About the 2026 Symposium
Building an artmaking business can be quite a challenge. How do you promote your artwork? Where can you find sources of funding? How do you protect your intellectual property? And how can you work efficiently both on creating artwork and managing a business? This year’s Annual Art Symposium explores where the creative and business worlds overlap and provides artists with answers to these questions. Resources in moving your creative work forward, including photographing and printing your artwork, also will be discussed. Both emerging and established artists, as well as instructors and art lovers, are invited to join us as we dive deep into the business of artmaking.
Schedule
8–9 am: Coffee and light breakfast
9–10:10 am: Artist John Kachik
John Kachik has been making American images as a freelance illustrator, artist, graphic designer, and educator since 1984. John will discuss his career as an artist and illustrator during a discussion with Delaplaine Exhibitions Manager Corey Frey.
10:10–10:30 am: Chris Spangler, The Imagination Center
Chris Spangler is Graphic Design and Art Specialist with The Imagination Center in Frederick. Chris specializes in giclee printmaking and will explain the process, benefits, and products available to make saleable prints of artwork through the Imagination Center.
10:30–11:30 am: Christia Ravenell, Maryland Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (MdVLA)
Christia Ravenell is the Staff Attorney at MdVLA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting Maryland artists’ legal rights, where she provides legal assistance, develops guides and workshops, and participates in advocacy initiatives. Christia will discuss copyright and intellectual property, as well as general legal concerns for artists.
11:30 am–12:30 pm: Lunch
12:30–1 pm: Photographing your artwork with Jillian MacMaster, The Delaplaine Arts Center
Jillian MacMaster is Delaplaine Community Engagement Manager, as well as a nationally exhibiting artist and photographer. Jillian will demonstrate and discuss photographing artwork for submission and digital content.
1 –2 pm: Chad Buterbaugh, Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC)
Chad Buterbaugh is the Deputy Director at MSAC, where he oversees the Arts in Education and Maryland Traditions programs, and all communications activities. Chad will explore funding and grant opportunities available through a variety of programs, including MSAC.
2–3 pm: Artist Jennifer Kahn Barlow
Jennifer Kahn Barlow has exhibited widely across the Mid-Atlantic. In addition to her studio work, her experience in finance and economics are a rare mix of artistic insight and business expertise, which she utilizes in her workshops guiding creatives’ business practices.
Her session will introduce a practical “must-have” checklist designed to keep your creative career running smoothly and professionally. She will cover how to organize digital images, keep essential documents—such as your artist statement, bio, CV, and certificates—readily accessible, and use templates that streamline invoices, commissions, and inventory. The talk also outlines simple systems for tracking finances and artwork to stay prepared for shows, sales, and opportunities. Key elements of a strong digital presence will be included as well, from website basics and email list growth to effective use of social media.
Cost
$75 ($50 for members) – Continental breakfast and lunch are included with registration.