Business of Art and Design

Survey of the principles of management necessary in creative business environments. Introduction to the business side of various creative industries. Topics include organizational structure and design, roles and functions of management, professional communication, and production workflow models that will provide a foundation for further study within the business program.

This course focuses on the principles of accounting and finance that are needed to successfully navigate the financial challenges and opportunities of managing a creative business. These principles include how to prepare, read, and utilize financial statements, how business managers account for business transactions and use financial reports, cash flow and financial planning, budgeting and pricing strategies, and raising funds.

Introduction to quantitative research and statistics for data analysis. Emphasis on applying basic mathematical concepts to solve real-world problems and developing skills for collecting, interpreting, and working with data. Topics include basic mathematical problem-solving, use of large datasets, elements of statistical analysis, and visualizing and presenting data in support of an argument or project.

Exploration of the power of creativity in both personal and organizational contexts. Examines key elements and principles of creativity and the creative process through interactive and experiential learning. Study of role leaders play in cultivating the creative potential of employees though development of: vision; structure; collaborative culture; systems; processes; Human Resource practices. Exploration of personal creativity through individual and group projects.

Exploration of storytelling as powerful tool for leaders. Develop understanding of key elements of effective and engaging storytelling through experiential learning. Examination of storytelling as way to develop leadership presence and use narrative as a framework for: communication; self-expression; self-discovery; engagement of others; strategic planning; personal and organizational change.

Study of the field of human resource management, including the functions of: strategic HR, HR planning, recruiting, staffing, training and development, compensation, benefits, labor relations, and performance management. Examination of contemporary human resources Issues and opportunities within creative organizations and art/design workplaces.

Introduction to entrepreneurial finance and small business management. Topics covered may include: evaluating business opportunities, estimating requirements and risk, acquiring and managing money, budget creation, understanding funding alternatives and sources of capital, selecting a business entity, and conducting key financial analyses. Students develop financial literacy skills necessary to operate a growing business and navigate creative projects successfully.

Study of the field and practice of entrepreneurship. Topics covered may include: decision processes to become a creative entrepreneur; identifying problems and opportunities; sustainable business model design; entry, growth, and management strategies for creative ventures. Exploration of entrepreneurship as a creative discipline that borrows from design thinking and Lean Startup methodologies to de-risk new business ideas through rapid prototyping and constant iteration.

Study of the strategic planning process for new and existing businesses, including: business purpose and identity (vision, mission, and values), objectives and performance metrics, internal and external analyses, positioning, business resource assessments, stakeholder assessments, strategic issues, organizational mandates, and implementation planning. Analysis of successful for-profit and non-profit strategies and their corresponding short-and-long-term action plans for creative businesses.

Introduction to fine art business. Examination of museums and foundations, for-profit fine art entities: galleries; dealers; auction houses; publishers. Considers nature of success within fine art businesses as collaboration of multiple constituents; focus on importance of media impact.

Fundamental understanding of the strategic, operational, and behavioral aspects of managing across cultures. Topics may include: cultural values, diverse business customs and practices, international strategy development, global alliances and strategy implementation, international human resource management, leadership, and communication across cultures.

Skill development necessary to persuade when presenting work and ideas. Students will develop verbal, visual, and written pitch presentations of creative ideas to be delivered to key stakeholders. The course focuses on effective communication of concepts, storytelling, creative vision, scope of work, logistics, and budget.

Study of concepts ranging from the interrelationship of trust and power to the situational and contextual aspects of leadership in creative organizations. Examination of leadership as ability to influence others in absence of positional power. Exploration of personal leadership styles and/or preferences in areas of: group dynamics; team building; problem-solving; conflict resolution.

Students develop and complete a professional thesis project that will help clarify and advance their career goals upon graduation.

Students continue to develop and complete a professional thesis project that will help clarity and advance their career goals upon graduation.

Exploration of the complexity of curating exhibitions and related projects through lecture and discussion, outside reading, writing, critical thinking, and creative planning and execution. A full exhibition is planned and installed during the semester. Course is repeatable up to two times with department approval. 

To inquire about this course, please contact the Department Head. The class is project-based and has limited enrollment. Roles will be assigned based on the needs of the project (project management, graphic design, marketing and PR, environment and lighting design, and curatorial). To apply, email your resume and/or portfolio to Department Head.