Art Butterfly or Art Hermit? Exploring Art Sales Strategies
Artwork in the local cafe where I first started exhibiting and selling my larger abstract paintings.
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EPISODE 172
In today's episode, Richie and I explore the evolution of my art sales strategy. I reflect on my early days exhibiting at cafes and art markets, where community connections and personal interactions were key (the butterfly approach). We then look at my more recent experience utilising online sales, e-course teaching, and art licensing (the hermit approach). We chat about the pros and cons of each method and consider whether there's a better option somewhere in between! Whether you're a social butterfly or prefer the solitude of the hermit life, this conversation offers plenty of food for thought for your art sales strategy.
A few things you will hear about in this episode:
The Journey from Local to Online:
Early Days: How my first exhibition at a local café during the South Australia Living Artists (SALA) festival helped me grow in confidence and gain momentum in selling art.
Transition: Over time, I moved towards online sales to reach a broader audience and create a more sustainable business model.
Pros and Cons of Local Exhibitions:
Community Connection: Exhibiting locally allowed me to interact directly with buyers and other artists, creating meaningful connections.
Financial Viability: Despite the rewarding personal interactions, the financial returns were often limited due to the costs involved and the pricing expectations of customers in the venues I chose.
Challenges of Balancing Art and Family:
Art Markets: The unpredictability of sales and the demands of family life made it tough to commit to regular markets and exhibitions.
Logistics: Setting up displays and producing prints required significant time and investment, but the community aspect was lovely.
Embracing Online Sales:
Gradual Shift: The decision to focus on online sales was gradual, driven by the need to simplify my business model and reach a broader audience.
Sustainability: While I miss the personal connections of local exhibitions, the online approach has allowed us to scale our business effectively.
Art Licensing:
New Avenues: Licensing my art for products like ceramics and calendars has provided a steady passive income, allowing me to explore new styles and maintain my creative process.
Our conversation in this episode is a reflection on the evolving nature of being an artist. We discuss the importance of adaptability and being able to shift up your approach depending on your creative needs, market factors, and life circumstances. We hope it provides you with encouragement and possibilities for your own art journey.
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