“The program has had a tremendous impact on my professional practice by bringing together artists from diverse perspectives. The opportunity to exchange knowledge, gain insights, and receive valuable suggestions has been invaluable.”
—Mentwab Easwaran
Sparkplug Artists’ Collective, 2024
The
Workshop Series
A monthly cadence of workshops focused on advancing your artistic and professional practice.
The
Workshop
Series
A monthly cadence of workshops focused on advancing your artistic and professional practice.
“By offering resources, space, and community engagement, The DC Arts Center plays an essential role in uplifting local artists. It’s a place where artists can not only share their work but also find the encouragement needed to grow and evolve.”
—
Ahmad Al Khadi
Artist Member, 2024
At The DC Arts Center, we believe that greater access empowers every artist to reach their full potential. That’s why we’re offering more opportunities to learn from and connect with industry leaders—and if you’re an Artist Member, it’s free.
Next Workshop
Professional Development
Saturday, July 25, 2026
@ 3:00 PM
VIRTUAL
Chosen:
What Arts Organizations Really Look For When Selecting Artists
Facilitated by Sean Elias
Great work is only part of the equation. Every year, arts organizations review hundreds of applications for exhibitions, performances, grants, residencies, and other opportunities, yet many talented artists are passed over. In this candid, behind-the-scenes workshop, Executive Director Sean Elias pulls back the curtain on how arts organizations actually evaluate applications, what separates a "maybe" from a "yes," and the common mistakes that quietly derail even strong submissions. Whether you're an emerging or established artist, you'll leave with practical strategies to strengthen your next application and a clearer understanding of what decision-makers are really looking for.
Free for Artist Members.
$10 all others.
Registration required.
Facilitator Bio: Sean Elias
Sean Elias is the Executive Director of The DC Arts Center and the Artistic Director of Iron Crow Theatre. Throughout his career, he has reviewed hundreds of applications for exhibitions, performances, grants, residencies, and other artistic opportunities while working alongside artists across multiple disciplines. As both an arts administrator and creative leader, Sean is passionate about demystifying the selection process and helping artists present their work with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.
Website: www.sean-elias.com
LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/seanelias
Our Design
The DC Arts Center is proud to offer a monthly series of workshops, conversations, and events designed to support artists in both their creative and professional growth. Led by established artists and industry leaders, these sessions provide practical, artist-to-artist insights that empower creatives of all backgrounds and experience levels. The Workshop Series features three dynamic tracks: Artistic Process, focusing on techniques, methods, and creative practices; Collector Conversations, offering insights into the art market and strategies for connecting with collectors; and Professional Development, covering essential skills like branding, networking, and the business of being an artist. Each session lasts approximately one hour, is interactive, and takes place in person at The DC Arts Center in Washington, D.C. Admission is free for Artist Members and just $10 for non-members. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow!
Artistic
Process
Whether you are looking to advance your own artistic process in a medium you love, or you’re looking to explore a new medium altogether, our Artistic Process workshops will provide you with new ways of creating. Join fellow artists in an interactive “doing” workshop as they walk you through their unique artistic process.
Collector
Conversations
Meet and build relationships with some of DC’s most prominent collectors in our Collector Conversations workshops. These interactive dialogues offer artists the rare chance to meet and socialize with collectors of all kinds! These workshops are all about relationships and access.
Profesional
Development
The Professional Development track offers artists the chance to advance their professional practice. Previous workshops have covered topics such as improving your artist statement and marketing yourself as an arts professional.