One of the things that makes the American Fabric Arts Building really special is that it’s home to a community of working artists. Being a working artist has two sides. There’s the creative portion of the job, and then there’s the business portion, which includes taking action to help people discover, fall in love with, and buy artwork. Many artists vastly prefer the creative portion to the promotion, but both tasks are necessary. With that in mind, we’re sharing some universal techniques artists can use to promote their work:
1. Participating in Open Studios & Art Events
The November Open Studios event hosted by the American Fabric Arts Building brings local art lovers, collectors, gallery owners, and other people of interest in. Participating in Open Studios is exciting for the general public, who seldom get to see a real artist’s studio. Many artists report that they’ve sold work or started profitable relationships with people they met during Open Studios.
Artist Linda Colletta at The Other Art Fair, Brooklyn - 2018
2. Social Media
It’s impossible to overstate how important Instagram has become to the art world. Artists are using Instagram to create a public identity, to showcase their latest works, to share inspiration and carefully chosen ‘everyday’ shots that help the public develop a positive impression of the artist. Some artists make their Instagram open, for the entire world to see, while others take a more exclusive approach, keeping their accounts private and granting access only to select individuals.
It’s impossible to overstate how important Instagramhas become to the art world. Artists are using Instagram to create a public identity, to showcase their latest works, to share inspiration and carefully chosen ‘everyday’ shots that help the public develop a positive impression of the artist. Some artists make their Instagram open, for the entire world to see, while others take a more exclusive approach, keeping their accounts private and granting access only to select individuals. Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Pinterest also can be useful to artists searching for a way to find, attract and connect with potential collectors.
3. Email Marketing
Email is one of the most powerful promotional tools available to most small business owners. There are many free and low-cost services that make sending mass emails easy. Collect email addresses via your website, in person at events, and whenever possible: this list can be one of your most valuable business assets. Email marketing for artists can be as simple as a monthly newsletter that includes information about what you’re working on now, any events, shows, or openings your work appears in, and pictures of your work.