I've been creating small 'folk art' characters, and would like to extend
into larger pieces, not only of the characters ... but also pieces of more
abstract nature, and would like some advice and suggestions on how to get
started approaching areas such as parks, zoos, etc.?
If you're unknown in this field ... what's the best way to get started?
Would it be good to 'donate' a piece first ... to have my name out there? If
you're a new and upcoming sculpture artist, what's the best way to work your
way into 'being' known?
I appreciate all comments ..... Thanks!
Dee
Hard Graft ... Thick skin ... a portfolio of the work you are trying to sell
them ..... not being put off by disappointments and being turned down .....
faith in yourself and your work ... and take a leaf from the script writer
and have a 1 line sales pitch that best describes what you are trying to do
..... these people don't often have much time (too busy trying to screw
their secretaries ..... or playing golf ... or business lunches that last 4
hours) ..... so if you have something to sell them ... wrap it up in a
simple neat package ... approach them with it ...... and you will be turned
away 100 times ... don't lose heart ...... just approach 100 more.
Hi Dee,
I agree with everything said above. I actually have a folder of all
my rejection letters... not to wallow in my pity, but to grin and
laugh when I become world-renowned and art magazines are interviewing
me... I'll pull out the huge file and mention all the galleries and
cities that didn't have to foresight to buy my work when it was cheap!
I wouldn't give away ANY of your work! Don't go down the path that I
refer to as "the carrot syndrome"... everyone in the art world wants
you to donate (aka: give away!!) your hard work to them with the
promise that you'll get seen and sell tons of art because of it.
Have confidence in your artistic vision. Price your work as if it's
WORTH SOMETHING, because it is.
I read somewhere once, and I believe it, that new artists should be
spending 90% of their time marketing themselves... most of them spend
closer to 10% or less on that all-important aspect of art.
One thing you can do is find a place to put your art where it can be
seen. If you're not in a gallery, put it out in your own yard... if
your yard can't be seen by people, put it in a friend's yard or even a
rich stranger's yard where their wealthy neighbors can see it. If
it's an indoor piece, find an empty store front window and ask the
building owner if you can place your art in their window so it
generates interest in their empty building (but don't forget to
include your contact information!
Be creative. Have a web site. Listen to everyone's advice and then
use your own common sense as to what will work for you.
Geeze... *I* should do some of this stuff.. but I'm too lazy.
Hope it helps,
James Kelsey, Seattle, Washington, USA, Earth