who we are
Arizona Artisans Collective is a small, woman-owned local business dedicated to helping emerging Arizona artisans and creatives grow and tackle the business of being an artist. Through various tools and resources, we assists our members in fine tuning their business model or moving their existing business to the next level. We provide a forum for our members to meet other artists and business experts and provides extensive collaboration and networking opportunities that allow members to create and sustain viable art businesses.
We also own and operate the Grotto Gallery in order to feature and market a carefully curated catalog of local Arizona artwork.
Community. Resources. Solutions.
We are small business owners crafting our wares by hand locally in the gorgeous State of Arizona.
Working together to address the unique challenges of the business of art.
since 2016
About the collective
We began in early 2016 when Miriam reached out to a handful of local artists like her out of frustration and overwhelm while trying to create a viable and professional brand for her artwork.
"The business of art is challenging - and requires support."
This band of independent artists quickly grew into a vibrant community of hundreds of like-minded, talented makers around the state of Arizona.
Our mission is entirely focused on the under-served solo-preneur makers & artists and began with free meetups located all over the central part of the state.
Conversations began. Ideas were exchanged. Questions and challenges shared. Friendships grew.
In the span of just months this collective was offering how-to artrepreneur workshops, original content focused on the business of art, a business resource center, and ultimately the founding of the Grotto Gallery located in downtown Tempe, Arizona on the Arizona State University campus with an extensive events calendar.
We are here for you now. How can we help you?
LET'S GET A CONVERSATION STARTED!
Community
Taking care of the artist behind the business. It can be lonely in your studio. So hard to do it all, by yourself, all the time. We get it. We've built a large network of Arizona makers & art-repreneurs -- let's connect you.
Don't do it alone. Find Your Community!
Resources
Giving you all the tools & connections you need to run a solo-business. You are talented at your craft - it's all you. And your passion. But to make it work, you are in business. Now what?
Don't reinvent the wheel. Discover vetted tools!
Solutions
Collaborating to achieve your dreams. Workshops, programs, exhibit space, & consulting to get you to where YOU want to be. Featuring & marketing local makers & artists in the Grotto Gallery.
Take proactive steps. Get Help & Support!
Let us know how we can help
We can help you with your business concept, branding, marketing, pricing, e-commerce, retail shows, wholesaling, goal setting, budgeting, and - yes - even business planning.
All the things that you don't really want to think about, but should.
here to help
why you can trust us
Hello! - my name is Miriam and I am extremely passionate about helping makers achieve their dreams.
Plus, I know a little about business & finance. I spent decades in corporate finance senior roles in Silicon Valley & the NFL before I jumped ship to be an artist full-time at Baldur Studios where I craft handmade glass and metal.
So I truly understand that the struggle is real to make an art venture viable and still spend more time in your studio than at your laptop or on the phone.
That combined with my professional experience gives me the tools to help you make progress on the business of art and your creative brand.
I wrote a little blog post about the "why" behind this Collective, if you are curious.
This group is a gold mine of information and networking for small business, and tailored to local artisans! There are meetings every month at several times to accommodate folks who are still working the day job (like me). I have absolutely no free time so I was really on the fence about taking an evening away from my business but I'm so glad I went. It was 110% worth it!! I'm all in!! ***** 5-stars
Renee Woodford![Renee Woodford]()
I just recently found out about the Arizona Artisans Collective and have attended two of their meet-ups for artists. Both meetings were hosted by professionals in their field, teaching us how to better run our own businesses. So far, I have to say I'm really impressed with the quality of this organization. ***** 5-stars
Sandy Ashbaugh![]()
take proactive steps
We are here to support you
Just because you work in your own studio and create most everything with your own two hands, doesn't mean you need to start or run your business on your own. Tap the community of artisans in our collective ~ Get input ~ Ask questions ~ Get resources.
Grotto Gallery
Featured Artists
We have featured many wonderfully talented and inspiring local Arizona artists thru exhibits, receptions, pop-ups, and video/blog interviews.
