Planning is good! Be organized. Create steps and a calendarized schedule to map out your plan.
Think about a technique or theory or practice you're excited about. Or think about questions people have asked you. What about questions you might have about someone else's technique?
Another good source for ideas is a web search for workshops in similar areas. What are people asking about? What are other artists teaching and talking about?
Once you start brainstorming, you'll find your list of potential topics expanding.
Have an idea or a concept already?
While you're thinking about what to share, look at your idea/s from your participants' point of view. What will they need to have a successful, fun and rewarding experience? Identify the main takeaway you want for your people, and create a plan to deliver it.
Once you have a solid rough draft, see where you can simplify. Make it easy for yourself to deliver. This will make it easy for your participants to digest, and you'll be more relaxed. When you're relaxed, everyone will have a better time.
Workshops or retreats don't have to be complex or packed with lots of topics to be satisfying. Remember: Less is often more!
The first stages are all about asking questions.
You don’t have to spend your life planning. Leave time for doing! But invest the time to sit down and create an outline for what you want to do. Make specific action steps and dates. Your planning will pay huge dividends.
A good workshop doesn’t have to be complex and multi-layered. In fact, keeping it simple might work even better. Remember, your participants will want to soak up an intense learning experience in a very short time.
Keep your planning notes! The first event is always the most work. Once you have the details worked out, you can replicate your event with ease. Change a few details, dates and descriptions, and prices as needed. Voila! You have a whole new workshop with very little time involved.
Finally, remember to take photos and videos of your event (or have someone else take them for you). You'll want to use these to get the word out about future events!
The Green Room is intended to be a helpful guide when you need it.
This article is not a rulebook you have to follow. If you're just starting out, you'll find what works for you and what doesn't. Don't be afraid to experiment. Follow your intuitions and your passions.
The whole point of art-travel workshops is to spread the incredible value and joy of making art. You want to make a good living doing what you love, and to have fun. Go forth and adventure!
Have comments, suggestions or questions for the Green Room? If you have a question, there's probably someone else with the same question. We'll do our best to answer, and contact. Suggestions are always welcome. We're committed to making the Golden Dragonfly Academy for Art work for artists.
Send us a note and let us know!