SOZO FELLOWSHIP

Q: I want to know more about the framework used in this program, “Artists & Producers as Entrepreneurs and Changemakers (APEC).”

APEC is a framework designed by SOZO in response to the nonprofit industrial complex in the US, which has perpetuated funding and power imbalances between institutions and artists, and prioritization of established art forms. Artists and creative producing entities running as small businesses have been disproportionally impacted, making them particularly vulnerable and the process of developing and distributing new work often unsustainable, and their impact and wellbeing undermined. APEC centers diverse artists and creative producers working side by side to break down the cultural hegemony, build business resiliency and innovate a new economic paradigm for independent artists. APEC learning is anchored in a methodology called the Artist In(ter)dependence Matrix, developed by SOZO, to help artists map their journey towards self efficacy and resilience.

Q: What does the honorarium cover?

We recognize that artists require resources in order to take the time needed to develop new skills and build their creative enterprises, just as they would when creating new artistic works. For full participation and completion of the fellowship, an honorarium of $1,500 will be awarded to each fellow. With prior approval, honorarium will be prorated for missed sessions under special circumstances.

Q. How are the Fellows selected?

After we confirm the completion and eligibility of all applications, Fellows are selected with input from a panel comprising coaches, advisors and creative producers. The panel will use a score system based primarily on the following criteria: a) Personal and professional growth potential; b) Proactive commitment and bandwidth for mindful reflection and synthesis; c) Artistic integrity and potential to meaningfully engage and inspire diverse audiences; d) Social relevance of the artist’s vision, and whether it speaks to the issues of our time; and e) Readiness to level up their business, building upon past successes and challenges.

Q: I am not sure how I will make the time for this. What’s expected of me during the program?

Fellows are not required to present or create specific artistic projects during the Fellowship. However, Fellows are asked to invest their time and focused energy towards mindful participation and engagement during the live sessions. We believe the more you are able to intentionally participate, the more benefit you will receive in your personal, artistic and business development! For Fellows who are ambitious in their learning goals, we highly suggest you take advantage of asynchronous learning materials.

Q: How do I know if this program is a good fit for me?

If you are an artist who creates original, multidisciplinary work with a vision to make impact in the world, and you tend to wear many hats, this program is a great fit for you. Our focus at SOZO is to cultivate a creative ecosystem whereby artists can deeply examine their sustainability on their journey to becoming cultural leaders, with two decades of experience supporting artists whose work is bold and outside-the-box. SOZO Fellowship provides the tools, insights and support structure to nurture that.