Course Notes: TOPIC: INTRODUCTION TO ART + ENTREPRENEURSHIP With their problem-solving abilities to create something from nothing, to literally bring ideas into action, artists and designers are natural entrepreneurs. Developing an entrepreneurial mindset and skillset alongside artistic knowledge and abilities equips creatives to innovate and contribute meaningfully to society. In a world of career uncertainties, this skillset can be a lifeline, providing students with the confidence and ability to design their own future. Focusing predominantly on practice mixed with supplemental theory and exploration, this course focuses on the area where creativity meets purpose, giving students the foundational skills needed to become creative entrepreneurs. Students will learn about what makes a successful creative entrepreneurial venture, and explore ideas based on their artistic skills and talents to discover their own unique marketable viewpoint. Working on studio-based projects, they will refine and iterate their ideas and prototypes over the duration of the course so that ultimately they are able to launch their product(s) as a branded business. Classes are studio-based with additional reading, lecture and discussion components to provide context, feedback and direction. Guest speakers will bring in an outside perspective, emphasizing the importance of the intersection between art, communication and entrepreneurship.