Art, Inc.
A guide to making a living from your art with practical business strategies.
Summary of 7 Key Points
Key Points
- Turning Art into a Business
- Understanding the Art Market
- Strategies for Selling Your Work
- Marketing Your Art Effectively
- Financial Management for Artists
- Building a Brand as an Artist
- Navigating the Legal Aspects of Art Business
key point 1 of 7
Turning Art into a Business
The idea of turning art into a business is based on the premise that an artist, rather than just being a creator, can also function as an entrepreneur. Artists are encouraged to think of their art not merely as a hobby or a passion, but as a product that has value in the market. This shift in mindset requires artists to consider factors such as production costs, pricing, marketing, and sales strategies, all of which are integral to running a successful business…Read&Listen More
key point 2 of 7
Understanding the Art Market
The art market is a complex entity that resides at the intersection of culture and commerce. It is a place where creativity is monetized and the value of an artist’s work is often determined by subjective interpretation and personal taste rather than quantifiable standards. It’s a realm that has its own unique set of rules and practices, which can be difficult for newcomers to navigate without guidance…Read&Listen More
key point 3 of 7
Strategies for Selling Your Work
The key strategy for selling your work is to first understand your market. This includes identifying who your potential buyers are, understanding their interests, needs, and preferences. Identifying where your work fits into the current market, the demand for your type of work, and the market prices can also give you an edge. Look at where similar works are being sold and try to establish a presence there. This could be online on platforms like Etsy, at local art fairs, galleries, or retail stores…Read&Listen More
key point 4 of 7
Marketing Your Art Effectively
The book emphasizes the importance of understanding your audience for effectively marketing your art. It suggests that the key to successful marketing lies in being able to communicate your art’s story, and its unique value proposition to your target audience. This can be achieved by defining your brand, identifying your unique selling points, and then targeting your promotional efforts to those who are most likely to appreciate and buy your work…Read&Listen More
key point 5 of 7
Financial Management for Artists
Understanding financial management is vital for artists, as it helps them navigate the financial aspects of their career effectively. It is about practical strategies for handling income and expenses, which can provide stability and allow artists to continue creating without financial stress. It includes budgeting, record-keeping, tax planning, investing, and even retirement planning. A solid understanding of financial management can empower artists to take control of their financial futures and make informed decisions about their career trajectories…Read&Listen More
key point 6 of 7
Building a Brand as an Artist
Building a brand as an artist is a critical process that involves several key components. First, understanding the unique value proposition that you bring to the art world is crucial. This includes identifying your unique style, medium, subject matter, or technique that sets you apart from other artists. It’s about defining your signature style that is recognizable and resonates with your target audience…Read&Listen More
key point 7 of 7
Navigating the Legal Aspects of Art Business
The legal aspects of running an art business can be complex and multifaceted. The key is to understand that the art market has its own set of rules and regulations, which may differ from other industries. For instance, copyright law is a critical consideration for artists. Selling an artwork does not necessarily translate to the relinquishment of copyright. Unless explicitly stated in a contract, the artist retains the copyright, allowing them to reproduce the work or license its use to others…Read&Listen More