Business of Art

written by visual arts consultant Wendy H. Outland. Contact her at imwhoknowsart@gmail.com

“Happy New Year!” It’s a phrase that spurs us into thinking about change.

January publications throughout the country are filled with articles about New Year’s resolutions. What are yours in regard to your art career? How can you make changes that will fuel your progress?

First, take some time to assess the pros and cons of 2014. Turn a sheet of paper sideways and create three columns with headings: Plus (+), Minus (-), and Goals. Jot down in the plus column those things that went well in the past year – production, sales, exhibits, events, awards, new customers, etc.

Under the minus column, note what did not get initiated, was not completed, or simply did not go as planned. In the goals column, record what you want to accomplish in 2015. When you are finished, post this document in your studio where you will see it often.

Below are some suggested goals for those who are just getting started. Talk to fellow artists and find out who/what they recommend in each category.

Photography

Before a website is developed and prior to printing a business card, an artist must have good images. Some works can be adequately shot by amateurs, but in many cases (especially 3D works) it is wise to hire a professional and have a minimum of three current pieces documented. When possible, aim for a mix of vertical and horizontal images; having both formats increases your chance of publication whenever an ad or article is being laid out.

Website

For first-timers that prefer the do-it-yourself approach, a wide range of templates can be found online at sites such as Weebly and SquareSpace. Or you may choose to have a web designer in this area create a simple and clean site that will be easy for you to maintain.

Business Card

Most established artists have one, but often newbies don’t. You can order from a local printer or go online and have 100 cards from Vistaprint in your mailbox in just a few days. Overnight Prints is another good source. Your name (or company name) should be the largest text on the card.

It is imperative that you include an attractive image of your work. Without that element, you are shooting yourself in the foot. Also remember to choose a clean, easy to read font and make your contact info large enough to be read by potential customers wearing bifocals!