As a silent observer and working in the advertising/marketing industry, I finally had an “AH HA” moment. I personally would like to thank all of the dollar and discount stores that have popped up in the past 5-10 years, laughing in my own sarcasm.
We, as artists, believe that people will purchase a $500.00 and 30 lb+ beautiful piece of artwork and expect them to carry it around during a show. My question to you is; what can you create that is $20.00 or less, light weight and still represent who you are as an artist?
After my personal brainstorming session, I came up with a plan. I had to ask myself, “What do I have at my disposal that I can produce, make a profit and within my non-budget?”
At that point, the little light bulb went off in my head. I started making laminated bookmarks with my artwork and contact information. Next, I went to Hobby Lobby and bought a ton of small to medium size bags at a 50% off sale. Then, I got transfer paper to put my artwork on canvas bags. I developed my own jewelry line with each unique piece of artwork transferred on each piece and I started making prints.
*Special Note - Make sure you have some sort of bag to carry all of those customer goodies in. You can buy bulk bags cheap at Costco; Sam’s Club or order them online at Uline.com.
My “AH HA” moment finally paid off! I finally filled in the gaps and started to make money! My bags, bookmarks, jewelry and prints were literally sold out by the end of each show. Pricing the points between $5.00 and $20.00 on “the little things,” it was the first time I had made over $500 at a show and a profit to boot!
Reflection and Perspective
Here are some insights from my personal experience and what I did over the next few years. I was still in the “small show” amateur category. I took, at least, 50% or more of my profits and put the money into my booth space. I added grid wall, eccentric stands to hold my work, purchased a really good matte cutter and realized you must create a open store front which needs to be pleasant and inviting.
By this time, I was taking a truck and an SUV to put everything in. I had to get to my shows as early as the committee would allow for set-up. My networking paid off and I joined local/national artist guilds, associations and organizations that I could afford.
Next, I designed and programmed my own web site showcasing my artwork and price points. Worked on a logo, designed new business cards and oversized post cards with my artwork and contact information. I was making my way! I was selling original pieces at affordable prices.
Seriously, Why does there always have to be a culture shock? One day at a show, someone asked me if I took credit/debit cards. Huh? Do what? Why don’t patrons carry cash or a checkbook to art shows? Once again, I had another “AH HA” moment. The moment you tell the customer “I’m sorry, cash or check only,” you lost the sale! Which leads me into COMMANDMENT #6 and the beginning of the big time (or so I thought).
*Special Note - This is where you have to personally ask yourself is this what I really and honestly want to do? If you love it, GO FOR IT.
No comments:
Post a Comment