Volunteer Opportunities
In order to keep the participation fees as low as possible and make this event a success, we rely on artist volunteers. We ask every participating artist to volunteer at least six hours to help make the event the best that it can be. Many of the volunteer opportunities are listed here. If you have an idea of how you can help but don't see it listed here, send us a short e-mail to info@svos.org telling us about your idea and include how we can reach you for further discussion.
Data Entry (10 needed)
Assist with artist registration by entering data from each application into the SVOS on-line database. You will need Internet access and a computer with a current browser. Following a short training session, you will enter artists registration information during the month of January. This will require 4 to 6 hours and can be spread out over three or four weeks.
Neighborhood Distribution Coordinator (10 needed)
The neighborhood distribution coordinators serve as pick-up points for participating artists picking-up their signs and Artist Directory and Map guide books. Each coordinator will have 20 to 30 artists assigned to pick up their material at the specified time and location. The coordinator will specify a time (usually an afternoon, or 2 three-hour periods) when artists can come. The coordinator should be prepared to monitor the distribution to ensure that the correct quantities are distributed. SVOS will provide a list of artist and the material they are to collect. SVOS will handle sending the e-mail notices to the assigned artists.
Graphic Artists (Postcard Design)
A graphic artists is needed to design the 4x6 postcard that participating artist can use to invite visitors. The visitor’s postcard will use the same style as past years but 20 new images will be selected for use on the front of the card. This will be designed in January-February for mailing mid-March. The designer should have a standard graphics creation program such as Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, or similar design program.
Postcard Project Coordinator
The postcard coordinator is responsible for distributing postcards to artists who have purchased them from SVOS. Last year, packages of postcards were distributed by mail to about 50 participating artists. The coordinator will procure mailing material, prepare mailing labels, and then package and mail cards to the appropriate artists. This project will require 5 to 6 hours and can be done in small chunks of time over several days.
Map Makers (4 needed)
Using skills with Photoshop or Gimp, the map makers will add new site markers to one of the four regional maps and remove unused markers from the past year. You'll need Photoshop (or equivalent) for this task. Estimated time about 4 hours for mid February.
Preview Exhibition Coordinators (One for each city)
Help us locate suitable locations in your city where we can hang preview exhibits. Contact local business who have suitable spaces for preview exhibits and arrange for an SVOS preview during April. We look for businesses with high-traffic areas in public places who will freely donate the use of their walls to help promote Open Studios. The coordinator will arrange for installation and take down times with the person in charge of the exhibition site. The coordinator will also serve as the contact point for communication with the selected artists informing them of various instructions.