Should artists offer their art for free or for "exposure?" Let's talk about it. As a younger artist, I wanted to get my work seen. I still do. With limited experience and opportunities, many artists are pulled into donating their art or providing it for promises of exposure. I did it quite a bit back then, and I still do from time to time, but with a greater understanding of why and what it's doing to and for me, as well as other artists.
Before I even get started, I know many will say there isn't a difference between working for free or for exposure, so let's break it down to exposure, charity donations, and gifting. I'll share some bits from my journey as a professional artist that's been in the game for a while and sold over 7 figures in art.
Exposure-
What I can say with certainty is that, in my experience, I can't really recall many experiences where the exposure promised was even close to being worth it. If it has for you, that's awesome. At this stage of my career, I basically expect that the exposure won't be all that much, and if it is, I guess that's just a pleasant surprise. Expect nothing and you will never be disappointed. Exposure is a relative term. I've had numerous situations where the exposure was sharing in a single post, sometimes just a story that reached probably double digit figures. One of those people could be a difference maker, but it's a bit like playing the lottery. One thing you can consider is asking for specifics, articulating expectations, and getting it in writing so you can make an educated decision. More often than not though, if people ask for art for exposure, I tell them I'm fully capable of exposing myself.
Charitable Donations-
When it comes to donations for charities, if I have a surplus of inventory and it's a cause I want to support, I do consider donations, particularly smaller works. Because it's charity, I expect nothing in return. If something unexpected comes of it, cool. If there's something you want to support, donating can be a great way to help them while creating a little space. Not all artists are trying to monetize their art, so many find donating to worthy causes a great option.
Gifts-
I have gifted art before, but very selectively and sometimes strategically, like to get my work into a particularly collection, build a relationship, or to keep a legacy piece in the family or with someone I know I can trust it with. Many artists like to give gifts. After all, what's more meaningful than a gift from the soul that you created? This is another popular option for artists, particularly those trying to get off the ground. The time I really do love to gift art is as a thank you to paying collectors for substantial investments. I consider it part of my philosophy of underpromising and overdelivering. I take care of the people that take care of me, and I find that energy tends to come back around.
The Problem-
Here is the problem you may be creating for yourself and other artists. When you give away, donate, or gift your art, you are making a statement about the value of your art and that message can be interpreted in an infinite number of ways. What I have observed is that the way most of the general public will interpret this is that they can get your art without paying for it, and that art is a service that should be gifted, donated, or exchanged for a little visibility rather than the exchange of currency that helps you buy your supplies, food, and keep a roof over your head. What other industry is treated like this?
What many fail to see is that doing some or all of the above things you can make it more challenging for other artists, and yourself, in the future, because why would a person or business pay big money for your art, or any, when they can get someone else to gift it, donate it, or provide it for a promise that someone will see it? It creates a diminished perception of value in many cases, and the result is that it becomes much more challenging for artists in the market of selling art, exponentially so for artists selling at higher price points, myself included.
I'm not going to try to tell any artist what to do or not do. It would be completely hypocritical considering I sometimes break my own rules. What I would suggest is to keep these things in mind, know that you and what you do have value, and choose the path that works best for you. In the art world there isn't "A" way. You have to find "your" way. I hope I can help you do that ❤️
Join me on this journey for much more support. You can find me everywhere HERE 🙏