Dear ,

The first issue of the Alumni Newsletter generated quite a response, and I am happy to be involved with a group of artists that is so active and inspired! I have heard your calls for newsletter topics including resources for promoting your work, how and where to go about purchasing insurance that is right for you, and current issues affecting artists of all media, like distribution, copyrights, and pricing products. Look for these and more topics in future issues of the Alumni News.

Sarah Mutrux

Artist and Community Programs Manager 

smutrux@vermontartscouncil.org

802.828.5425

At the December Network meeting, the group discussed how the network benefits the members. We introduced a framework for thinking about why the network is important. In this week's meeting, we will continue to explore how we can work together and support each other. Through guided conversations at quarterly meetings and online, we will shape the BiB Alumni Network into a vital tool in a Vermont artist's toolbox.

The next meeting of the BiB Alumni Network will be held Thursday, January 28, 7p.m. at the Vermont Arts Council office in Montpelier. Members will continue the discussion of how to get the network to work for them. In order to capture as many member's voices as possible, there will be a call-in option for those who cannot make the drive to Montpelier. Please visit the Facebook BiB Alumni Network Group to view details, or email Sarah Mutrux to ask for call-in instructions.

How do you see this network benefiting you? What skills or knowledge do you have that you would like to share with the group? Collect your ideas and bring them to the meeting this week!

Today is the last day to register for the 2016 Breaking into Business workshop. This year's workshop will be held Saturday and Sunday, February 6 and 7 in Swanton. Tell your fellow artists about this opportunity to hone their business skills. Additional information and registration details are available on the Breaking into Business page of our website.

Su Shannon took the concept of "paying it forward" to a whole new level after she completed the BiB program in 2012. Read about Su's project in this Featured Story.

Visit Su Shannon's website.

The Vermont Studio Center invites applications for its Vermont Week. This annual residency brings Vermont artists and writers together each spring for an intensive week of focused studio work, creative community, and interaction with  visiting artists and writers. The deadline is January 31. Read more about the call for applications in our classified section of the website.