The art walk has been walked, the artists have returned home, and in some cases, good money has been made.
In other cases, not such good money, and in some cases none.
But what a spectacular event.
So fantastic to see artists pitch together, support and uplift each other, joined in a communal effort.
And, yes, kudos to Lieuwke Loth who put it all together.
Brilliant example too of the abundance mindset:
Where some people see others as competition, the people at this event – consciously or not – acted from the notion that ‘the rising tide lifts all ships’.
Anyway, got something to contemplate for you today:
I asked one of the artists if she’s happy with her prices.
“Well… I’m not sure. I think I should go at 50% of the gallery prices.
“Makes it more attractive for the buyers, and since I don’t have to split the sale with any galleries…”
Ah yes… but does it really work that way?
First of all, if a gallery buyer finds that he could have gotten your work at 50% off, I wouldn’t blame him for being upset.
Secondly, think for a moment about what a gallery does – the very thing they take their 30 or 50% for…
They take that cut because they work for it (no, I’m not against galleries per se – I just don’t like the fact most of them own your list).
The work a gallery does is renting premises, hosting events, doing marketing, and… talking to potential buyers.
Like them or not, a gallery that sells your work does work for it.
But if you’re at a show, guess who’s doing the talking?
That’s right, you are.
And spending one or more days at a show is tiring, I saw it with my own eyes.
Then there’s your travel expenses, and your time in preparation and travel, not to mention time at a show – all time that you can’t produce your work.
So basically, if you slash your prices just because you’re selling without a middleman, it might make sense.
No middleman you need to pay.
Right?
Right.
Guess who’s also not getting paid?
You.
I’m not saying what you should do (for a change).
But I do want you to think about your prices long and hard, next time you’re spending your hard earned cash and valuable time to be at a show.
Oh, and hey: here’s another thing to think about…
Teaming up with other artists, in order to share networks and build something bigger than the sum of the parts.
Remember, the pie is big enough for everyone – scarcity can only exist in your mind.
The many success stories you hear about prove it.
Another tip?
Alright, since you asked:
BUILD YOUR LIST.
Don’t be dependent on only galleries, but create your own permission based email list.
And if you already have a list of a few hundred or even a few thousand people, and you want them to buy your work?
Well, then you hire me to teach you email marketing, of course.
Details right there –> http://martinstellar.com/starship-mentorprise-writing-coach/
Cheers,
Martin
