What's the schedule like...? 

Each panel discussion runs from 6 pm -7:30 pm. The first 30 mins are for networking and mingling. The panel discussion is from 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm. 

What time should I arrive? 

In order to have a sound check before the mingling and networking happens, please arrive at the selected location by 5:30 pm. 

When will I get picked for a panel discussion?

Truly, until Ms. Meikle finds the perfect match. In an ideal world, a panel discussion succeeds when each artist's unique 'why' has a common thread. This can be through genre, style, approach, or process of art making. 

How do I preapre? 

Once Ms. Meikle pairs you up with two other artists and gets you on the schedule, she will send out the panel discussion questions for you to rehearse and get acquainted. 

When can I start marketing?! 

The second, Ms.Meikle, gets her act together and sends over the marketing package. A square graphic, a vertical 'story' style video, and suggested verbiage will be shared across media platforms. 

Why does the pay varry? 

This program started with Arts+ graciously reaching out to Ms. Meikle, offering a budget to host 4-panel discussions from February to May in 2025. This inspired Ms. Meikle to reach out to other organizations, which snowballed into grant writing and creating sponsorship packages to apply for bank funding. Fingers crossed that the entire budget gets approved, and we can pay everyone accordingly!

Why do I have to fill out a W9? 

The Artists Why functions as a non-profit, and more importantly, the organizations they work with are nonprofits as well. The W9 is the proper way to pay the artists without the IRS going after anyone.

What is the marekting stadegy? 

Ms. Meikle sends out newsletters 6 weeks before the event, which include links to websites (or SoundCloud or YouTube) and social media, your headshot, and three sentences about you. Event info will be published on Eventbrite and Meetup. Social media posts occur weekly, starting 4 weeks before the event, including stories and posts.  3 weeks before the event, she highlights each artist individually sharing their headshot and 1 photo that will be shown during the panel via PowerPoint. Flyers are posted around town, and with more funding, the goal is to create and publish press releases for each panel discussion. 

Will there be food or drink?

Depending on the location and budget, our goal is to keep our guests and artists happy. 
Arts+ Plaza - no food or drink is served in the church. However, The Artist's Why is in line with Activation Studios Final Fridays, which has liquid libations for donation and a food truck. The food truck and liquid libations change monthly; you can check out Activision Studios' Instagram page to see what's available. 

Visart Video - Visart has a lovely cafe with various drinks, sandwiches, and more available for purchase. 
ASC Culture Block Locations - Unfortunately, no food or drink is permitted at the location. But there are plenty of nearby restaurants at each location.