Shannon Wilkinson, founder and president of Reputation Communications in New York, has a long and respected history of working with artists and arts groups on publicizing their projects to editors, audiences, and the world at large. In our interview, she offers up some commonsensical advice on taking charge of your own public relations, beginning with building a strategic Internet presence  through crafting a pitch, identifying your goals, and mapping out a schedule. Among her invaluable advice: think outside the “art box” and consult with people who are experts in marketing. She also talks about when to hire a publicist and what to ask.

Listen to the end for her sage words about keeping your website up to speed. This is your gateway to your work, and we both have a lot to say on making it work to your greatest advantage.