This past weekend, I picked a handful of pieces up from a local art gallery. Prior to that pickup, I had art hanging in 8 different galleries around the country. Even as a career artist, I often have shows that don't sell out. In fact, I often have shows where I don't sell anything at all. I want to share this for two reasons. First, it may alleviate some of the pressure you feel. Second, I have observed that artists often view sales as the sole measure of success in a show. They are not.
I see a lot of artist leave opportunities on the table when they have shows. I think one of the reasons I get ahead in my field is because of my ability to find the opportunities within the opportunities. Key to being a successful artist in business, at least for me, is finding creative solutions not just in the art, but in the business side of things as well. Perhaps I can help you maximize the same.
With every exhibition or show I have, there are a multitude of opportunities beyond the sales. Every show is an opportunity to build rapport with the gallery or business. There is an opportunity to connect build relationships with other artists. There is the opportunity to network with community, as well as potential collectors and partners. There is the opportunity to get photos and videos I can use for marketing collateral for an extended period of time. Every time I have a show or opportunity, I'm looking to leverage that opportunity into my next opportunity. If I sell something, that's great. If I sell everything, even better. No matter what though, I find away to walk about with a W with each and every opportunity. You can absolutely do the same. If you sit back and wait for the opportunities, they may not come knocking. You may have to start kicking open doors yourself.
I'm curious to hear if you are doing these things and maximizing your opportunities. Maybe there are other things you're doing that are working for you. I would love to hear, so please feel free to share. I have a ton of free artist support on my platforms that you can find on my linktree in my profile. I have blog posts, columns, and hundreds of videos covering almost every topic imaginable. You may have to do some digging, but it's free if you're willing to give it the time and energy.
I don't have all the answers and I'm not trying to show you THE way, just A way to hopefully help you find YOUR way. Key to success in the arts, or anything, is finding what works for you. I'm a career artists that works with galleries and sells independently. I have exhibited at Art Miami for Miami Art Week. I have over 100 exhibitions, have sold over a million dollars in art, and have work in the collections of businesses and celebrities around the world. I'm not better than anyone. I just believe in my impossible dream, and am willing to put in the work to prove the impossible is possible. Your dream is possible too, regardless of what people tell you, and I believe in you. Go get it!
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