This new initiative from Arts Council of Winston-Salem & Forsyth County combines creativity and entrepreneurship to equip local creators with the modern tools and know-how they need to turn great ideas into thriving businesses.
From artistic resources and dedicated workspaces to personalized support in marketing, organization, and business management, The Artful Entrepreneur is about building pathways to economic mobility through professional development.
Admitted artists will join fellow aspiring entrepreneurs in a multi-month residency dedicated to professional and creative development. They’ll receive personalized support from Arts Council, as well as from community partners that include The CMPND, Mixxer, and Hustle WS.
See last year’s success stories
Arts Council has been providing similar support for the last five years in the form of community partnerships and independent artist career grants.
The results of their most recent commitment are already on display at the Artistic Elements Resident Showcase, which opened to the public on Thursday, Jan. 30.
The free display highlights the work of the seven artists in the 2024 cohort, all of whom recently completed their own Artistic Elements residency at The CMPND.
Stay in the art loop
For up-to-date info on The 2025 Artful Entrepreneur, as well as resources and opportunities throughout WS and Forsyth County, add your name to the official email list.
Bonus: You’ll receive a handy reminder when the 2025 applications go live.
Lunch & Learn: Podcasting Basics | 12-1 p.m. | Historic Broyhill, Clemmons | $100 | Learn the essentials of podcasting, including equipment setup, recording/editing, and production.
Face to Face Trivia Night: David Brooks | 7:30 p.m. | Radar Brewing Company | Free | Test your knowledge during the trivia inspired by the bestselling author, New York Times columnist, and PBS commentator for a chance to win a prize.
Wednesday, Feb. 5
After School Event with Renée Watson | 4-5:30 p.m. | Bookmarks | Free | Get your book signed, enjoy some afterschool snacks, and participate in a Dream Kite activity.
Thursday, Feb. 6
Margarita Class | 6 p.m. | Alma | $22 | Learn how to make Alma’s famous mix like the Alma Classic, Pineapple Habanero, and Prickly Pear + discover new ways to get creative.
Friday, Feb. 7
Beating Hearts Zumbathon® Charity | 6 p.m. | Generations Center | $20 | Celebrate health, wellness, and community through dance, win prizes and giveaways + learn new dance moves from certified Zumba instructors.
Saturday, Feb. 8
Understanding Black Craftsman in Wachovia - an Old Salem Spot Talk | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Old Salem Museums and Gardens Wachovia Room | $30 | Join historian Lyslee Duncan in exploring the incredible contributions of Black craftsmen in Wachovia. Talk included with Old Salem admission.*
It’s almost Super Bowl Sunday. If you’re not wearing your favorite team’s merch, shop five comfy tees + sweatshirts that say “I’m just here for the snacks” ... literally.
Tax season is here. Get free tax assistance through Tuesday, April 15. Make an appointment at a selected Forsyth County Public Library branch or walk in at Experiment in Self Reliance (3480 Dominion St.) — here’s what to bring + when to go.
Tech
Mix, mingle, and meet other techies to support your business ventures during Techstars Startup Weekend AI & Life Sciences. The event will take place at Sparq in Bailey Power Plant from Friday, Feb 28 through Sunday, March 2 — early bird tickets cost $50.
Closed
Twin Peaks restaurant closed its location off Hanes Mall Boulevard. The chain sports bar and restaurant has been operating at the Winston-Salem location since 2016. The owners gave no reason for closing. (Winston-Salem Journal)
Announced
Standing ovations for UNC School of the Arts Alumna Joanna Gates, who was part of the Grammy Award-winning best choral performance for the album “Ochre.”
Mailbag
It’s a 10/10 for Paul J. and Terri S. Congratulations for winning the WStoday January challenge quiz. Maybe it’s your mad test-taking skills or perhaps your dedication to reading WStoday daily — either way, big slay.
Health
Did you know? Many people don’t realize they’re at risk for heart disease until they experience symptoms like shortness of breath or chest discomfort. Novant Health is here to help. Take the five-minute heart health quiz to understand your risk.*
Try This
What if you could earn more — like, way more — in less than two years? No, we definitely don’t mean crypto. We’re talking about Wake Forest University School of Business’ upcoming MBA Open House, with info on the 20-month MBA Program for full-time professionals.*
3.5 million. That’s how many Americans subscribe to 1440 — a daily digest for unbiased national news on business, politics, culture, and more. Subscribe for free.*
The Buy
The Buy
Amazon’s No. 1 bestselling water bottle — the Owala FreeSip. It’s a top seller for good reason: Owala has perfected a spout design that allows you to either sip upright through a built-in straw or tilt back to swig a gulp. It’s actually patented.
I am over the moon that I got to meet NASCAR Cup Series Clash winner Chase Elliott at the Bowman Gray Stadium last weekend. I’ve been a fan of his for a long time and to get to meet him was a dream come true. Thank you, Visit Winston-Salem for this unforgettable experience.