In today’s discussion, we’re exploring two more ways people connect with artwork: subject matter and function.
Video Recap
Subject matter refers to creating art around specific subjects or activities of interest to a particular group. Another way people connect with art is through its function.
Identifying these connections can help to identify your niche or audience. Once someone connects with your art through subject matter or function, the next step is to nurture that relationship, which we’ll discuss in future episodes.
Understand the Connection
By understanding how people connect with your work, you can uncover niche markets and audiences.
If you’d like some personalized guidance, consider a complimentary call to discuss how we might be able to work together.
In this week’s video, we are back to finding an audience and marketing to a niche with the first step: identifying your niche. If you remember in Week One’s Video, I talked about two things to start thinking about when it comes to niche and that is what is you artistic voice and connection.
Over the next few weeks, we will dive into how people connect with your work and how to use those connections to find an audience.
Video Recap: Know, Like & Trust
Relationships are among the most significant and common ways people connect with art. As the age-old adage goes, people do business with people they know, like, and trust. Your existing network forms the foundation of a potential audience.
Let’s illustrate this with an example: a client I worked with had an established art business but felt like he was missing out on opportunities for growth. Through assessment, we discovered he had a loyal clientele of repeat customers for high-end commission work. By nurturing these existing relationships, he was able to unlock new opportunities and expand his audience base.
So, how can you start building an audience through relationships?
1 – Make a list
Brainstorm a comprehensive list of your family, friends, acquaintances and, of course, current customers. Of this list, who already knows about your work? Who doesn’t? Who should know about it?
2 – Start Using a CRM
Use a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to track interactions and responses, ensuring that no one falls through the cracks.
3 – Reach Out
Ask your connections if they would be interested in hearing about your business, seeing new work, learning about what you are up to in the way of a regular email newsletter. If they respond yes, then you can add them to your list. This approach is not about spamming people but respectfully sharing an asking if they have an interest. Then, you focus on building genuine connections that add value for everyone involved.
Build Genuine Connections
Finally, building connections is the key to growing your art audience. By nurturing relationships and fostering genuine connections, you can unlock new opportunities and reach new heights in your artistic career. Stay tuned for more insights and tips on building connections in the art world in our upcoming episodes.
And if you need personalized guidance, consider a one-on-one strategy session to kickstart your journey toward building a thriving art audience.
Resources Mentioned in the Video
Email Template for reaching out to your connections: Send me an email at becky@artisan-advantage.com to request a copy of my template.
Maximizing Your Artistic Impact: Marketing Strategies for Visual Artists Around Events
Join me for a presentation tailored specifically for artists looking to elevate their careers or businesses through strategic event marketing. Whether it is a solo exhibition, group show, or festival, participation in this session will explore identifying, preparing for, and capitalizing on events to showcase you and your art. We will also discuss how to plan and promote your own event. Drawing on real-life case studies and success stories, attendees will gain insight and practical tips for planning and executing events.
Art Marketing Briefs include a 30 minute presentation followed by Q&A.
Can’t attend live? All registrants receive a follow-up event recording. Take advantage of this opportunity to redefine or enhance your art career or business through events. Reserve your spot today!
Mastering Time Management and Planning: Your Path to Productivity
This week’s video focuses on some ideas for planning and time management. Recognizing that implementing new marketing strategies sometimes means there is more to do, I share a few ideas around planning and time management that have helped me a lot.
Video Recap
1 – The Rule of 3
I use the number 3 to guide my focus on yearly goals and daily tasks. Choosing three things to strive for or accomplish out of a seemingly never-ending to-do list helps prioritize what needs to be done without getting overwhelmed.
2 – Revisit Your Plans More Than Once a Year
Planning isn’t a once-a-year affair. Establish yearly goals but review them quarterly to adapt to evolving priorities. Break it down further by creating monthly, weekly, and daily plans. This approach encourages flexibility and accomplishment while staying focused on long-term objectives.
3 – Time Blocking
Maximize productivity by scheduling specific tasks and activities on your calendar. Designate dedicated time slots for work projects, studio time, or self-care to stay organized and accountable.
Trust the Process
Remember, progress is about consistent small steps over time. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small, and trust in the journey toward your goals.
This post contains affiliate links which means I receive a small commission if you make a purchase using the link. For more information, see my full terms here.
This first weekly videoexplores the terms niche and audience and how they work together. Then, we discuss first thoughts on identifying your niche audience. It starts with discovering your unique artistic voice and understanding what sets your work apart. You’ll uncover valuable insights into your niche audience’s preferences by paying attention to who’s drawn to your art and why.
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