It's dip. Show time again: a time for looking back over the past years work and exhibiting it for public view; a time also for looking forward to taking the first few steps along the rocky road to becoming a professional working artist.

Having an accurate, up-to-date, relevant CV is vitally important for visual artists and craftspeople, especially when applying for residencies, workshops, commissions or other opportunities.

There tend to be unspoken price limitations when it comes to buying work at degree shows or during the early stages of an artist’s career.

Although there is no set way of working as an artist, all artists should be aware of the various ways in which to structure their career and how to deal with the legal issues which can arise.

The work doesn’t stop once you’ve hung your degree show; there are still some key things that must be done.

You are the manager of your space! It’s your responsibility and yours alone. Make the space look good, and make the work look good too.

Artquest projects in 2004.

You’ve made the work, now tell people about it.