Monday, December 10, 2007

Notes on Self-Promotion


"Serenity" - Courtesy of Island Art Publishers and Andy Everson - Canadian Artist

Many artists find self-promotion difficult, yet today this can be a necessary part of the job to let people know that you and your work exist in a world flooded with imagery of all types and qualities.

Again, some very basic logic applies:
  • You cannot be all things to all people - have you assessed where your work fits and narrowed your promotion to the websites, galleries, publishers, retail outlets, shows etc. that are the best fit for you. Example: If you specialize in Equestrian Art - would you want to advertise in a publication that is solely for lovers of fine wine? Unless there is a definite correlation that you can identify - you need to narrow your focus.
  • Self-promotion is no more than telling people what you do. When you find the areas of focus -don't be bashful, but don't feel you need to do more than let people know who you are and what you do.
  • Be yourself! One of the worst things you can do is try to copy other artist's approach. The most important thing about you is that you are unique! So just be yourself and let that and your art speak.
  • Lastly in this little logic grouping is to be consistent. When you have found a focus - just keep the message going. People don't always notice when you talk the first time - or even the second or third - but they do notice when you are consistent. One example: When I owned a gallery a few years ago and was accepting artist submissions, I often came across a good artist but did not have time or space to include them at the time. The ones that kept coming back or kept in contact and let me know what they were up to were inevitably at least granted an opportunity to meet and discuss the work if not invited to show.

Keep up the great work - all of you!

2 comments:

Sue Smith said...

Hi Myron,
After reading your wonderful blog I am amazed that Barney put my name in the same post title with yours, as I have not been blogging very long. You offer a wealth of information, and I look forward to reading your posts regularly.
Best regards,
Sue

Myron D. Arndt said...

Hi Sue, Thank you for your comment, and welcome to the blogosphere! Don't worry about the short time blogging - a great blog is about the content and having read yours recently - I think many artists will be appreciative of the experience and information you provide. That is what is so great about the communication in this form is that it brings together such varied and valuable points of view, tips and well earned experience. I particularly applaud your comment about "treating yourself as a professional" and I hope many more artists take that to heart. Kudos.

Myron