Are you in, or are you out?

NETWORKING: A STAIRWAY TO SUCCESS

Getting out of your creative bubble and employing your soft skills can be nerve-racking. Let’s debunk the beauty of networking straight away: it’s awkward and often excruciatingly unpleasant (due to the “I’m only here to use you” – and vice versa narrative). For any genuine artist, entertaining the idea of mingling for work’s sake is nearly blasphemous, as it takes them away from the only thing that actually matters – creating. However, the harsh truth is: our art can only change the world if it’s being seen and consumed by another. So, yes, networking is paramount. It’s how we land gigs, establish collaborations, and build a future-proof client base. Proactive is the new artistic mindset. Omnipotency. Soft and hard skills combined. How do we establish new connections? By crashing the network party, even if our landing strategy may need some practice, granted.

THERE’S NO WAY AROUND IT

You can tiptoe through the tulips with Tiny Tim all you want; without networking, there are no opportunities on the table. Buffet? Forget it. How do you get into a gallery? Not by embodying a virtual recluse. Not anymore, not today. Surely, it all seems too familiar, a PTSD “high school integration drama series” rated PG 18. As we get more mature (and that extra existential patina kicks in), getting to know people becomes more challenging by the minute. Social butterfly? Unlikely. Porcupine? Best case scenario. Nonetheless, networking has statistics on its side. 95% of people in the art industry confirm that good, archaic face-to-face meeting is still pivotal in creating the necessary connections.

DON’T OVERSELL IT

Nobody likes the “The artist is present” approach. If you’re entering the networking waters, be sure to silence the aggressive-seller trait. It’s not cute. And it doesn’t work. It may sound counterintuitive, but the more we try, the worse it gets. Think of networking as an audition. In other words, the people you are trying to get acquainted with and befriend are looking for that relatable thread. It’s not about establishing control and holding the discourse reins; it’s just social interaction. Plain and simple. Therefore, lose the internal pressure. “Tonight’s the night. You’re going to make it.” Probably not. Networking is a slow process and if you’re in it for the long haul, you better learn to enjoy it for what it is, not for what it can do for you.

Like speed dating but for artists, therefore, the idea is to lay the creative network foundation, and opportunities will organically follow.

LEAVE NO STONE UNTURNED

What does networking in the art industry entail? Think big picture. Keep an open mind. Just because you are a painter doesn’t necessarily mean your network circle should solely include painters. It’s just too tautological, no? Too convenient. Too illiberal, borderline conservative, in a sense. Talk to everyone and leave no stone unturned. Patrons enjoy a good disguise these days. Furthermore, you never know from whose nods of approval your art could benefit the most – unless you spread those wings, butterfly. Branching out is the key. The mother of networking. “But we don’t share a common denominator.” So? You’d be surprised. Make connections and contacts with individuals working in other industries; these often make the best project collaborations. Lose the skepticism. Go for it.

PRACTICE THAT PITCH

The infamous ride or die: the elevator speech. “So, tell me, what brings you here tonight? What do you do for a living?” And it’s ready, set, go. This is your shot. So, what do we do? We don’t panic. And we have a pitch ready. Memorized, if need be (especially for the ones with paralyzing stage fright). Keep it casual, brief, and always to the point. Keep your verbal hook under one minute; provide your interlocutor with valuable information – what makes your work so intriguing and HQ? Too door-to-door sales for you? Maybe, all the same, it’s too potent to be put out of business. Art marketing rides on one’s ability to sell the work. To sell the artist (i.e., your masterful self). What are you going to do with all that unsold artwork? Exactly.

TO BRING THAT PITCH TO PERFECTION

Practice beforehand (giggle away, it’s solid advice). Come up with a memorable, idiosyncratic introduction. Make the pitch unique, yours. You’re an artist, no? Idiosyncrasy is your playground. Use it to your advantage. Schedule a roleplay date with your friends (not that kind, silly). Practice the pitch. The simulation will come in handy. Or, if you’re feeling too introspective, there’s always a mirror around. The Shakespeare hour unfolds. P.S. Be sure to time it.

LASTLY

It’s not all social anxiety and climbing-the-ladder turmoil. Networking in the art industry can be a lot of fun. Only if you know how. So, practice offline and online networking simultaneously. Do: TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook. Find artists who are well-connected within the niche of interest. Who do you see yourself collaborating with? Reach out via social media platforms. Charm your way up. Finally, don’t consider your competitors your nemesis; you can learn from them – and vice versa. Connect.

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Artist Bio:
Jerome Mack is a full-time blogger, currently working under City Movers’ wing. On his earthly leisure hours, he enjoys the beauty of Renaissance, astrophysics and African music.

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Create an online portfolio

Building an online portfolio is a must if you want to promote your art on social media or other online channels. It’s the first natural step to take. Here are the steps to get going:

• Choose the proper platform for you and your business. You can choose this by asking yourself, “what are my goals and needs?” or “what do I want to achieve in the long run?”
• Focus on the best work that you have and leave the other work aside. Also, focus on storytelling. It’s essential.
• Think about the number of reviews you have. Ask for offline reviews and note down collectors’ and critics’ reactions. Know where you need to improve—and where you receive accolades.
• Learn SEO and use it effectively to help promote your website and work.
• Switch perspectives from a “me, me, me” mentality to a “me and you” narrative.  Make your stories about people, for people.

Start a blog

Next thing to do is start a blog. This is highly recommended as the second step because a blog becomes the platform you can redirect customers to whenever needed. That means, when someone is interested in your art, you don’t have to direct them to wander around ten webpages and five other blogs to let them see your complete art package. You can send them a link to your website’s blog and you’re all set. They will learn your story, see your work, and hopefully become more interested in owning your work. Starting a blog is not even that complicated. You don’t have to be a great writer, a blog is really a place to communicate a personal perspective on things, so, like most bloggers, you can write in a very informal and conversational style.

Create your website

After you’ve created your blog, next step is to create a platform for selling your art pieces—a website is exactly what you need. To get started, you will need a domain name, a website platform such as WordPress, and a host. Then, you can customize and structure your website exactly as you need it. You might even add an online store to it to make things easier for your collectors. Make sure that your blog has a presence on your website and is linked to it. You want to give your collectors a one-stop place to learn about you and see your work.

Have a strong About Me

It’s important that you have a strong About Me section in order to connect and sell well. Collectors want to check you out, learn about you and your story, before they commit to making a purchase. They want to know who they are buying from, so it is really important to give them the right details. Fill the space with engaging content and interesting comments about your work. Keep it as original and compelling as you can.

Rely on social media for promotion

Some of the best platforms for marketing your art are Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Tumblr also works great but gives off a more hippy-ish vibe. Picking the main platform to market on is the next essential step to consider, as it will serve as a bridge between your art and artist qualities and, ultimately, income. Since the number of people using social media is continually expanding, it is an excellent means of connecting and convincing potential collectors about the quality of your work. Make sure you choose a platform that you are already familiar with or, if you need help figuring things out, watch online videos of how to use social media for marketing purposes. Get in a groove and get social!

Add video content

I’ve noticed that webpages with higher Google rankings usually offer video content to their customers. You don’t have to be a movie director to create a video–your iPhone camera works just fine. You and make a short video of your art and post it on YouTube. Then, connect your YouTube channel to your website and there you have it. You’re done.

Don’t forget–video content is relevant because people are very visual; they love to see something and learn about it before buying it. If they see it, the chances of turning it into a purchase automatically increases. Be smart and use this tool to your advantage.

Promote yourself on other blogs

Another way to attract customers to your art blog is by posting on other blogs. Find other professional artists online and see if they would like to cross-promote. Maybe you can write an article for their blog. Once you share your story on their page (and hopefully include a link to your website or blog or both), you have an opportunity to generate additional traffic to your site. This kind of promotion is a great way to share your work across multiple sites.

Win art competitions

Art competitions are another way you can receive promotion from an outside source. Entering various art shows and competitions will help you promote yourself, your story, your art, and eventually, your online business. They can draw attention to your work and can even result in engaging with various artists around the world. Even if you don’t win, submitting your work is a step forward and can give you additional exposure.

Participate in online debates and discussions

Adding valuable input to online discussions can also be a way to promote yourself. Becoming active in your artist community is important–the more you engage, the more attention you draw to yourself and your work. I know what you’re thinking. “I’m not an expert.” You don’t have to be one to participate in these discussions or have an opinion. People are often looking for answers to their questions online, so you could be the one attempting to answer. You never know where your next collector might come from, right?

Network offline

Besides the online activities that you are pursuing, you could also engage in offline networking, or what I like to call real networking. Attend various art fairs and exhibitions to engage with the artists there. Bring your business cards with you so you can promote yourself in a professional manner. Think about joining artists organizations and meeting up with different peers to discuss various art concepts. The workshops, conferences, and meetings offered by these organizations and the knowledge and experience—and contacts—you will receive can pay long-term benefits.

Apply for more money

Last but not least, if you need more funds to develop, you can consider applying for artist grants. Winning it will draw serious attention to your work and some cool benefits to you. Maybe you don’t get the grant, but you get the experience and you have nothing to lose.

Conclusion

Create your online portfolio, learn how to engage with your online community, network both online and offline, enter various art competitions to promote your work, apply for grants if needed, and start your blog to promote yourself! This is the basic summary of the above points. You’ve got this.  Go get ‘em.

Author Bio

Michael Gorman is a highly skilled freelance writer and essay writer from the UK who currently works at best essay writing services UK. Being interested in everyday development, he writes various blog posts at top essay writing services and discovers new aspects of human existence everyday, according to top resume reviews. If you ever need cheap assignment help, Michael is the best paper writing services coordinator to help you out. Feel free to reach him via Facebook or Twitter.

Photo credit via https://writix.co.uk/.

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Promoting your art should not be a frustrating activity. Remember, you don’t have to do everything right now. Among the most important things about successful promotion is that it should be targeted with your goals in mind. The first step to successfully promote your art is to decide what you want to achieve. As the popular saying goes, start with the end in mind.

If you are an upcoming artist, you may want to focus on building your reputation in your local area. If people in your area know you and your work, you are ready to move on to a national scale. Perhaps you want to leave a mark within the community connected to your profession or identify the people who are interested in your specialized theme or focus.

Look at your current situation and connections and then write down a few goals that you’d like to achieve in the future. Today, we are going to discuss five proven strategies you can use to promote yourself and your art successfully. Let’s get started!

1. Use your portfolio

To develop your portfolio, you have to create good work. This is the basis of all your success. From that good work, you’ll find it easy to develop a brand and persona. A well-done portfolio will make things easier for you during competitions and other community opportunities to show your work.

The most important element to consider in creating the portfolio is the visual reproduction of your artwork because this is the thing that will attract and captivate the viewer. To develop your portfolio, here are some important points that you can use.

• All your photographs should be of high quality. They should be executed properly to compel your viewers visually. Keep in mind that the visual aspect is what matters in the world of art.
• Every image should be accompanied by clear captivating text. You should include details including size, title, medium, and a brief description of the work. One of the best ways to capture your buyer’s attention is to tell the story behind the piece.
• Write a strong bio. When you capture the buyer’s attention, they will always be genuinely interested in your work. Therefore, don’t be afraid to share your background, your inspirations, and what you want to give to art lovers.

2. Network all the time

Building a huge network in the world of art and creating connections is one of the best ways to promote your art. Remember, every new networking connection can expose you to new opportunities that you never thought possible. The best places to network are in workshops, art fairs, or other art events that take place in your area. So, how do you network and build contacts effectively?

• Art organizations – Art is a business. And like all other businesses, networking is a crucial part of making your art relevant in the art community. The best way to network is to actively participate in art organizations. By doing this, you’ll easily make friends who will become enthusiastic promoters of your art. Art organizations offer resources that will help you strengthen your business model and build your brand.
• Community events – Art fairs, workshops, shows, and open studios are some of the best ways that provide unique opportunities for artists to connect with art enthusiasts. Additionally, as you become a fixture of these events, you’ll build a reputation in your community. When attending such events, remember to carry your business cards. Also, don’t underestimate word of mouth. Chat with people at the event and respond warmly to their questions.
• Follow up – Following up with existing buyers is one of the best ways to network. Your old clients are familiar with your work. If they are still interested, you can consider calling them or sending them an artist newsletter to catch up n what you’ve been doing and your newest pieces.

You can also network with other artists and invest your time in building friendships with art professionals. These relationships are valuable because they will provide you with support and inspiration.

3. Get active in the community

You’ll build your reputation quickly when you volunteer to use your artistic abilities within your community. When you volunteer, you can get unexpected opportunities to promote your artwork. Some of the best ways to promote your art in the community might be through:

• Visiting local schools – Volunteering to go into class and teach students about your art, or art in general, will promote you and your art because schools often host professional artists and investors. These people might become your best supporters.
• Participating in community projects – The majority of towns today take art to the streets through community projects. Volunteering your artistic skills will leave your mark in the community.

4. Look for representation

Sometimes, working alone can be overwhelming. It’s always good to seek help when you can’t do everything alone or effectively. Working with a reputable gallery is one of the best ways to boost your career progression and achieve your dreams. It is the responsibility of an art gallery to represent you with exhibitions, at fairs, and other community events. They might also be able to get you new high-value clients, locally and even internationally.

5. Make use of technology

The rapid advancement of technology has made most aspects of our lives easier. And that includes promoting your art. At an event, your clients see your work. Online they can see a broader range of your work.  Having a website, blog or social media account dedicated to your craft will open new doors for you in the future. Therefore, make use of technology as much as you can. It’s here to make your work easier and bring that revenue you’re looking for.

Conclusion

The world needs to recognize you as an artist. And the only way to do this is by creating great pieces of art. There is no shortcut to this. When you create a beautiful and captivating piece, you need to get it out there and reach your audience. You’ll need have the courage and conviction to keep on keeping on even when things get tough. Finally, don’t quit when things don’t work out. Every successful artist had to start somewhere. Get busy, start marketing and promoting your art using these proven tips and success will come to you.

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Michael Gorman is an experienced freelance writer and editor from UK who currently works at dissertation service and essay writing service. Being interested in everyday development, he writes various blog posts for personal statement writing service and essay writer and discovers new aspects of human existing every day. Feel free to contact him via Facebook or Twitter and check his work on https://dissertation-today.com/.

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But, is your dream to be the next Picasso impractical? No. If you are creative and oozing with passion, you can find your way to the top in the art industry. To succeed as an artist, you need to believe in yourself; read top art books and blogs; find a mentor preferably a person, who has tried, failed and succeeded in the industry; treat art as your business; and market your art.

Investing in marketing helps you to connect with the customers while building your brand. If you lack ideas and skills in marketing, read on to find out the top marketing tips for emerging artists to succeed in the business of art.

1. Create your portfolio.

If you are going to sell in the market, you need a product. Likewise, if you want customers and employers to notice you; a good portfolio is a must-have. A portfolio will help showcase your strengths and skills to prospective clients. It also serves as proof of professionalism and experience.

As an emerging artist, you might lack any previous work to use in your portfolio. The way forward is to create at least five artworks that can exhibit your potential. It is even better to create multiple samples and pick those that are the most outstanding.

More important, include in your portfolio, any awards or certifications won in college or high school.

While creating your portfolio, remember these tips;

• Make sure that your artwork is of the highest quality, and the formats are easy to access. Today, customers prefer online folders that are easy to share. You can create free portfolios on WordPress, Google Drive, and Pathbrite.
• Use your finest art. The goal of creating a portfolio is to impress and win customers. Your best work is your first selling point.
• If a client has requested a portfolio, follow his/her requirements to the letter.
• Use a resume or CV to showcase your unique strengths and relevant soft skills that you possess.

2. Build an Online Presence

In March 2019, there were 4.3 billion internet users, and with the growth of e-commerce, it is now easier than ever to grow your business online. Internet connectivity gives you a broader market base and faster growth potential than the old localized way of marketing.

According to David Anderson, author at IHateWritingEssays, integration of social media sites and websites enhances engagement with followers and customers. After creating your portfolio; building your social media business pages and blog should follow.

The following are essential guidelines to consider when growing your online presence:

• Build outstanding profile pages; your social media profiles must be striking, use quality profile images give portray professionalism. Your bio and about pages should vividly showcase your skills.
• If you are going to start a blog, create a domain that has the name of your art theme or your name. Using your names can help you grow as a brand. For instance, if you Google the name Neil Patel, the results that appear are Neil Patel’s website and social media pages.
• Integrate your social media pages into your blog and connect your Facebook and Instagram pages. Customers will quickly follow and share your content.
• Share your content regularly. Do you know the story of 26-year-old Eli Waduba Yusuf from Nigeria? Kevin Hart, the famous US actor, contacted him directly after his portraits of Kevin went Viral.

3. Network

As an emerging artist, networking is one of the best ways to attract new fans, investors, and followers. It is important to note; networking events are not selling platforms but an opportunity to build relationships with the long-term aim of growing your customer base. Use the functions to make friends in different business sectors, sharing and collecting business cards.

Important networking tips;

• Attend networking events that are relevant to your business (Art).
• Pay attention and ask a lot of questions, especially from art gurus.
• Issue your business cards only when requested.
• Use the meetup app to identify likely events in your area.
• Participate in art auditions and exhibitions.
• Visit the art galleries and museums in your area. You can expect to find art lovers in such places.

4. Research and Understand What the Market Wants

Since your brand is new and still growing, it is vital to seek feedback and suggestions from collectors and potential buyers to determine what they want. Also, with the changing technology, research will help you to keep abreast with technology and to track new customer tastes and competition. Be sure to use the analytics from your website and social media sites in improving and refining your art.

You can also visit online art shops like Etsy, Artpal, Singular, and Amazon to track the bestselling art items. This information will help you in customizing your art to meet customers’ needs.

5. Be Consistent

Implementing other tips can be easy, but most artists fail with consistency and discipline. Consistency means proper time planning and repetitive application of the appropriate strategies to achieve your business goals.

You must practice daily to grow your expertise. You must also market consistently and engage your fans and customers online.

You can achieve consistency by:

• Creating a schedule for your upcoming activities; prioritize urgent and critical marketing activities.
• Using reminders and alarms.
• Engaging your fans and customers regularly.
• Sticking to set schedules unless inevitable circumstances occur.
• Rewarding yourself; when you attain a marketing goal, you can choose to reward yourself. For example, you set goals based on specific sales targets.
• Using social media tools like Hootsuite, Buffer, Postplanner or Coschedule to help you in planning and managing your social media pages.

If you have been dreaming about availing your beautiful art for the world to see, ensure that you follow the expert marketing tips discussed in this article to get the best results. Remember that while forging alliances with art galleries is important, forming alliances with fellow artists is equally important as it exposes you to new ideas and boosts your creativity.

About the writer: Carol Duke is very keen on teaching students new, effective ways of learning. When not freelancing and blogging on marketing-related matters, Carol enjoys traveling, taking immense pleasure from visiting new countries.

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