On Wednesday evening we were delighted to have Hobart-based artist Hannah Blackmore give a presentation on ‘This Business of Art’ for our latest Turning Professional workshop for Huon Valley artists and makers.

“Our Turning Professional workshop series launched last year is aimed at supporting local artists and makers to turn their practice into a sustainable business,” said Huon Valley Council Mayor Bec Enders.

“The workshops cover a range of topics and provide a great opportunity to network with other local creators. This week’s session was sold out – they are always very popular.

“It’s fantastic to see that people get a lot out of the Turning Professional sessions. We had one artist tell us that, after attending a previous workshop about applying for grants, she had the confidence to apply for an Arts Tasmania grant. Excitingly, was successful. She also valued the opportunity to network at the sessions, as many Huon Valley artists are isolated, so it can be more difficult to build those connections.”

“The free workshops cover a range of topics and provide a great opportunity to network with other local creators.”

Councillors Christine Campbell and Paul Gibson were in attendance, with Cr Campbell the new Arts and Culture Committee Chair.

“Council would like to thank Willie Smith’s Apple Shed for the wonderful job they did hosting the workshop, and for taking every precaution to ensure it was a COVID-safe event,” said Cr Enders.

Unfortunately, technical issues meant we could not live stream the event as planned, however Hannah has kindly offered to re-record her presentation and make it available to Huon Valley artists and makers. Please contact Council’s Arts and Culture Team on (03) 6264 0300 or hvc@huonvalley.tas.gov.au for the link.

Physical distancing and business restrictions were observed at the event and we would like to thank all attendees for their cooperation and enthusiasm.