Periscope CHA Graduates Second Cohort of Arts Entrepreneurs

Earlier this year, ArtsBuild hosted a vibrant celebration to mark the culmination of its Periscope CHA program. This year-long initiative is designed to give artists the skills to blend their creative talents with business know-how.

The event highlighted the innovative ideas and talents of the artists. Congratulations to Andi Kur who took first place, Annie LaVoie who secured the second spot, and Emma Witz and Elle Quesenberry both earned third.

James McKissic, President of ArtsBuild, said, “We are thrilled to see the growth and innovation these artists have demonstrated. I couldn’t be happier to live in a community like Chattanooga with so much vibrancy and potential in the arts.”

The Periscope program features a 10-week intensive curriculum followed by six months of personalized mentorship, culminating in the Pitch Night and Entrepreneur Expo. This approach gives artists the tools they need to succeed in the business world while staying true to their creative vision. Since its debut in Chattanooga in 2023, Periscope has had a profound impact on the local arts community. Many alumni have gone on to launch successful businesses, secure funding for their projects, and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of the region.

For the artists involved, Periscope is more than just a training program; it’s a transformative experience that opens doors to new opportunities and helps them build sustainable careers doing what they love. As ArtsBuild looks forward to welcoming the next group of talented artists into the Periscope program, the organization is proud of the success of the current group and the program’s impact on our community.

Periscope is more than just a training program; it’s a transformative experience that opens doors to new opportunities and helps them build sustainable careers doing what they love. 

Originally created by the Arts & Business Council of Greater Nashville, Periscope has been supporting artists for over a decade. The program has given artists the skills and knowledge they need to transform their creative passions into thriving businesses.

ArtsBuild extends its deepest appreciation to the sponsors and supporters who brought this program to life: Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union, The Howard Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga, The Tennessee Department of Economic Development, City of Chattanooga Government, The Nancy Lackey Community Education Fund, The Sankofa Fund for Civic Engagement, The Benwood Foundation, United Way of Greater Chattanooga, SimplyProps, and RISE Chattanooga. 

Applications for the next Periscope cohort are due no later than Friday, August 1, 2025.

For more information about Periscope and the opportunities it offers to artists and entrepreneurs in Chattanooga, visit artsbuild.com/programs.