How to Use SXSW to further (or Begin) Your Career as an Artist Blog
There's plenty to learn, see, and do at SXSW particularly for those who seek out new ways to promote their work as well as connect with like-minded creatives. There's nothing wrong with applying the brakes to the metal and seeing what you might be able to accomplish.
If you're brand-new to your creative field or an already-established artist who's looking to expand, here's how to make the most of the time you spend at SXSW and make the most of professional opportunities that last after the festival has ended.
Quick Links
- What Can We Expect From SXSW
- 3 Ways to Use SXSW to boost your career as an artist
- Participate at SXSW!
What to Expect from SXSW
SXSW (South by Southwest) is a 10 day Austin conference that is dedicated to sharing knowledge and appreciation of all things culture and media. Part music festival as well as a film festival and also an interactive media event, SXSW is all about connecting creators of all varieties to share their love of innovation. If you're an artist who has something you want to show off, you'll find no shortage of others that are looking to make connections. And you may even be able transform those connections into something more.
If you're an artist and have something you want to share, find no shortage of others who are eager to connect.
3 Strategies to Take Advantage of SXSW to boost Your Professional Career as an Artist
There's plenty of entertainment to be had during SXSW, but there's also plenty of opportunities. There are three things that you can take to boost your creative career and set yourself up for a successful visit.
1. Participate in Keynotes, Panels, Workshops, Summits, and Workshops.
Definitely don't miss out on the music and film options, but be sure to attend conferences, as well. SXSW offers a massive programme of talks on topics ranging from design and culture to climate change and technology as well as a myriad of thought-provoking takeaways that any artist could use to move ahead in their career.
Go hear about topics that you are interested in from visionaries who have reached expert-level status, and be attentive to learnings that will inspire you and help guide your artistic work.
2. Interact With the Advertising & Brand Experience Track
Attend any session that piques your interest, but be sure to prioritize your attendance to the Advertising & Brand Experience Interactive Track that covers topics and subjects that all artists could be benefited from knowing more about. This track covers things like the creator economy (The Creator Economy and Brands: How To Build Trust) and promoting your work (So You Have a Podcast? Let's Make It Grow!), and content creating (Quick Thinking: Leveraging the Real-Time Social Trends). Since it's interactive it gives you plenty of chances to connect with others who are fascinated by the same subjects.
3. Network With Other Creatives
The term "networking" is often given a negative rap, but it's one of the things SXSW is about, especially for creatives. You can even find gatherings dedicated just to that! Participate in conversations without thinking about anything, and simply seek to find out what other people are working on and what interests they have. You never know what opportunities a conversation might open for you or someone you know who can bring real worth to your professional career. Or even who might simply provide some motivation for you to take the direction you want to take!
Participate at SXSW!
We'll be attending SXSW We'd love to see you! There will be events focused on the art of creating and the economy of creation, so stop by and participate in the conversation.