New Pilot Program - Summit Student Coaching
Artists Thrive is excited to pilot a new coaching program designed to support emerging visual, literary, and performing arts college-age students as they embark on their professional journeys. For this inaugural year, Artists Thrive has partnered with Kansas City Art Institute to connect KCAI students with experienced artists and administrators attending the Artists Thrive Summit (May 6-8, 2025, Kansas City, MO) for invaluable guidance and insights.
​Program Overview:
KCAI Students will have the opportunity to engage with their coach in two phases:
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Virtual Meeting: Prior to the Summit, students and coaches will participate in a 30-minute online meeting via Zoom (provided by Artists Thrive) to discuss the student's specific questions and challenges.
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In-Person Connection: Coaches and students will connect again at the Artists Thrive Summit at the Wednesday, May 7th dinner. This provides a valuable opportunity for continued conversation and networking.
Focus Areas:
Discussions will be guided by the Artists Thrive assessment survey and will center on key themes related to navigating an arts career: artistic life, communicating and connecting, money, planning and capacity, power, and self-care. Coaches will share their experiences and offer support and encouragement, focusing on the realities of struggling, surviving, and thriving in the arts. Please note: This program focuses on coaching and sharing experiences, not specific career development or advancement advice.
Benefits:
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Coaches: Receive a $50 discount on their Summit registration.
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Students: Attend the Wednesday dinner free of charge and receive complimentary Summit registration if attending daytime sessions.
Application Process:
Students (through KCAI invitation) and potential coaches (by completing this survey) are invited to apply by March 14th. Artists Thrive will then match students with mentors based on their areas of expertise and the students' questions. Virtual meetings will be scheduled between the match announcement and May 1st.
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Privacy and Safety:
Artists Thrive is committed to protecting your privacy. Contact information will not be shared between coaches and students. Any further connection beyond the program is at the discretion of the individuals involved.
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