I’m really interested in continuing to develop our community platform and content to help members achieve greater success. However, we may all define our personal success a little differently.
We want to understand what 'success' means for visual artists. Is it financial stability? Recognition? The ability to continuously create?
Regardless, of how you ultimately define success for you, I thought it would be helpful to do a little thinking and share some thoughts about some of the factors that contribute to your success as a visual artist.
Artistic Branding:
Development of your unique Voice & Style: The essence of the artist's work comes down to your voice and your style; sometimes we refer to this as the artist's signature.
Portfolio Development: it is important to have a strong, curated portfolio. Developing your portfolio will help communicate to your audience more about the essence of your work and track them to you.
Online Presence:
Your online presence will most likely have a significant impact on your success in selling your work and gaining more recognition.
Your Website: An artist’s own domain showcasing your portfolio, biography, exhibitions, and contact information.
Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and TikTok can be vital for visual artists to gain exposure and build a following.
Monetization Strategies:
I think it’s important to consider your various strategies to monetize in your work. Since most artists need to earn some income from their time spent on their work, it’s worthwhile thinking about what avenues you might consider to monetize your creations.
Prints & Merchandise: Selling prints, t-shirts, and other merchandise.
Patreon & Crowdfunding: Platforms for fans to support artists directly.
Workshops & Tutorials: Share knowledge with budding artists as a way to help fund your own work.
Networking:
Building an audience for your work that can include others from the creator world, as well as buyers, requires connecting with your audience.
Gallery Openings and art Shows are great ways to network: so get out and attend and participate.
Art Residencies can be challenging to get, but they provide amazing opportunities to work in a new environment and network.
Online Communities: Forums, Facebook groups, and platforms like DiviantAry, and of course the Global Artists Atelier.
Business Skills:
Pricing Artwork: Understand market rates and the value of your work.
Contracts & Negotiation: For commissions, gallery representations, etc.
Budgeting & Financial Planning: Managing finances to ensure sustainability.
Continuing Education & Professional Development:
Art Workshops & Classes: To refine and develop new skills.
Industry Trends: Stay updated on the latest in art techniques, tools, and technologies.
Mental Health & Wellness:
Recognize the challenges faced by artists, such as rejection or creative block.
Techniques to deal with stress and promote well-being.
Diversification:
Collaborations: Work with other artists or brands.
Mural Projects & Public Art: Opportunities for larger-scale work and recognition.
Feedback & Adaptation:
Constructive Criticism: Understand the value of feedback. (This is one of the areas that we really want to develop within our Atelier.)
Adaptability: The art world and market can change; flexibility is key.
I hope that these quick reference points are stimulating your thinking a little bit about how you are approaching achieving your success on your terms.
Comments