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Pursuing a creative career as a professional artist is not just about creating one artwork after the other. It also requires you to present those artworks and sell them to actually make a living out of your career. For most artists, selling their artwork is a much harder task than creating one. While solo exhibitions can be a dream come true for anyone in this regard, they are not the most feasible option for everyone.
Organizing solo exhibitions is not only expensive, but you also won’t get any satisfactory results if you have not already established an identity for yourself in your field. Hence, if you have just started out, it can be a real hassle trying to figure out the right ways to present your artwork to an audience.
Understanding this struggle, we have brought to you this guide that can help beginners present their artwork and eventually lay the foundation for a successful artistic career.
Create a Social Media Presence
If you are trying to present and sell your artwork, then it has become a business and it must be treated like one. In this digital era, social media has become a better marketplace than your traditional markets out there and it can also be your starting point. Especially if you are on a tight budget, it can be a cost-effective solution to your problems.
Research different social media platforms to find out where your target audience is most active and set up a social media account there. Use relevant social media marketing techniques like a combination of appropriate keywords, hashtags, live streaming, etc. to build your follower base and eventually your business.
Participate in Art Competitions
Art competition shows are one of the most convenient ways to present your art to a community of relevant art enthusiasts and experts in your sector. Most of these competitions charge a nominal fee for you to enter your artwork, but the exposure that you can get from these shows is unmatchable. If done right, it can help you catch the attention of media and critics alike, and build an identity for yourself.
You can find various such competitions that are held both online and offline. If you don’t find it feasible to ship your artwork for offline contests, look for virtual shows that don't require your physical presence.
Build Your Own Website
Your website acts like your digital representative every time you choose to present your artwork. Even for a lot of solo exhibitions, art fairs, and sometimes even for art competition shows, a personal website is a mandate. Sometimes the jury and the organizers want you to have a personal website because it affirms to them that you are serious about your work.
You can also use the website to display your artwork, talk about your art, sell your artwork, and create a better online presence overall. With some effort, you can also start your own blog and improve your visibility online.
Set a Viewing at Home
If you do not have a lot of resources to expend, feel free to set up a private viewing at your house. For starters, you can invite your friends, relatives, and any other professionals from your field that you are in contact with. Hang some of the works on walls if it goes well, or you can also set easels to display your art. You can decide to just keep it up for viewing or put it on sale if you want.
These friends and relatives, even if they don’t buy your work, can help you spread the word. They can be proof of the quality of your work and the process if you ever need a reference in the future. All of this can mean better leads for you to enter the market and establish your identity.
Leverage Local Resources
Most of us start small to be able to create a bigger picture for the future. If you can’t yet afford solo exhibitions or approaching big galleries to display your work, approach local restaurants, markets, and galleries in your area. You can request them to display your work and also negotiate on some commission accordingly. It not only prevents you the shipping charges, but even art buyers find it easier to trust local artists and come back to them for more purchases in the future.
It Can Be Daunting but Not Impossible
It can be an overwhelming step for any artist to put their work out in the open. It opens it for reviews, criticisms, comments, and suggestions that may or may not always be welcome. However, it is always the first step that is the scariest. Once people start recognizing your artwork and you establish your unique identity, it will all feel worth it. All you need is some commitment and consistency to sail through.
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