Now that the kids are back in school, it is time to get down to business... a little hot chocolate and a lot of reading. My career goal for 2009 is to learn the business side of art and to be good at it. I love doing my art and I want to be successful at this. I haven't been very good at the business side of things in the past. My brain doesn't easily think in business terms, it wants to play in colors and textures.
So, if anyone has some great advice or a good resource please pass it along. As you can see I have read a few books on the subject.
What I really need is a business coach or a class to help one walk through the process. Or maybe a group of other artists who are walking a similar path.
4 comments:
Terry, so far my only attempts to sell my art has been through mention of doing commissioned work on my blog(s)...one bite to date; and ETSY store, no sales to date; and the local art gallery gift shop, where I've sold one purse and two scarves; and the art gallery shows, no sales.
I am not advertising myself widely (unless the blog counts as wide exposure)...
However, I have seen some artists sell LOTS on ETSY...Many who sell also teach classes it seems...
and get exposure that way. You might think about teaching at Art and Soul or some other venue like that where people come to learn new techniques and art forms. Or creating an online class, as I've also seen many of those about.
I hope I am sharing some helpful ideas. Lets share what we learn with each other. I'm also interested.
As far as marketing yourself with business cards, brochures, etc. I think you already have a handle on that.
Hi Lynn,
Thanks for the feed back. I am trying to get an etsy store up and going, but this stuff seems to run slowly for me.
I too need to market myself and my art better and be more diligent about promoting myself and art. So hard to promote your own stuff.
Will pass on any pearls as I learn them.
Thanks
Terry
I'm finding that having cards that Icarry with me all the time is a really good way to get my skills into the community. Everytime I go into a store, especially one that I like, I talk to the owner about his or her ideas on selling art. They always have a lot of ideas and usually end up asking me if I'm an artist. That's when I give them my card and tell them what I do. It's a great networking idea that gets my name out there and then the next time I go in their shop I remind them that I gave them the card. Slowly, you develop a contact that might become something. Also join your local Art Assoc. Enter shows and the county fair.
You're so talented. You can do this. Just let people know who you are.
Hi, Terry
You are doing it! I saw you have sold cards( I am watching you!)I love your blog! local Artist association is not a bad idea either. Please let me know if you are interested in home Valentine sale. Also about small business for low income. Good luck!
Post a Comment