Social media has opened a virtual toolbox of resources for artists of all media. Fine artists as well as craftspeople are using Facebook, Twitter, Etsy, and the like to connect with other artists, exchange feedback, share their work with a larger audience, and sell their art.

The Sacramento Social Media Club (SMCSac) is helping local artists further that conversation at a free event on Tuesday, July 20, 6:30-8:30 pm, at the Urban Hive. Called “The Art of Socia Media: How Local Artists, Curators, & Collectors Get Creative with Social Media,” it will feature Eben Burgoon, co-creator of Ebon07 webcomic; Jen Stewart, of Jen Stuart Photography; Marianne Bland, visual artist and manager of Sacto Metro Etsy Street Team; Veronica Delgado of Vera Icon PR; and Jeff Musser, visual artist. Moderator Julie Berge will lead the panel in their discussion of topics such as:

● Niche, online artist communities like Etsy, MyArtSpace.com and d’ART
● Virtual galleries like Flickr and Dripbook
● Twitter tips for connecting and collaborating with fans and collectors
● The benefits of artful blogging

In addition to the informational part of the evening, The Art of Social Media is also a networking event, bringing all of those interested in the local art scene together with food and drink, both before the panel and continuing the conversation after.  The event is free and open to the public. SMCSac asks, however, that you register with Eventbrite so that they have an accurate count for the complementary food and beverages.

SMCSac is devoted to expanding social media literacy and sharing best practices among social media practitioners across all disciplines. With Sacramento being home to a thriving and diverse art scene, SMCSac hopes “The Art of Social Media” will serve as a catalyst to its continued growth. Jane Gassner is a member of the Leadership Team of SMCSac.