Art and Entrepreneurship in Detroit

Stephen Henderson meets with Rhonda Welsh and Dennis Tini, of Wayne State University’s College of Fine, Performing, and Communication Arts. Welsh is an alumni officer for the college and Tini is the senior associate dean. They talk about the importance of showing artists the ways to make a living off of their work and dispell the stereotype of a “starving artist.” The key points:

• Networking: Tini says that in the 21st century, artists have to be aware of the business and entrepreneurial side of creative industries. He emphasizes the need to network in order to explore opportunities to increase your business.
•  Business of Art: Welsh says that Wayne State’s discussions about the business of art, like the one scheduled for August 14th, are meant to give artists the skills to make a living from doing what they love. She says that in Detroit’s burgeoning art scene, artists are starting to see the viability of producing their creative works as a career.
• Age of the indie: Tini talks about how independents creators have the ability to compete with big companies in today’s music, art, theatre, film, and dance fields. Welsh says that showing artists what they need to know regarding legal matters, such as trademark and copyright, are important when entering these industries.

“The Business of Art” will take place on August 14th at Wayne State University’s Old Main Building and is open to everyone. Doors open at 5:00 PM and the event will start at 6:00 PM.

Click the audio link above to listen to the full discussion.