Business Basics for Creatives

September 13, 2023, 5-6:30pm, free
REGISTER HERE (virtual lecture)
Presenter: Attorney Noah J. Maurer of Oregon Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts
Location: UPDATE: Due to unforeseen technical issues RACC has had to move this event fully online

RACC and the Oregon Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (OVLA) are joining forces this fall to host Making the Case, a series of three workshops geared towards educating artists and art workers on legal matters pertaining to their creative practice. This series aims to empower artists with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions in their creative endeavors, while also offering a chance for our local art community to come together and connect.

The first workshop in the series, Business Basics, will provide an overview of the legal tools available to help artists and creatives establish their work as their business. We will discuss forming an LLC, financial basics for solo and small businesses, the importance of contracts and how to make good ones, and protecting your copyrights and trademarks while also respecting the rights of other artists.

Presenter: (Please note the presenter has changed)
Noah J. Maurer (Motschenbacher & Blattner LLP) helps businesses in the Pacific Northwest navigate complex commercial transactions. He has collaborated with businesses of all sizes and shapes to address essential legal, transactional, and regulatory issues. His desire to help local businesses stems from a history working with local entrepreneurs, artists, and entertainers in both the United States and Canada.

Prior to working at Motschenbacher & Blattner LLP, Noah worked and volunteered extensively with local Oregonians in the arts and media sector. Beyond his local community, he assisted in large scale copyright advocacy and research with several national organizations. His legal expertise has directed him towards specializing in intellectual property and business transactions. Before pursuing a legal career, Noah taught English at a high school in Madrid and worked in event management and music advocacy in Québec.

The workshop will include a presentation and Q&A with the presenter. Attendees are welcome to send in specific questions in advance of the lecture. To ensure your questions will be considered, we recommend you submit them prior to the day of the workshop via this form.

Accessibility: RACC is committed to making our programs and services accessible to everyone. Please contact us at info@racc.org to request any accommodations, translation, interpretation, or other assistance you need in registering for, or attending this program. We will be offering ASL interpretation on the live Zoom broadcast of each lecture. If you plan to attend in person, please contact us by August 30, 2023 to request interpretation services.

This lecture is presented as part of the series

Making the Case: A Legal Workshop Series for Creatives:

September 13, 2023 at 5pm: Business Basics with attorney Noah J. Maurer
October 11, 2023 at 5pm: Contracts for Creatives with attorney Cary Novotny
November 8, 2023 at 5pm: Copyright Considerations for Artists with attorney Kohel Haver
Registration for the October and November sessions will be available a month before they take place

RACC and the Oregon Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (OVLA) are joining forces this fall to host a series of three workshops geared towards educating artists and art workers on legal matters pertaining to their creative practice. This series aims to empower artists with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions in their creative endeavors, while also offering a chance for our local art community to come together and connect.

Each workshop will be taught by a legal expert from OVLA and will focus on a specific topic relevant to creative individuals at any stage of their careers. The workshops will aim to demystify the often complex and daunting legal aspects of starting your own art business or organization; contracting your labor and skills; and navigating the boundaries and protections of copyright law. 

Visit Learning Programs at RACC to read about additional upcoming programs.