Marketing Yourself
 Do’s and Don’ts
It is the editorial objective of SellArtSmart to help artists like you sell more art. Just how does an artist go about marketing himself or herself too your fullest potential. Following these suggestions will not only lead to personal success, it will make it easier for us to help you.
  • Project a positive and upbeat attitude at all times.
  • Keep a guest book to accumulate names and addresses for your email or mailing list.
  • Mail or email a personalized flyer to your customers with a list of your upcoming shows.
  • Be flexible and accommodating to your customers.
  • Keep your promises with respect to delivery dates, etc.
  • Market yourself. You are your own best salesperson.
  • Keep your resume updated and always be working to create new and exciting works.
  • If you are presenting at a gallery show or event, greet your customers with a friendly smile – but give them space to browse.
  • Display your name and prices.
  • Proudly present your bio and business cards.
  • Pay special attention to your framing, the perfect frame can make the art sale easier.
  • Maintain high-resolution images of your available works. Use a digital camera to capture then store images which may then be e-mailed to prospects and dealers.
  • Take pride in your personal appearance. Dress for success!
  • Maintain your studio or gallery. Keep your space clean and neat so there is no distraction from your work.
  • When someone shows an interest in your work offer any inspirations or background on the image / sculpture. This creates a personal bond between the patron, the work and you. The story sells the art, the story is the sizzle for the steak.
  • Take responsibility for your own success, art exchange guarantees you exposure to the important buying segments, but cannot guarantee sales. Selling activity leads to sales. Exposure preceeds sales. Our job is to bring buying eyeballs to your works.

Now for a few don'ts ... 

  • Don't fail to get your customers' addresses for your mailing list.
  • Don't hold back, put yourself out there.
  • Don't ignore the customers who are viewing your works.
  • Don't pre-determine your customers' buying capabilities based on their appearance.
  • Don't skip the shower or wear the same clothes you wore at set up.
  • Don't smoke cigars or cigarettes in the presence of your customers.
  • Don't be inflexible when it comes to your customers' satisfaction. It can hurt future sales.
  • Don't let your artwork and booth become stale, outdated and boring.
  • Don't project a negative attitude towards customers and fellow artists.