“You won’t find anything else like it in Charlotte.”
That’s how Hue House co-founder David Butler describes the upcoming HOW2 Skill Sessions for new and emerging creatives in the Queen City.
The workshops are the result of a partnership between Hue House—the Black-owned creative agency behind The Block and other efforts providing greater opportunity for Black and brown creatives—and Wray Ward—the leading marketing communications firm actively engaged in the community and bringing together people from diverse backgrounds for creative work.
Together, the groups are hoping to help develop creative talent in a way that also promotes equity and fair representation in creative spaces—as well as prompt meaningful conversation about the need for greater diversity and how to best achieve this.
HOW2 Skill Sessions begin July 8. Register Here
Leaders from Hue House and Wray Ward will teach the HOW2Skill Sessions, and each will include breakout time for résumé and portfolio review. Two agencies—who are actively hiring and seeking new talent—uniting in this way is rare, but necessary. (Wray Ward also has one of the dopest office spaces in Charlotte, where these events will be held.)
“Our HOW2 Skill Sessions are designed to cultivate meaningful relationships, share valuable industry experience and offer skilled training while working together to provide more equitable access to creative career opportunities in the Charlotte region,” Butler explained at The Block’s recent event where the partnership was unveiled.
As a creative agency, a primary mission of Hue House is to onboard more Black creatives into the marketing and advertising industry. And on the heels of Juneteenth, this partnership with Wray Ward is that much more meaningful.
For the past week, we’ve seen advertising, products and messaging about Juneteenth. But historically, the industries that produced this content aren’t very diverse.
“There’s not a lot of Black representation in marketing and advertising. And even when there is, it’s usually categorized to one month or a specific series of campaigns that target minorities,” Butler said.
“But there’s a wealth of knowledge and experience [in our community], and there’s more value in the world when we create more opportunity for Black creatives,” he added.
Though the HOW2 Skill Sessions are open to all creatives, Hue House isn’t shy about wanting to see more diversity in the room.
“We’re equipping artists and creatives of color to have the tools to retain the value in which they already create,” said Hue House co-founder David “Dae-Lee” Arrington.
Even if you aren’t specifically interested in building a career in marketing and advertising, HOW2 Skill Sessions still have something to offer.
“If you’re an artist, you may not want to be in advertising. But we can help you build those business practices and learn how to be able to work with brands—that’s all valuable for your art practice as well,” Butler said.
Space is limited, so anyone interested in attending these events should register immediately.
Upcoming HOW2 Skill Sessions
HOW2 Find a Career within a Creative Agency
July 8, 6:30-9:30pm
Wray Ward – 2317 Thrift Rd, Charlotte, NC 28208
Come interact with the pros and explore the opportunities and skill sets needed within a full-service agency—from account leadership, project management, design, photography, video and animation to PR, social media and search marketing. Wray Ward and HUE HOUSE will share an overview of how agencies work, as well as provide input and advice on how to hone your talents and skills while putting your passion to work in this industry. Includes resume/portfolio review in breakout sessions. Sign Up Now
HOW2 Sharpen Your Photography and Graphic Design Skills
September 9, 6:30-9:30pm
Wray Ward – 2317 Thrift Rd, Charlotte, NC 28208
Come listen, learn and interact with a panel of experienced and award-winning photographers and designers as they share stories about their passion and craft. Get hands-on training in breakout sessions including a Lighting Workshop for emerging photographers, as well as tips and tools for designers. Breakout sessions will also include one-on-one portfolio reviews. Sign Up Now
HOW2 Sharpen Your Videography and Motion Graphic Skills
November 11, 6:30-9:30pm
Wray Ward – 2317 Thrift Rd, Charlotte, NC 28208
Come see their work and learn from some of Charlotte’s most creative and experienced videographers, animators and producers. Breakout sessions will include video techniques and training, how to animate illustrations and designs with tools such as After Effects, and explore what it takes to be an efficient and successful producer. Breakout sessions will also include one-on-one portfolio reviews. Sign Up Now
