Private Mentoring: How We Work Together
Private Mentoring: How We Work Together
Private Mentoring: How We Work Together
Private Mentoring: How We Work TOGETHER
Mary Virginia Swanson is a sought-after professional advisor and mentor who helps artists find the strengths in their work, identify appreciative audiences, and present their work in an informed, professional manner.
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Mary Virginia structures her guidance to suit needs and aspirations of each individual artist she works with, which may include addressing research and writing skills, enhance editing and sequencing skills and updating existing website / social media presence to support to strengthen presentations while broadening the potential audience for their work. Setting achievable goals in realistic time frames will provide the framework to your work together.
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NEW: In January 2026, while continuing to work with long-term consulting clients on moving their work and their careers forward, Mary Virginia welcomes inquiries from those who would are interested in working with her privately. Whether you wish to meet over Zoom or schedule an in-person session with her in when attending industry events, the depth of her knowledge and professional experience will contribute positively to expanding the reach of your work.
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MVS will be attending the following Winter / Spring 2026 events; limited spaces for in-person meetings are available:
February 7 - 10: CODEX Book Art Fair, Oakland Marriott City Center (California)
March 10 - 17: FOTOFEST’s The Meeting Place, Hilton Post Oak Galleria, (Houston, Texas)
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March 18 - 21: Society for Photographic Education (SPE) National Meeting, Courtland Grand Hotel (Atlanta, Georgia)
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May 7 - 9: Printed Matter’s LA Art Book Fair, ArtCenter College of Design (Pasadena, California)​​​​​​​​​​
Terms & Conditions
At the conclusion of the Client Fact Sheet you will be asked to agree to the following Terms & Conditions to work with Ms. Swanson:
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A two-hour minimum "Initial Consultation" is required for all first-time clients.
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The fee for the Initial Consultation is currently $600 USD ($300/hour x 2 hours).
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After this Initial Consultation period is completed, clients may schedule additional time as needed for as little as fifteen minutes by phone or email at the "Existing Client" rate of $250 USD/hour.
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As of January 1, 2014: To be considered an Existing Client you must have completed a consultation with Ms. Swanson within the past 3 years.
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Payment in full is expected at the end of each in-person consultation session via check, cash, money order or payment with credit card. Payment online can be made through this website here.
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If the session was on the telephone or via email, you will receive an invoice shortly following the remote session(s). Details to pay by check, money order, or credit card will be provided on the invoice.
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A 25% cancellation fee may be charged if less than five (5) business days notice are given and the appointment cannot be filled.
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If you do not show up for your appointment you will be charged the full amount for the meeting time scheduled.
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Ms. Swanson's business is incorporated and as such, does not provide a 1099 or W-9 for clients. Her EIN will be provided upon request.