Starting off a career as a full-time artist can often times be intimidating especially if you do not have the working knowledge on where to even begin. Sometimes college does not offer you a course on how to start your art career and often times, we turn to our colleagues for guidance. But what if you don’t know anyone who can help?
Here we lay out 5 tips for emerging artists who are interested in starting their art career.
Portfolio
You need a stellar bio and artist statement to catch the attention of collectors, galleries, museums, and art enthusiasts. Think of it as your pitch - you want to reel people in. Take your time writing it or ask for help, if needed.
Online Presence
We live in a digital age and while that has pros and cons, it is a fast way to gain exposure to artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts. Designing a simple website that has your bio, CV, and artist statement along with up to date work is a must for today. Also, if you have social media, keep that professional and up to date. Don’t worry if you’re not the biggest fan or user of it, but it is useful to update once in a while, even if it’s once a month with your new work, documenting your process or announcing upcoming exhibitions you are participating in.
Build Community Over Popularity
Attend meaningful social events. Don’t feel the need to show up to opening of “an envelope” to put yourself out there. Less is more sometimes. Reimagine the term “networking” and instead, cultivate meaningful connections with artists and creatives. The world is filled with snobs and self-serving people, so find your tribe with people you connect with on a personal level. Be yourself, it’s gets you a lot further.
Build Your Exhibition Experience
Research your local art scene and get acquainted with it. See what local community centers and galleries have open artist submissions and put yourself and your work out there. Participating in local group shows is a how a lot of artists start their career off, whether they are independent or want to be represented by a gallery. It’s a great way to meet artists and build experience.
Independent Route
The gallery model is something that can work for an artist depending on their needs and expectations. Not all artists are approached by galleries, so don’t fret if you’re not. Do not limit yourself and think you need a well known gallery to get you up and running. You can easily fund and host your own exhibitions even if it’s for a weekend or longer. Find a space you can rent and install your own work. Hire a preparator to install your work (if your budget allows or if you know how to do it yourself, that’s one less expense), provide a price list, contact your friends and family to show up, and advertise on social media. Following these steps will lead to successfully hosting your own exhibition. It may seem like a lot but ask for help if you have to or reach out to your network of artists.
Remember, it takes time to build experience. Whether you decide to take the independent route or work towards landing lucrative gallery representation or exhibitions at leading museums or galleries, both take time, effort and consistency. Trust the process and remember why you started.
Need more tips, feel free to contact us on how to build a solid foundation for your art career: info@threadsartexchange.com