My Best Advice for artists that has nothing to do with making art...

If you’re a true introvert, take a deep breath and prep yourself…

I’ve had the privilege of making/selling my art for almost 10 years now. I’ve been through quite a few life events since starting my art journey and have learned what works for my art practice. While I have advice I could share about making art and what helps me, I want to share one of the best things I’ve found that has nothing to do with the actual art process.

Connect and network with others.

Wow.

Profound.

But let me tell you, when I was a bright-eyed, freshly graduated artist, I did not want to network. I mean, the word ‘network’ conjures up ideas of schmoozy salesmen.

Photo by Makers Collective

So how do I mean network? What does that look like?

Obviously, you can go to those networking events for entrepreneurs or pass your business card on when you meet someone and they ‘ask what do you do?’ (BTW I do recommend you get a business card if you want to sell your art) But here are a couple of places to network and connect that you may not think of at first. And for you introverts who are still going 😬, it goes from most extroverted to least:

• Attending other artist events

  • Not only are you supporting other artists and building camaraderie, but you also get the chance to meet others who like and support art

  • On the flip side, don’t go to events just to poach others. Read the room! But go and strike up a conversation with another observer. You may learn something.

• Your Local Hotspots

  • THIS happens to be my favorite little secret. Build connections with local haunts that you frequent and support yourself. You go to that little deli around the corner often? Maybe they would let you hang your art on their walls for a month. You love this one local coffee shop? Maybe the owner would let you have a pop up sale - buy an art print and grab a coffee - 2 great things in one place

  • You would be surprised how much this has opened doors for me. Just a simple smile, getting to know the people behind the counter is huge. Most local places love the opportunity to feature local artists. You never know until you ask.

  • Another BIG tip - not every place is going to fit your vibe. For me, a coffee shop is actually a great fit for my work. I don’t think my snarky work would fit in a yoga studio or a bike shop.

  • On the flip side, don’t build a relationship just to get a chance to share your art, then abandon it. Keep up the relationship as much as you can.

• Social Media

  • Ah, the easiest one right at our fingertips! Even if you don’t have a separate art page, get on social media and engage with other artists, galleries, and their posts. Social media experts will give different estimates on how often/how much you should engage. For me, I love sharing artwork that I find on my Instagram story (so I can find it later in my archives) or commenting on artwork that speaks to me. Ultimately, I think it’s up to you.

    • If you do want to sell you art, I do recommend you get a professional, separate page that focuses more on your art than you, but that’s a bonus tip

I hope this helps if you’re looking for ways to get your art out in the world. It may not happen right away, but keep trying. And if you see me out in the world, network with me!

If you have any questions or if you can think of any other places to connect with others - let me know!