Mentor Hour for Visual Artists

Mentor Hour with Karen van Hoey Smith

Tuesday, 27th January, 1pm UK time – Online (1 hour)

Developing a successful and sustainable art practice requires clarity, confidence and access to expert guidance. In this Mentor Hour, we invite you to join artist mentor Karen van Hoey Smith for an open Q&A session designed to support artists at every stage of their career.

This session offers an opportunity to ask your artistic and professional development questions directly to an experienced mentor who has worked across galleries, auctions, consultancy and artist representation. Whether you are building momentum, navigating challenges, or planning your next steps, this hour will provide practical and grounded support.

Artists are invited to ask questions on topics such as:

• Strengthening your artistic direction and confidence
• Developing a portfolio and preparing submissions
• Pricing your work and increasing sales
• Approaching galleries and seeking representation
• Creating sustainable creative habits
• Planning exhibitions or building a collection strategy
• Understanding the art market and positioning your work
• Staying accountable and progressing towards your goals

Please come prepared with any questions you would like to discuss. The session will be guided by the topics you bring.

Karen van Hoey Smith – Artist Mentor

Karen is an artist mentor, independent art broker and curator with more than twenty years of experience in the arts and antiques sector. Holding a degree in Fine Arts Valuation, she has worked as a gallery manager, senior partner at an art publishing house, art consultant in London, and the youngest female auctioneer in the UK. Karen has brokered work by leading artists including Banksy, Picasso and Bomberg and regularly supports artists in developing their practice, increasing sales and gaining recognition in public and commercial settings.

Louise Minnaar – VAA Events & Partnership Coordinator

Louise brings over eight years’ experience in the international art industry, from global art auctions to commercial galleries. She has supported collectors from emerging buyers to those acquiring major works by artists such as Picasso and Miró. Drawing on her background in arts education and gallery practice, Louise facilitates supportive conversations for artists and will also introduce the VAA Mentorship Programme during the session.

Join us for this opportunity to receive expert guidance, ask your questions directly to a mentor and gain valuable insight into strengthening your artistic and professional journey.

This session is free and open to both VAA members and non-members.
Booking is essential. If you experience any issues, please contact events@visual-artists.org.