How to Sell Your Own Art

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By artpimpress
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Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

My Very First Art Sale

Selling your own art can feel a bit unnatural at first but with a few key tips, it can be both fun and profitable.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

A safe place to show your work
A price list
A bio and artist's statement
A calculator and invoice pad

Step 1

RULE #1: Be yourself. Whether you are quiet or outgoing, make it work for you. Anything that smells of phoniness or insincerity is a certain kiss of death.
Step 2

Be approachable and acknowledge the client. Whether it is a simple hello, a smile, a comment on the day, any key information the viewer might need to be aware of or a sincere compliment (I have to admit I sincerely love shoes and purses). NOTE: This can also make a difference when Gallery Owners or Reps may be out scouting for art.
Step 3

Give the viewer space and time to enjoy the work. The key is to be available without crowding and paying attention to clues as to when to intervene.
Step 4

Body Language. In my opinion, this is one of the key elements. Think about the way you act when you are interested in someone romantically (or not), same basic rules apply. Look for clues such as dilated eyes, folding and unfolding of the arms, hand on the chin, face or back, leaning in or away, making faces, pursing lips, etc.
Step 5

Engage with the client, let them talk and LISTEN. At this point, the client is your best sales person as they are telling you their thoughts, objections and are either trying to talk themselves in or out of the purchase. No need to be forceful but be prepared to offer suggestions. For example if they say to you "I don't have any more wall space" they are basically telling you they buy a lot of art. You may want to suggest they take the work home on approval or you can offer to deliver it and help them find a space for it.
Step 6

Never Underestimate the power of touch if appropriate. If your work is not fragile and you are comfortable with it, touch can be very seductive to a potential buyer. Instruct the client to feel the texture, the finishes, the warmth of metal, the polish of glass, raw materials, etc. There is also something very powerful about the egos response to physically holding something then having to let it go.
Step 7

Make a personal connection. Practice a few key statements regarding yourself, your style, your process, etc. so that it feels comfortable when you are in front of the client. The connection to you -- for most people -- is a key benefit. Keep it simple and make it real.