MARKETING 101: SELLING IN AN ART MARKET

BY CAITLIN CHAVEZ

thumbnail

Art markets are a growing source of income for artists so it’s an option you can take to promote your creative works, as well as merchandise for your creative projects. Here are some tips on how to get in them and sell your work.

 

Before anything, be sure to do your research and pick art markets that will best benefit you. There are multiple things that you should consider before committing to an event. Make sure the organizers are transparent with their information and realistic with their promises. Proper communication is also important but also look up how other people feel about the organizers, scouring for negative reviews.

 

Organizers often aim to rotate artists and bring newcomers into the scene every once in a while. This is where you can present yourself through short business descriptions detailing your brand and your goods to sell. While the descriptions have to be brief, it’s important to be as articulate as possible about why you want to share your creations to the world. It’s not recommended to be vague or leave things unexplained. In order to promote your socials, be correct in the handle you present and include other links to your shop or site. You should avoid sharing personal accounts or accounts that purchase followers. As much as possible, the socials you give must be active and you should post evidence that you created your products.

 

Due to the rising popularity of sticker and print selling, organizers seek out other products to diversify the markets. Depending on the event, the chances of getting shortlisted can dwindle if you sell other merchandise such as clothing, electronics, hardware, etc.

 

When selling, it’s important to know multiple factors that can increase your sales. 

 

First is to keep in mind the presentation of your booth. Arrange your art in a way that your best pieces are hard to ignore when people pass by your booth. Decorations that help frame your art also help. It’s also advisable to keep your merchandise properly packed in order to ensure the best quality for your customers to be attracted to.

 

Second is to keep in mind how you look to your customers. People are conscious about interrupting you so be sure to be on the lookout and as much as possible, don’t eat in the booth if you can help it. Be polite and friendly— even engage in a conversation if you could but don’t overstay their welcome, especially if they are friends or family or you could lose customers. An air of professionality is also preferred and remains understanding to your customers.

 

Finally, you have to make sure that you are accessible to others after the event, which is why business cards are recommended so your customers know how to keep in touch with you and look for you for future opportunities. You can even use your socials to shout out people who purchased from you to thank them. 

 

This is a golden opportunity for you to not only make an income but connect with other artists and the communities around you so it’s important to find the right one and being vigilant.

References

Format Team. (2024). Top Tips For Successful Sales at Local Art Markets. FORMAT. https://www.format.com/magazine/resources/art/successful-sales-art-markets

Simianer, P. (2016). 13 Do’s and Don’ts to Stand Out at an Art Fair. Artwork Archive. https://www.artworkarchive.com/blog/13-do-s-and-don-ts-to-stand-out-at-an-art-fair

Shotwell, M. (2023). Navigating Art Markets: Identifying Red Flags, Selecting the Best Fit, and Avoiding Pitfalls. Cultivate . https://www.cultivategrandrapids.org/post/navigating-art-markets-identifying-red-flags-selecting-the-best-fit-and-avoiding-pitfalls



Website developed by Caitlin Chavez in WordPress

Copyright 2024