A HIGHLY INFORMATIVE ONLINE MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO THE ARTIST AND THE ART LOVER
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A HIGHLY INFORMATIVE ONLINE MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO THE ARTIST AND THE ART LOVERIf you like this site then Recommend It!
ART FACTS
THE ART OF GETTING STARTED
By Robert K. Roark
The element of business does not diminish the quality and value of the art; and art, when applied to the deal, can only turn a sometimes hum-drum process into something sublime.
Taking that first step to becoming a professional artist can be a bit tricky - especially since most beginning artists are unsure of where or how to step. If you are on the verge of starting out, think of yourself as opening a new business: you are the owner and your artwork is the product that you are manufacturing and, with a bit of luck, selling. Depending on what your goals are, there are many different approaches which you can take. The most tried-and-true way of getting your artwork to market is through a good gallery. The idea here is simple: the gallery exhibits your work; the gallery pays you, minus the gallery commission (for services rendered) of course.
Finding and getting into the gallery that is exactly right for you is primarily a process of trial-and-error. firstly, you need a body of good quality work. Secondly, you must present yourself and your work to the prospective gallery in a positive and professional manner.
As part of their presentation package, many artists feel the need to create an "artist's statement". Although it's a personal choice, a good artist's statement can be both impressive and effective. Of course, what you write about your work is entirely up to you; but there are some general guidelines which you might want to consider:
- Keep your statement relatively brief; one or two short paragraphs should suffice. Most people don't have the time or patience to read through a lengthy tome.
- Write about your work in terms that are easily understood. Keep your esoteric interpretations to yourself and write plainly and simply with, perhaps, just a touch of poet.
- Enclose your statement in Quotes and add your name at the end. Include your statement on all biographical material.
If you are so inclined, you might want to consider creating a website for yourself and your work. A good website can be a very effective advertising tool. Also, when searching out a gallery, be sure to take into account its website. any good gallery should have a high-quality, easy-to-maneuver site.
Advertising yourself in an international art publication such as "American Art Review" can put your name and your work before millions of people. Most any time that your name and work can be seen by the public will work in your favor.
Keep in mind the fact that almost any marketing technique that can be used to promote a conventional business can be used with equal success to promote yourself. There are numerous books available that deal with creating and maintaining a viable business. Read carefully and then decide how you can apply successful techniques to your won endeavors.
It has often been said by artists who have day jobs that art and business cannot mix. Nothing could be further from the truth. The business of art and the art of business can make a highly compatible team if given a chance. The element of business does not diminish the quality and value of the art; and art, when applied to the deal, can only turn a sometimes hum-drum process into something sublime.
Good luck with your art and good luck with your business!
MR. ROARK'S UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS
LAND OF THE FREE, HOME OF THE BRAVE
Because of the general excellence of their work, thirty Cape Cod artists were invited to participate in expressing their patriotic thoughts and feelings in response to the events of September 11, 2001.
All of the works of art in the "Land of the Free" exhibition will be for sale, and proceeds will, in part, benefit the September 11th Fund, which was established by United Way of New York City and the New York Community Trust.
The exhibition will run from February 1, 2002 through March 9, 2002. Opening reception Friday, February 1, 2002, 5 to 7 PM.
Please contact the museum for complete detail.
Cahoon Museum of American Art
4676 Falmouth Rd
Cotuit, MA 02635
508-428-7581
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