Forward Forum >> Artists are Startups

Artists have long been identifying systemic gaps, devising platforms, and bootstrapping new venues, coalitions, and presentation models, which have risen up to compete with traditional and outmoded mainstays.

While artists have worked as individuals, and collectives, to initiate and launch new formats as solutions to the missing aspects of our ecosystem locally, and nationally, there are still shortcomings and therefore opportunities here - in the Twin Cities, Minnesota, the Midwest - that demand our attention. By gathering together, we’ll compose a strong mind-hive to identify and troubleshoot the challenges that remain.

During a two-day symposium, over a dozen artists will present impactful projects that have supported the presentation, circulation, and distribution of artwork, and, together with attendees, will propose future models that may serve to support artists in the years to come. 

Register to join the conversation and take part in designing new frameworks for sharing, viewing, and funding, the art scene you want to see. 


Day One
Tuesday, June 28, 6:00–9:30 pm
Galleries >> Platforms >> Presentation 
Featuring The Third Rail, Northern Lights, Midway Contemporary Art, Public Functionary, Sadie Halie Projects, Office of Int.\Est.\Ext., Pollen, and more guests to be announced.

Day Two
Wednesday, June 29, 6:00–9:30 pm
Distribution >> Audiences >> Communities
Featuring Modern Radio Records, SO. .OS, Minneapolis Art Lending Library, Mplsart.com, Beyond Repair, The White Page, Glitch, Water Bar, and more guests to be announced.

$15 1-Day Admission; $25 2-Day Admission

Seating is limited. Registration fee includes admission, food and beverage. All proceeds go to furthering new artistic models and programs.

Purchase Tickets Here