Art That Sells – What Artists Need to Know

As an artist, you create art because you love it. You put in countless hours of work and pour your heart and soul into every piece. But at the end of the day, you also want to sell your art and make a living from it.

Selling artwork can be a real challenge, and as an artist myself, I know just how tough it can be to get your work in front of the right people. That's why I'm excited to share with you some key insights and tips that I've learned along the way. By the end of this post, you'll have a better understanding of what it takes to succeed as an artist in today's competitive market.

 

1. Understanding the Art Market

2. Building Your Brand as an Artist

3. Pricing Your Artwork

4. Selling Your Art Online

5. Working with Art Galleries

6. Final Thoughts

    

 

1. Understanding the Art Market

 

To create art that sells, you first need to understand the art market. The art market is complex and can be intimidating, but it is important to know how it works in order to sell your art successfully.

There are several segments to the art market. The primary market refers to artists who sell their work directly to collectors and buyers. The secondary market refers to the resale of art that has already been sold by the artist, usually through auction houses or galleries. There are also different price points in the art market, ranging from affordable prints to multi-million dollar paintings.

To understand where your art fits into the market, it is important to research other artists and their prices. Look at artists who have a similar style or subject matter to you and see how much they are selling their work for. This will give you an idea of what buyers are willing to pay for your type of art.

Start by researching the art market. It can be a daunting task, but it's an essential step in developing your art sales strategy. Here are a few tips to get started:

 

• Study the trends: Keep an eye on what's trending in the art world. Follow art blogs, visit galleries and museums, and attend art shows and exhibitions to stay up-to-date with the latest styles and mediums.

• Know your competition: Research other artists in your niche and see what they're doing to market their work. Look at their pricing, sales channels, and social media presence to get ideas for your own strategy.

• Identify your target audience: Understand who your potential buyers are and where they're likely to be. Look at demographic data and research the buying habits of your target audience to tailor your marketing approach.

• Understand pricing: Know how to price your artwork and what factors affect its value. Look at sales data for similar pieces and consult with art advisors or gallery owners to determine a fair price.

• Use online resources: Take advantage of online tools and databases that provide information on art sales, galleries, and auction results. Websites like Artsy, Artnet, and Artprice can be great resources for market research.

 

Keep in mind that researching the art market is an ongoing process that requires time and effort. By staying informed and adapting to changes in the market, you can increase your chances of success as an artist. If you want to increase your art sales, it's essential to stay in the loop about the latest trends in the art world. This means doing some research to find out what's hot and what's not.

 

 

 

 

Downloadable PDF guide for artists: ”The Artist’s Guide to Defining Your Target Audience”.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll find practical tips to discover your artistic identity and connect with your ideal audience. You will learn how to analyze your audience, and explore effective marketing strategies to promote your art. 

 

 

But before you start creating a ton of pieces and putting them up for sale, there are some things you need to know. One of the most important factors to consider is what type of art sells well.

There are a few general categories that tend to sell well. For example, many people are drawn to abstract art because it provides a creative outlet for self-expression. Landscapes are also a popular genre in the art world, as they can evoke feelings of tranquility and peace. And, of course, portraits and figurative art always have a market, as they provide a way to capture loved ones and cherished memories.

Please don’t forget that ultimately the best-selling art form is the one that speaks to the buyer on a personal level. So, don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and mediums until you find your artistic voice.

 

The next thing to keep in mind is the importance of clearly defining your art niche and your target audience. 

As an artist, understanding your target audience is essential to thriving in the art world. Knowing who your art speaks to can unlock a world of opportunities and success. That's why I've prepared an exclusive PDF Guide for Artists: "The Artist’s Guide to Defining Your Target Audience." In this guide, you'll discover valuable insights and strategies to connect with the right people who truly appreciate and resonate with your art.

Now let's move to the niche-talk. Your niche is the specific area of the art world in which you excel and can make a unique contribution. This could include a particular medium, style, theme, or subject matter that sets your artwork apart from others.

When you have a well-defined niche, it becomes easier to target the right audience and develop a marketing strategy that resonates with them. This will not only help you sell more artwork, but it will also build your brand and establish you as an expert in your field. Your niche should be a reflection of your unique style and perspective as an artist. 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Building Your Brand as an Artist

 

Once you have a better understanding of the art market and you have well-defined niche, it is time to build your brand as an artist. Your brand is how you present yourself and your art to the world. It is what sets you apart from other artists and makes buyers want to invest in your work.

Building your brand as an artist is crucial in the art world. It is what sets you apart from other artists and helps buyers identify with your unique style and vision. Your brand includes your artist statement, bio, website, and social media presence. Make sure these are all cohesive and professional.

Your artist statement should be clear and concise. It should explain your artistic style, influences, and the message you want to convey through your art. Your artist statement should be easy for buyers to understand, but also unique and memorable.

Your bio is another important aspect of your brand. It should highlight your achievements, education, and any exhibitions you have participated in. It's important to keep your bio up-to-date and professional. You can also include any press coverage or awards you have received.

Your website is your online portfolio and should be visually appealing, easy to navigate, and showcase your artwork. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly and optimized for search engines so that buyers can easily find your work online. It's important to include high-quality images of your artwork and provide information on how buyers can purchase it.

Social media is also a powerful tool for building your brand and connecting with buyers. Use social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to share your artwork, behind-the-scenes glimpses into your creative process, and engage with your followers. Consistency is key, so make sure your social media presence is consistent with your brand and your artwork. 

 

 

 

3. Pricing Your Artwork

 

Pricing your artwork can be one of the most challenging aspects of selling your art.

So, what factors should you consider when pricing your artwork? Well, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need to think about the cost of materials. How much did you spend on paint, canvas, brushes, and any other supplies you used to create your piece? You don't want to sell your art for less than it cost you to make it, or you'll be losing money.

Next, think about the time it took to create the piece. Did you spend hours, days, or even weeks working on it? Your time is valuable, and you deserve to be compensated for it. If a piece took a long time to create, you'll need to factor that into your pricing.

Another thing to consider is the demand for your art. Are people clamoring to buy your work, or are you still trying to build a following? If you're in high demand, you can probably charge a higher price for your pieces. However, if you're still trying to get your name out there, you might want to start with lower prices to attract buyers.

Did you know that pricing your artwork is an art form in itself? It's not just about putting a number on a canvas, but about understanding the true value of your work and finding the sweet spot that balances fair compensation with market demand. It takes a bit of finesse and a lot of confidence, but once you master the art of pricing, you'll be able to showcase your talent and build a thriving business.

Think of pricing as another brush stroke in your creative process. It's a chance to express your worth, your vision, and your passion for your craft. Don't shy away from the challenge - embrace it! Consider the materials, the time, and the love you put into each piece, and let that guide you in setting your prices.

Research the market and see what other artists are charging for similar work. How much are other artists charging for pieces that are similar in size and style to yours? You don't want to price yourself out of the market, but you also don't want to undervalue your work.

Remember, it's important to be realistic about your prices. You don't want to scare away potential buyers with prices that are too high, but you also don't want to sell yourself short by pricing your work too low. It can be a tricky balancing act, but with a little research and some careful consideration, you can find the perfect price point for your art.

 

 

 

 

 

   

This guide combines personal insights with practical tips that have worked for both myself and other artists. It focuses on strategies that are effective in today's art market.

 

 

 

4. Selling Your Art Online

 

The internet has revolutionized the art world, making it easier than ever to sell your art online. There are several online platforms where artists can sell their work, including Etsy, Saatchi Art, Singulart or Artfinder.

Selling your art online can be a fantastic way to get your work seen by a wider audience, but it takes a little bit of effort to make sure your art shines in the digital world. The first thing you need to do is make sure your photographs are top-notch. This means using good lighting, getting the right angles, and making sure your images accurately represent your artwork. You want potential buyers to see your work in all its glory, so don't skimp on the quality of your photos!

In addition to great photos, make sure you provide detailed descriptions of your artwork. This includes the size, medium, and any other relevant information. You want to make it as easy as possible for buyers to understand what they're purchasing. And speaking of making things easy, be sure to provide clear information on shipping and returns. This will help buyers feel more confident in their purchase and ensure a smooth transaction.

Finally, it's important to engage with your buyers. Respond to any questions or concerns they may have, and do so promptly. This will show that you're attentive and dedicated to your craft, and it will help build a relationship with your buyers. Who knows, they may even become repeat customers!

Don't forget that, selling your art online is all about putting your best foot forward. With high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, clear information on shipping and returns, and a friendly attitude, you'll be well on your way to building a successful online art business

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. Working with Art Galleries

 

Working with art galleries can be an exciting and rewarding experience for artists. Not only can galleries provide exposure, marketing, and networking opportunities, but they can also help build an artist's reputation and establish them as a serious professional in the art world.

Before applying to galleries, it's important for artists to conduct thorough research and find galleries that align with their artistic style and vision. This means researching galleries that have exhibited artwork similar to yours, or have a track record of supporting artists in your genre.

For example, if you create abstract art, you may want to look for galleries that specialize in contemporary or abstract art. Similarly, if your work is inspired by a particular culture or historical period, you may want to research galleries that focus on that culture or period.

When researching galleries, take the time to review their mission statement, exhibition history, and the artists they represent. This will give you a better sense of whether they are a good fit for your work and artistic goals.

By finding the right gallery fit, you increase your chances of building a successful and mutually beneficial relationship with a gallery that will support your artistic career for years to come.

However, getting into a gallery can be a challenging process. It requires creating a portfolio of your best work and researching galleries that fit your style and artistic goals. You want to make sure the gallery is a good fit for you and your art, and that they have a strong reputation in the art world.

If a gallery decides to represent you, they will take a commission on your sales, typically ranging from 30% to 50%. This means you will need to price your artwork higher to make a profit, but the exposure and networking opportunities can be well worth it. Plus, galleries often handle the logistics of sales and exhibitions, allowing artists to focus on their creative process.

Working with a gallery also opens up opportunities for collaborations with other artists and events, such as art fairs and exhibitions. These experiences can lead to new connections, opportunities, and a wider audience for your work.

So, while getting into an art gallery may be a challenging process, the rewards can be immense. By carefully researching galleries, creating a strong portfolio, and pricing your work accordingly, you can take advantage of the exposure and networking opportunities that galleries provide and take your artistic career to the next level.

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

This guide is focused on delivering real results, not entertainment. It's packed with all the essential information, practical tips, and strategies you need to overcome imposter syndrome, achieve your goals, and succeed.

If you're doubting how to price your art correctly or sell it effectively, this guide has the answers. You'll get clear advice on what to do, how to do it, and what to avoid to ensure positive outcomes. 

 

 

 

 

6. Final Thoughts

 

When it comes to selling art, it's important to remember that not everyone is going to be interested in what you create. However, there is a group of people out there who will absolutely love your work and want to buy it.

Think about it - every artist has their own unique style, medium, and message they want to convey through their work. There are people out there who resonate with your style and message and are eagerly waiting to discover your art.

For example, if you're a painter who specializes in abstract expressionism, your target audience might be people who enjoy exploring emotions and feelings through art. Or, if you're a photographer who takes stunning landscape photos, your target audience might be nature enthusiasts.

Once you know who your target audience is, it's time to find them. This can involve attending art shows, networking with other artists, and utilizing social media to showcase your work. You can also consider reaching out to curators, or art consultants who specialize in your style of art.

The key is to be proactive in promoting your art and making it easy for people to purchase it.

Create a website or online store where people can browse your artwork and make a purchase.

Attend art fairs and exhibitions where your target audience is likely to be present.

Consider offering special deals or promotions. You may want to think about providing special offers or incentives to encourage people to purchase your artwork. This could involve offering a discount or a limited edition print to those who make a purchase. By doing so, you can create a sense of exclusivity and urgency that may entice potential buyers to take action.

Additionally, running promotions or giveaways on social media can be a great way to attract new customers and generate buzz around your artwork.

In summary, the reason why a piece of art may not sell is not necessarily because it's not good enough, but rather because the right person hasn't seen it yet.

By identifying your target audience and actively promoting your work to them, you increase your chances of making sales and building a loyal fan base.

Creating art that sells takes time, effort, and patience. Understanding the art market, building your brand as an artist, pricing your artwork, selling your art online, and working with art galleries are all important aspects of selling your art.

Last but not least, keep in mind to stay true to yourself and your artistic vision. Don't create art just to make a profit, create art that you love and that speaks to you. With dedication and perseverance, you can create a successful career as an artist.