Works in Progress PHX

Works in Progress is a small, monthly-ish gathering of Arizona-based artists. It provides a casual and intimate setting where artists can share ideas, receive feedback, and engage intellectually with the artist community. The series is organized and curated by Phoenix-based artists Chris Jagmin and Safwat Saleem.

What is this?

At Works in Progress selected artist(s) present a short overview of an idea or work in progress, followed by a group discussion. Our goal is to foster a safe and nurturing environment where conversations are respectful, criticism is constructive, artists feel supported by a community of peers, and attendees gain as much from the experience as the presenter(s).The format and topic of each gathering varies according to the needs of the presenter(s). For instance, artists can use this platform to hone their artist talks, gather feedback on their portfolios, share potential future works and ideas, or get feedback on their grant applications.Each presentation will be followed by a group discussion led by the presenter, providing an opportunity to receive feedback and insights. At each event, we will also host casual icebreaker activities that offer all attendees an opportunity to engage with one another.

Attend

Our next gathering will be in January 2025. Date TBD.While you are at it, also join our mailing list and feel all warm and fuzzy knowing that you will be the first to receive details of future events.

Present

We would love to have you present at an upcoming event. Please fill out the presenter interest form, and we'll add you to the list of potential presenters.Or if you'd like to nominate someone to present, please fill out the presenter nomination form.

FAQ

Who can attend?
Anyone who considers themselves part of the artist community, including painters, sculptors, filmmakers, interdisciplinary artists, performance artists, curators, etc.Where will this take place?
TBD. These are early days and we might try different venues before settling down.How long is each event?
About 90 minutes. Long enough that you feel it’s worth the effort to attend but short enough that you don’t fall asleep.How can I attend?
We’re so glad you want to join! Please sign up for our mailing list, and we’ll let you know when the next event is happening. Each event is limited to about 20 people.How can I present?
Yay! We need presenters and are thrilled that you are interested in presenting. Please fill out the presenter interest form, and we’ll add you to the list. Each event has two presenters, and we’ll do our best to get you scheduled.Can I nominate someone to present?
Yes! Please fill out the presenter nomination form, and we’ll get in touch with the nominated artist.What if I'm not selected to present?
This is a casual event, and we are not looking to gatekeep or have stringent curation guidelines. We want to make Works in Progress as inclusive as possible. However, there are only two presenters each month, so it may take some time before we reach your turn on the list.Will my presentation be recorded?
Absolutely not. Our goal is to create a safe environment where artists feel supported by a community of peers. We want this to be a space where presenters and attendees can speak freely without fear of judgment.What do I need to show my work?
We will have a screen, but you will need your own laptop/computer to show the presentation. However, if you wish to go fully analog, you are welcome to bring actual artworks in progress, presentation boards, or any other visuals you need.Do you have notes to keep in mind as I prepare my presentation?
We sure do! And we even turned it into in a handy list format just for you:
1. Construct a storyline.
2. Don’t assume people know anything about your work.
3. Hold the audience's interest.
4. Anticipate questions you might be asked.
5. Workshop the questions that you want to work on.
6. Keep the questions to a maximum of five.
7. Do not rush the slides, or cling too long on one or two slides.
8. Make your presentation visually interesting.
9. Be specific with your questions or concerns about your work.I have more questions
Please reach out to Chris Jagmin and Safwat Saleem for any questions, ideas, and thoughts.