Member Event
Navigating the Art Industry: Professional Practices for Emerging Artists with Pennylane Shen
Navigating the Art Industry: Professional Practices for Emerging Artists with Pennylane Shen
This is a unique 3-hour seminar designed specifically for emerging artists preparing to approach the commercial and public art industry. It is ideal for fine artists of any medium pursuing careers in the commercial art market or seeking to expand their exhibition repertoire.
Presenter Pennylane Shen has taught full courses in Vancouver, New York and Toronto. This seminar is a condensed introductory session of her 12-week course, which has been taught at NYC Crit Club, Mastrius, Langara College and Thrive Together Network, combining theory, industry experience and practical resources for the emerging artist.
Topics include:
- Presentation (portfolio, application letters, CVs, submissions, proposals)
- Approaching the gallery industry (types of galleries, roles and representation)
- Alternative exhibition and marketing options (juried exhibitions, non-profit art spaces, group shows)
- Commercial gallery procedures and guidelines (payment, contracts, shipping, framing)
- Promotional Development (publications, websites, social media, biographies)
- Standard Practices (pricing, hanging, framing, documentation, editions, reproductions)
Materials below are provided at the start of the event and serve as take-home items for participants!
Opus Essential Dot Grid Notebook A5 size
Zebra Sarasa Clip 0.5mm Gel Pen Clip - single pen
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity—sign up for the seminar soon! Arrive early at Arts Umbrella on the day of the event. Doors open at 12:30 PM, and the seminar starts promptly at 1:00 PM. The Opus Team and Pennylane are looking forward to seeing you there!
Hosted by Opus Art Supplies & our Experience leader
Pennylane Shen is an artist consultant, curator, and educator. Since 2006, she has run Dazed and Confucius, a long-standing artist consultancy that has provided one-on-one career guidance to thousands of artists, alongside business development seminars for audiences worldwide. Known for its durability and reach, the company is grounded in a core philosophy that places concept, technique, and artistic identity at the center of sustainable career growth. Pennylane holds a Master’s degree in Visual Culture Theory from New York University and has lectured internationally across North America and the UK, including TEDx Victoria. She brings over a decade of experience in commercial galleries, including Bau-Xi Gallery, and has collaborated with arts organizations such as Creative Mornings, Arts Umbrella’s Splash Auction, the NYC Crit Club, University of the Arts London, and the Vancouver Mural Festival. She also serves on the board of the Vancouver General Hospital and UBC Foundation, supporting the integration of art into healthcare spaces.Website: dazedandconfucius.com
Instagram: @dazed.and.confucius
Event Photo Credit: Kate Whyte
View full details
Opus Member Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register in advance?
Yes—most events require registration to reserve your spot. Free demos with limited space can fill up quickly, so we recommend signing up early.
What’s included in a paid vs free event?
Paid events may include hands-on instruction, materials, and exclusive product offers. The details will be listed on the event page.
Free events may include a short, informative session led by an artist—perfect for picking up techniques, learning about materials, and sparking inspiration. You’re welcome to paint along, but it’s not required.
Will I get a recording if I miss an online event?
No. These demos are live-only. If recorded, the footage is gifted to the artist and not shared publicly.
Can I attend an online event if I don’t live in BC?
Yes! Our online events are open to artists across Canada and beyond.
Where are events held?
We host events both in-store at select Opus locations and online via Zoom or other platforms. The location and format will always be clearly stated.
I registered but didn’t receive a confirmation email. What should I do?
Check your junk or spam folders first. If you’re still unsure, email Pamela Mark at pmark@opusartsupplies.com to confirm your registration.
What’s the difference between free and paid events?
Free events are short, demo-based sessions led by professional artists—great for inspiration and learning.
Paid events offer deeper, hands-on instruction with more time, materials, or exclusive access. They’re ideal for artists looking to grow their skills.
Some paid events are free or discounted for Artist and Creative Tier Members.
Is it okay to ask questions during the demo?
Absolutely. Use the community chat to ask demo-related questions. Our host will relay them to the artist as time allows.
When will I be let in from the Zoom waiting room?
We open the room right at the start time. Arrive a couple of minutes early to avoid delays.
How can I apply to be a demo artist?
We love connecting with artists who teach and inspire. Apply here to share your skills in an upcoming demo.