How to get started selling art?

[alfaniner]

After perusing the art show at an annual display this year, I am once again reminded that my skills are "better" than up to 50% of the artists displayed there. Some of the prices on rather questionable art were pretty out there -- I had a hard time believing people would pay that much for that quality of work. This includes painting and photography. I've done both as a hobby for over 20 years, occasionally selling a piece here and there.

Perhaps I'm looking ahead to retirement (still a ways off) where I can devote much more time to this. But I'd like to enter the field before that time with some knowledge. I'd like to know how people go about getting displayed in galleries or such. Or would it just be better to open my own online store?

And yes, I do have a realistic judgement of my own work -- I know I've done a lot of ****, but once in a while have a real gem.

[Phil]

Do lots and lots of nudes.

Either that or take a crap on a plate and call it found art. Big seller.

[sesshin]

I would say the key would be getting a good website set up showcasing your work, maybe even a hard copy of a portfolio, and then start contacting galleries in your area that feature the type of art you like and see if you can get in to one of their shows. Once you start getting featured in more shows people will start recognizing your work more and it kind of builds from there.

Or you could just focus solely on a web presence. Some artists have a lot of luck that way, others prefer to go through galleries.

Also you have to keep mind that just because people put a high price tag on their work doesn't mean they actually sell it for that much. I've noticed a lot of artists put a lot higher value on their work than what people are actually willing to pay for it.

[Garrette]

I'm not an artist but am close to a few. The big shows are where the money is made but get booked up well in advance, some of them years in advance, so you have to "get in the circuit."

I recommend two things just to get you started. After these, my advice bag is empty:

1. Contact small fairs (whether art shows or seasonal festivals that allow arts/crafts booths) now for their requirements.

2. Make friends with (take the classes of) art professors and local colleges, especially the small ones or small extension campuses of large ones. You'll meet key folks that way.

[Pyrts]

Where was this venue?

There are different roads into the art market, and no "setting up a portfolio online" isn't one of the better ones. You need to know what kind of art you do, what market you target, and then look for shows/magazines/websites (not yours... someone else's) where your art can be featured.

Garrett's advice is good, but a few more details if you please.

[sesshin]

There are different roads into the art market, and no "setting up a portfolio online" isn't one of the better ones.

I would beg to differ. I deal with galleries everyday as part of my business, and have represented a few successful artists, so I feel I have a little insight on this matter.

Most gallery owners I know who are on the lookout for new artists are usually turned onto them through the internet. Either a link is sent to them or they see them mentioned on a blog, but they generally always look at a website with samples of the artists work and then get in contact with them based on that. There are artists who actually walk into the gallery and show their work personally or mail in a portfolio from out of state, but they are in the minority.

Also, I've personally helped several artists set up websites and have seen it immediately increase their visibility as well as help them sell paintings faster than they normally would without it, so I know there is a benefit.

[petra10]

Online seems like a good way to start.I love art and I regularly browe artists web sites.

[ZirconBlue]

Where are you located? (My sister-in-law runs an art gallery in LA.)

[kmortis]

1) Watch F for Fake
2) Emulate Elmyr

[Alliebubs]

Everyone's advice seems very sincere and well-meaning, and I wish you luck in your endeavour!

The most realistic scenario, in my opinion, would be one of two options. An online store may or may not work. It did for Thomas Kinkade, but then you'd be like Thomas Kinkade, which is a sin unto itself. :) However, depending on your artistic pedigree (whether this is just a "hobby" or a lifelong commitment to creating art, whether you went to school for art on an M.F.A. (Master's of Fine Arts) level, etc.), owners of blue-chip galleries tend not to represent those that are just trying to get some exhibition experience before they go full throttle in retirement. They want to help foster a lifelong career. Having said all of that, that doesn't mean galleries that are strictly about commerce won't be of service. My suggestion would be to start out at a local fair in terms of your own work, then maybe do a little leg work/research and find out what kind of galleries are in your city and the like. That way, as others have said on here, you have a better sense of your city's art market. So, to sum, an online store might be a good foray into art, but it's tricky. Collective art fairs are probably your best bet. Good luck!

-Allison

(P.S. Since it seems to help qualify our posts in this thread, just so you don't think a bunch of people are blowing smoke out of their bums, I'm currently completing a Master's in the History of the Art Market in NYC with Christie's Auction House. Oh, and no, auction houses don't consign non blue-chip contemporary artists works as a primary market investment. Still, good luck and can't wait to see some of your work posted on here! :))

[Garrette]

but then you'd be like Thomas Kinkade, which is a sin unto itself. :) THANK YOU!

My best friend is a Kinkade fan (as are lots of folks in my area). I've nearly had to kill him for the painting he hung in his dining room.

[Miss Anthrope]

My husband is a successful fine art photographer. He works very hard to move his work:

Step 1. Set up a portfolio site. (DO NOT SELL WORK FROM IT. IF someone emails you, yes, you can sell a print)

Step 2. Get on some mailing lists that specialize in calls for entry to galleries around the country.

Step 3. Prepare discs and sample prints, a cover letter/resume, and send these to every single call for entries. You will also need an artist's statement. There is usually an entry fee. You're going to have to pay it. Follow the entry guidelines specifically. They will not look at work if it is not in the proper format. You should always refer to the site. A link from a sample disc is a good idea.

Step 4. Don't be bummed about rejections. Just move on. Make a habit of of submitting work every single week.

If your work is good and likely to sell, you will receive acceptances into group and solo exhibtions. Even then, art moves slowly. If you are taking photos digitally with no labor intensive processes, it will not sell for as much. You will more often than not be required to send your work matted in white and framed in plexiglass. When you get accepted, find an internet wholesaler for framing materials and get an account with fedex.

You can also submit your work to publishing houses. Getting cover work for books is lucrative.

Right now, between cover art, print sales and residuals, he is making more than he spends, but not enough to quit his job. He's been at it for four years. While his shots take about three hours to set up for a single photo, and an hour to develop, I would say he invests far more time marketing his work than he does creating the art. He averages about six, one month long solo exhibitions in high quality galleries around the world, and a few group or shared exhibitions. He's usually featured on a book or magazine about four times per year.

A lot of would be artists claim they can't get shown or sell. In almost all cases it's because they don't do the legwork above. Digital work from an unknown is very difficult to market, because the market is flooded with people who think because they can take a decent snapshot and put up a website, they're artists.

Also, a lot of people take nature photographs, nudes, and landscapes. What about your style, your technique, your view sets you apart from the thousands upon thousands that can do this well? You need to find a niche, be it in style or technique, that distinguishes you from all the rest.

Another random note here. While hubby's photos are created using film and a fine, complicated developing process, the prints he sells are indeed digital reproductions. He invested in an archival quality professional level printer, and uses the very best inks and paper. This is something you'll need to assure both galleries and buyers about, quality wise.

There is also a good book "How to Prosper as an Artist". You'll learn all of the above, and a lot more.

Only the most upscale galleries don't do calls for entry these days. You can solicit them blind to draw attention to your work, or they will find you through promotion you do online from your website. Once your site is built, you can cross post samples and get your name out there. (Right now I've got 1650 hits on google for his name, more than half are places he promoted his work himself in an appropriate, not spamming way.)

[Bluegill]

After perusing the art show at an annual display this year, I am once again reminded that my skills are "better" than up to 50% of the artists displayed there. Some of the prices on rather questionable art were pretty out there -- I had a hard time believing people would pay that much for that quality of work. This includes painting and photography. I've done both as a hobby for over 20 years, occasionally selling a piece here and there.

Perhaps I'm looking ahead to retirement (still a ways off) where I can devote much more time to this. But I'd like to enter the field before that time with some knowledge. I'd like to know how people go about getting displayed in galleries or such. Or would it just be better to open my own online store?

And yes, I do have a realistic judgement of my own work -- I know I've done a lot of ****, but once in a while have a real gem.

Step 1: Create some decent-looking artwork

Step 3: Profit!

I've been sorta working on Step 2 for the past ten years.

[sackett]

It's a slow climb, selling art, but exhibits are the only way to get your work in front of the public.

All I can advise is to enter juried shows.

[alfaniner]

Thanks for all the wonderful advice. I wonder how the market is for paintings of Elvis on velvet. If not that, then unicorns.




What?!



Seriously though, it has been a dream of mine for quite some time. I'm almost certain that I would not make as much doing that as I do in my current job, but I always like to be prepared for the next step in life. I have had some formal art training, dozens of books, and am well-versed in color theory, composition, etc. I'll be thinking about it for quite some time yet, and still pursue it as a hobby. I admire those who are now working so hard to achieve their goals.

[John 13]

i dont know what im doing with mine yet...it just keeps piling up. Im mainly a musician, and very few ppl know i paint...but i do know my skills are growing and would be very interested in seeing if any of it would sell.. im going to put paint on canvas until i get dragged out in cuffs...lol i keep doing weird things like 13 paintings in 13 days.

I wish i had good advice for you, but im learning here too :P
John/J13P

[petra10]

Alfaniner have you seen the post your artwork thread on here?Could you post some of your pictures for us to see.Good luck with your venture.

[HarryKeogh]

The most realistic scenario, in my opinion, would be one of two options. An online store may or may not work. It did for Thomas Kinkade, but then you'd be like Thomas Kinkade, which is a sin unto itself. :)

Seems someone is jealous because they're not a "painter of light" :D

[Alliebubs]

Seems someone is jealous because they're not a "painter of light" :D

By "painter of light", you mean "abominable hack", right? Because, if that's the case, I'm not jealous in the slightest. :)

[Pedro De Mello]

Do lots and lots of nudes.

Either that or take a crap on a plate and call it found art. Big seller.

Hey, that might actually work. :D

[I Ratant]

Step 1: Create some decent-looking artwork

Step 3: Profit!

I've been sorta working on Step 2 for the past ten years.
.
That dratted Step 2.
Mostly, when mine is admired, I tend to give it away.

[JWideman]

Seems someone is jealous because they're not a "painter of light" :D

Rembrandt was a painter of light. Kinkade is a painter of kitsch.

[Ignorantbystander]

I just checked this Kinkade guy, what an insult to art. Even Bob Ross had more originality

[fuelair]

I would say the key would be getting a good website set up showcasing your work, maybe even a hard copy of a portfolio, and then start contacting galleries in your area that feature the type of art you like and see if you can get in to one of their shows. Once you start getting featured in more shows people will start recognizing your work more and it kind of builds from there.

Or you could just focus solely on a web presence. Some artists have a lot of luck that way, others prefer to go through galleries.

Also you have to keep mind that just because people put a high price tag on their work doesn't mean they actually sell it for that much. I've noticed a lot of artists put a lot higher value on their work than what people are actually willing to pay for it.And, that is way smarter than the reverse - if you undervalue your work, so will others. If you do SF or Fantasy art (to Alfaniner) let me know - I may be able to give more detailed assistance. Oh, the nudes advice is not at all as silly as it might sound.

[I Ratant]

Rembrandt was a painter of light. Kinkade is a painter of kitsch.
.
The "Playboy Adviser" once had a question on how to light a Kinkade painting.
ISTR the response was to not -have- a Kinkade painting. :)
There was a Kinkade outlet at the Mall for many years. Closed now.
It was interesting watching many artists touching up the paintings during some sales pitches.
None of the artists were Kinkade, hisself.

[fuelair]

Kincaid osculates to a pure vacuum.

[alfaniner]

Thanks to Pedro for reviving this thread. Honestly, I'd forgotten I started it! My situation has changed since the OP (Aug 2007), currently unemployed for about a year. While accruing the benefits, I was trying to decide what to do, but in the interim had set up a business entity. It was only last December that I settled on doing pet portraits. It took that long to get out of the mental slump. I haven't actually started yet because I have one "real" job I'm waiting for word on (this month).

The pet portrait decision came to me similarly to the OP, I've seen what some people are charging and know I could do a lot better than some I've seen. Granted, it's not really "art", but I have to make a living first...

And, that is way smarter than the reverse - if you undervalue your work, so will others. If you do SF or Fantasy art (to Alfaniner) let me know - I may be able to give more detailed assistance. Oh, the nudes advice is not at all as silly as it might sound.

I've always loved SF and Fantasy art, and have a lot of the artists books that are out there as reference. My dream for many years is to actually have a book come out that has my cover painting on it. I would certainly appreciate any advice you have.

[Janie Megova]

Very valuable thread. I've been selling my work off and on for 30+ years mostly through word-of-mouth. Portraits, landscapes, pets, homes. Never have ptut together a site; would really like to. Great advice and an interesting variety of viewpoints!

[fuelair]

Thanks to Pedro for reviving this thread. Honestly, I'd forgotten I started it! My situation has changed since the OP (Aug 2007), currently unemployed for about a year. While accruing the benefits, I was trying to decide what to do, but in the interim had set up a business entity. It was only last December that I settled on doing pet portraits. It took that long to get out of the mental slump. I haven't actually started yet because I have one "real" job I'm waiting for word on (this month).

The pet portrait decision came to me similarly to the OP, I've seen what some people are charging and know I could do a lot better than some I've seen. Granted, it's not really "art", but I have to make a living first...



I've always loved SF and Fantasy art, and have a lot of the artists books that are out there as reference. My dream for many years is to actually have a book come out that has my cover painting on it. I would certainly appreciate any advice you have.My end is Convention Art shows, but I do know a couple or so of artists in the field - if you set up a web site or photo item(s) and send me samples when you do that, I'll arrange some contacts. That's where I particularly notice the low pricing thing (and it's reverse, of course). Another avenue on the cover thing is the POD market - which a friend is heavy into. More on that also - PM if interested/for more info.

[luchog]

accidental double-post

[luchog]

After perusing the art show at an annual display this year, I am once again reminded that my skills are "better" than up to 50% of the artists displayed there. Some of the prices on rather questionable art were pretty out there -- I had a hard time believing people would pay that much for that quality of work. This includes painting and photography. I've done both as a hobby for over 20 years, occasionally selling a piece here and there.

Step 1: Die.

Step 2: ???

Step 3: Profit!!!

Or, judging by the local art scene.

Step 1: Be a minority. This isn't mandatory, but it really helps. Stacking minority status is even more effective; and having at least one each from ethnicity, gender and sexuality, and disability is ideal. Being mixed-race can help considerably in later steps. Firm heterosexuality is highly disadvantageous; you'll need to be at least bi-curious, preferably bisexual.

Step 2: Espouse radical left-wing politics; concentrate especially on anti-corporate rhetoric (even if you're selling your art to corporations, it won't matter). Make sure that all of your friends are equally radical-left-leaning; as well as all your entertainment preferences.

Step 3: Espouse whatever medical, religious, or conspiracy-theory woo you can manage with a straight face. Vegetarianism/Veganism isn't mandatory; but highly desirable (if not vegetarian/vegan; only eat free-range, sustainably grown meat). Radical feminism is also good; but can be tricky if you're genetically male and identify as such. Note: all religious woo must be anti-Christian and anti-Orthodox Judaism. Left-leaning liberal Judaism is fine, especially if it carries a subtle anti-semitic undertone (anti-Semitism is useful in the right crowd, but can easily backfire, so use it carefully). Islam is acceptable, and even trendy at the moment; but only as a supporter, not as an actual believer. New-Age syncretism and Neopaganism are best.

Step 4: Attend protests. It doesn't matter which ones as long as they fit in with the radical leftists mentioned in step 2. The more the better; as this will aid you in later steps.

Step 5: Use recreational drugs. It doesn't really matter that much which ones; although cannabis and hallucinogens are probably best. Heroin should be reserved until you've firmly established your artistic career.

Step 6: Make lots of friends in the art world; especially established artists and gallery owners. This is absolutely crucial. Make sure that they fit well with all the previous steps. Attend any and every gallery opening, party, and other event you can find, even if you dislike the artists. Especially if you dislike the artists, and can find a clever way to dismiss them without ever actually touching on the quality of their work (referring to them as "derivative" and questioning their "sincerity" is always a good start). If the artist owns a gallery, then be flattering instead of dismissive. It's good to cultivate an air of detachment for both; as it enables you to sound objective and disinterested, regardless of how scathing your attack or effusive your praise.

Step 7: Compose a "Vision Statement". This should b a vague and self-absorbed statement of your personal philosophies and beliefs, as they related to your work. Include information from steps 1, 2, and 3; in that order of importance. If you are mixed race, include at least one paragraph strictly about that. Referring to the art itself should be done sparingly, and should be limited to inspirations, the medium, and your artistic development. It should be at least 3 paragraphs, to allow sufficient room to include all the important points; but should not be longer than a single page, to facilitate posting on gallery walls. Note: This is the most important part of your work; and should include as many trendy beliefs and and attitudes as you can manage to fit in while still remaining moderately coherent. It's also a good idea to create a new one for every show, to demonstrate your "artistic growth".

Step 8: In your spare time, throw together something you can call "art". This is the least impotant step; so dont' spend too much time on it. Using a "nontraditional medium" is useful, but there are increasingly fewer of these available. "Mixed media" is alway good, especially if it incorporates "found objects".

Step 9: ???

Step 10: Profit!!!

Additional note: Having or lacking a degree in fine arts has no real effect on your marketability; as either can be given a positive spin. If you have one, then you can play up the quality of your educational institution and the degree itself. If you lack one, then you can rail against the "oppressive ivory-tower mentality" and "vision-repressing traditionalism" that "infests the educational system", and trumpet the value of "non-traditional learning opportunities" and "street-level sensibility".

[Pedro De Mello]

Step 1: Die.

Step 2: ???

Step 3: Profit!!!

Or, judging by the local art scene.

Step 1: Be a minority. This isn't mandatory, but it really helps. Stacking minority status is even more effective; and having at least one each from ethnicity, gender and sexuality, and disability is ideal. Being mixed-race can help considerably in later steps. Firm heterosexuality is highly disadvantageous; you'll need to be at least bi-curious, preferably bisexual.

Step 2: Espouse radical left-wing politics; concentrate especially on anti-corporate rhetoric (even if you're selling your art to corporations, it won't matter). Make sure that all of your friends are equally radical-left-leaning; as well as all your entertainment preferences.

Step 3: Espouse whatever medical, religious, or conspiracy-theory woo you can manage with a straight face. Vegetarianism/Veganism isn't mandatory; but highly desirable (if not vegetarian/vegan; only eat free-range, sustainably grown meat). Radical feminism is also good; but can be tricky if you're genetically male and identify as such. Note: all religious woo must be anti-Christian and anti-Orthodox Judaism. Left-leaning liberal Judaism is fine, especially if it carries a subtle anti-semitic undertone (anti-Semitism is useful in the right crowd, but can easily backfire, so use it carefully). Islam is acceptable, and even trendy at the moment; but only as a supporter, not as an actual believer. New-Age syncretism and Neopaganism are best.

Step 4: Attend protests. It doesn't matter which ones as long as they fit in with the radical leftists mentioned in step 2. The more the better; as this will aid you in later steps.

Step 5: Use recreational drugs. It doesn't really matter that much which ones; although cannabis and hallucinogens are probably best. Heroin should be reserved until you've firmly established your artistic career.

Step 6: Make lots of friends in the art world; especially established artists and gallery owners. This is absolutely crucial. Make sure that they fit well with all the previous steps. Attend any and every gallery opening, party, and other event you can find, even if you dislike the artists. Especially if you dislike the artists, and can find a clever way to dismiss them without ever actually touching on the quality of their work (referring to them as "derivative" and questioning their "sincerity" is always a good start). If the artist owns a gallery, then be flattering instead of dismissive. It's good to cultivate an air of detachment for both; as it enables you to sound objective and disinterested, regardless of how scathing your attack or effusive your praise.

Step 7: Compose a "Vision Statement". This should b a vague and self-absorbed statement of your personal philosophies and beliefs, as they related to your work. Include information from steps 1, 2, and 3; in that order of importance. If you are mixed race, include at least one paragraph strictly about that. Referring to the art itself should be done sparingly, and should be limited to inspirations, the medium, and your artistic development. It should be at least 3 paragraphs, to allow sufficient room to include all the important points; but should not be longer than a single page, to facilitate posting on gallery walls. Note: This is the most important part of your work; and should include as many trendy beliefs and and attitudes as you can manage to fit in while still remaining moderately coherent. It's also a good idea to create a new one for every show, to demonstrate your "artistic growth".

Step 8: In your spare time, throw together something you can call "art". This is the least impotant step; so dont' spend too much time on it. Using a "nontraditional medium" is useful, but there are increasingly fewer of these available. "Mixed media" is alway good, especially if it incorporates "found objects".

Step 9: ???

Step 10: Profit!!!

Additional note: Having or lacking a degree in fine arts has no real effect on your marketability; as either can be given a positive spin. If you have one, then you can play up the quality of your educational institution and the degree itself. If you lack one, then you can rail against the "oppressive ivory-tower mentality" and "vision-repressing traditionalism" that "infests the educational system", and trumpet the value of "non-traditional learning opportunities" and "street-level sensibility".

Thumbed up :cool: