Hearts & Stars is an art 🎨 mentorship platform for you to connect 🔗 with your art star ⭐

Connect with respected art professionals with a bespoke, small group mentorship and develop your artistic practice

How it works 😍

Embark on your artistic journey with Hearts & Stars. Choose an art mentor aligned with your goals, apply and tell us a bit about yourself, and if selected, begin a mentorship journey that will guide and inspire your growth.

Selection

Find a star ⭐️ that you love ❤️

Browse through our selection of accomplished artists - our stars. Each profile is a window into their artistic world. Delve into their portfolios, learn about their experiences, and see if their style and expertise align with your artistic goals.

Please also recommend stars (here) that you’d like to see on the Hearts & Stars platform and we will get in touch with them.

Application

Apply for a mentorship 📝

Take a moment to reflect on your artistic journey and let your mentor know what your artistic goals are. You’ll also need to provide a few samples of your work as well as your goals to help the mentor understand you and your personal artistic style.

Once you've submitted your application it will be reviewed. Mentees most suitable for the mentorship will receive an invitation to attend.

Please note that there is a nominal administration fee associated with applying for a mentorship, which  helps to support the platform and cover the screening process.

Acceptance

Accept an invitation to begin 👍

After accepting the invitation, you’ll be granted access to the mentorship platform. Each mentorship is assigned a coach who will ensure a smooth and supportive onboarding experience.

From introducing you to the platform's features, to guiding you through the expectations and resources, our coach is there every step of the way.

Journey

The mentorship journey ⛵

Once your mentorship journey is underway, you will receive weekly artistic briefs.

The mentor reviews submissions and provides feedback and commentary.

The mentorship coach is also there to ensure all feedback is a source of validation and support, crafted to encourage your growth. Although your interactions are private by default, you will have an opportunity to share your experience with the other mentees.

To be continued 🎨

In some cases the mentor may invite mentees to continue the mentorship after the first course is completed. In other cases, the group may continue with the support of the mentorship coach. You may also signup for a new mentorship with your existing mentor or a new mentor.

Questions and answers🤔

How does the application process work?

To apply for a mentorship, there is a nominal fee to cover the screening process. After paying the fee, you'll be asked to answer a few questions and upload samples artwork. If you're shortlisted by the mentor, you'll receive an invitation to the mentorship, along with a link to complete the full payment. It's essential to make the payment promptly to secure your spot in the mentorship.

I have a busy schedule, and I’m not sure I’ll be able to commit any meeting time?

Mentorships are super flexible. There are no live sessions, so everything can be completed when your schedule allows.

I’m not sure I want the whole mentee group to see my work?

You can choose to publish your work to the entire mentee group, or keep it between you and your mentor.

I am not a professional artist, does that matter?

Not at all. Hearts & Stars partners with art stars who are willing to mentor passionate, aspiring artists who are enthusiastic, but not necessarily at a professional level.

Is there a specific time zone for mentorship sessions?

No, there isn't. Our mentorships are designed to be flexible and accommodate participants from any time zone. Rather than fixed, real-time sessions, our program follows a structured weekly rhythm.

How much time per week should I dedicate to the mentorship activities and assignments?

Not everyone has a lot of time for their art, so it is up to you. The weekly minimum is probably about an hour.

What if I miss a session or fall behind? Is there flexibility to catch up?

You are encouraged to submit whatever you can. Although we all know that life sometimes gets in the way. If you fall behind, catching up is always an option. Your mentor will often be able to review more than one submission the following week.

Are there any additional costs or materials required for the mentorship?

While there are no additional fees beyond the mentorship enrollment, participants will need to provide their own art supplies. Additionally, as part of the mentorship process, you'll be creating artworks, digitally capturing them, and uploading them for review.

How often will I receive feedback on my work from the mentor?

Our mentorships follow a weekly rhythm, so you can expect to get feedback from the mentor once a week.

Is there a community where mentees can interact and support each other?

Yes, if you choose to open your private channel on the platform, other mentees can see what you have posted and the feedback that you have received. This also means that they can give you hearts and support.

What kind of software will I need?

To join our mentorship sessions, you'll need to download the Discord app or use it directly in your web browser. Don't worry—it's easy and free to set up a Discord account!