The Black Artists Network & Directory (B.A.N.D.) is a pilot initiative of the Chattanooga Festival of Black Arts & Ideas, designed to empower and connect Black artists across Chattanooga and beyond.
Mission Statement:
The mission of B.A.N.D. is to connect, equip, and elevate Black artists by providing a centralized platform for professional visibility, economic opportunity, and creative collaboration.
B.A.N.D. will offer a dedicated online space for Black artists of all disciplines to share their work, connect with one another, and be discovered by individuals and organizations looking to hire or collaborate. Through this centralized directory, the broader community will have direct access to Chattanooga’s deep well of Black artistic talent, increasing both visibility and income opportunities.
In addition, B.A.N.D. will host monthly networking and learning sessions covering essential topics, for example, such as:
• Monetizing your creative work
• Grant and contract writing
• Marketing and branding strategies
• Intellectual property and legal basics
• Arts entrepreneurship and collaborative practices
• And much MORE!
These consistent professional development opportunities will support both emerging and established artists in building sustainable careers rooted in excellence, authenticity, and self-determination.
Ultimately, B.A.N.D. is more than a directory—it is a movement to foster long-term growth, cultural sustainability, and collective economic power. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to empower, educate, and uplift Black artists and creative entrepreneurs, ensuring that Chattanooga’s Black artistic community is not only visible, but also thriving.
Calls to Action (CTAs):
Join the B.A.N.D. TODAY!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfKteVinjdwXuSHY0nwm-6z02uI5kFqb-Lzm_H0P8DkvvjCZA/viewform?usp=header
Are you a Black artist, creative, or cultural worker? Add your name to the B.A.N.D. and let your community find you.
List Your Work. Share Your Gifts.
Complete our artist registration form and showcase your talents, services, and creative projects.
Hire a Black Artist
Need a performer, designer, writer, teacher, or speaker? Search the B.A.N.D. to connect with local Black creatives ready to collaborate.
Grow With Us.
Attend workshops, networking events, and artist meet-ups to learn, build your brand, and connect with other creatives.
Be Part of the Movement.
This isn’t just a directory—it’s a network, a support system, and a cultural shift. Let’s build it together.
Member Benefits
When you join B.A.N.D., you gain:
Increased Visibility: Your work and services listed in a public online directory viewed by individuals, organizations, and businesses across Chattanooga.
Professional Development: Access to monthly workshops covering topics like marketing, grant writing, contracts, pricing your work, and more.
Networking Opportunities: Regular artists meet-ups, mixers, and collaborations across artistic disciplines.
Economic Opportunities: Direct access to calls for artists, paid gigs, commissions, and partnerships.
Community Support: Be part of a collective that uplifts Black artists, advocates for equitable arts funding, and celebrates Black creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Who can join B.A.N.D.?
A: Any Black artist, creative, or cultural worker in Chattanooga and the surrounding areas. This includes visual artists, musicians, dancers, writers, photographers, filmmakers, designers, culinary artists, arts educators, and more.
Q: Is there a membership fee?
A: No. B.A.N.D. membership is free during our pilot year. We believe access to opportunity should not be a barrier.
Q: How will people find me?
A: The directory will be available on our website, searchable by artistic discipline, genre, and keywords. Local businesses, schools, nonprofits, and individuals can search for Black artists to hire or collaborate with.
Q: What happens after I sign up?
A: Your profile will be added to the online directory. You’ll also receive invitations to our monthly networking and professional development events.
Q: Can I update my listing?
A: Yes! You’ll be able to update your listing as your work evolves.
Q: Can organizations list themselves?
A: Not at this time. B.A.N.D. is specifically for individual Black artists and creatives. However, organizations seeking to collaborate with or hire artists are encouraged to use the directory.
You may also like the following events from Chattanooga Festivals of Black Arts & Ideas:
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Arts events in Tunnel Hill,
Entertainment events in Tunnel Hill,
Music events in Tunnel Hill.
