Here's the hard truth: artists can't build a career on their own.
Just like most careers, a successful art career is based on key relationships that can advance your opportunities in the art world.
For most artists who are used to spending the majority of their time alone in their studio, networking can be a challenge — especially if you have the idea of small talk and forced conversation seems draining to you.
But, the thing is, you don't have to think of networking as polite introductions at a gallery opening. In fact, forging deeper, meaningful connections—ones that feel like real, genuine exchanges can be the key to networking like the boss artist that you are.
If the idea of networking has you deadbolting yourself behind your studio doors, here are some tips to help alleviate the anxiety.
Focus on authentic connection, not just selling
Networking can feel slimy if the main focus of your conversation is just on making a sale.
Instead, set your intentions to make heartfelt connections. Most people are eagerly looking to establish sincere bonds with you—both as an artist and a human being.
Take it from Art Biz Coach Alyson Stanfield: “You’re looking to engage the other person, not to control the conversation.”
If you're going to an opening, genuinely appreciate other artists' work, ask questions, and share how it resonates with you and why. Engage the lost art of listening in your conversations. Ask more questions and then respond to the answers. Create space for someone to share their influences, processes, and thoughts.
Most people—even people you perceive as intimidating—are looking for ways to relate and connect with you.
Practice passionately (and confidently) talking about your art
Craft a compelling one to two-sentence "elevator pitch" that captures the heart and soul of your artwork and why you make it. The more succinctly you can present what you and your artwork are all about, the better.
Condense the main idea behind your work into an easy, go-to phrase that effortlessly rolls off your tongue when someone new asks, "So, what do you do?"
This is the phrase that distills the core of your work and acts as a hook—leaving them wanting to know more. The pitch should be brief, to the point, and confidently delivered. Practice writing down and delivering your elevator pitch to people you meet in the park, the gym, or the bar —anywhere where the stakes are low before you give it in a more high-pressure situation.
But, be careful not to monologue at people. No one wants to hear you droning on about your artwork without them getting a word in. Remember, you're inviting a conversation
The more you say and believe in your own pitch (and your own artwork for that matter), the more convincing you will be when the time matters. Here are some more tips to help you learn how to speak confidently about your artwork.
Make it your primary goal to get contact information
When you make small goals for your networking conquest, it can seem more attainable and less scary.
Instead of saying, "I'm going to make a connection that will get me my next solo show tonight," say "I am going to learn more about what is going on in my community."
Then, make it your primary goal to get a business card, or exchange socials, emails, or phone numbers rather than cement a deal during a first meeting. Then, remember to follow up!
All of your art contacts in one place:
Once you get the contact information of a potential art network connection, create a contact record for them in your Artwork Archive account.
You can add all of their important details, plus notes on where you met them and what you talked about, making it easy to craft a personal follow-up message.
Follow up shortly with a personal message
An in-person networking event is just the start of your relationship with a key contact.
After meeting someone, follow up within 24 hours.
This can be as simple as a thank-you email or a DM on social media. Reference your conversation to remind them who you are and reiterate your interest in staying connected.
You can also consider sending them a personal email every so often. Include upcoming show announcements, studio visit invitations, and new pieces you think they’d like. This is different than your newsletter—this is about creating a real connection with the person. Even if it is the same content from your newsletter, include a little personal note and wish them well.
It will not go unnoticed.
Use social media to stay connected
There is a real opportunity to build and grow art relationships through social media today. Most artists, galleries, and curators have at least one social media account. Follow, share, and engage with people online the same way you would in the real world.
That is to say — seek genuine connections and don't get hung up on gaining a million followers.
Post thoughtful content (ahem, especially videos...for now) of your artwork or about your creative process. Provide context or stories behind each piece. It will make your feed that much more interesting to those visiting your platform.
When you respond to comments or comment on others' posts, be sincere, conversational, and specific. People are far more likely to engage with and support those who are real and relatable.
Show up and support other artists
Practice networking with good karma. The best way to make career-changing connections is by integrating yourself into your local artist community.
Create relationships based on positive interactions and goodwill. Help others with their goals, attend their openings, and tell them about a gallery that would be a good fit. We are all in this together.
Make an effort to meet and support other artists. Go to association meetings and offer resources, tips, encouragement, and useful discussion. Join a local artists guild, reach out to your community center, and show a genuine interest in what other artists are making. Your own community is the best network to get started.
Be prepared to talk about your own work too—you never know what new connection you might make for your own art business.
Be ready with all of your artwork information on hand
Always be prepared to present and access your work in the most professional way possible.
Having a way to beautifully display your available artworks, along with the necessary information, can make a lasting impression and boost your credibility as an artist.
Artwork Archive Tip:
Artwork Archive gives you the power to create a Public Profile, as well as custom inventory and price lists that you can access from anywhere.
Have price lists ready in seconds and present your work professionally with Artwork Archive. Try it free for 14 days.
