NCC conference pairs students with self-employed artists
The Naperville Sun
Even in the best economic times, self-employment as an artist, performer or author can be fraught with peril. Up to 300 college students from throughout the Midwest will gain firsthand advice from successful self-employed artists at a conference sponsored by North Central college's Center for Entrepreneurship.
Self-Employment in the Arts will take place March 21 and 22, at the Holiday Inn Select, at 1801 N. Naperville Blvd. in Naperville.
The main goal of the conference is to teach young artists the business savvy they need to succeed as they pursue their career dreams, said Gary Ernst, Coleman Foundation professor of entrepreneurship and small business at North Central College.
"As far as we know, there's nothing else like this conference in the country," said Ernst, who originated the concept two years ago. "The Coleman Foundation, which funds the program, views this as a prototype to expand into other regions."
Student artists, musicians and writers are traveling to Naperville from a s far away as Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa, and Benedictine College in Atchison, Kan. Participants choose one of four tracks: visual arts, performing arts, literary and media arts, and functional and applied arts.
Session leaders include self-employed painters, photographers, dancers, musicians, jewelry designers, authors and video producers. Other speakers will discuss subjects such as taxes, copyright law and self-promotion. On the evening of March 21, attendees will participate in a showcase of talents and an art gallery. Prizes for performers have been donated by Anderson's Bookshop in Naperville, Dick Blick Art Materials and the Woodwind and Brasswind of South Bend, Ind.
Registration for the conference is $50 for students and $75 for faculty members, which includes sessions and meals but no lodging. To register, call conference coordinator, Amy Rogers at (630) 637-5468. Walk-ins will be accommodated but registration is preferred.