Seminar 1.1: Think Like a Curator

Wednesday, June 17th

3.00 PM - 5.00 PM (PDT)

Online via Zoom

This session will be recorded!

Seminar Overview:

Think Like a Curator is a practical session designed to help artists see their work from a curator’s perspective. In this presentation, artists will learn how to evaluate and position their own practice through a curatorial framework while clarifying the themes, connections, and visual language within their body of work. By understanding how curators think when selecting artists and building exhibitions, participants will gain tools to strengthen the coherence of their portfolio, communicate their ideas more clearly, and present their work with greater confidence and professional appeal to galleries, collectors, and institutions. 

About the Instructor - Liza Zhurkovskaya

Liza Zhurkovskaya, aka Curator on the Go, is a Toronto-based curator and art advisor. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Art History from the University of Toronto and an MFA in Criticism & Curatorial Practice from OCAD University. Active in the art world since 2015, Liza advises corporate and private clients on acquiring, commissioning, displaying, and caring for original fine art. She is a founder of Kefi Art Gallery and cultivated a dedicated community of collectors, industry professionals and art enthusiasts in Canada and beyond.

Testimonials: 

“Whatever successes I’ve achieved in the last two years are the result of having the sense to listen to the advice Liza gave me. It really was a moment of clarity for me at a critical turning point. I’ve never looked back and will always remember her expertise. Thank you!” -Antony John

 “I just want to thank you for the chat as it was super inspiring! I purchased new materials and can’t wait to start painting again.” -Kristen Stephen 

Wednesday, June 24th

3.00 PM - 5.00 PM (PDT)

Online via Zoom

This session will be recorded!

Seminar Overview:

Building Strategic Visibility Beyond Social Media is a practical session designed to help artists expand their professional presence in meaningful and sustainable ways. While social media can be a useful tool, long-term careers in the art world are built through relationships, reputation, and strategic positioning. In this presentation, artists will learn actionable strategies for increasing visibility through studio visits, thoughtful relationship-building with curators and collectors, targeted outreach, and positioning their work within galleries, institutions, and professional networks. The talk offers clear guidance on how artists can move beyond algorithms and cultivate opportunities that lead to exhibitions, collaborations, and lasting career growth.

About the Instructor - Liza Zhurkovskaya

Liza is committed to supporting artists in building sustainable careers while championing diversity and visual storytelling through impactful exhibitions and public activations. Her curatorial work has brought hundreds of artworks into the public eye, and her past clients include UPS Canada, Cadillac Fairview, QuadReal Property Group, and Danish Pastry House, among others.

Testimonials: 

 “You are fabulous Liza! Artists and galleries are blessed to work with you! So grateful for the next level business support” -Cherie Harte 

 “Thank you Liza for all the amazing guidance. If you are an artist, I  would strongly suggest hiring her to take your career to the next  level!”
-Jasmine 

Thursday, July 2nd

3.00 PM - 5.00 PM (PDT)

Online via Zoom

This session will be recorded!

Seminar Overview:

From studio to collector: understanding the art buyer psychology. How collectors make decisions, what builds trust, and how artists can communicate value with confidence.

From Studio to Collector: Understanding Art Buyer Psychology is an insightful presentation that helps artists better understand how collectors think and what motivates them to acquire art. This session explores the key factors behind purchasing decisions, from emotional connection and storytelling to trust, reputation, and perceived value. Artists will gain practical insights into how collectors evaluate work, what builds long-term confidence in an artist’s practice, and how to communicate the significance of their work clearly and authentically. By understanding the psychology behind collecting, artists can position their work more effectively and engage with buyers in a way that feels natural, professional, and compelling.

About the Instructor - Liza Zhurkovskaya

An active voice in the Canadian arts community, Liza has delivered speaking engagements and presentations for organizations including the Richmond Hill Group of Artists, The Propeller Gallery, Western University, and the Federation of Canadian Artists. She has also served as a juror for exhibitions and public art initiatives with the City of Mississauga, the Ontario Society of Artists (OSA), and ArtWalk in the Square (Artists’ Network), among others. Liza is also the creator and host of Curator on the Go Podcast, where she celebrates creativity in all its forms and explores the diverse practices of artists and art professionals with unique perspectives on art.

Testimonials: 

“I love our chats and always walk away with ton of great advice! Thank you Liza! You are such a valuable part of my journey!” -Allison Rietta

 “I am thankful working with Liza  who supports me with her knowledge and wisdom to bring my shine out with my paintings!” -Esra Gocek