Designed to empower + propel artists of marginalized identities toward a career in commercial visual arts.
The We Create mentorship is a free, one-on-one experience, tailor-made to provide the knowledge and support necessary to advance the mentee’s artistic career. Aiming to address disparities within the creative industry, the program uplifts voices through meaningful relationships and engaged learning with established creative professionals.
Mentoring will be conducted via regular correspondence and virtual meetings. Each month will be dedicated to discussing topics and emerging artist strategies assigned by the syllabus which include:
+ Pricing + Contracts + Portfolio Prep + Vending + Networking + Production + More…
2025 Mentors
Mentees are paired with their We Create mentor through a mutual selection process. While their primary mentor serves as lead support and point of contact throughout the program, the mentee will also have access to the entire mentor ecosystem.
Prospective Mentees
We Create accepts three (3) mentees per cohort – one per mentor.
Applicants should demonstrate vision and drive in pursuit of their goal(s). We want to collaborate with individuals who will use the program as a springboard toward a life as a professional creative.
There is no maximum age. No restrictions on artistic background, preferred subject matter, style or process. As long as the applicant’s work could benefit from We Create mentorship, they are encouraged to apply.
REQUIREMENTS: To apply for the We Create mentorship you must:
+ Be 18 years or older
+ Be an emerging artist
+ Actively pursue a full-time visual arts career
+ Identify within a marginalized community
+ Utilize digital applications
+ Have access to a computer and internet*
+ Speak fluent English
+ Provide examples of your work via a website and/or online portfolio.
+ Be prepared to identify the following:
What you hope to gain from the program
Your work and creative process
Your goals – both short and long-term
* Internet + computer access
We Creates exists to act as a resource for marginalized identities within creative industries. As such, we hope to provide assets and ask only for your time in return. While access to a computer and internet are a requirement for participation, we realize not all have ready access to these resources. All efforts will be made to accommodate and assist applicants/mentees wherever possible.
Key Dates
Questions?
Sept. 3: Applications open
Nov. 30: Applications close
Dec. 1-9: Application review
Dec. 11: Semi-finalists notified
Dec. 12-20: Semi-finalist interviews
Dec. 30: Mentees announced
Jan. 6: Mentorships Begin
(2024 dates for the 2025 cohort)
Frequently Asked Questions
How will mentees and mentors be paired?
Applicants will have the option to select, in order of preference, however many mentors they would like to be paired. Where matches occur, the applicant shall become a semi-finalist and a final interview will be requested. More than one mentor may select and interview with any matched mentee. One finalist will be selected by each mentor upon completion of all interviews.
Will mentors teach me how to emulate their styles?
No. This program is not an apprenticeship. The focus is on learning about working in the visual arts, not how to draw.
Will we be mentored as a group?
Yes and no. We Create is a one-on-one mentorship program so the assigned mentor will be the primary point of contact for the mentee. That being said, a great cross-pollination occurs within the cohort. Regular cohort meetings occur and mentees are encouraged to engage with one another and all mentors through the We Create Discord channel and general correspondence.
When will the mentees be chosen?
Application review begins on Dec. 1st. Semi-finalists and chosen mentees will be notified by the dates listed under “Key Dates” on the We Create Mentorship homepage.
Do I have to live near my mentor?
No. All communication and meetings are handled digitally. International applicants are welcome, as long as they meet the mentee requirements.
Are there any requirements for education or work experience?
No. Proof of vision, motivation, and worthiness cannot and should not be measured in diplomas or job titles. The art and what you’ve done with it will speak for itself.
I don’t have a website. How do I provide examples of my work?
Two ways – 1.) Free portfolio websites. There are many sites like Behance that allow you to upload your portfolio for free. 2.) Social media platforms dedicated to your artwork such as Instagram, ArtStation, Tumblr, etc. are acceptable in lieu of a website or portfolio sites.
Do I have to create pop culture-inspired artwork?
Absolutely not. The subject of your current work is entirely up to you and should speak to the work you want to create professionally.
Where can I see the legal nitty-gritty?
You can read the Terms of Participation here.
Don’t see the answer to your question? Contact us
For media or sponsorship inquiries, please contact Tracie Ching
Read the Terms of Participation here
2025 APPLICATIONS CLOSED
2027 APPLICATIONS OPEN SEPT. 1ST, 2026
We Create 