As an artist, success not only stems from creativity but also from effective business practices. Whether you’re an emerging artist or a seasoned professional, implementing these business practices can help elevate your art business.
Prompt and Personalized Customer Service
Timely responses to inquiries, coupled with a personal touch, can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers. Consider arranging in-person deliveries or pickups whenever feasible, as this not only provides a unique experience for the collector but also allows you to forge a personal connection. Going the extra mile with thoughtful packaging, including a business card and a certificate of authenticity, demonstrates professionalism and adds value to your art.
Diversify Price Points
Did the harebell loose her girdle?, Emily King Simpson, Oil on canvas, 36″ x 36″, buy it: $1600 (right).
By offering artworks at various price points, you open the door for a more extensive audience. This inclusivity not only broadens your customer base but also allows admirers with varying budgets to become patrons of your work. From limited-editioned prints to pricier originals, catering to a diverse market ensures that everyone can find a piece that resonates with them.
Leverage Social Media for Marketing
Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok offer a global stage to showcase your portfolio, share your artistic journey, and engage with a wide audience. Beyond merely showcasing finished pieces, consider using these platforms to provide glimpses into your creative process, share behind-the-scenes moments, and reveal the inspirations driving your work. Authenticity and transparency go a long way in building a loyal following.
Harness the Power of Storytelling
Art is not just about the final product; it’s about the narrative behind each piece. Share the stories, emotions, and inspirations that fuel your creative process. By weaving compelling narratives, you give your audience a deeper connection to your art.
Take for example, Kim Gullion Stewart’s description for her piece Tufting Around:
“This beautiful wall hanging is made from white deer hide stretched on an embroidery hoop and appliquéd with beadwork, shell buttons, caribou hair and grouse feathers. The elongated beads around the edges represent raven’s footprint. Caribou hair tufting is an artform where tufts of caribou hair are trimmed into flowers, leaves and other shapes. It is thought to be invented by a Métis woman, Mrs. Boniface Lafferty who used caribou and moose hair in creating ‘wool’ tufts due to a shortage of wool around the time of the first world war. All natural materials have been obtained and processed by the artist as has been done by Métis individuals for decades.”
Whether it’s a personal anecdote, the exploration of a theme, or the challenges faced during creation, storytelling adds layers to your work and invites collectors to become a part of your artistic journey.
In conclusion, implementing these savvy business practices is the key to a thriving art career. By providing excellent customer service, diversifying price points, leveraging social media for marketing, and embracing the power of storytelling, you’ll not only attract a broader audience but also foster a community that appreciates and supports your artistic endeavours.