I asked a couple of artists to use samples of their artwork to enhance the text presented in this post. If you like any of the art work, I can give you contact information for the artist. As an artist, collector, or simply someone interested in the work of black artists, if you have other tips, please share.
- For opening and closing receptions in your honor, please be on time, or even get to the venue before it starts. The purpose of these functions is for attendees to get to know the artist and his/her body of work that is on exhibit, and for the artist to mingle with those attending. Remember, some of those attending, may be collectors or future collectors. As an artist, not being visible and available to answer questions could cut into crucial connections and sales. Receptions are a great venue and offer the ideal opportunity to network.
Don Griffin
Mixed Media on Watercolor Paper 300 gsm,
Acrylic, Gel Ink, Gold Ink
Size: 22.75" x 15"
Date: 2015 - Create an overview statement for each series that you complete. That overview of your works will answer some of the questions that collectors or prospective collectors may have about pieces in a particular series. It gives the viewer something to look at and refer to when either looking at or thinking about a piece of art to purchase.
Don Griffin
Mixed Media on Watercolor Paper 300 gsm,
Acrylic, Gel Ink, Gold Ink
Size: 22.75" x 15"
Date: 2015 - Accommodate a collector, if he/she requests you to take a photograph with him/her with a piece or pieces purchased. The collector is documenting the artwork and the experience with you, the artist.
- When artworks leave your studio for gallery or museum exhibitions, or are simply on loan to an individual or institution, keep a record of those pieces of art by name and description. At all times, you want to know where your art is located whenever it is out of your possession.
Don Griffin
Mixed Media on Watercolor Paper 300 gsm,
Acrylic, Gel Ink, Gold Ink
Size: 22.75" x 15"
Date: 2015 - Always have your résumé, artist statement, and biographical sketch updated and ready, and be able to explain your work in a broad overview. As a client/collector shows interest in a particular piece or pieces, feel comfortable explaining the specifics of any series created.
- Artists should know those collectors who buy their works, so keep rigorous records of any transactions.
Billy Colbert, 2016 - Never leave your work on consignment with a gallery or any alternative space that sells art without getting something in writing. This becomes a business transaction and needs to go beyond a handshake.
- Don't isolate yourself. Welcome critiques from other artists, and offer critiques of their work as well. Even as you listen to what collectors say about or interpret your artwork, keep those thoughts in mind. How do those thoughts compare with your vision for what you are creating and trying to achieve. Use what enhances your vision and discard the other, but engaging brings about awareness.
Billy Colbert, 2016 - Be true to your vision and your work; you have a unique voice and perspective that makes your art special. Do not jump on the bandwagon of what is trendy and popular, simply to sell your art.
- Apply for art opportunities that fit your experience, including artist calls, art colonies/residencies, art fairs, and etc.
Don Griffin
Mixed Media on Watercolor Paper 300 gsm,
Acrylic, Gel Ink, Gold Ink
Size: 22.75" x 15"
Date: 2015 - Keep your artist website current with accomplishments, exhibitions, images, contact information, etc. If you do not have the time to keep your website current, then seek the help of a specialist in that area. If funds are not readily available, negotiate and barter for services.
- When you are selling directly to collectors or clients provide a receipt with details of the work, including title, size, medium, date created, etc. Include a photograph of the artwork for the collector/client and make one for yourself. With the photograph that you keep, include collector/client information, this record will help you in the future if you are having a retrospective exhibition and the curator may want to request a piece of your work from a collector to include in an exhibition. Recently, I had a curator to contact me because the artist told her that I owned a particular piece of art. In actuality, I did not own the art in question.
- Sheila Crider @SheilaCriderArt shared (January 2, 2017): "I think it's important to send thank you notes...."
