Coaching Artists Through the Creative Pulse Program

Background: In an effort to bolster the careers of artists in the Shellharbour, Kiama, and Shoalhaven areas, South Coast Arts, thanks to funding from Create NSW, launched the Creative Pulse program. Creative Pulse is a comprehensive initiative designed to help artists refine their skills, grow their businesses, and access valuable resources. Running from October 2023 through June 2024, the program offered a mix of workshops, coaching, and networking opportunities.

Unashamedly Creative (aka Rebekah Lambert) was fortunate enough to be a chosen coach for the program, working with three participants from the program, fibre artist Lissa de Sailles, Trans Veteran Artist and Arts Trainer Matt Kilby, and Contemporary Aboriginal Artist Melissa Henry

Objective: The goal of the Creative Pulse program was to provide artists and creatives with the tools, skills, and support needed to elevate their artistic practice and build sustainable careers. By offering a blend of skill development workshops, personalised coaching, and networking opportunities, the program aimed to ignite growth and business acumen among participants.

Execution: As a coach within the Creative Pulse program, I had the opportunity to work closely with three artists, guiding them through tailored coaching sessions that focused on their individual needs. Over the course of six months, I delivered 12 one-hour coaching sessions for each artist, meeting regularly to discuss progress, overcome challenges, and develop strategies to enhance their artistic careers.

In addition to one-on-one coaching, I led a crowdfunding workshop series for all program participants. This series was designed to equip artists with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully fund their creative projects through crowdfunding platforms. The workshops were interactive and hands-on, providing participants with practical skills they could immediately apply to their own crowdfunding efforts.

The program also included:

• Workshops: Participants attended three full-day and two half-day interactive workshops covering essential topics such as branding, marketing, promotional photography, Instagram, Reels, and sales.
• Networking: The program featured three 2-hour networking and support sessions, allowing artists to connect with peers, share experiences, and build supportive relationships.
• Flexibility: The program offered both face-to-face and online participation options, making it accessible to artists regardless of their location.

Results: Through the Creative Pulse program, the artists I coached experienced significant growth in their skills and business practices. They gained confidence in branding, marketing, and crowdfunding, and were able to apply these new skills to their artistic careers. The tailored coaching sessions allowed them to overcome individual challenges and make meaningful progress in their artistic journeys.

Testimonials

‘I feel like I have grown a lot from this program and I’m very grateful. Rebekah has been amazing for me.’  Melissa Henry

‘Thank you for facilitating such a fabulous program. I have really enjoyed my time with Rebekah and have gained a lot from her wisdom and insight.’ Lissa de Sailles

The Creative Pulse program, supported by CreateNSW, was completely free for participants, making it an invaluable opportunity for artists in the Shellharbour, Kiama, and Shoalhaven areas to elevate their skills and grow their businesses.

If you are looking to run a similar program for artists in the Illawarra or South Coast region (or anywhere, really!) and need a coach and trainer, please get in touch.