Our free Upstart program exposes college students to basic arts-related legal and business matters and introduces them to VLAA’s services.
In addition to our featured working artists, we can send speakers to dance, theatre and creative writing classes. And volunteer attorneys are available to address specific topics, such as Copyright Basics and AI & Copyright.
To book a speaker, please complete this form.
Working Artists
These dynamic artists discuss their careers; show samples of their work; and present an overview of copyright, contracts and financial matters. Students receive free copies of our Upstart Essentials publication.
NEW! Demystifying Pricing: Sukanya Mani presents common sense guidelines that will allow emerging visual artist to enter the marketplace with confidence.
Visual Artists
Andy Cross
Andrew Cross has been a scenic artist at The Muny since 1984. He has also worked at the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival, the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and Opera Theatre of St. Louis and as a scenic artist for industrial shows, installations for amusement parks and cruise ships. Andrew has created several indoor and outdoor murals in St. Louis. He is a graduate of the Regional Arts Commission’s Community Arts Training program.
Phillip Hamer
Phillip Hamer is a passionate photographer based in St. Louis, whose love for the art form began in 7th grade. Inspired by his mother, he embarked on a journey spanning more than 15 years. Starting as the staff photographer for The Muny, Phillip honed his skills and developed a keen eye for capturing the magic of live performances. In addition to his theatre work (now as a freelancer), Phillip has delved into concert photography, capturing musicians' electrifying energy and dynamic performances. He has also found a niche in portrait photography.
Sukanya Mani
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Steenz Stewart
Learn More AboutMusicians
Ryan Marquez
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Gabe Mueller
Learn More AboutFilmmakers
Doveed Linder
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Dan Parris
Learn More AboutFashion Designer
Michelle Hand
Negotiation Skills
With practice, artists can learn how to communicate more effectively and strengthen important business relationships. Presented in an interactive style by award-winning actor Michelle Hand, the session covers negotiation styles, transforming adversarial interactions into problem-solving collaborations and sharpening negotiation skills through role-playing.
Financial Tips for Artists
Michelle also presents Financial Tips for Artists. Drawing on her personal experience as an actor, she discusses multiple income streams, the “paying yourself first” savings strategy, recordkeeping for taxes and more.
Kevin Ginty
Careers in Arts Administration
Kevin Ginty introduces students to career options in arts administration. He also offers suggestions for landing a first job. Ginty is the former executive director of St. Louis Classical Guitar. He holds degrees in guitar performance and arts administration.
Grant Writing 101: Funding Your Creative Vision
This presentation provides an essential guide to grant writing for arts students, from an overview of the funding landscape to effectively communicating creative projects to potential funders. Students will learn the ins and outs of fiscal sponsorship, grants for individuals, and the key components of a compelling grant proposal including crafting a clear narrative, setting realistic budgets, and aligning projects with funder priorities.
