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Contact: Alyson B. Stanfield
(o)303.273.5904
alyson@artbizcoach.com
http://www.idratherbeinthestudio.com
Artists: Are you making a big mistake in your art career?
by Alyson B. Stanfield
It happens all too frequently. Artists with all the creative talent in the world who have absolutely no idea how to make a business out of it. After working with artists for fifteen years, I see a pattern of mistakes they make while trying to make a living off their talent. Certainly, most artists only hit one or two of these five, but even a single misstep can be costly.
And, the countdown begins.
The 5th biggest mistake artists make in their businesses is . . .
Not knowing where they want to go with their careers. Artists, like all people in business for themselves, need to learn to set goals and figure out a path to reach them. Is it more important that their work is in a museum or that they make $50,000 a year? Only they can decide what success looks like.
The fourth biggest mistake artists make in their businesses is . . .
Not following up with people who express interest in their work. Like a true professional, artists should follow up with a phone call or handwritten note within one week. Email is appropriate in some situations, but artists can distinguish themselves from others by being generous with their gratitude.
The thrid biggest mistake artists make in their businesses is . . .
Thinking there is a fairy godmother (an agent) who will sell all their work for them and make them a star—and waiting for him/her to rescue them. Get real! That's not how the world works! It takes a lot of hard work, persistence, and consistency to be successful.
The second biggest mistake artists make in their businesses is . . .
Presenting themselves in an unprofessional manner. Artists need to show they care about visual presentation. If their marketing materials and website are sloppy or sub-par, why shouldn't one assume that their work is also worse than average? Written materials and websites need a makeover that reflect the direction the artist is going. Coherent written materials and excellent verbal skills go a long way when trying to sell one's art. Artists should pay special attention to photo reproductions of their work since it must stand in for the originals.
And, The Biggest Mistake Artists Make in Their Businesses is . . .
Neglecting their contact lists. Artists must learn to become comfortable socializing and meeting more people. They ought to be adding to their mailing lists constantly. More importantly, they should get a good database and use their mailing lists. After all, a good, qualified mailing list is their number one asset.
Alyson B. Stanfield is the author of I’d Rather Be in the Studio! The Artist’s No-Excuse Guide to Self Promotion, which helps artists avoid the Top 5 Mistakes.
I’d Rather Be in the Studio! The Artist’s No-Excuse Guide to Self-Promotion
by Alyson B. Stanfield
ISBN 978-0-9742725-8-0 264 pages printed on 100% recycled paper
Trade Soft Cover
$24.95 U.S.
Published by Pentas Press
Publication date: February 3, 2008
For photos, articles, and more information visit the media room or contact the author at alyson@artbizcoach.com or 303.273.5904.