Blog

What?  You can be successful and not pick up a brush?  Not exactly.  You still have to paint awesome art, but along with that there are some other actions that are equally important.

For instance, let’s say you are hosting your first art show but you don’t know diddly-squat about contacting the news media.  An artist friend gives you her list.  Thank her.  Publicly.  Because if she knows those editors, she is in a position to get you more coverage.

1. Give credit where credit is due!

Another example.  You are just getting started and an artist friend offers to include you in his show.  Publicly acknowledge his generosity.  You will get asked back for another show.  Ignore the kick-start, however minor, you won’t be asked back. Or recommended.

1. Acknowledge the benefactor.

Your style of work is photorealism.  You create some kick-butt still-lifes that people express they can almost taste the apple because it is so realistic.  A local business asks if you could paint an abstract.  Recommend a talented abstract painter to the business. If that painter understands the power of networking, she will recommend you to someone else.  Win-win for all.

1. Share.

A local arts group is searching for someone to be their membership chair.  Volunteer.  Being a key volunteer is an incredible networking opportunity, especially if you are just starting out.  And fellow artists will remember your name when asked the question: “Who are some of the important artists in the area?”

1. Volunteer

Wow!  Your Facebook business page is rocking it with hundreds of followers.  Post another artist’s work on your page.  Post their blog.  Post their event.  If they understand the power of cross-promotion, that artist will do the same for you.  Over and over.  Talk about some powerful goodwill!

1. Cross-promote.

It’s all about SHARING and NETWORKING.  And you haven’t even picked up a brush!

Here’s to Your Success!

Jaquita

Next up will be some solid business practices…part two of How to be a Successful Painter … Without Picking Up the Brush