Frequently Asked Questions

How is ArtSpider different from other sites?
Think of ArtSpider as a sort of a meta-site – that is, a site that will link you to all the other sites out there that might be helpful to you. ArtSpider is a hub, a place to start first when you are looking for something. There are other sites that specialize in arts, but ArtSpider's mission is to foster cooperative connections among all the arts, to initiate conversations among artists of different kinds to encourage new and exciting projects. Moreover, our focus on the local – we are all about the New Hampshire arts communities-means that the resources you find here will be a commutable distance from you.

What goes in the database?
ArtSpider's database stores searchable, filterable information about artists, performers, galleries and performance venues, guilds and other art associations, state and federal services, businesses and suppliers, and various other information useful to creative NH residents and their patrons. Primarily it is for individuals, but any business or organization is welcome to fill out the form if they have some to offer to the arts community.

Why not just use Facebook or MySpace, or set up my own site? How about Etsy, CD Baby, or some online service like that?
ArtSpider is geographically-focused on just the NH arts communities. The people you meet on the site you can also meet over coffee. The galleries, performances, fairs and shows you discover, you can visit, because they are all within driving distance in the state. We will provide the means for you to link to your Facebook or MySpace page, or to your featured art or music on Etsy, CD Baby, or your own site. Use the Internet to make the connection, but then get real, get human. Get together. Art is best experienced in person.

Is ArtSpider a non-profit?
ArtSpider was founded as an LLC for a number of reasons: grant money for starting a non-profit was very scarce, and we wnated to ensure the sustainability of the venture. Also, the founders, Larry and Justine Graykin, had a very clear vision of what they wanted ArtSpider to be (that mission is laid out in "About ArtSpider") and they were concerned that governance by a board might lead to deviation from that vision. (Ever work with a committee to try to get something done?) We live in a free-market system, so we decided to work within that system. However, incorporating as a business would mean selling stock, being responsible to stock-holders, and thus held hostage to the demands of profit.

As an LLC, ArtSpider is free to do business as an independent entity without the constraints of a non-profit, nor being a slave to the bottom line. We seek to become healthy and self-sustaining through sale of advertising and memberships, continuing to add more to the site as resources allow. That includes stipends for those who have generously donated their hard work as volunteers. As ArtSpider continues to thrive and grow, the profits will be put back into the artistic community, either in the form of aid to artists in need (to assist an emerging artist set up a website, for example) or to organize and sponsor ArtSpider events, to help promote artists' work.

Why are you doing this?
Because we are artists, because we love the arts, because we want to see the arts thrive in New Hampshire. If you've ever done community theater, if you've every performed music, if you've ever felt the energy of an event where artist connects with audience, if you've ever known the joy of experiencing what art can do, then you understand why we are doing this.

Why don't you cover other states? Why just NH?
There is so much going on in NH that we feel doing just this state is a challenge! But once ArtSpider NH takes off, we envision franchises in other areas. The key is to keep the geographical area small enough that our mission of bringing people together is met. This is about real community, not just virtual.

How do I become a member?
Just go to the Join page. The information is all there, with an easy form to fill out. Basic membership is free, but there are affordable upgrades you can choose if you want more advantages. Our Intermediate Membership, for example, is only $15 a year. See which membership level is right for you.

What are your privacy policies?
We will NEVER sell, share, trade, or give away your private information, and will share publicly only what you want shared.

Can I submit an article to ArtSpider?
Email us with your news and upcoming events to publicize. If you want to submit an article of more lasting interest, check out our Articles section for guidelines and the address to submit. Also read a few articles to get a feel for what we are looking for.

How can I get involved in ArtSpider? Can I organize an ArtSpider Event or become a part of one?
We welcome contributors, volunteers, feedback and tips. To find out about organizing an event or being a part of one, contact us at info@artspider.net.

My question isn't here. Is there anyplace else I can look?
Absolutely! We have a Less Frequently Asked Questions Site with more queries from our members, and our answers.