programs

chicago SOFA trip

washington, dc trip

new york trip

CREATIVE WORKSHOPS, EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS, AND MORE! WDCC stages a variety of special programs, workshops, and seminars throughout the year. As a WDCC member, you will receive special mailings about our programs. You will also receive a discounted rate on all workshops and trips. Here is a sampling of the many exciting special events and programs WDCC has sponsored over the past few years: DOLLMAKING WORKSHOP with Gretchen Lima. CRAFT MARKETING SEMINAR with national craft marketing expert Bruce Baker, who writes for The Crafts Report. DAY TRIP TO WASHINGTON, D.C. with guided tour of Renwick Gallery and panoramic tour of monuments. BUS TRIP TO SOFA SHOW at Chicago's Navy Pier and an overnight stay at the "W" Hotel right off Michigan Ave. MEMBER PANEL DISCUSSIONS THE ARTIST'S WAY WORKSHOP based on the best-selling novel by Julia Cameron. METALS WORKSHOPS with nationally known jewelers Andy Cooperman from Seattle, Wash, Don Friedlich from Madison, Wis, and Deb Karash from Rockford, Ill. WEEKEND TRIP TO NEW YORK CITY with museum-guided tours. 2008 Events Bruce Baker Craft Marketing Workshop “Thrive, Not Survive, As a Studio Artist” Mount Mary College was the sight of our first event for 2008 with craft marketing expert Bruce Baker. Bruce started the weekend with a keynote speech at our Annual Meeting on Friday night, presenting information about trends, suggestions for effective visual merchandising and tips for successful marketing in challenging economic times. Bruce's personal examples and humor and energy provided our members with an enjoyable, entertaining and informative evening. On Saturday Bruce presented a day long workshop, expanding on these themes. About 40 members were treated to a more in depth study of marketing techniques. Information on branding and artist identity, making the most of your booth space, use of color in marketing, the psychology of the craft buyer, body language and closing the sale were just a few of the topics covered. With time for individual questions and comments the day was a resounding success. As one artist commented, “I don’t want the day to end. I could stay here all night and listen.” Vanguard Studio Tour Our group toured the studio of Vanguard Sculpture Services in Milwaukee in April. This fine art foundry does casting, carving, fabrication, and restoration in metal. Owner and artist, Beth Sahagian walked us through the process from artist concept to completion. This fabulous facility and talented staff are truly a Milwaukee treasure. To see the exciting work being done in Milwaukee by Vanguard, visit their website at http://www.vanguardsculptureservices.com Please contact us for information about upcoming programs.

Beth Sahagian-Allsopp explains the details on a bronze figure casting that will be installed outside of the Veterinary School, UW-Madison. Jeweler, Sarah Mann and the next generation of artist.