ArtWK helps artists build companies around their creative.
We believe that artists deserve sustainable, thriving businesses that honor both their craft and their livelihood.
ArtWK Collaborative is a creative career support space for artists, makers, and cultural workers. We exist to help artists build sustainable, confidence-driven careers through community, structure, and intentional practice.
Whether you’re working on behind-the-scenes admin or long-term career strategy, ArtWK gives you the space, tools, and support to move your creative life forward.
Join Us
ArtWK Sessions
HTX & SATX
ArtWK Sessions is a cozy, no-pressure coworking pop-up for artists and creatives to finally tackle the “backend” side of their practice.
Think of it as scaffolding for your creativity: structured sprints, supportive vibes, and a community of peers who get it. Together, we’ll trade perfectionism for progress and leave with lighter to-do lists and fuller spirits.
ArtWK Sessions SATX
Jan - April 2026
Announcing a new partnership between ArtWK, Creative Futures Summit, and United by Design poised to bring art entrepreneurship programming to San Antonio, TX in 2026.
ArtWK Sessions SATX: Creative Entrepreneurship Series is a four-month creative entrepreneurship series designed to help artists build sustainable, resilient, and growth-oriented creative businesses leading up to Creative Futures Con in April 2026. Each month blends hands-on workshops, guided activities, and dedicated deep-work time so artists can learn, apply, and make real progress in one sitting.
ArtWK helps artists turn creative energy into structure, clarity, and momentum through community-driven sessions and educational programming.
Events & Space-Making
Intentional gatherings that give artists structured time to focus, plan, and build momentum. From monthly ArtWK Sessions to immersive seasonal workshops, our pop-up events create community around tackling to do’s and sharing resources.
Educational Programming
Guided learning experiences that blend creative practice with entrepreneurship fundamentals. Topics include strategy, marketing, revenue building, and long-term career design — all taught through an artist-centered lens.
Cherise Royal
ArtWK Founder & Creative Director
I am an artist development consultant, creative strategist, and cultural storyteller dedicated to helping creatives and founders transform passion into platform.
As the founder of ArtWK Collaborative, Cherise helps artists build companies around their creative - developing brands from the inside out with equal parts structure, soul, and strategy.
With nearly two decades of experience in business development, community building, and brand design, Cherise has shaped creative ecosystems that center authenticity, access, and cultural impact. She currently serves as the Head of Marketing at Rice University’s Liu Idea Lab for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Houston, TX and is completing her master’s degree at University of Houston focused on the expansion of arts entrepreneurship education curriculum and programming in higher ed and beyond.
Known for her warm presence, humor, and ability to make complex topics feel human and accessible, Cherise creates spaces where creatives feel seen, supported, and empowered to do their best work. Her practice blends brand architecture, storytelling, and soulful reflection-helping visionaries build sustainable, values-driven creative lives.
