Call Description

This special program at Willow Pond Retreat in beautiful Edna Valley, California will focus on professional practices in areas of gallery representation and museum exhibitions, self-promotion, use of social media in promotion, the importance of relevant critical writing, presentation, identifying, strategizing personal/professional goals, and organically expanding resources through community.

The workshop will take place July 10-12, 2026 with local fare provided for daily breakfast and lunch with optional morning and evening activities. Through private one-on-one sessions and group meetings, artists/curators will have the rare opportunity to meet with a team of guest professionals.

16 participants will be selected by our Jury of professionals for a two-day workshop focused on best professional practices in the creative industry. Accepted artists will be notified by Friday, March 20, 2026 and must pay their tuition of $1075 in advance in order to hold their place.  Artists are responsible for their own travel and housing expenses. Workshop tuition includes breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday. Check in for artists will be Friday, July 10, 2026 after 3pm for welcome mixer at 4:30pm. Workshop will run Saturday - Sunday, July 10-12 from 9am - 4:30pm, with optional morning and evening activities at Willow Pond Retreat and surrounding vineyards. Deadline to apply is March 9, 2026 at 5 pm. Housing is not included in tuition however special rates have been reserved at a local hotel and artists are responsible for their travel and housing expenses. If invited to participate each artist must pay their deposit of $500 by May 1, 2026 to hold their spot in the workshop. With tuition paid in full by June 1, 2026. California artists may qualify for artist grant to help supplement their tuition by applying for Artist Quick Grant for professional development through CCI.

Application Requirements

Applicants must speak and understand English and complete the application including answer all questions and include images and artist statement.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must speak and understand English, have a working practice in the visual arts (curators welcome), and fill out the application completely.