Tony Novelozo | Sarah Poisner | Arthur Gonzalez
John Toki | John Natsoulas
The John Natsoulas Gallery is thrilled to be hosting this day-long seminar focusing on building a sustainable ceramics career through practical, real-world strategies. Participants will learn how to approach and apply to artist residencies, including the essential steps needed to prepare strong applications. The program also covers how to develop and maintain a professional portfolio, with an emphasis on consistent, high-quality imagery that accurately represents your work. In addition, we will look at how to use social media effectively as a tool for visibility and connection, without losing focus on your artistic practice. Participants will also gain practical tools for writing about their own work, including how to draft press releases and short blog texts that clearly communicate ideas and support exhibition opportunities.
Attendance is limited, register now!
Included Topics
Artist Residencies
Portfolio Development
Sculpture Photography
Online Presence
Entering Exhibitions
Handling Setbacks
Seminar Schedule - October 10, 2026
10:00 AM – Morning Seminars (Choose One)
Tony Novelozo: Sculpture Photography
Photographer Tony Novelozo will lead a hands-on session on how to photograph artworks at various scales. Participants are encouraged to bring a small to medium-sized piece to photograph during the session, although this is not required. You will learn how to use a lightbox, control lighting, and capture strong, professional images of your work. The seminar will also cover how many images are needed to properly document three-dimensional work for exhibition submissions, websites, and portfolios.
Sarah Poisner: Writing and Digital Presence for Artists
Art critic, writer, and curator Sarah Poisner (MFA, New York University) will guide participants through building a strong online presence. This session covers how to strategically use websites and social media, effectively write press releases and blog posts, and compellingly develop headlines to increase visibility. There will also be an introduction to Instagram Reels, with a focus on why video content is essential for engagement today.
12:00 PM – Lunch (Provided by Dos Coyotes)
Lunch will be served in the gallery. Dietary options include vegetarian and gluten-free. Meat choices include chicken, beef, or pork.
1:00 PM – Afternoon Talk
Arthur Gonzalez: The Art of Rejection
Renowned sculptor and professor Arthur Gonzalez will present a one-hour talk about navigating rejection in the art world. Drawing from his own experience, he will discuss how artists apply for opportunities, handle setbacks, and sustain a long-term career in the arts.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Sessions (Choose One)
John Toki: Artist Residencies – Strategy and Fit
In this breakout session, John Toki will guide participants through the process of applying to artist residencies. The discussion will focus on how to identify the right residency for your practice, what different programs offer, and how to prepare strong applications. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of how residencies can support growth, time, and space for making work. Toki is the author of Hands in Clay and has taught extensively over the years.
John Natsoulas: The Practice of Art – Building a Sustainable Career
This seminar, led by a world-renowned curator, art dealer, book publisher, and career mentor, focuses on how to build and sustain a life in art. Drawing from decades of experience supporting emerging artists, the session will address how to develop a consistent practice, navigate exhibitions, and maintain momentum over time. The speaker will share insights from working closely with dozens of artists at early stages of their careers, who have since moved on to international success.
6:00 PM – Private Evening Reception (Seminar Attendees Only)
Conference participants are invited to a private evening gathering in the rooftop sculpture garden. Enjoy live music by Cold Shot, along with a dance party, hors d’oeuvres, and drinks. This will be a relaxed and celebratory close to the day, offering time to connect, unwind, and enjoy the space together.
