manageable marketing strategy for your business and to select with confidence marketing tools that will bring a return on investment or objective for your business.

You will be encouraged to think about the specific goals you want to achieve for your personal marketing strategy, whether it be to increase sales, develop a new service or launch a new craft retail space. The seminar will give you a structure and framework to use day in day out to ensure you turn your plans into reality thus demystifying the art of marketing.

During the seminar we will also look at the variety of marketing tools you can use to develop your profile from traditional print media through to online social marketing websites. The seminar will give you an over view of the array of tools you can utilise and how to select the right tools.
Kelly Monroe is an experienced business & marketing consultant and training professional with over 10 years industry experience. Kelly has spent many years supporting SMEs in Wales to become productive and profitable. Kelly has trained with seasoned professionals and believes in inspiring people with confidence.

What to bring: notebook & pen.

What to think about before the seminar: your marketing goals.

Cost: £35 for non members, £31.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611.

Venue address: Craft in the Bay, Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff Bay CF10 4QH

 
 
 
The Art of Effective Presentation and Communication


Noleen Mathias and Erin Martin

Date: Saturday 18th of June 2011

Time: 10am to 4.30pm


This is a one day seminar forming part of the M+M ‘Professional Development for Artist Programme “The Art of Success Making Creativity Pay” designed to enhance your communication and presentation skills.

Effective communication and presentation of your work, and of yourself as an artist, are key elements in developing a successful career.

The aims of the day are two-fold: to increase your skills and self-confidence in the areas of presenting your work, and self-presentation, in a variety of contexts.

We will cover the practical issues of CV, Artist Profile, business cards and websites as well as the most effective ways of making applications, attending interviews, and using various styles of communication to suit different audiences.

The scope of the day includes an analysis of how we can become confident communicators, using verbal and non-verbal language to help achieve positive outcomes. We will also examine the importance of self-image in effective communication.

The course will encourage and allow time for interaction between participants and facilitators.


M + M Professional Development for Artists is a collaboration between Noleen Mathias and Erin Martin.

Noleen Mathias has over twenty years experience in Arts and Business Management. Prior to setting up the Mathias Agency, Noleen was Co-Director of Artworks Wales the National Organisation for Public Art in Wales and Director of Finance and Operations for Public Art Agency, Safle. She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and a Trustee of the National Federation of Artist Studio Providers (NFASP).

Erin Martin is an experienced education professional and an Accredited Personal and Business Coach with many years experience of coaching for success in a wide variety of contexts. She has a particular interest in Creativity Coaching and in the issues of aspiration, motivation and self-belief as they relate to artists and writers. Erin recently returned from China where she was an education adviser with VSO.

Cost: £45 for non members, £40.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

To book, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611.

Venue address: Craft in the Bay, Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff Bay CF10 4QH

‘Flourish: Continuing Professional Development for Craftspeople' at Craft in the Bay - Jan-April listings

I wear lots of different hats..... and one of them is coordinating the Continuing Professional Development series of seminars and workshops at Craft in the Bay, Cardiff.  Below are details of the latest tranche of events.  If you're interested in attending any of the sessions please do book soon.... I'm not just saying that - they really do book up quickly! Hope to see you there!

Public Art Commissions, Mererid Velios, Celfwaith
Friday 28th January 2011, 11am – 4pm

Are you keen to extend your professional practice into the realm of public art commissions but don’t know where to start or find the tendering process daunting? This workshop is designed to give you an insight into the opportunities available for craftspeople, how to construct effective expressions of interest, the interview process and different approaches to community engagement requirements.

Mererid Velios is a highly experienced public art consultant having worked for Cywaith Cyrmu - Artworks Wales before establishing her Cardiff-based consultancy Celfwaith. She has managed high profile projects across the UK, many of which are specifically involved craft practitioners. This is an invaluable opportunity to get insightful advice and individual support to tackling this rewarding area of craft professional practice.

What to bring:

· Essential: notebook and pen.

· Desirable but not imperative: a laptop would be helpful for the practical exercises. Images of your typical work that might be applicable for public art applications. If you have put together an unsuccessful public art commission proposal, you are welcome to bring it along for brief feedback from Mererid.

Cost: £45 for non members, £40.50 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales


Membership of the Makers Guild in Wales
Monday 28th February 2011, 11.30am -12.15pm

Want to find out more about becoming a member of the Makers Guild in Wales? Want the chance to exhibit and sell at the Guilds prestigious gallery Craft in the Bay in Cardiff? Want to get involved with the largest maker-led craft organisation in Wales?

Laura Thomas Makers Guild in Wales member and trustee, will give a presentation on the benefits of joining the Guild. Current exciting developments at Craft in the Bay as well as the history of the Guild will be covered alongside the specifics of the new application procedure and what membership actually entails.

Cost: Free. Limited spaces, so booking is still absolutely essential.


Arts organisations supporting makers and designers in Wales
Monday 28th February 2011, 1.30pm – 4.30pm

Six of Wales’ leading arts and design support organisations will each give a 30 minute presentation on the services and support they offer makers and designers in Wales. Where relevant, membership benefits will be explained; practical support and/or facilities outlined; and grant opportunities highlighted.

· 1.30pm Arts & Business Wales – Yvette Kemble

· 2pm SATNET (Science and Art Network) & Creative Industries Research and Innovation

Centre (Swansea Metropolitan University) – Anna Lewis

· 2.30pm Arts Council of Wales – Michael Goode & Cerys Thomas

· 3pm Coffee break

· 3.15pm Design Wales – Victoria Jones

· 3.45pm Textile Technologies Project & The Shared Technology Resource Centre (Coleg Sir

Gar) – Liesel Taylor

· 4.15pm Fibre Art Wales – Laura Thomas

What to bring: notebook and pen.

Cost: Free, but a donation of £3.00 to cover afternoon refreshments would be appreciated. Limited spaces, so booking is still absolutely essential.


Press coverage for crafts, Nicola Wilkes, interior design journalist, Western Mail columnist and editor of Wales at Home. 
3rd March 2011, 11-1pm

This workshop is designed to give you an insight into what the press is looking for from craftspeople: how to generate press interest, the “dos and don’ts” of writing and sending out your press releases and the kind of photographs publications are looking for.

Nicola Wilkes is a respected interior design journalist, columnist for the Western Mail, editor of lifestyle magazine and directory Wales at Home, and freelance PR consultant with clients including Melin Tregwynt, Leekes, Cardiff Design Festival, Momentum and Made By Hand. She will present ‘The Infectious Effect: how to make the media work for you’ which will offer valuable tips and insights to creative crafts professionals on how get to market with the help of the media.

NB: this is the rescheduled December 2010 seminar that had to be cancelled due to ill health and adverse weather conditions.

What to bring: notebook and pen.

Cost: £20 for non members, £18 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales


3d mapping workshop, Dail Behennah
Saturday 9th April 2011, 11am – 4pm

This workshop will explore lateral approaches to making through a practical 3d mapping exercise, which all makers regardless of discipline will be able to benefit from. You will encouraged to experiment with unfamiliar materials, discover new methods of joining components and new ways of realising ideas. The emphasis will be on self directed discovery, rather than prescribed teaching of techniques.

This is a rare treat to be taught by Dail Behennah, who is an internationally regarded maker, renowned for her elegant willow structures that epitomise a thoroughly atypical approach to her craft.

What to bring: materials will be provided but please bring some materials typical to your discipline which you would be happy to share with other participants.

Cost: £50 for non members, £45 for members and friends of the Makers Guild in Wales

To book on any of the courses, please phone Craft in the Bay on 02920 484 611 or email cpd@makersguildinwales.org