It makes me feel uncomfortable.

I feel like a sell out.

I don’t know how to price it.

I fear being rejected.

Does that sound familiar?

This past Thursday AASA hosted a free online webinar on YouTube to help provide training to our local artists on how to sell their art. But in this blog I’d like to talk about why it’s such a difficult challenge for artists. I mean, when we talk about selling anything else; toys, clothing, tools, equipment, suddenly we have many ideas on how to go about selling these items. I would even wager that many of us are even good at it. Has anyone sold anything on the FB marketplace? So why is it that when we try the same method with art we get crickets? 

Here is the rub.

Art is not a necessity for most people. Art is a luxury, that’s how most people see it.

Art is not a necessity for most people. Art is a luxury, that’s how most people see it. However, when we look around we see art everywhere. It’s on the clothing we wear, the tv shows and movies we watch, the cars we drive and even in the grocery aisles where we shop. So why is it that when art is in its raw form hardly anyone takes a second look? It’s maddening isn't it? Especially considering how much time and effort goes into creating the art we share with the world. 

After running an art gallery for 9 years, as well as going through a very expensive sales training course while I was in the USAF I can tell you why it’s so difficult to sell art. 

I had one mentor once tell me that there are three things every piece of art must do for someone before they will buy it. (get your pencil and notepad ready because this has helped guide me through the years). 

1. The art must be loved or liked by the potential buyer

2. The art must be of the correct size for the potential buyer

3. The art must be within the budget of the potential buyer

I’ll add a bonus to this, 4* The potential buyer must know the artist and their story. 

So then the question is, how do you get your art in front of the right people so they can make a determination if the art is for them?

So then the question is, how do you get your art in front of the right people so they can make a determination if the art is for them? That’s the hard part. It brings up so many other difficult issues to discuss. Like the idea that you may have to ask people for help or permission to show your art. That can be terrifying for some. Or you might be worried you’re doing it wrong, maybe the idea of failing seems more possible when you’re unsure. That can be a terrible feeling. 

In order for you to be good at selling your art, you have to be confident that your art is worth buying. That notion is backed up by why you choose to make art to begin with. If you love your art, I guarantee someone will love it too. When you feel confident in your art you become more focused on exploring methods that bring you closer to your audience. If you want to learn more about the various methods that can help you in your exploration then please watch our free webinar and subscribe to our YouTube channel.