The Warhol Academy

We wrapped an incredible night at The Network Factory XII with a deep dive into how artists become entrepreneurs—featuring honest conversations, real strategies, and behind-the-scenes insights from Pittsburgh’s creative business leaders.

Key takeaways from the conversation:
    •    Save money intentionally—business ebbs and flows, and stability matters.
    •    Build systems and deeply understand your industry.
    •    You are a business—treat your time like your most valuable asset.
    •    Price your work with confidence: account for overhead and charge for your expertise.
    •    It’s okay to move forward without a backup plan—clarity often comes through action.
    •    Trends fade—authenticity lasts.
    •    Treat your creative practice like a business; structure supports growth.

Thank you to our panelists for sharing what it actually takes to build something sustainable:
(Moderator, host of )
Overton.Art (Founder, Morgan Overton Art Gallery)
Candace Jane Opper ()
Elisa Cevallos ()
Ryan Mclennan ( of )
Rich Cefalo ( of )

Big thanks to our sponsor and for the additional support from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.

There are only a few days left to apply to ’s Creative Fellowship programs. As a fellow, you’ll have access to professional-grade equipment, the full Adobe Creative Cloud suite, and mentorship from industry experts.

Plus, you’ll earn while learning with our paid work stipend. Whether your passion lies in crafting viral social media content or producing award-winning short films, this could be your launchpad.

Apply by April 19th at the link in ’s bio.

We’re thrilled to celebrate Filmmaking & Post-Production Fellowship alum Jackie Mishol (), whose personal project film “On Camera” continues to make an incredible impact on the festival circuit.

Developed during her fellowship, Jackie’s deeply personal documentary offers a moving exploration of her relationship with her mother. What began as a Fellowship Personal Project has since grown into an award-winning film, making waves far beyond the program.

Most recently, “On Camera” was named an Official Selection at this year’s West Virginia Mountaineer Short Film Festival — and on International Women’s Day, it screened as the festival’s Best Documentary winner, standing out in a competitive block of international films.

We’re so proud to see Jackie’s fellowship project continue to shine and connect with audiences everywhere.

’s Creative Fellowships are designed to help you strengthen your skills in content creation and filmmaking through hands-on, real-world experience.

The Digital Content Creation Fellowship focuses on social media video production, teaching you how to craft compelling short-form content that stands out. Through the Filmmaking & Post-Production Fellowship, you’ll sharpen your storytelling abilities and work on projects that bring your creative vision to life.

Fellows receive mentorship from industry professionals, access to professional-grade equipment and software, and a paid stipend—so you can earn while you learn.

Whether your goal is to create scroll-stopping content or produce meaningful films, our programs offer the tools and support to help you refine your craft.

Learn more or apply by April 19 via the link in ’s bio.

At The Network Factory XII, we’re breaking down how artists become entrepreneurs. In this Clearview-partnered event, discover the struggles, the pivots, and the hacks of building a career that’s truly your own.

On May 21 from 5:30PM-7:30PM learn how these professionals built their own companies, brands, followings, and loyal customer bases. Our panelists will share their perspectives on starting a business, marketing your work, and navigating the behind-the-scenes labor of accounting, finance, and building a digital presence.

Artists, entrepreneurs, and anyone with a creative drive will gain insight from this conversation with Pittsburgh’s own creative business owners. You’ll leave with actionable steps to turn your ideas into a sustainable career.

Register at the link in our bio.

Our Panelists:
Moderator, Rian-Louis (), host of () podcast
Morgan Overton (.Overton.Art), artist, founder & owner of Morgan Overton Art Gallery
Candace Jane Opper, finance & operations director of and owner of Fringe Benefits Bookkeeping
Elisa Cevallos, photographer & owner of ()
Ryan McLennan (), owner of ()
Rich Cefalo () , Clearview AVP of business lending & services

The Network Factory is sponsored by .

Additional support provided by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

’s Creative Fellowships offer a unique opportunity to master both the digital and cinematic realms. Dive into these hands-on work experiences, where you’ll hone various skills, from on-camera presence to location scouting and social media strategy to sound operation.

You’ll have access to professional-grade equipment, the full Adobe Creative Cloud suite, and mentorship from industry experts. Plus, you’ll earn while learning with our paid work stipend. Whether your passion lies in crafting viral social media content or producing award-winning short films, this could be your launchpad.

Applications for both the Digital Content Creation and Filmmaking & Post-Production Fellowships are open!

Apply at the link in ’s bio by April 19th!