The Art of Curation— 12-week cohort
Rekindle your sense of direction and build the work that defines your creative career—From archive to a finalized personal project.
Join an intimate cohort of fellow photographers and embark on a transformative journey from chaos to clarity. Over twelve weeks, we'll delve deep into your creative process, confront the inner barriers that keep you from finishing and sharing your work, and shape your creative project into something tangible that's ready to be seen.
This extended program goes beyond surface-level portfolio development. We'll explore the psychological landscape of your creative practice, transforming self-limiting beliefs while training both mind and body to ask the right questions, conduct meaningful research, and develop big ideas into timeless, personal visual stories.
This program integrates deep inner work, shadow work around creative blocks, and ritual with the core elements of successful photography projects—creating a powerful curated photographic life that resonates with the right opportunities, publications, and grants.
This intensive creative community program helps you elevate your photographic practice to its deepest level, getting you in touch with work that is truly YOU—while developing the courage and clarity to share it strategically with the world.
Many photographers struggle with choosing, focusing, and narrowing down expansive concepts into coherent narratives. Through dedicated practice in story development, strategic questioning, and contextual understanding, you'll develop the discernment to know what and when to photograph, how to develop art projects that honor the tone and context of your work, and ultimately show up more authentically in your creative practice.
This is for you if…
You're a passionate photographer who feels there's something deeper inside your work waiting to be expressed
You have a collection of images but struggle to see the cohesive story they tell together
You're tired of random portfolio feedback and crave meaningful guidance that aligns with your artistic vision
You have a specific project idea but feel stuck on how to develop it into something substantial
You want your photography to resonate with audiences on a deeper level beyond technical skills
You're overwhelmed by the endless possibilities of what to shoot next and need clarity on your creative direction
You dream of exhibitions, publications, or books but aren't sure how to strategically work toward these goals
You value authentic connection with other photographers who share your commitment to meaningful work
You want to be in touch with your creative practice from an intuitive place, honoring your inner knowing
You're interested in exploring the spiritual dimensions of art and creative expression
You're seeking to build meaningful creative rituals that help take your work to a deeper, more profound level
You're ready to transform your photography from a collection of good images into a powerful artistic legacy
The Art of Resonance™: Extended Journey
Your photography deserves to stand out—to become a powerful, timeless artistic statement that reflects your unique perspective and makes you proud. Through The Art of Resonance™ method, we'll unlock your creative potential using a holistic approach that integrates intuitive curation, embodied practices, and strategic development.
Phase 1: Embodied Vision (Weeks 1-3) - Creative AWAKENING Reconnect with your artistic core and clarify your vision through deep exploration and foundation building. Confront the inner critic and perfectionism that keeps you stuck in endless preparation.
Phase 2: Intuitive Flow (Weeks 4-9) - Creative DEVELOPMENT Transform your archive into a cohesive body of work through sustained practice, experimentation, and iterative refinement. Navigate the vulnerable territory of creation while dismantling beliefs about not being "ready" or "good enough."
Phase 3: Strategic Emergence (Weeks 10-12) - Creative COMPLETION & STRATEGY Complete your project with intention and integrate the profound personal and artistic transformation you've experienced. Develop the foundation for sustainable creative practice and ongoing artistic evolution. We'll focus on strategic storytelling, meaningful industry connections, and creating sustainable momentum for your creative practice.
From Chaos to Clarity: Transform Your Photography Into Work That Opens Doors
I'm Lola, Creative Director with 12+ years guiding photographers from scattered images to cohesive bodies of work that get noticed.
My Journey: From small independent magazines to legacy media, my path hasn't been easy - but it's been transformative. As a Colombian migrant woman in the visual arts industry, I understand firsthand the challenges of finding your voice in spaces that weren't built for us. I carry the multiplicity of my identity into everything I create, and I help others do the same.
I’ve mentored, coached and guided thousands of artists and photographers in their path to clarity, from chaos to a finished story, book, or publication.
Proven Track Record:
Visual Director for ATMOS Magazine and National Public Radio
Portfolio reviewer for Lens Culture
Workshop facilitator with World Press Photo
Contributor to VOGUE and British Journal of Photography.
Founder of Native Agency (2016) - mentoring photographers across 5 continents
The Problem I Solve: After reviewing thousands of portfolios and mentoring artists globally, I discovered the same pattern: talented photographers stuck with technical skills and a million ideas but no clear artistic voice or a system to filter ideas into tangible, timeless, powerful stories.
My Method: I developed a systematic 12-week process that combines:
Design thinking frameworks
Visual narrative psychology
Somatic mindfulness practices
Personalized storytelling development
Results My Students Achieve:
Transform scattered images into cohesive portfolios that reflect their unique perspective
Develop clear artistic direction that differentiates them in the market
Create bodies of work that open doors to exhibitions, publications, and career opportunities
Build confidence in their creative vision and professional positioning
Why This Works: Small group format (maximum intimacy and personalized attention) + structured curriculum + real-world industry experience = photographers who move from technical competence to artistic authority.
Your Transformation: In 12 weeks, you'll have a cohesive body of work that tells your story, represents your vision, and positions you professionally in the industry.
12-Week Program Structure
Week 1: Unveiling Your Authentic Voice & Vision
Deep Dive into Values & Motivations
Core values assessment and creative purpose exploration
Identifying what drives your photographic practice
Essential Question Development
Learning to ask yourself the right questions for creative direction
Moving beyond surface concepts to deeper meaning
Shadow Work: Creative Blocks & Resistance
Exploring patterns of creative self-sabotage
Understanding the stories you tell yourself about "being ready"
Initial Archive Review
Complete portfolio audit and categorization
Identifying recurring themes and visual patterns
Recognizing the seeds of powerful stories within existing work
Community Foundation
Cohort introductions and creative sharing
Creating safe space for vulnerability and growth
Week 2: Defining Your Creative Territory
Visual Language Development
Analyzing your unique aesthetic choices
Technical signature identification
Color, composition, and mood pattern recognition
Story Development Fundamentals
Learning the elements of powerful photographic narratives and themes.
Understanding how to narrow big ideas into focused concepts
Developing research methodologies for visual storytelling
Thematic Deep Dive
Core subject matter exploration
Personal mythology and storytelling threads
Inner Critic Work
Identifying perfectionist patterns that prevent completion
Transforming comparison and imposter syndrome
Developing self-compassion practices for creative work
Creative Strengths Assessment
Identifying areas for growth and development
Setting realistic creative goals: reverse engineer from dream to starting point.
Week 3: Shaping Your Creative Narrative
Project Concept Crystallization
Moving from broad themes to specific project ideas
Feasibility assessment and scope definition
Aligning project vision with personal growth goals
Strategic Project Development
Learning to develop art projects that fit the tone and context of your work
Understanding what and when to photograph for maximum impact
Creating timelines and methodologies for sustained creative work
Phase 1: Embodied Vision (Weeks 1-3) - Creative AWAKENING
Phase 2: Intuitive Flow - Creative DEVELOPMENT (Weeks 4-9)
Week 11: Strategic Presentation & Industry Alignment
Final Production Phase
Completing any remaining shoots
Final edits and refinements
Completion Ceremonies & Rituals
Honoring the creative journey and growth
Acknowledging fears overcome and barriers transcended
Strategic Industry Research
Learning to discern which publications truly align with your work
Understanding grant opportunities that match your artistic vision
Researching galleries, editors and venues that champion your type of storytelling
Week 12: Integration & Strategic Foundation
Final Project Presentations
Presenting completed work to cohort with strategic context
Receiving final feedback
Artist Evolution Reflection
Deep dive into how you've transformed as an artist and storyteller
Understanding your expanded relationship with meaningful work
Strategic Storytelling Mastery
Integrating all elements of story development into sustainable practice
Building confidence in your ability to develop timeless, personal narratives
Sustainable Creative Practice Development
Long-term creative practice design based on authentic artistic voice
Creative ritual and habit establishment for continued growth and focus
Meaningful Industry Connections & networking
Understanding how to build relationships that honor your authentic work
Learning how and when to pitch.
Community Transition & Legacy Planning
Alumni network integration for ongoing support and collaboration
Phase 3: Strategic Emergence - Creative COMPLETION & STRATEGY (Weeks 11-12)
Week 4: Project Genesis & Strategic Planning
Project Blueprint Creation
Detailed project timeline and milestones
Resource assessment and requirement planning
Story Development Deep Dive
Advanced research methodologies for visual narratives
Learning to ask the right questions about your subject matter
Developing frameworks for turning big ideas into focused stories
Shooting Strategy Development
Location scouting and subject identification
Creative challenges and experimentation goals aligned with story purpose
Mind-Body Training for Creative Focus
Developing practices to maintain creative focus and direction
Building discernment skills for what serves the story vs. what distracts
Creating rituals for sustained creative engagement
Accountability System Launch
Weekly creative goals and check-ins
Week 5: Active Creation Phase 1
Intensive Shooting Period
Implementing shooting strategy
Week 6: Mid-Point Evaluation & Refinement
Project Health Check and editing session
Comprehensive progress review
Strategy adjustment and refinement
Group editing sessions and feedback
Deep Resistance Work
Exploring what's coming up as you create
Working through blocks
Understanding the difference between intuitive guidance and fear-based stopping
Community Critique Session
Constructive feedback from cohort members
Technical and creative guidance
Collaborative problem-solving
Vision Realignment
Ensuring project stays true to original intention
Making necessary creative pivots
Refining project scope if needed
Week 7, 8 & 9: Active Creation Phase 2
Expanded Creative Exploration
Pushing creative boundaries within photography and creative practice
Big editing sessions in community
Week 10: Creative Completion & Polish
Comprehensive Edit
Creating final project selection
Establishing visual consistency
Sequencing and flow optimization
Narrative Cohesion
Ensuring story arc completion
Identifying and filling gaps
Strengthening weakest elements
Peer Review Intensive
In-depth critique sessions
Constructive feedback integration
Final creative decision making
Transition Preparation
Moving from creation to presentation mode
Strategic planning for Phase 3
Daily Ritual Notion board + goal setting framework
Ecosystems mapping <3
Online 1:1 coaching sessions.
Online ideating and mood-boarding, visually.
Creatively tuning into nature and ecosystems to find inspiration
Learn about your voice and how to harness to stand out.
Find clarity in how you show up in the world.
Submissions open!
The Art of Curation is now open for enrollment, but space is limited and registration closes on August 1, 2025 at midnight EST.
The commitment: Every Tuesday from August 5 to October 14: 18:00-19:30 CET (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM EST)
Your Investment: 1500 EUR (excl. VAT)
EARLY BIRD: 999EUR (excl. VAT) if you register by July 1st, 2025.
SECOND TIER: 1200EUR (exlc. VAT) if you register by July 25, 2025
Payment plans are available.
Bonus:
Unlimited whatsapp community and text support.
Creative Breakthrough habit tracking Notion board. (valued at: 25EUR)
GSD (Get Sh*t Done) Accountability system.
How to pitch to Magazines ebook (valued at 29.99EUR)
One 1:1 creative session of 90min (valued at 250EUR)
A life of creative fulfilment is here.
Get in touch.
Drop me a line and we’ll go over your questions together. I’m here for you.
Enayat Asadi, World Press Photo winner 2019
For those seeking to enhance their artistic potential and showcase their work, Lola Beltran Villamizar is the perfect guide.
My experience with her has driven significant positive changes in my projects and mindset.
She clarifies artistic values and goals, helping me express the deeper essence of my work.
Lola transcends conventional limits, enabling meaningful creation that resonates with both personal and global significance.
She uncovers hidden values within, translating them into impactful artistic forms.
The art world requires visionaries who grasp deeper meanings, and Lola possesses this skill, providing ongoing support in your artistic journey.
Previous Masterclasses
“The workshop was a great learning space where many stories, with different visions, were shared and came to life. It was my first portfolio review and I felt it was a truly enriching experience, also because I chose a body of work that allowed me to learn how to better build a story visually and I feel that I understood it better, especially with the editing exercise.”
Daniela Olave
“Talking about us as female Latin American photographers and the challenges we face in the industry was an incredible experience.”
Joana Toro
FAQs
What is the exact duration and schedule of the program?
This program runs for twelve transformative weeks, with sessions held once a week on Tuesdays at 12:00PM EST (18:00 CET). This schedule is designed to provide a balance of structure and flexibility, allowing you to integrate the program into your existing routine.
Where do the sessions take place? Are they online, in-person, or a hybrid?
To foster a global community and cater to diverse needs, this program is delivered entirely online via Google Meet. This means you can join from anywhere in the world, connecting with fellow photographers and accessing the content from the comfort of your own space.
What is the size of the cohort? How many participants will be there?
We intentionally keep the cohort size small and intimate, typically between 4 and 8 participants. This ensures personalized attention from me, fosters deep connections within the group, and creates a safe space for sharing and growth.
What is the refund policy if I need to cancel my participation?
We value your commitment and understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. If you need to cancel your participation, we offer a full refund up to 3 weeks before the program start date. After that, a partial refund may be available depending on the circumstances.
Are there any payment plans available?
We understand that everyone's financial situation is different, so we offer flexible payment plans through karma to make it accessible.
What level of photography experience is required for this program? Is it suitable for beginners, intermediate, or advanced photographers?
This program welcomes photographers who already have a body of work and have been working as a professional photographer for 3-10 years. Mid-career photographers who want to take their career to the next level.
What kind of equipment do I need for the program?
While a passion for photography is essential, there are no specific equipment requirements. You'll primarily need a computer with a stable internet connection to access the online sessions and resources. Please have your current portfolio ready to be shared. Ideally you’ll know how to use Notion. Any camera you're comfortable with is perfect for the practical exercises.
What specific guidance is provided for self-publishing a photo book?
We cover all aspects of the self-publishing journey, from concept development and sequencing to design, printing, and marketing. You'll gain insights into different publishing platforms, learn how to create a compelling narrative, and receive practical tips for bringing your vision to life.
How is the program structured to cater to different artistic goals (exhibition, publication, online presence)?
While the core principles of curation apply across all platforms, we provide tailored guidance based on your individual aspirations. Whether you dream of exhibiting in a gallery, publishing a photo book, or building a captivating online portfolio, we'll help you develop a strategic approach.
Can you elaborate on the "somatic practices" used to release creative blocks?
Experience has proven that our creativity (and our blocks begin through the body. For that reason, we will enter every session with one of the following: gentle movement, breathwork, and mindfulness techniques to help you connect with your body and intuition. These practices can help release tension, quiet the inner critic, and unlock new creative pathways.
Can you provide examples of successful projects from past participants?
Yes, indeed! You can explore inspiring success stories from our alumni on our website here above. Their journeys showcase the diverse possibilities that emerge from "The Art of Curation." We’ve helped photographers get to World Press Photo, published on NYT, and publish their first photobook.
How does the WhatsApp community support work in practice?
The WhatsApp community serves as a vibrant hub for connection, encouragement, and quick questions. You can share your work, seek feedback, participate in challenges, and stay inspired throughout the program and beyond.
What is included in the "Creative Breakthrough habit tracking Notion board"?
This valuable tool helps you establish your core identity, your values and maintain creative habits that nurture your artistic growth. It includes customizable templates for tracking your progress, setting goals, and staying accountable.
Can you explain the "GSD Accountability system" in more detail?
Our "Get Sh*t Done" system is designed to keep you motivated and on track. It combines weekly check-ins, peer accountability, and personalized support to help you overcome procrastination and achieve your creative goals.
