“Brand identity for your business provides an opportunity to create distinction, making your story one-of-a-kind. The beauty of branding is that it gives you the power to create the perception to create an impression for your target audience that is unique and classy.” Branding is an often overlooked element of running an art business, yet successful branding can be a huge leg-up for the success of your artistic career. Branding is made up of who you are and what you do. It is putting your best foot forward through media, design, and content to best represent yourself as an artist. If you are an artist trying to sell your work, you already have a brand whether you know it or not. Bringing mindfulness to your branding strategy can help you strengthen your brand and make it work for you. This article will explore what branding for artists is, why branding is so important, and the 5 top benefits of branding. What is Branding for Artists?Branding for Artists is the process of using media, design, and content to create a recognizable brand for your art business. Branding as an artist helps you to encourage more engagement and long-term loyalty with your audience. Branding is not just a logo, colors, and font, it should be an integrated part of everything you do for your business. Successful artists have honed their skills and developed their techniques to create artwork that is unique to them. As an artist, this is part of your brand. Think about times when you’ve walked into a gallery, saw a painting from across the room, and said, “oh there's a piece by so-and-so.” That artist has created a style of work that is their own. With branding, we take this approach to your website and content as well. Think about the following well-known brands: Wal-Mart and Dior. Each of those names immediately brings a picture to your mind, and one brand immediately makes you think “cheap/ low-quality” and the other makes you think “valuable/ high-end.” That is the result of branding. The longer a business is around the more impactful a good brand can be. If you always provide high-quality products and great customer service your brand will become stronger because people will begin associating these things with your brand. In the end, successful branding is when our mission, beliefs, purpose, personality, content/imagery, and products all align with the same message. As you can imagine, banding can have a powerful impact on the minds of consumers and collectors. When working on branding for artists keep in mind the following 4 steps in creating your brand:
A strong brand can help you to stand out from the crowd and become more visible and recognizable in your field.
Suggested for you- The Complete Guide to Creating an Artist Newsletter Why branding is so important?Branding is important because it helps you to build your reputation and identity as an artist. A cohesive and consistent brand becomes more recognizable and helps the right audience connect with you. A consistent brand also helps you create trust and loyalty with your current followers and collectors. For artists, branding can be another fun way to express your creativity and help set you apart from the crowd. Here are 5 top benefits of Branding as an artist: 1. Establishing identity: As an artist, branding allows you to establish your own identity in the market. This is essential for you if you want to be successful in your art career. Think of the Wal-Mart and Dior example above. What do you want people to think of when they think of your business? 2. Making a profit: As your work becomes more recognizable you have more opportunities to sell your work. Branding can help you achieve this goal by increasing your visibility and recognizability among potential clients or customers. 3. Building trust: Branding allows you to establish trust with your fans and collectors, as it signifies that you are serious about the business side of your career. No one wants to do business with someone who doesn’t run their business well, ignores deadlines, or doesn’t communicate. A solid brand shows that you’ve put in the work and taken your career seriously. In other words, you look professional. 4. Acquiring reputation: Brands can become known for quality products and services, which means that you can build up a reputable brand that will provide clients with high-quality work. This is important as it demonstrates that you care about your work and strive to meet the standards set by your brand. 5. Differentiating yourself: Branding allows you to be different from others in your field by having a distinctive style or look. This allows you to stand out and develop a unique style, distinguishing you from other similar artists. Remember, your actual artwork comes into play here as well. Your artwork should be uniquely yours- that is part of your artist brand. Wrapping UpBranding for Artists is a valuable asset to help you achieve success in artists career and stay strong in the art market. Branding is a way to create an identity and connection with a market and identify oneself. It also builds trust and reputation. If you want to showcase yourself as a unique artist to your fans and followers you must have your own brand that reflects your style. (Remember you already have a brand, you just may not be tending to it mindfully.) Having a unique brand helps you to stand out from the other artists in the crowd, builds trust in your clients, and earns a reputation in the field. This article has provided you with an overview of the importance of branding for artists. What questions do you have about branding for artists?
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If you're like so many artists at this time of year, you are exhausted. You have shows, deadlines, and Christmas commissions all piling up, and your long days just leave you feeling like you are barely staying afloat. Hey, it happens to most of us, and sometimes it just can't be avoided. When you find yourself wildly busy make sure to keep yourself well-nourished.
Recommended for you- Nourishing Your Body When You Are Busy Here are 5 quick tips from Haley Cox, RD, LDN, and co-founder of Beloved.
Remember to take care of yourself. A body and brain that is rested can accomplish a lot more a lot faster than a body and brain that is overworked and under-rested. Also Read- Productivity Boosting Hot Cocoa Recipe Why is bookkeeping needed for artists?
Do you keep a record of the income and expenses of your art business? A good bookkeeping system helps you to do that. As an artist, you need to keep track of how much you earn by selling your artwork and how much you spend on supplies, equipment, materials, etc. Bookkeeping is a process of organizing, categorizing, and recording financial transactions. This is essential for any business; the arts are no different from any other industry when it comes to accounting needs.
There are two ways to handle your bookkeeping. One way is to hire a bookkeeper or accountant. They can help you understand how much money you are making from your art and how much expenses are getting in the way of your profits. Depending on the type of person you hire, they may also be able to help you set up bank accounts and pay your taxes. This makes it easier for you to focus on your art without taking time away to work on your books. Having an accountant can be great for the bottom line of any artistic venture. Artists excel at the creative process, but can often feel bogged down and frustrated with the business side of things like bookkeeping. This is one of the easiest business tasks to outsource. An accountant or bookkeeper handles all of that while allowing you to focus on what you do best- creating art. Another way to handle your bookkeeping is to do it yourself, but you should understand how you can do it efficiently. Don’t worry! In this article, we will share some bookkeeping tips and tricks for artists that will help you to do this efficiently, and make the experience less frustrating. Top 7 bookkeeping tips and tricks for artists
The art industry is a difficult field for bookkeeping. It's difficult to keep track of all the pieces, time, and money involved in creating a piece of art. With these 7 tips, you'll be able to better manage your finances as an artist. Bookkeeping is one of the most important aspects of running a successful business. The following are some of the top 6 bookkeeping tips for artists:
1. Keep an eye on your cash flow:
This will help you determine how much profit you're making on each piece you sell. This includes amounts paid for your artwork, prizes, awards, fellowships, and endowments. When you buy anything related to your artwork, always keep a receipt for it. Anything like bills, invoices, check stubs, EFT transfer backup, etc. is important to keep on file in case you are ever audited. Keep a record of your income and expenses in a spreadsheet, this helps you to learn whether your business is in a loss or gain state in that particular month or the year. You should also keep track of your other expenses like
2. Organize your tasks:Don’t let your bookkeeping strategy turn into the junk drawer version of your business. Staying organized ensures you are able to find the information you need, make important calculations to see where your business stands and file your taxes with more efficiency. You may want to organize by tasks, which helps you to keep track of transactions associated with each task. You can also sort each element into monthly and quarterly reports. 3. Track your time:Tracking your time can be very insightful. It can help you calculate how much a piece of art should cost, or even teach you that you need to learn to work faster. If you want to do a thorough time/cost analysis make sure to list all your tasks and the time to be spent on each task. This can help give you an overview of where you are spending time and which of those things is most and least profitable. As an artist, you want to spend more time on your art creation. But, you also want to be strategic and ensure you are putting time into avenues that produce income. If any (unnecessary) task doesn’t give you any income do not waste your valuable time on that, instead, you can invest in other important work. 4. Track your materials:This will help you figure out what materials are costing the most money and what types of materials are worth investing in more heavily (i.e., cheaper or more expensive). Some of this depends on where you are in your art career, and what you are able to afford in that phase. If you feel buying a material that is expensive yet helpful for your art business growth then you can buy it. If it isn’t helpful to your business, do not waste your hard-earned money. 5. Keep track of inventory:You want to ensure that when someone orders artwork from you, they get it within a reasonable amount of time so they don't feel like they're waiting forever for their purchase to arrive. You should know which art piece is sold, which one is left with you, and which pieces are with a gallery or exhibition. 6. Open a Business AccountIt is always a better idea to maintain business and personal bank accounts separately. Opening a business bank account helps in many ways:
7. Seek help from a professional accountant:Businesses are undergoing significant changes in the modern era. There is a need for qualified accountants to help with the management of all day-to-day transactions and finances. From income tax filing to building budgets, a qualified accountant can be an invaluable resource for any business owner. Having an accountant on your side will make it easier to set up bank accounts, pay taxes, and more. Note that a “bookkeeper” may be able to help you with some tax-related forms, but cannot file taxes. For tax filing and tax advice, you need to work with an accountant. What are the best tools for Bookkeeping? How to choose the right tool!
There are plenty of tools or apps for bookkeeping. However, you need to choose them according to your needs and abilities. Consider the following points while choosing a tool:
Top 5 best free bookkeeping toolsThis list is based on “Best Free Accounting Software (2022)” by Forbes 1. NCH Software (for Financial analysis) 2. ZipBooks (for invoicing) 3. Sunrise (profit and loss statements) 4. Truly small invoices (for freelancers) 5. Wave accounting (best for ease of access) Whether your art business is small or large you must adopt bookkeeping habits so that you can adequately track important financial information with efficiency. Bookkeeping plays an important role in helping you make financially sound decisions to grow your business. Share your thoughts about bookkeeping! What’s working for you? Share your suggestions for bookkeeping tools in the comments section! Introduction
Like any other industry, the art business is also affected by scammers, and there are many scams targeting artists. As an artist, you must be aware of those scams and know how to recognize and stop them, so that you don’t lose your hard-earned money or artwork. Art Scams may occur through email, social media, job sites, and other websites. In this blog, we discuss some of the scams targeting artists and tips to recognize and stop art scams.
Types of Scams Targeting artistsOverpayment ScamsThis is the most common scam that every artist comes across. In this scam, you may receive an email from a person who says his wife loved your artwork and he wants to purchase your art immediately by paying the amount through a check or money order and gift his wife for her birthday. He may say that he has made an extra payment and ask you to send that money back. After a few days, the check bounces. As a result, you lose your valuable artwork and also your hard-earned money. Unpaid Internship or Hiring ScamsThis is a common scam, where “employers” post their unpaid job requirements on job portals, social media, newspapers, and even on tv or radio. They post their needs as legitimate employers and require you to create or provide previous artwork free of cost. They utilize your art and say you will get exposure. Sometimes scammers may ask you to create a design or artwork just for test purposes. Once you submit your artwork they reply by saying that they will let you know if you are shortlisted. However, they may go on to use your work without notifying or compensating you. *A note on internships and donations: While some internships and exposure opportunities can be valid, especially for causes you support, it is important that you know your business and the direction you want to go with your business to ensure that you don’t get taken advantage of. When you are first getting started or studying art in school, internship opportunities may be good for you to learn skills, gain connections, and sometimes add to your CV. Once you are running your business you need to be very particular about offering your work and time for free or at a reduced price. In some instances, like charity events and causes you are passionate about, it can make sense to donate work or time to support a good cause and gain connections. But remember “exposure” doesn’t pay your bills. Take time to consider all aspects of the “opportunity,” your business plans, and your goals for the year, to decide if it is a good fit for you. Social Media ScamSome people create fake social media accounts and comment or DM artists messages like, “If you are an artist you can be featured on our social media and get exposure. DM @___” If you contact them, they will reply that to be featured you need to pay some amount. Their interest is not in helping artists, but in collecting fees from them. These accounts are not targeted to a specific type of art and therefore not a good way to reach your target audience. Sometimes social media scammers may hack your account or take all your content and create duplicate fake profiles. The main goal of this scam is to get information like passwords or to try and get money from your followers and friends. According to Facebook’s 2022 data, there are 1.6 billion fake accounts. Gallery and Art Fair ScamIn a Gallery scam, the scammer will contact an artist and offer to represent them in their gallery, selling their artwork for a commission. These types of galleries overblow their reputation and charge artists to exhibit work. They make most of their money on artists’ fees, often exhibiting lower-quality work. Showing in a gallery like this will not build your reputation, and the gallery is unlikely to sell your work. These types of galleries have not built up a clientele interested in purchasing high-quality art, and since they aren’t particular about what they exhibit, they don’t have a reputation that brings in collectors. Another scam is for new online art galleries, selling platforms, or an art fair to send a message through social media or email like “New XYZ art gallery is opening soon, please register for the show by paying $_ _. If you pay them after a few days they may disappear. If you ask them, they may send a message like an event/gallery expo has been cancelled. This is shocking, yet, this is also a way scammers fool unaware or desperate artists. Here’s an example of an art gallery scam.
Image 1.1
Image 1.2
NOTE: In the above images, the names of the gallery and artist have been changed to protect personal information. Any resemblance to a real gallery is just a coincidence.
In Image 1.1 you can see the spamming nature of this gallery. Image 2.2. shows the scammer trying to get the artist to pay a fee to have their work published in a book. The importance of the gallery and the book is overblown. Also, note that the nature of the book is totally unrelated to the western artist who received this email.
Phishing scams
In this type of scam, the attacker or scammers may send text or email messages to steal your confidential information. They may try to get personal information like a contact number, address, account passwords, and bank account details by tricking you to click a link or downloading an attachment. Scammers may send an email or text message by using reputed company names or bank names. NEVER click on a suspicious link. They may use your credentials and steal your artwork. Companies like Facebook, will not contact you in this way.
Here is the example:
How to recognize & stop art scams?
Art scams are usually easy to recognize. Here are some of the clues for recognizing art scams.
Unregistered CompanyYou may be in a hurry to get into a gallery, get exposure, and sell your work. Scammers try to take advantage of this desperation, knowing that desperate people ignore red flags. They post fake opportunities with fake company names and without any contact information. Always do research on the company and its location before accepting an opportunity. If the company is legitimate it should have:
Fake Name & Email AddressScammers will not use their real names instead they use very suspicious names and email addresses. If an email address has an unusual name, uses a name similar to another organization, or lacks a domain-based name, it is a strong indication of a scam. Always check the name and email address of the person who is trying to scam you. Typically with organizations, you can search an email address and more information about that organization or person will come up. Online ReputationIf a social media account doesn’t have many followers, or if it has thousands of followers, but very little engagement, it could be a sign that this account is not to be trusted. Grammatical Errors in the EmailYou may notice there might be too many grammatical errors in the email or any content sent by spammers. This is a major warning sign of a scam. However, there are cases where a legitimate email does grammatical errors. For example, if the sender is not a native English Speaker. But, you have to be very careful with emails like this. Often you can copy the email or portions of the email and search in google. This may show you if it is associated with a common scam. If it doesn’t show up it could still be a scam. Pay attention to the contents of the email as well. Does it seem odd, or unnatural (too much background information, but otherwise overly general.) High Pressure and/or SpammingScammers often try to pressure you into an immediate decision or action. They may offer short answers, diminish your concerns, and say that you have limited time to respond. They may also spam your account by sending tons of emails or using fake social media accounts to comment on your content and then direct you to the main account. This is a way the main account avoids spam complaints to Instagram. Unrelated or Lacking Knowledge of Your WorkScammers often use general terms when referring to your art, this allows them to send the same message over and over to a variety of artists no matter what type of artist they are. The opportunities scammers are promoting may be oddly unrelated to your work. In the example email above the book the scammer was trying to get the artist to pay to be in, was Leonardo da Vinci, but the artist is a contemporary western artist. Finally, a scammer will say things that make you think they haven’t even looked at your work (that’s because they really haven’t). Vanity Art gallery or Art FairsDid you get an invitation to show your works in any Art galleries or art fairs that do not have a physical address? If you receive such an invitation, always check for a physical address. If they do not mention the location of the exhibition that is a red flag. Do a quick google search to see if the gallery has a website and location. If it exists see if it has any reviews, both on google and social media accounts.
Image 1.3
NOTE: In the above image, the name of the gallery has been changed to protect personal information. Any resemblance to a real gallery is just a coincidence.
In Image 1.1 & image 1.2, we have shown emails from a scammer Gallery and in Image 1.3 we can see that there are no reviews for the Gallery in Google. That shows the gallery is not popular and trying to profit off of unsuspecting artists.
Check Payment/Money orderIf the customer or art-selling platform sends a payment through check/money order, it is a sign of a scam. It is good practice to never ever accept check payments from any customer. If you do accept checks, wait for the payment to clear before providing any artwork. It is better to accept Paypal, Venmo, square, or other forms of payment processing. Fake Social Media AccountsConstantly monitor social media platforms for any attempts of impersonation by creating a fake social media account. Always verify your business profile, it helps you to grow your art business in an organic way. Include social media links on your website. So that customers can easily navigate to your social media accounts. Trust Your GutYour intuition is a great resource. If something seems off, even if you can’t quite place why it is a good idea to slow down and do a little research or even ask for advice. Scammers are finding more and more ways to try and take advantage of people. They typically prey on desperate people because they know that desperate people ignore red flags, and don’t take their time to do research. If something seems “off” or “too good to be true” it most likely is. Proceed with caution. Protect YourselfOne of the best things you can do is set up solid and reliable systems for accepting orders and commissions and taking payments. Take time to set your policies, and then refer back to them when you feel something might not be right. If someone is not respectful of your policies or tries to force you into something that feels uncomfortable to you that is a major red flag. Have you undergone any scams? Do share your experience and ideas to stop art scams in the comments below. Top 5 Benefits of an Artist Newsletter
An artist newsletter is a great way to stay in touch with your fans and followers, share new artwork and build a loyal fan base. The newsletter is the best way to keep artists updated with new work, ideas, and inspiration. It also helps to market your work to potential clients, and stay in touch with clients you already have.
In this article, we will talk about the 5 benefits of an artist newsletter.
Also read- Time Management for Artists' Performance and Productivity 10 Incredible Newsletter Ideas for Artists
A newsletter helps to keep your audience engaged and promote your latest work. The key to writing an engaging artist newsletter is to provide value for the reader.
Here are 10 Incredible Newsletter Ideas for Artists to grow their art business.
Click here to reveal 5 most important ideas for creating an Artist Newsletter ConclusionThe Artist Newsletter is a great tool for artists to use in order to promote their work. It helps their audience know about upcoming events and will help artists gain more exposure. The newsletter is also a great way to connect with your followers on a deeper level. Additionally, you own and control your newsletter, unlike social media which is constantly changing. Newsletters should be well designed, well written, and sent out on a consistent basis. Once a month or once a quarter can work well for artists, though some industries send out weekly newsletters with great success. You want to be consistent and engaging, without overwhelming your subscribers. Your newsletter could be interactive and it should also include your artist social media links and website links. This will make things easier for people who may not have the time to go through all of your old posts. Success as an artist takes a mixture of approaches, and your newsletter can be a valuable tool that helps bring your art to life while building relationships and showcasing what you're up to as an artist. What do you find most challenging about having a newsletter? Please share your thoughts in the below comment box. What is Wild Flowers Art Show?
Wild Flowers Art Show is the first annual juried show by Cowgirl Artists of America in connection with Western Gallery which showcases some of the world’s finest works of western art created by today’s cowgirl artists.
Who are the Jurors for the Art Show?
We are grateful to announce that there are three great Jurors for the Art Show. They are: 1. Mark Sublette (Medicine Man Gallery)
Dr. Mark Sublette is the founder (1992) of Medicine Man Gallery based in Tucson, Arizona. He is a sought-after speaker on Western and Native art, a creator of various catalogs within the field, and a specialist on the craftsmanship of Maynard Dixon. 2. Lisa Staudohar (Art of the West Magazine) Lisa Staudohar is a sales and business development executive at the art of the West magazine. She is a creative problem solver, expert relationship builder, and strong strategist. Staudohar works hard to build relationships with the movers and shakers in the western art world. Click here to learn more about Lisa Staudohar. 3. Diana Vela (National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame) Diana Vela is an Associate Executive Director at the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. We are proud to know that the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame respects and celebrates women, past and present, whose lives exemplify the courage, resilience, and independence that helped shape the West, and fosters an appreciation of the ideals and spirit of self-reliance they inspire. Important Dates for Wild Flowers Art Show
Application Deadline: September 15, 2022
All application materials must be submitted by Thursday, September 15. Fees will not be refunded for incomplete applications. Jury Process: November 1-15 Acceptance Notifications: December 1 Acceptance status will be sent to all applicants. Show and Sale: February 2023 The show will be live online, with work for sale, beginning February 1, 2023. The sale will close on February 28th, 2023, and the show will be archived. How & When to register for the Wild Flowers Show?
egistration for our current open call for our Wild Flowers Art Show is currently open through September 15, 2022.
You can apply using the form at cowgirlartistsofamerica.org/wildflowers What is the price for applying?
It is $35 (non-member) $25 (Members). This fee will not be refunded for incomplete applications, so make sure to complete your application by September 15th.
What is the eligibility for the Wild Flowers Art Show application?
Emerging and mid-career artists of the age of 18+ are invited to participate in the “Wild Flowers Show”. Wild Flowers is open to non-CGA members. International applications are accepted, but international applicants must be a member of the Cowgirl Artists of America (CGA). Art categories accepted include Drawing, Painting, Photography, and Mixed Media.
Benefits of applying for the Juried Art Show?
Got questions about the ‘Wild Flowers Annual Art Show’ please contact us.
Time management is a very important aspect of being a business owner. The secret to getting the most out of your time for your work and personal life– is you must learn to manage time. Managing time helps you to stay motivated and engaged in your career. Being great at managing your time will also mean you are not as stressed out, as you will have learned to only take on responsibility for things you actually need to get done. Having a plan is a huge help to keep your focus on your tasks and use your time wisely.
In this article, I will explore why time management for artists is essential, and leave some tips to implement time management so that you can see improvement in your performance and productivity. "Time is more valuable than money. You can get more money, but you cannot get more time." - Jim Rohn Why is Time Management for Artists essential?Many artists know how to create incredible artwork but may not know how to manage their time. They have so many responsibilities in addition to creating artwork. Despite popular belief, most artists spend a significant amount of their time managing the business of their art; whether it’s managing social media accounts, developing sales tools, cultivating and maintaining relationships with clients, developing public relations plans, or becoming familiar with and confident in the many channels available to the creative market. The time spent out of the studio is not lost time but rather a time for nurturing and developing the business of your art. Artists should strategically split their time to each side of their business so that they achieve their business goals and get a higher return on the time investments they make. That is to say, time management for artists is essential to improve art business performance and productivity. 8 Best Time management tips1. Set goals
The best thing you can do is set your goals, and keep track of what you’ve accomplished. You need to bring awareness to how you are spending your time so you can create a great time management plan and follow through with it. One solution is to take a few minutes every morning to brainstorm what you want to accomplish and add those goals to your calendar. You can list your goals in a word document.
Some examples of artistic goals are:
2. Plan ahead
Make a daily list of everything you’re going to get done today. This includes things like writing down tasks that need to get done, making lists of things that need to be completed, etc. You may want to be a little more detailed in this list (i.e. list the steps to accomplish the goal). Planning ahead helps you stay organized and avoid procrastination. If you notice you are off task you can look at your list to help you refocus
For example: To get more followers on social media some things on your list might be:
3. Prioritize
Prioritizing means deciding what is most important to accomplish first. When you have a lot going on, it’s hard to know where to start. But if you prioritize your tasks, you can focus on the most important ones first. It is always better for an artist to design/create art when he/she has high energy. In that case, first priority in that time has to be for art creation rather than other work. Knowing what to prioritize can be a challenge. You need to take into account all your tasks/goals, any pressing deadlines or obligations, etc.
Some people find that their brain is sharpest in the morning so it can be a good time to get some of the business side of things done, and then end your day with art creation. Other people prefer to set certain days aside for business tasks, and other days for creating. There is no one size fits all approach, but making sure to start with what is the highest priority is necessary for making sure you don’t miss out on good opportunities. 4. Start small
Start small. Don’t try to tackle everything at once. Instead, take one task at a time and complete This helps you keep your full focus on one task at a time. Remember you don’t have to accomplish everything overnight.
5. Break big projects into smaller pieces
Break more significant projects into smaller pieces. Take time to define exactly what the exact challenge is. I don’t mean to avoid it, but if you’re working on a project that’s beyond your skill level or it takes you so long to complete that it puts you in a rut, you can’t realistically expect to finish it within a short amount of time. If you’re working on a project requiring a lot of attention, break it into smaller parts. That way, you won’t feel overwhelmed and you’ll be able to finish the project sooner.
6. Take breaks
Take regular breaks throughout the day. Get up and move around every hour or two. Stretch your legs, drink some water, and clear your head. This can help to boost your mind and keep you energized throughout the day. This in turn helps to improve your performance in the work.
7. Avoid distractions
Many people spend their time on their computers and phone and listening to music, podcasts, and audiobooks. You may be constantly inundated by phone and computer notifications which are some of the biggest distractions. Utilize the automated systems on your phone so you don't have all of your work-related notifications on all the time. Learn to silence notifications when you really need to focus. If you have any notifications on your internet browser, disable them. Of course, some people enjoy listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks while they are creating, but pay attention- what works while you’re creating may be a hindrance when you are checking emails or doing bookkeeping.
Digital notifications aren’t the only distraction though. It can be something as simple as that pile of laundry, or randomly wanting to chat with a friend. With many artists working from home studios, it is imperative that you value your work time and don’t fill it up with household chores and personal tasks. Flexibility in the schedule is a job perk, but respecting your work time (and expecting others to respect it) is a necessity. 8. Reward yourself
Reward yourself after completing a task. A reward doesn’t necessarily have to be materialistic; it could be anything that makes you happy. It also enhances your mind to do the next tasks and deliver the best results. Make sure to mentally acknowledge, or even write down, what you accomplished. Don’t just jump from one task to the next without acknowledging your hard work and accomplishments. People weren’t meant to live their lives by a constant checklist. Avoid burnout by celebrating what you accomplish.
Conclusion
Time management for artists is just as important as it is for any other professional.
It is rare for a person to achieve any success without a well-established plan and time management. Time management helps you to achieve your goals and reduce stress because your workflow is well organized and planned. Got time management tips? Share them in the comments. Useful Information for female artists:Introduction
If you're an artist, you should know how to handle a rejection. Rejection can feel bad in the movement, but it’s not the end of the world, and there are ways to handle rejection as an artist and to be resilient in art businesses or grow in your career as an artist. There are times when you wonder why a gallery or a show rejected your artwork. You wonder if they didn't like your style, or maybe they already have someone who does similar work. Maybe they're full, or maybe they haven't had an opportunity to look at your artwork yet. Whatever the actual reason is, do not feel defeated. Instead, use it as an opportunity to learn more about yourself and your work, create more art, and develop more resiliency!
5 ways to handle Rejection as an Artist1. Accept that rejection is inevitableThe first thing you need to realize is that rejection is inevitable. It's a fact of life, and if you're not willing to accept it or deal with it then you will constantly live in fear, and never reach your full potential in art or any other area of life. The best thing to do when receiving a rejection is to keep trying! Don't let this experience stop you from creating great art or, even worse, prevent you from continuing on with your dream career as an artist. You can use rejection as an opportunity to learn and create more art. And most importantly, keep trying! A rejection is not a statement about your worth as an artist. It's just one person's opinion. 2. Don't let yourself get sucked into an emotional reactionIt's easy to feel sad, angry, frustrated, and even confused when your work is turned down, but don't let yourself get sucked into an emotional reaction. Remember, it’s not personal. If you're feeling discouraged, keep reminding yourself that the jury process is subjective, and opinions can vary so much from one show to another and one juror to another. You can always apply again next year or try a different venue. 3. Don't doubt your worth because of one opinionYour art is a representation of who you are and what you love. Because art-making can be so personal, rejection can feel like a personal rejection. Don’t doubt your worth as a person because your submission was rejected. Your personality, your skills, and abilities, your work ethic—these are things that make up the very being of who you are as an individual. Rejection can not take that away. Instead, evaluate your values and goals and pay attention to actionable steps you can take/ continue to take to help you reach your goals. You can start with a few questions: What do I want and what can I offer? How much money am I willing/able to invest at this moment? How will this opportunity help me grow as an artist? Will this opportunity align with my goals and vision/ or will it be a career growth opportunity? Remember, there are so many opportunities for pursuing your art career. 4. Own your hurt and disappointment
Learn from the experience and keep trying Own your hurt and disappointment. Whether you've been rejected for a show, or a gallery wasn’t interested in your artwork, it can feel like someone is saying "no" to you as an artist. That can hurt. The first step is acknowledging that what happened was painful. Allow yourself to grieve and recognize that it's okay if this rejection hurts. In other words “feel all the feelings.” At the same time, make sure that you don’t stay stuck in that place. (See point 2) Handpicked for you- 10 Different Ways to Sell Art. How do Cowgirl Artists of America members sell their art? 5. Surround yourself with great peopleArtist communities are a great way for artists of all levels to connect, learn from one another, and share their work. One of the great things about working in the arts is that you get to know a lot of other artists. You can find kindred spirits, share ideas, and build relationships that can last a lifetime. That’s why it’s so important to have a community of artists who know the struggles and joys of being an artist. A great community can build you up when you are feeling down, give you direction when you are feeling lost or confused, and help hold you accountable for your goals. Surround yourself with artists from all walks of life, with various backgrounds and experiences to take advantage of a wide range of wisdom. There are a variety of artist's communities available from local artist friends groups to national and international membership communities. These communities are invaluable in an artist's career and personal growth. We are so grateful for our CGA community, our partners, and all those great local art organizations, that are so often the backbone of the arts. How to be resilient in Art Businesses?
If your goal is to have a successful art business, you will have to learn how to handle a rejection and to be resilient. Resilience is the ability to recover from a setback. It's the quality of bouncing back after something bad happens. Learning how to cope with criticism and failure can help you avoid negative self-talk and manage stress, which in turn will make it easier for you to run your business and stay focused on your goals.
To be successful, you must be resilient. Here are six ways to become more resilient in your art businesses:
Handpicked for you- Self Confidence and Boundaries in Your Art Business Conclusion
Resiliency is a necessary skill to develop. It will keep you going when the going get’s tough. Resilience after rejection is a requirement of being an artist. Don't let a rejection stop you from creating great art or even worse, prevent you from continuing on with your dream career as an artist. Keep going and keep growing.
Rejection will always be a part of the experience of being an artist, so don’t try to avoid rejection, instead work toward being able to better handle rejection and continue to grow your career. Don’t give up! You’ve got this! 10 Best ways to sell your art. How do Cowgirl Artists of America members sell their artwork?8/10/2022 Introduction
Figuring out how to sell your art can be daunting. But it doesn't have to be! There are many best ways to sell your art, whether it's through a gallery, online, or even on social media. Knowing what options for selling your work are available will help you make a more informed decision about what strategies will work best for your business.
10 Best ways to sell your art1.GalleryThe traditional way for artists to sell their artwork is in galleries. There are many benefits to this traditional approach, including building name recognition and improving your reputation, but you also have to pay the gallery commission. Typically galleries take around 35 - 50 percent in commission. This can be a worthwhile expense if the gallery is increasing your reputation, advertising your work, and handling sales and shipping, but it is not a good fit for everyone, and getting into a gallery can be challenging If you want to sell your art at a gallery make sure to search the gallery’s webpage for their submission process and make sure your work seems like it would be a good fit. You may also consider submitting work to online galleries, such as Western Gallery, owned by George Irwin.* Western Gallery is a respected online western art gallery. There are other, generic, online galleries that do not have a specific focus area like Saatchi Art, Artful Home, etc. These are drastically different from well-reputed, smaller galleries with a curated selection, like Western Gallery. As you chose the option that works best for you it is important to know your goals and business plan, to determine the best fit. “ I have primarily sold my work with Western Gallery and feel lucky to have started at the same time they were emerging into the art scene. Over the last two years, we have developed a happy working relationship based on integrity, reliability, and mutual trust, wherein both parties have grown and are now coming into their own. Honestly, this bond feels more like a vested partnership than part-time representation and I know that’s not always the case in the art world.” - Lucile Wedeking (Website, Instagram) 2. Online Shops and MarketplacesSelling your art online is a great way to reach a wide audience of potential buyers. You can sell your artwork through the most successful eCommerce platforms such as Etsy or Fine Art America and Amazon. This is an easy way to connect and attract potential customers and a wonderful way to increase your exposure. As with online galleries, the platform you chose should align with your goals as an artist and for your business. The approach of an artist who wishes to sell mass-produced work at a lower price point is very different from an artist who wants to build their reputation and cultivate a relationship with collectors, galleries, and the art world. “This is where I make at least 70% of my sales. I sell small works in an Etsy shop, Plein air pieces and smaller works on Dailypaintworks.com, and a few larger pieces from my website.” - Veronica Brown (Website, Instagram) 3. Art fairsArt fairs are another popular option for artists to sell their art. These events bring together a number of different artists in one place, making it easy for buyers to browse and purchase art. Art fairs can be a great place to meet potential collectors, build your email list, and sell your art. Be aware that different art fairs have different requirements. Some may provide a display set up and tent, and others may require you to bring your own. Some art fairs have volunteers to help watch your booth so you can take a break, but others expect you to be fully self-sufficient. Make sure you read through all the fair’s requirements and expectations before applying and committing yourself. “I love art fairs and they are a great way of connecting with new clients and building in-person relationships. It gives you a chance to tell your story to a potential buyer about each piece and to obtain their information for future contact. They are also a lot of work and can be very exhausting, but hopefully, the good outweighs the hard work and travel costs. Much easier if you have someone there to help you!” - Elizabeth Dryden (Website, Instagram) 4. Exhibitions and ShowsExhibitions are unique in that they take many forms, and there can be a variety of exhibition opportunities. You can organize your own exhibitions or collaborate with other artists in a joint exhibition. When you host your own exhibition you will need to ensure you have a place to show the work. For an informal exhibit, you could collaborate with local businesses, like restaurants, to host the work. For a more formal exhibition, you will want to reserve space in an art venue or other space that has a more professional feel. Often you will need to apply and/or rent these spaces, and may also need to pay a commission on your sales. Stay aware of calls for art that fit your business model and work well for your style, and where you are in your career. Newer artists may find applying for and exhibiting their work in smaller, local shows, can help them build their reputation, get their work out in public, and sometimes win prizes. More established artists can enhance their career and reputation by applying for more difficult and well-respected shows. (Pro tip: Remember, rejection is part of being an artist. Don’t let rejection get you down.) “I recently have participated in 2 shows where I was the featured artist. I had little to no expectations for either and it is interesting how things have turned out. One show is at a historical museum that is visited by tourist by approximately 95%. I would never have guessed that a show in our area could be so successful! I have had to replace my photography several times and have run out of supplies. I have been very aware of what subject the customers have purchased and the price point that has driven those sales. People won't buy something they can't afford, for the most part. I have been asked to be the permanent artist at this venue because my work has been so popular.” - Susan Humphrey (Website, Instagram) 5. Festivals Festivals and fairs are very similar, but often festivals have more name recognition and turn out. Some of the larger festivals, such as the annual Art Basel event, attract buyers from all over the world. “Back in the 90s I did a lot of Art and Wine Festival type shows and had great success... It has only been since 2019 that I've been 're-emerging' into this world again... post-COVID, the last couple of festivals I participated in have been very good for me.” - Jeanne Cardana (Website, Instagram) 6. Open StudioThis can be one of the most cost-effective ways of selling your artwork. Host an event in your studio or home studio, where people can view your art and chat with you. Make sure that the space is clean, comfortable, and easy for individuals of all ages to come in for a visit. Also, consider offering light refreshments. “I have done pre-Covid home shows and they were great! Lots of interaction, fun, and sales! Look forward to doing them again!” - Dianna Fritzler(Website, Instagram) 7. Social MediaIn this digital age, Social Media is an amazing tool for building a group of fans and customers who admire your work. Social media gives artists a platform to express their unique personalities. Audiences can learn more about artists and their artwork from the comfort of their home, on an app they are already using frequently. Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest are great social media platforms for promoting and selling your arts. Suggested for you- Self Confidence and Boundaries in Your Art Business “Social media is my #1 way to reach my audience. Almost every time I post a new piece, it gets shared and I get to reach new people. Don't be discouraged if you don't get many likes or shares at first, it doesn't mean it wasn't seen or appreciated. You will be surprised how many times someone will tell you "oh, I saw your beautiful art on Instagram" when you thought your post got no attention. Be sure to use hashtags so that you reach a wider audience than just your followers. Try your hand at Instagram reels or TikTok. Once I learned how to put audio and text on my reels (thanks for the lessons, CGA!!) I started getting hundreds to thousands of views instead of dozens.” - Tammy Pennington (Website, Instagram) 8. WebsiteA website can build trust for the audiences who visit your social media profiles. Having a professional-looking website is a useful way for potential art collectors to learn more about you and your products. Make sure your website contains relevant and engaging information and options for purchasing your available work. Having a website will improve your professional image, build social proof, and increase the chances of converting your audiences or fans into customers. Websites are also great tools for showcasing your art and giving potential buyers access to detailed information about your art. A good website should include high-quality images of your art, prices, descriptions, contact information, and any other relevant details. Make sure to include links to social media pages, like Facebook and Twitter, so people can share your art with their friends. "Direct sales on my website have been so-so, but it is important to have a professional looking website that is functional. It is a great way for galleries to see your work for one thing and also shows that you take your work/business seriously". - Debbie Carroll (Website, Instagram) 9. EventsTaking part in local events, or even organizing your own event, is another way you can sell your work, and get your work in front of more people. Make sure the event is fun and enjoyable and aligns with your vision and values for your work and career. If it fits your business plan you may consider offering a discount to motivate people to purchase your art. “ The only kind of "events" I have participated have been auctions. I have worked with organizations that support and protect wild horses, and now I am partnering with a wild horse rescue in Colorado. I do provide paintings for auctions for them to fundraise. It is a win/win. They get exposure through my Facebook page and website, and I get exposure through theirs…” - Linda Briesacher (Website) 10. Private CommissionsMany artists are intimidated by commissions, especially when they are just starting out, but private commissions are another great option for selling your art. Private commissions are also a great way to build a relationship with your collector. For a private commission, you will work with a client to create a custom piece of art, based on their specification. (Pro Tip: Have a good contract, and make sure everyone is on the same page for what work you are creating, the price of that work, the payment schedule, and the expected completion date…) “This is my favorite way to sell my art. You are creating for someone who likes your style and knows you will deliver a piece of art that they will cherish for a long time and pass on to others.” - Kellee Mitchell (Website, Instagram) How do Cowgirl Artists of America members sell their art?Cowgirl Artists of America (CGA) is a great artist community, that provides artists with opportunities to promote their work through various venues and collaborations on Social Media and on the Cowgirl Artists of America Website. CGA’s goal is to provide support and education to artists whether they are just starting out or experts in their field. Depending on your membership level, you will have opportunities to exhibit your art on our website, social media, and CGA-associated galleries/partners. We also provide supports that help you as you expand into new territories. CGA takes a holistic approach to our mission by providing artists with various services, support, training and education, social media promotion, advertising opportunities, and networking. To wrap things upIf you're an artist looking to sell your artwork, there are a number of options available to you. You can work with a gallery, sell commissioned pieces, participate in art fairs or open studios, or sell your work online. You will want to pursue the options that fit your business and artistic goals. Some options aren’t often available to newer artists. You will need to continue working on your style, and improving your skills and reputation for more of these opportunities to open up. Don’t get discouraged, it is a journey for all of us. There are also plenty of great resources to help you navigate your art career, and sell your work. Organizations like Cowgirl Artists of America are here to help. *As of the writing of this post, George Irwin is on our Advisory Board and we are partnering with Western Gallery for our first annual art show, Wild Flowers. What is CGA?
Cowgirl Artists Of America (CGA) is a community that promotes and supports female Western artists. It was founded in 2021 by Megan Wimberley, a contemporary western and wildlife artist, based out of Yosemite Valley, California. CGA’s holistic approach to its mission results in a variety of services for its members, including an annual art show, workshops, social media promotion, coaching, and more.
The mission of CGA
Our mission of Cowgirl Artists of America is to increase opportunities and representation of female western artists. We accomplish that through the four core beliefs.
Community: CGA believes that a supportive community is one of the most important resources for success. Our thriving community helps our members feel supported, find answers to issues, learn and share. Our private Facebook community provides a forum for artists to have ongoing conversations, and get feedback on their work and career. We believe in a community of abundance and breaking down competition barriers to cultivate a supportive sisterhood. Collaboration: CGA believes that collaborating with industry leaders is the most impactful approach to change. We build bridges through our partnerships with industry leaders. Through these partnerships, we increase awareness, expand opportunities for artists, and increase representation. Education: CGA believes that providing resources and education for career growth and art education will empower cowgirl artists to gain confidence to become leaders in the western art world. We are working to develop resources for organizations that will help them identify areas of improvement and make a plan of action to help within their organization and places where they have influence. Promotion: CGA believes that promotion is a basic requirement for artists to grow their business. We will work to increase the exposure of cowgirl artists through our monthly call for art and CGA-hosted shows and member awards. We are always adding to our resources and opportunities. Handpicked for you- Self-Confidence and Boundaries in Your Art Business Accomplishing our goals
Why should you join CGA? What are Member Benefits?
Cowgirl Artists of America(CGA) is a group of female artists. We provide a supportive and creative environment for women working in the arts. All mediums are welcome. Many of our members work in painting, sculpture, and photography. Whether you are a beginner or an expert CGA provides support to grow your art career in the western art world. Check out the benefits of becoming a member of CGA:
Handpicked for you- 7 Tips to Help you Speak about your Art with Confidence How to become a member?
To join CGA, you’ll first need to decide which type of membership best suits your needs — Basic or Basic+Signature. Once you’ve decided that, you'll fill out the membership form. Basic membership is $120 per year and Signature members pay an additional $25 to apply. Click here to learn more about Basic membership and the Signature Membership add-on.
When will Enrollment open for CGA?
We are excited to announce that the Enrollment period to become a member of CGA is open from Aug 1, 2022, through August 15, 2022. Do not miss this golden opportunity to become a part of this beautiful community!!.
To learn more about our community click here. |
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