Art Shows

Posted by Alina Bradford Jul 31, 2007

I have been reevaluating my life as an artist recently and have some lingering questions about the benefits of art shows. If you are an artist, looking to make a profit, art shows are iffy in my opinion.

I have entered quite a few over the years, and here’s what I have found.

Expense

Art shows can drain an artist’s pocket. Most shows require an entry fee, that the art be framed in high-grade frames, and slides of the art. That doesn’t include the costs of travel to the show or shipping to get the art to the show. If you already don’t have a good, steady flow of income from your art, the money to fund just one art show entry can be out of reach.

The Flow of Money

There is a saying, "All money flows towards the artist," and I believe that is true. Always focus on ways to make money flow towards you. If you believe that you will sell paintings through the art show, or you believe that you have a good chance at winning the cash prize go for it!

I have to say, though, without a lot of networking, you won’t sell one piece. Get your name out there. Give out business cards. Talk to people viewing the art.

I’ll be honest, I have never sold more than one or two pieces per art show.

What Do You Think?

What are your feelings on this subject? Have you had a lot of success with art shows? Email me!

Alina