How to prepare for your first art show sale.

by | Aug 24, 2024 | Art Sales, Artists

Congratulations on preparing for your first art show! This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your talent, connect with potential buyers, and grow your artistic career. However, the thought of your first sale can be overwhelming. Fear not! With the right preparation, you can make a lasting impression and successfully sell your art. This guide will walk you through essential steps to ensure your first art show is a success.
1. Understand Your Audience
Knowing who your audience is will help you tailor your presentation and marketing efforts effectively.
A. Research the Event
Know the Venue: Understand the type of art typically showcased and the demographic of attendees.
Look at Past Shows: Investigate previous events to gauge what types of artworks were popular.
B. Define Your Target Buyers
Identify Ideal Buyers: Think about who would be most interested in your work—art collectors, casual buyers, or interior decorators.
Create Buyer Personas: Develop profiles for different types of buyers to tailor your approach and communication.
2. Prepare Your Artwork
Having your artwork ready is crucial for a successful show. Take the time to ensure everything is polished and professionally presented.
A. Select Your Best Pieces
Curate Your Collection: Choose a selection of works that best represent your style and range.
Consider Size and Theme: Ensure a mix of sizes and themes to appeal to various buyers.
B. Presentation Matters
Framing and Finishing: Frame your pieces professionally, or if you’re displaying unframed work, ensure it looks clean and finished.
Label Your Art: Create labels with titles, dimensions, medium, and prices to inform potential buyers.
3. Set Up Your Booth Effectively
A well-organized booth can attract more visitors and encourage sales.
A. Design Your Space
Create an Inviting Atmosphere: Use tablecloths, backdrops, and lighting to make your space inviting and showcase your work.
Arrange Artwork Thoughtfully: Display your pieces at eye level and create a flow that encourages movement through your booth.
B. Provide Marketing Materials
Business Cards: Have business cards ready for attendees to take, allowing them to contact you after the event.
Promotional Materials: Consider offering brochures or postcards that feature your artwork and your social media handles.
4. Practice Your Sales Pitch
Being able to communicate effectively about your art is key to making sales.
A. Prepare Your Story
Share Your Inspiration: Be ready to discuss the inspiration behind your work and what makes it unique.
Engage with Buyers: Practice a concise pitch that invites conversation and interest, allowing buyers to connect with you and your art.
B. Be Open to Questions
Encourage Interaction: Invite visitors to ask questions about your work, techniques, or process.
Be Approachable: Smile and maintain a friendly demeanor to make attendees feel comfortable engaging with you.
5. Follow Up After the Show
The work doesn’t stop once the show is over. Following up with potential buyers can help you convert interest into sales.
A. Collect Contact Information
Sign-Up Sheets: Create a sign-up sheet for visitors to provide their email addresses for future updates or newsletters.
Engage on Social Media: Encourage attendees to follow you on social media for ongoing updates about your work.
B. Send Thank You Notes
Personalized Messages: Send thank you emails to everyone who expressed interest, whether they purchased something or not.
Share Post-Show Updates: Use this opportunity to share any new works or upcoming events, keeping the connection alive.

Conclusion: Take Action and Shine!
Preparing for your first art show sale can be daunting, but with careful planning and a positive mindset, you can make it a successful and rewarding experience. By understanding your audience, preparing your artwork, setting up your booth effectively, practicing your sales pitch, and following up afterward, you’ll create a strong foundation for future success in your art career.
Now it’s time to take action: Start by selecting the pieces you want to showcase and begin working on your booth design today. Set aside some time to practice your pitch and engage with friends or fellow artists for feedback. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel on the big day. Your art deserves to be seen—so go out there and shine!

How to buy art online like you give a damn.

How to buy art online like you give a damn.

by | Aug 22, 2024 | Art Collection, Art Investment, Art Valuation, Market News

A step-by-step guide to curate your taste, your space, and the art that would feel like you actually live there.

In recent years online art sales have surged with a remarkable 72% increase in 2021 alone accounting for nearly 25% of all art sales. This upward trend is expected to continue reflecting our growing comfort with purchasing virtually everything online. So why should buying art be any different?

Why Buy Art Online?

  • Access to a Global Marketplace: Millions of artists from around the world now offer their work online giving art lovers access to an extensive array of styles mediums and cultural influences.
  • Affordability: New technologies like inkjet and 3D printing make it possible to acquire museum-quality pieces at a fraction of the cost of originals.
  • Inclusivity: Whether you’re just starting your career or on a tight budget you can still fill your space with unique art that resonates with you.

However with endless options the process can feel overwhelming.

Should you buy an original or a print? What size is best? How much should you spend?

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to make your art-buying journey enjoyable and straightforward.

Step 1: Define Your Interests (begin with what you like)

  • Start by Exploring: If you’re new to the art world spend time browsing different art websites to see what catches your eye. Look at various styles mediums and subjects to identify patterns in your preferences.
  • Take Notes: Write down the terms that frequently appear in the pieces you like—such as “abstract,” “landscape,” or “oil painting.”
  • Narrow Your Search: Once you have a clearer sense of your tastes use these keywords to refine your search. Many websites offer robust filters to help you zero in on exactly what you’re looking for.

Side Note: At saïd + art, you can filter by category size orientation and price and then further refine your search using specific keywords.

Step 2: Map Your Space (visualize your art in its future home

  • Consider the Room: Different spaces in your home may call for different types of art. For example intimate or personal pieces might be better suited for a bedroom while bold conversation-starting works might belong in the living room.
  • Measure the Space: Use painter’s tape or sticky notes to outline potential dimensions on your wall. This will help you visualize how different sizes of artwork will look in the space.
  • Coordinate with Decor: Decide whether you want your art or your furniture to be the focal point. If your furniture is bold opt for more understated artwork and vice versa.

Pro Tip: When hanging art over furniture the width of the artwork should generally be between 2/3 and 3/4 of the width of the furniture.

Step 3: Choose a Color Palette (find colors that complement your space)

  • Use a Color Wheel: A color wheel can help you generate harmonious color schemes based on different types of color relationships such as monochromatic analogous complementary or triadic.
  • Match Your Room’s Vibe: Select a prominent color from your room and use it to search for artwork in a similar palette. This ensures that the art enhances the space rather than clashes with it.

Step 4: Determine the Right Size

  • Spacing is Key: Ensure that your artwork has enough space around it to breathe but not so much that it looks lost on the wall.
  • Follow the 60%-75% Rule: As a general guideline your artwork should take up 60%-75% of the available wall space (excluding areas covered by furniture or moldings).
  • Consider Gallery Walls: Instead of a single large piece you might opt for a collection of smaller works arranged in a gallery-style layout. This can be a more affordable option and offers a way to express your personality through a curated selection.

Step 5: Decide Between Originals Limited Editions or Prints (explore your options)

  • Originals: Unique one-of-a-kind pieces that often come with a Certificate of Authenticity. Originals can be more expensive but buying from emerging artists can make them more affordable.
  • Limited Editions: Replicated forms of original works produced in limited quantities often numbered and signed by the artist. These can be a more economical option than originals.
  • Open Editions: Unlimited reproductions that are generally more affordable but lack the exclusivity of limited editions or originals.*Side Note:* Quality can vary in open editions so make sure to check the production process before purchasing.

Step 6: Choose the Right Frame (it kinda matters)

  • Frame to Match the Artwork: The right frame can enhance the artwork while the wrong one can detract from it. Consider the style of the piece when choosing a frame.
  • DIY Framing Options: Websites like AmericanFrame.com and FramesUSA.com offer virtual tools that allow you to see how your artwork will look framed often with options for different mats backings and UV protection.
  • Apps for Visualization: Use apps like WallApp or Wallary to virtually place your art on your walls before making a purchase. These tools help you see how the piece will look in your space ensuring you’re happy with your choice.

Side Note: At saïd + art, we have an online visualization tool to help you do exactly that for your own space.

Closing Thoughts

Buying art is an ongoing process. As your tastes evolve and new artists emerge you’ll continue to discover pieces that resonate with you. Keep exploring and don’t be afraid to mix things up as you curate your personal collection.

If you found this guide helpful consider joining our creative community. You’ll gain access to more tips and thousands of works by emerging artists all available for purchase.

Plus it’s free to join!

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How to preserve your art collection for progeny.

by | Aug 12, 2024 | Art Collection, Collectors

As a collector, your art collection is not just a reflection of your personal taste; it’s also a valuable legacy that can be passed down through generations. Preserving your collection for progeny ensures that future family members can appreciate and enjoy the pieces you’ve gathered over the years. This guide will provide practical steps on how to care for and document your art collection, ensuring its longevity and value for the next generation.
1. Proper Storage and Display
The way you store and display your art significantly affects its condition and longevity. Here’s how to create a safe environment for your collection:
A. Climate Control
Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a stable temperature (ideally between 65°F and 75°F) and humidity levels (around 40-60%) to prevent damage like warping or mold.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Display art away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and discoloration over time.
B. Safe Display Methods
Use Quality Frames: Choose acid-free materials for matting and framing to protect the artwork from damage.
Avoid Hanging Near Heat Sources: Keep art away from radiators, fireplaces, or vents, as heat can cause deterioration.
2. Regular Maintenance
Routine care can help extend the life of your art pieces. Here are some maintenance tips:
A. Cleaning Your Art
Dust Regularly: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently remove dust from frames and surfaces.
Consult Professionals: For valuable pieces, consider hiring a conservator for specialized cleaning and restoration.
B. Inspect for Damage
Check for Signs of Deterioration: Regularly examine your art for any signs of damage, such as fading, tears, or discoloration.
Address Issues Promptly: If you notice any problems, consult a professional conservator as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
3. Documenting Your Collection
Creating a thorough inventory is crucial for both preservation and future inheritance.
A. Maintain an Inventory List
Include Key Information: Document details such as the artist’s name, title of the piece, medium, dimensions, date of acquisition, and purchase price.
Use Digital Tools: Consider using art inventory software or apps to keep your records organized and easily accessible.
B. Photographic Documentation
Take High-Quality Photos: Capture detailed images of each piece, including close-ups of any unique features or signatures.
Date and Label: Save photos with clear labels indicating the title and artist for easy reference.
4. Educating Future Generations
Teaching your family about your art collection helps them appreciate its value and significance.
A. Share Your Knowledge
Host Family Gatherings: Invite family members to view the collection and share stories about the pieces and their origins.
Create Educational Materials: Consider putting together a booklet or digital presentation detailing the history and significance of each piece.
B. Involve Them in Decisions
Let Them Participate: Encourage family members to express their opinions on the collection and involve them in future acquisitions.
Discuss Inheritance Plans: Have open discussions about how you intend to pass on the collection and what it means to you.
5. Establishing Legal and Financial Considerations
Proper legal and financial planning can help secure your collection’s future.
A. Consult with Professionals
Estate Planning: Work with an estate attorney to include your art collection in your will, ensuring it goes to the intended heirs.
Insurance Coverage: Invest in art insurance to protect your collection against theft, damage, or loss.
B. Appraisal and Valuation
Regular Appraisals: Schedule appraisals every few years to keep up with the current market value of your collection.
Keep Documentation Handy: Maintain records of appraisals and insurance policies in a safe place for your heirs.

Conclusion: Take Action to Preserve Your Legacy!
Preserving your art collection for future generations requires thoughtful care, documentation, and communication. By implementing proper storage and maintenance practices, documenting your collection, educating your family, and addressing legal and financial considerations, you can ensure that your collection remains a cherished legacy.
Now it’s time to act: Start with one actionable step today. Whether it’s organizing your inventory, scheduling a professional cleaning, or planning a family gathering to share your passion for art, taking proactive steps now will help secure your collection’s future. Remember, the joy of art is meant to be shared, and your legacy will inspire and enrich the lives of your progeny for years to come!

10 Essential Steps to build your art portfolio website.

10 Essential Steps to build your art portfolio website.

by | Aug 5, 2024 | Art Sales, Artists, Resources

As an emerging artist, having a strong online presence is crucial for showcasing your work and attracting potential clients. A well-designed portfolio website can be your digital gallery, business card, and marketing tool all in one.

1. Choose the Right Platform

Selecting the appropriate platform is the foundation of your website. Consider these options:

  • WordPress: Highly customizable with numerous themes and plugins (I work exclusively on WordPress)
  • Squarespace: User-friendly with beautiful templates
  • Shopify: Great for artists who want to sell directly from their site

Each platform has its pros and cons, so research thoroughly to find the one that best suits your needs and technical skills.

2. Select a Domain Name

Your domain name is your digital address. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Use your full name if possible (e.g., janedoeartist.com)
  • Keep it simple and easy to remember
  • Avoid hyphens and numbers
  • Consider including your medium, but remember that it’ll be difficult to get out of this if and when you want to expand your subject matter (e.g., janedoepaintings.com).

3. Design a Clean and Intuitive Layout

The design of your website should complement your art, not compete with it. Follow these principles:

  • Use a simple, clean layout
  • Ensure easy navigation
  • Implement a responsive design for mobile devices
  • Choose a color scheme that enhances your artwork

4. Showcase Your Best Work

Quality trumps quantity when it comes to your portfolio. Here’s how to curate your work effectively:

  • Select your strongest pieces
  • Organize works into categories or series
  • Include high-quality images with proper lighting
  • Provide context for each piece (title, medium, size, year)

5. Craft a Compelling About Page

Your About page is where visitors can connect with you as an artist. Include:

  • A professional headshot
  • Your artist statement
  • Your background and influences
  • Notable achievements or exhibitions

6. Implement a Blog or News Section

Keeping your website dynamic can improve engagement and SEO. Consider posting:

  • Behind-the-scenes content
  • Upcoming exhibitions or events
  • Insights into your creative process
  • Art world news or commentary

7. Make It Easy to Contact You

Ensure potential clients can reach you easily:

  • Include a dedicated contact page
  • Offer multiple contact methods (email, phone, social media)
  • Consider implementing a contact form
  • Clearly state your availability for commissions or collaborations.

8. Optimize for Search Engines

Help potential clients find you online with these SEO best practices:

  • Use relevant keywords in your content
  • Optimize image alt tags
  • Create unique titles and descriptions for each page
  • Submit your sitemap to search engines

9. Integrate Social Media

Connect your online presence by:

  • Adding social media icons to your website
  • Embedding your Instagram feed
  • Including sharing buttons on your blog posts
  • Linking to your art-focused social profiles (e.g., Behance)
10. Regularly Update Your Content

Keep your website fresh and relevant:

  • Add new works as you create them
  • Update your CV with new exhibitions or achievements
  • Refresh your artist statement periodically
  • Remove older works that no longer represent your best abilities
Measuring Success and Making Improvements

Once your website is live, it’s important to track its performance:

  • Use Google Analytics to monitor traffic and user behavior
  • Collect feedback from visitors and fellow artists
  • A/B test different layouts or content to see what resonates
  • Continuously refine your site based on insights and trends

Creating a strong art portfolio website is an ongoing process. By following these steps and regularly refining your online presence, you’ll create a powerful tool for showcasing your talent and growing your art business.

Call to Action

Ready to take your art career to the next level? Start building your portfolio website today! Choose your platform, gather your best works, and begin crafting your digital presence. Remember, your website is often the first impression potential clients and galleries will have of your work. Make it count!

Need help getting started or want personalized advice on your website? Join our community of emerging artists for support, resources, and expert guidance. Sign up for our newsletter to receive regular tips on building and optimizing your art portfolio website. Your artistic journey awaits – take the first step now!

How to price your art without undervaluing your work.

by | Aug 5, 2024 | Art Sales, Artists

As an artist, one of the most challenging decisions you’ll face is pricing your art. Price it too high, and you may feel like you’re alienating potential buyers. Price it too low, and you’re not only undervaluing your hard work but also sending the message that your art is less valuable. Finding that perfect balance is crucial for maintaining both your creative integrity and financial well-being.
In this article, we’ll break down strategies to help you price your art without selling yourself short.
1. Know Your Market
Understanding where your work fits into the broader art world is key to pricing. Ask yourself:
Are you targeting emerging art collectors or established buyers?
Is your style niche or in demand?
How are similar artists pricing their work?
Tip: Spend time researching artists who create work that aligns with yours. Check their pricing, especially for work of similar size and medium, to get a baseline. Platforms like Instagram, Etsy, or Saatchi Art are great places to start.
2. Consider Your Costs
Many artists forget to account for the actual cost of producing their work. It’s essential that you don’t only think about the materials but also the time you’ve invested in creating the piece.
Here’s what you should factor in:
Materials: Paints, canvases, brushes, or software (if digital).
Studio Costs: Rent, utilities, or equipment maintenance.
Time: How many hours did you spend creating this piece?
Example: If you spent $100 on materials, worked 20 hours on the piece, and you want to pay yourself $25/hour, the base price should be at least $600.
3. Factor in Overhead and Labor
Beyond just materials, there are many hidden costs associated with being an artist. Shipping, marketing, attending events, and creating a website are all part of your “art business” overhead.
Administrative Tasks: Emailing clients, updating your portfolio, or social media promotions.
Marketing Costs: Website hosting, advertising, or gallery fees.
Shipping and Packaging: These are especially crucial if you sell online.
Ensure your pricing structure accounts for these added costs so your final sale doesn’t leave you in the red.
4. Use a Pricing Formula
Once you understand your costs, it’s time to apply a consistent pricing model. Here’s a simple formula many artists use:
(Materials Cost + Time Cost)
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text{(Materials Cost + Time Cost)} times 2 = Base Price
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This formula accounts for production expenses and ensures you are paid for your time. Doubling the total helps cover overheads like marketing, future projects, and gives you room for profit.
Example:
Materials: $50
Time: 10 hours at $20/hour = $200
($50 + $200) times 2 = $500
Therefore, the price of this piece would be $500.
5. Consider Your Experience and Reputation
Your price should reflect your level of experience and the demand for your work. If you’re new to the market, your prices might be lower, but if you’ve had solo exhibitions, participated in art fairs, or your work has been published, these are value-adds.
Emerging Artists: Focus on affordability to build a customer base.
Established Artists: Your track record allows for higher pricing.
Commissions and Special Works: Can be priced higher due to their bespoke nature.
Pro Tip: Be mindful of increasing your prices incrementally as you gain recognition. A sudden, dramatic price hike can alienate your loyal collectors.
6. Offer Different Price Points
One way to ensure that you’re not undervaluing your art is by offering pieces at different price points. This way, you cater to both high-end buyers and more casual collectors. For example:
Original Paintings: Priced at a premium due to the uniqueness and labor involved.
Limited Edition Prints: More affordable, but still valuable as they’re signed and numbered.
Open Edition Prints or Merchandise: These can be more accessible while still allowing fans to support your work.
By diversifying your offerings, you can reach more people without compromising the value of your original pieces.
7. Test the Market and Be Flexible
Art pricing isn’t set in stone. You can always test different price points and see how your audience responds. This could mean:
Raising prices for your next series if your current collection sells quickly.
Offering discounts or bundling artworks to move older inventory.
Adjusting pricing based on customer feedback or market trends.
It’s important to stay flexible and adjust as needed without feeling like you’re compromising your worth.
8. Set Clear Pricing Guidelines for Commissions
Commissions can be tricky to price. Since every commission is unique, it’s important to establish a transparent pricing structure in advance.
Set a Baseline: Charge a percentage upfront (30%-50%) to secure the project.
Complexity: Factor in time, materials, and client-specific requests that require extra effort.
Revisions: Clearly outline how many revisions are included and charge extra for additional requests.
Example: You could charge $500 for a standard portrait commission but add $100 for complex backgrounds or additional figures.
9. Stay Confident in Your Pricing
The biggest mistake artists make is feeling unsure about their pricing. If you don’t believe your work is worth the price tag, potential buyers won’t either.
Be Firm: Avoid negotiating or heavily discounting your work, as it can undermine your value.
Educate Your Buyers: Help them understand the effort and thought behind each piece, so they see the true value of your work.

Conclusion: Value Your Art, Value Yourself
Pricing your art is an evolving process, and while it may seem overwhelming, it’s a necessary step in establishing yourself as a professional. Keep in mind:
Research your market.
Always account for your costs and time.
Stay confident in the value of your work.
Now it’s your turn: Review your current pricing and adjust as needed to make sure you’re fairly compensated for your creativity and hard work. Start valuing your work today, and others will follow!