Couldn't agree more, I ran a successful historical reproduction pottery business for 15 years, (gave it up due to health reasons) and the best part was getting to know my wonderful customers as well as having their input. I LOVED the personal aspect of my business. Now I am exclusively doing photo-realistic oil paintings and drawings, and represent myself, and do quite well and still enjoy the personal interaction-wouldn't have it any other way. And I have never had awards, advertised nor do I list credentials, I too let my work speak for itself, LOL Enjoyed looking at your beautiful work as you speak. Cheers and Lots of Love from New Mexico USA, Julia
Now that's a great story! Thank you for sharing that with us all. Great to hear from you and thank you foe your generous feedback. Have a great weekend :)
i am sorry i dont agree with this advice at all, good galleries and good promoters and art dealers that there full time job always been like that, that is how now we know about the history of art, and this is nothing to do with our modern time at all, this is going on ever since artist should only paint, i work with galleries since 20 years ago with out them i wont be still painting now ,big misunderstand for sure.
I'm a multi medium artist and I live in an area where the tourism draw is HUGE. Art galleries in towns like mine I see ass basically window dressing for the local tourist trap sections of the area. Outrageous rents are what these galleries pay each month and they burden any artists represented in places like this with insulting consignment fees. Sad.
@@kalgajoum6400 If galleries never existed you would still find a way right? If you are happy with what you do then great! This is for all those people who aren't - and there are a lot of them out there.
As someone who's sold my art without a gallery for about 5 years now, I do think they're in trouble. My advice wouldn't be all that different. I would 100% try to build your own audience and clientele in 2020. Don't rely on others to do it for you, it's worth it in the long run.
As a gallery owner, I understand and respect your thoughts on this. I have been a solo artist for about 5 years and I have done very well selling art, creating a continuous following, commissions, etc. The thing that you aren't saying is the reason gallery owners open for business; however, I will speak for only me. I wanted to work with the community on events, teaching, and just sharing the beauty of art. My split is not a lot and it is important for the gallery owner such as myself to know all I can about each artists art, process, and meaning behind each piece. Then, build a rapport with each customer, learn what the customer is looking for and direct them in that direction. After the sale is complete, I then take a picture of the collector and the work, get their information such as name, number, email, etc., so that the artist can have all of that for their records and continue to build on that relationship with THEIR new collector. This is what I have always wanted and did not get in the gallery that represented me in the beginning. I decided to run my gallery the way I see is beneficial to the artist, the collector and the gallery. Win Win for everyone.
You are so 100% correct! I hope you keep making these kind of videos to help fellow artists. I have been with galleries for years since 1986, they gave me headaches and upset stomach. They don’t really care about artists just making money on them. Abusive! But starting 2017 and last 2019 I produced my own 45th one man show and it was incredibly satisfying and fulfilling financially and psychologically! I only hired one girl to do sales and marketing and gets 10% of sales of each painting. We were an effective team of 2! I just paid rent of space in a prime location,frames, invites, girl doing sales, caterer,, I did minimal delivery myself, and yes! I retained all of my income, no gallery chopping off your income to 50% or more. I really love being my own boss. I understand your being emotive about this topic, I am too, thank you for caring about your fellow artists, more power to you and what you do!
Thank you Stella - that's great to hear that you took back control and oh, look what happened? You sold, made money and were happy! If anyone needed a reason to ditch the galleries then what you've just said says it all. Thank you.
Swarez Art wow! So honoured that you replied to me a fellow painter! I’m a figurative oil painter in Manila, Philippines, with a 34 year career, but I can appreciate your abstract art too and can relate to the difficulties you encounter as a painter that’s why I subscribed to your channel. Love your videos on not needing galleries, you are merely spreading the truth. In fact I shared this video in my Facebook account.- Stella Rojas.
Swarez Art yes that is true I did sell a lot and surprised myself, and the funds will not only make it possible for me to survive but to continue the work that I do, I’m excited to do future one man shows knowing I am my own boss, your videos really spread the truth, funny how artists from here and the other side of the world have the same universal problems. It’s time to call a spade a spade. 50-60% off artists income is abusive
As someone who interviews gallery owners and people in the Art World here in Washington D.C... You bring up some amazing points. The Core fact of "you have what you do and have to find people who love it." is the entire game. I think from the gallery owner perspective is that they have more connections to "real buyers" and "people with money". Thats the fascination there.
Yes, however there is still a perception that you’re not a “real artist” unless you’re in a gallery by most people who love art! That doesn’t mean you can’t succeed without the gallery but it does mean if you want to be perceived as a real artist by a huge portion of the population then that might affect your choice to or not to
@@philippagrimoire5968Maud Lewis didn't do art gallery 😉 Yet they built up a museum for her art... Maybe you are the one who feels not being a real artist if your are not in a gallery ? 🤔
Many buyers buy because of the “credibility “ as an investment, that’s why all the artists “history” matters, they care less about the art and more about the investment
These markets tend to be "created" in many instances as of the last 30 years. Artists like DH buying their own art to inflate prices! etc. Provenance is a genuine concern for purchasing the masters but even much of that has been shown to be false, But what you love!!!!!!!!!
I would say at certain segments of the market it is dependent on branding of the artist. I used to work as an art manager selling Picasso, Dufy, etc. We had an original Impressionist painting, 3rd tier, kind of unknown artist. At the Ritz Carlton, they didn't even look at the impressionist painting and went straight to Picasso. It really blew my mind. I was jumping up and down, this is a painting vs. a print. Oh well. LOL
I'm a beginner in the art world and I have been feeling confused and lost about what to do with my art, since the main known thing about being a painter is being with an art gallery and I've started looking for ways to do it too. This video might have just put some sense into my brain and probably saved me. Thank you for this wonderful video!
In two minds about commenting on this, however I think it's worth pointing out that most of the animosity towards art galleries is a culmination of assumptions about the art world/market which in the majority of cases aren't true. Do artists need galleries? It depends. What do you want to achieve as an artist? Sell your work, receive recognition, be part of a scene, have exhibitions, get in a museum? There is a lot to consider.
Thank you for your observations Michael, they are very much appreciated and I am glad at least one gallery owner has commented so thank you. Perspective and goals are important for sure, but animosity is largely derived, from what I can see and hear in the comments, by individuals having poor experiences or not getting their needs met. Those needs and expectations are always going to be personal and for those who can't find a way through there is always an alternative. Asking every creative the question "What is it you actually want?" is perhaps the most fundamental one that everything else should be derived from in my opinion. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts.
Good dealers facilitate commerce, good curators fascilitate understanding and good artists fascilitate priceless sentiment. The absence of genuine quality in all aspects of this transaction is the issue as far as I'm concerned. In this far greater responsibility lies with artists than with administrators. If a dealer short sells for a quick profit or status she will leave nothing and be forgotten. However, a painter only needs to follow the rules of supply and demand to create a legacy of several hundred objects that say nothing about the intellect that made them and everything about the interior design trends of 2020
I love the honesty of this video, ok i'm not very good at articulating myself but ill give it a go...I grew up as a punk living on the streets and abandoned buildings with my brother struggling with mental health, self harm, addictions all that stuff you can spiral into when you don't really care if you live or die... and the One positive thing i took from living like that for most of my life was the concept of D.I.Y ... a punk band called Crass taught this to me and i live by it to this day.. and this video reminds me of that same attitude, Do It Yourself ! having the power in your own hands with no red tape or authority telling you what to do is the best feeling ever ! I now paint in oils and do very well because i'm good at talking to people in the real world with no hidden agenda..they trust me and buy my work. its simple, the acknowledgment of trying is the reward. Remember that and good luck♥
It does help if you are a people person. Sadly, I'm not. I struggle with that side of things, although I'm great with a computer and keyboard (and piano, but that's another story).
You are absolutely correct. My experience with my first art show was so condescending and unprofessional. Showing my work myself is challenging but rewarding.
I might be a lone voice here, but I continue along the gallery route. Now this is not without certain conditions. First of all, it's very true that "real" galleries are increasingly difficult to find. The biggest reason I see, is that most galleries I've met along my search are more framers than actual galleries. My first consideration is that an art gallery is actually that - a real working gallery that sells art, and only art. As for a brief background, I was an illustrator for almost thirty years before moving into fine art. In those days I had an artist's representative, better known as an agent. Today, I exhibit with two galleries in three locations. Yes, I do indeed pay fifty percent in commission. What do I get for that? I get solid representation, promotion, and some regular buyers (yes I've met many of them). The job of your gallery is not only to promote you, but to keep you abreast of changes in the market, a sense of where I fit in it, and valuable feedback and direction to were I can go with my work. You need a look to be represented. If you want to be successful with gallery representation, you need to find your look and style. You need to produce work your gallery can sell. As I follow this video, I'm not seeing any art I would actually buy. I can't tell if all this work is by this artist, or many. Also there's no mention of pricing. The galleries I sell through garner prices that I would never command on my own (I've tried). The commission you pay to a gallery goes to maintaining and running that gallery, as well as promotion. The key to all of this of course, is finding a gallery that's actually a gallery.... fineartamerica.com/profiles/2-david-henderson
Everything in the video is my own work and if it's not for you then great, no problem. I expect that of most people to be honest. I'm fine with that. If the gallery system is preferable one for you then good for you Dave. I am simply trying to make the point that there is an alternative for the hundreds of artists that write to me and tell me they are pissed off with the whole system. I have proved you don't need it.
Dave, what you mention is exactly what I don't like from galleries: they tell you to have a look that carries from painting to painting, in order to create a brand around you. I find this to be artistic death. I saw your paintings, and they're nice. I know that in the US you will find buyers for these paintings, particularly in more rural places, or with older audiences. But as an artist, I want to be experimenting. I want to do collage, abstract, illustration, paintings etc. A mixing pot of ideas and experimentation. Sitting on one good idea and then replicating it over and over on command from the gallery, doesn't sound artistic to me. It sounds boring, and full of complacency. Eventually, it wears you down. I know, because I did it to myself with collage from 2012 to 2018. Customers went a specific genre, and I was giving it to them daily. I made money alright, but it was soul crushing. When I'd giving them some better art, like some abstract collage, they wouldn't buy. As I said, soul crushing.
@@EugeniaLoli Hi Eugenia, Something you wrote here has prompted me to respond. I'm truly saddened to hear any artist use the phrase 'soul crushing'. In the above, I don't mean to imply that a gallery is for everyone. Certainly not; I can only relate my own experience with them. A good gallery will never tell you what to paint, their job is to let you know how your work is doing. They display, promote and develop a clientele for you. The reason I choose not to self promote, is because it can be a full time job for five people. I want to create. I spend my days making all kinds of things; not just painting. For me, "artist" is not a job; it's a way of life.
@Dave H. yes yes yes! That is the reason I worry about galleries. I cant/wont do the same art over and over again. That is incredibly uncreative and unnatural. I am "art-curious" (just made that up lol), so I want to try different types of art. I have so many ideas all the time and wouldnt want to stifle that. And the art in this video is like the canvas put on a spinner for a spray effect and that sort of simple process. Maybe it sells, but it's not the work I'd expect to have in a nice gallery. I say do both. Bragging rights to have gallery shows with cocktails to invite your friends to once in a while right? ;)
@@m-well6843 Hello M-Well, I like your "art-curious". As I think about that, I believe it defines the way an artist sees the world, and also to self-explore. I write here in the context of this "Art Galleries.." post, but to clarify, a gallery should be but one part of your artistic life. I produce work for three galleries, but I actually do many things beyond painting. I'm a stained glass artist, most of which is in our old house that I've been restoring for years. I've designed and built furniture, and restore picture frames for which I make all my own surfaces. Certainly, galleries are not for everyone, but to clarify, a gallery will (should) never tell you what to paint. Not good for you, and not good for the gallery. They take you on for the way you think. That reflects in your work as style. It's hard to describe, but in recent years, I've come to notice that whatever I've made, somehow looks like "me"..... My last paycheck job was a factory night shift I left in 1980. I've been a full time artist/craftsman ever since. I love it! Keep doing what you're doing and let your style ultimately find you!
I've had decent experiences with physical galleries, but I've also had absolutely miserable experiences, and I've yet to have a great experience. Some are just insanely unprofessional, run by people who don't have the faintest clue about art. I've had one question my pricing, take a cut to put up a painting on the wall AND a 50% off the sale, and not pay me for months at a time. I'm now dealing with an online gallery run by a young and tech-savvy crew who put back a lot of their profits into advertising, and I'm much happier for it.
As far as I know galleries will rise the price of your art, so they are not really taking your money. If a gallery does it's job properly it will save you a huge amount of time and distress. Of course, how many reliable and hard working galleries are out there? I've heard pretty terrible stories...
I consider myself lucky to find a gallery that was interested in representing me. Never sold a single painting before they showed my work. On other hand i haven't really sold much in the past two years, but i am working on improving my art, because that is probably the case
As someone stated already galleries aren't interested in art, they're interested in investments. Your art isn't the problem, you just need to find your audience and a gallery doesn't care about doing that or helping sell your work for you.
I fully agree with this. I've sold in both galleries and online. My real income is from online sales. I can count on two hands how many paintings three different galleries have sold for me, but I've sold hundreds of paintings online, myself, without outside help. We are in different times now and there's never been a better time to be an artist. 💯
I was reading an article on how to write an artist CV/bio that will stand out and in the examples given, there was a section of accomplishments, education etc and being a self-taught artist, it just made me go, "ohhh....😔😔", I don't have all that....😟. I am quite motivated again after watching this video and I suppose the key thing is the audience and the appeal that they have towards my work. I've not dealt with galleries before but true enough as you have said, in this modern technology age, we can definitely be our own gallery and have control of things. Thank you for this, Ed! 😊
Thank you so much Maureen - that's a great way to look at things and a an astute observation. We all must embrace tech and the ability of connect with real people to succeed. Once we define what it is we want it's then just a series of processes to get there. I will be breaking this down in the coming months to help make things a bit more practical (well that's the plan anyway!)
Thank you for this. This is exactly what I needed to hear. I was getting bogged down in believing that I'll never be anybody if I don't get my artwork into a gallery.
Thank you for this video. I'm currently going on two years of remission from cancer. B-Cell ALL Lukemia, to be exact! I really want to do what makes me happy. I love to draw and paint. I have only recently started printing and framing my drawings. Although chemo and radiation has caused me some long term health issues along with hand pains. I will go on and defeat this as well. I would love to get my art-work out there. Your video here gives me much needed hope.
Thank you so much for sharing that with us Merinna - great to hear you are in remission. Never give up. On anything. Stay the course, believe in a better tomorrow and in yourself. Now go and be mighty! A huge welcome to the channel 😊
Some of the many reasons I opened up my own gallery. Them expecting you to do their inventory to see what they sold and still taking 6 months to pay, damaging frames and then they don’t sell, selling things and going out of business, renting your artwork (!)... And not to mention you are paying for their inventory (art and frame) but only getting a markup on the art, while they take a commission on the frame you bought months earlier. It makes more sense to open up a frame shop! Or, better yet, a t shirt shop!
Galleries will bring in a certain kind of clientele. Serious buyers don't look for good art on Etsy. Serious businesses don't care about Facebook and Twitter. It's all just noise. Visual art has to be seen in reality. Would you rather look at a photo of a Rembrandt or be the only person in the world experiencing it in a magical moment? Of course I am talking about public galleries where work might not be on sale but I visit commercial ones as well for the same reasons. As for percentages, what do you think is the mark-up of ANYTHING in selling? As for your own work, a combination of showing in galleries, staging solo shows in unusual venues where there are monied people, going after corporate clients, showing in art fairs and most importantly, encouraging clients to visit your studio and building relationships with them is something that works for me. I like visiting galleries, even the ones that won't take my work. I like galleries. These are the places to properly see art.
Most of the successful artists in brief art history were on a gallery roster, and the artists promoted in some of the national art magazines are with a gallery. So the natural thought is, I need to be with a gallery to "make it" as an artist. Most "important" galleries have a roster of 100 or more artists they are representing. And even if you get in one, you can get lost in the shuffle. You're absolutely right. Galleries are not needed. Find your audience, and do the work yourself.
Thank you so much for this video! This is what I needed to confirm my decision to leave galleries behind and run my own business! It takes time to find and reach your clients but it's worth it! Thumbs up!
I was just feeling that my solo show never really happened at the gallery that never told me who my buyers were and took 50%...and it is something I feel unfinished with. WRONG! Thanks! Back to work.
All true and well said. It always amazed me that galleries get free stock, have no digital marketing and no mailing list, take 50% then claim to suffer because they pay rent. Exceptions are few and far between. Makes no sense. Subbed.
Hey dude this was brilliant. I have had so many galleries reaching out to me lately and they want me to pay up to 250 EUR exhibition fee, which means they make money either way if it sells or not. The more "established" galleries in my local area also refuse to exhibit artists that havent already done exhibitions so thats a bit of a Catch 22. You also need an arts education, but the ones I´ve seen with master degrees make the most boring art. There is so much snobbery in this business and you opened my mind that I dont really need em. In fact; fuck em all. I will sell the art myself! have a nice day
I can't tell you how refreshing this is to hear - the system is total shite and only exists to make profit for the galleries - it has nothing to do with art and hasn't for decades. With some effort, focus and discipline you CAN succeed on your own and follow your own path. We have done it from absolute zero. No money, no education, no system - just a belief and a willingness to learn. Have a wonderful day!!
Feeling really unhappy and now I've watched this I want to scream, I was going to drop an invite to you to a new exhibition of mine that opens next saturday but I haven't sent any out as the gallery I am going to be in have done nothing to promote the show and I don't want my patrons to go there. By the time my work comes out of there I will have found somewhere to put my art and the 40% they were taking for doing nothing will be my own advertising/sales budget. Thank you
Oh Vanessa - I really feel your pain. So sorry to hear this. Well, when you do get to that position of sending an invite out then please do send one my way - would love to come and hang out!
If you are a new artist the gallery wants You to get as many of your friends and family as you possibly can to come to the gallery on opening night. In the hope that they will buy paintings out of support for you and also increase their client base and importantly that other people will see if you and gallery are popular. Popular = status. High status = high prices.
VANESSA RHEAD ART oh my goodness. We are having the same experience!! I can’t have friends and family travel all that way for something not even promoted. I am taking back my power!!
@ExposingMiLabs I said they have done NO ADVERTISING, Turns out the lady I was dealing with was trying to contact me with a different email address that my computer didn't know so dumped in junk and then her computer wasn't showing any new emails (not just mine other artists too) She thought no one was getting back to her and it was only because of her phoning me the day before my work was to be hung that we realised all the problems, she has now phoned round everyone to assure them she is still available, Then the world fell apart, Opening night delayed, Opening night cancelled, Gallery closed. Oh well worse things happen at sea, sat here giggling while I typing, I would say stuck at home painting but I work at Aldi too (husband just finished UNI) so off I pop to fend off the public and their germs :D
Your passion really comes across and makes me sit up and listen with real intent . I had a gallery message me that one of my pieces had fallen off their wall - ok, my fault with how I made the hanging piece- but it took them a WEEK after it happened! Their communication verges on pure ignorance .... and for that reason( reinforced by this vid..) I' M OUT!! Keep on kicking artistic ares ! 😎👍🏻⭐️😁
Thank you so much for this advice, I have to say that I have been watching your videos for years now and I've even watched some more than once because the advice you give if very true and authentic. This may come off as a rant, but I won't waste too much time complaining about this. I haven't had a pleasant experience with galleries so far and what kills me about the gallery business model, especially nowadays (because it comes off as a trend) is that they tend to approach young and emerging artists who, at that stage aren't even fully sure what kind or artist they are. On top of that, all if not most galleries, want exclusivity from their artists, which makes no sense because emerging artists and even mid level and established artists make their income from various shows/projects/ collaboration, etc, so basically that means you then have to rely on that one source of income from said gallery, and that's only if you sell or if they decide to focus on your work for that season. (on top of that, during these times of lockdown, social media is helping a lot of artists who aren't represented, because people are spending a lot of time online.) This was my experience literally a year ago and luckily, I very quickly walked away from that situation. Now, my main aim is to find my audience and build those relationships because that's what I enjoy doing most aside from making the work. Again thanks for the advice, apologies for the long comment and please continue doing what you do!
I absolutely love what you said and it's sadly typical of the system and the way many, but not all, galleries work. I am delighted you have found the videos useufl and i hope to be making a lot more now as I have comitted to making at least one a week in 2021! Ouch!
Thank you! Your advice is greatly appreciated. I’ve started painting again after a stroke, and I’m working abstractly which I love. Previously I sold in the area I lived in my Art was in a cafe and I did well. Now I am finding it harder to find clients. I’m on Instagram and people do love my work, but I can’t seem to sell. I’m getting offers to promote me, and I’m overwhelmed, I don’t know how to get from people loving my work to selling it. Before it wasn’t a problem. I wish I knew if I should try toI sell through Etsy or my own website?
It can be a complicated thing to work through Moe. No easy solution to building up a base of raving fans who engage with and buy your work. You can try Etsy for sure but I am a firm believer in building a strong site and pointing everything towards that. However, platforms like UA-cam can also offer similar traffic if you're prepared to work at it. Find your niche, the thing that makes you different from others, the hook, the USP. I do have other videos on the channel that may help but realistically there's no secrets or quick wins except for determination and resilience. 13 years down the line from you and I am still having to work at that every single day!
Thank You Swarez Art. Good information again. 👏🥰🇬🇧🍀🇬🇧 I am however displaying my Art, in my Son and his partner's Cafe. They have not long taken it over. When I saw the empty walls, I asked and they said yes. We will have to see how it goes. 🤭😇
I think the one thing here to consider is how much your work is being sold for-When you sell out of your studio, it’s hard to have the exponential leaps in terms of pricing. But, if you get in on a blue chip gallery, the sky is limit for your pricing because the big collectors are collecting those brand items and paying for that. But, that’s like 1 to 2% of artists that are occupying those roles.
Agreed with everything you said. To promote your own art - build an engaging website and drive business to it. Simple. Well, not really. As you pointed out, many galleries don’t even do this - and that is their business. Avoid. Nothing wrong with outsourcing the work to a gallery. Just make sure they are going to earn their commission. Great if you have can combine creative, business and marketing skills as you have. Appreciated the gallery tour.
Yes i used to be selling well in a gallery charging 25% couldnt believe my luck in finding them, then they decided they had to put their commission up, they would put the prices of my paintings up to cover, but, what happened predictably is a huge drop in sales and eventually closes down. Absolutely yes, you never know who has bought your painting. However I had a really good web site but lost interested in it when nobody went there. I was accused of not marketing. I then signed into to one of the big online ones, got thousands of viewings which was encouraging but alas not one sale. Gave up painting. Later went back to it, again I signed into an online gallery. Thousands of viewings favourates heaps of times but alas not one sale. Family said cut prices ,but I based them on the same standard and type of paintings on the site. Since then 90% of my paintings burnt in house fire. What I want to know is how you crossed the bridge what you would do about prices charged for similar paintings though I proudly say very few are. Should I be selling for the same as I did twentyfive years ago. The family say yes, I find it offensive, groveling, why should I sell what can I say? Very pro semi abstracts for less than I did? What was your first marketing tactic, where do you go what did you do. Gill
First marketing tactic? I don't know. To go big I guess... I can't remember. Except for endless learning about search engines and how to have a good online presence.
The Gallery method has expired much like the record companies in the music industry and for many of the same reasons. The core goal is the same, build a following and take care of them.
me thinks when you sign a contract with a gallery or record company it can be for say 20 paintings or 2 records; until you get established and maybe decide to jump ship (naive perhaps).
Brilliant video thank you very much for sharing so much information. I have been stuck and given up for a long time on my dream after trying everything including the galleries but didn't get anywhere and stopped believing in myself. I have just finally started getting my power and self belief back and this gave me the inspiration to go back to my website and revamp it and promote it properly. It's been just sitting online and flatlined just to serve my ego when someone wants to see my website. Loved to see all your art on the walls and the presentation was clear and to the point. Also I would love for you to do a video on what a great website should be. Thanks again and look forward to watching more of your videos.
Hi, I just watched some of your videos today for the first time and agree with your arguments in this section. I am a self taught artist and started painting at the age of 69 and satisfied with the result though there is lot more to do. For example, I tried a painting today after seeing you painting a large canvas in enamel paints. I paint in acrylics and water colors besides color-pencil drawings mainly nature and birds and animals as realistic expressionist and wanted to diversify in abstract painting. This I am already doing in many of the backgrounds for my main subject. However, I tried one small painting today as it is a day of playing colors in India (called Holi), and it was liked by my friends and family when I sent my wishes for this festival with photo of this painting. Since I have no experience of enamel paints, I did this in my acrylics (though bit expensive) and was happy to paint it. Thanks for your videos that inspired me. What you said about the galleries, I had the same view but an opinion from an artist like you gives me courage. I have subscribed to you today. Best regards, Mahesh
Thank you very much Mahesh - it's great to hear you are creating in the way you want and on the day of Holi too. What a feast for the eyes that must be! Thank you for subscribing and a very warm welcome to the channel
Thank you so much Ed! I cannot add much to what the others have so graciously stated, (one can feel the relief and "enlightenment" from their comments!), only that the fundamental point here is: TAKE RESPONSIBILITY for your financial dignity. Years ago, I came to the same conclusion with my investment portfolio; why pay fees to a brokerage firm to simply squirrel your hard earned money into mutual funds and mysterious instruments at high fees, when it is not complicated to do your own research/work and reap the rewards. Keep up the good work, and I must say your UA-cam channel is the best!
Thanks Jimi - I really appreciate your kind words. Great to see so many creatives share an equally frustrated point of view and that they have the desire to change it. That's what this is all about. Have a great day!
A great video that I needed to see, not just for the pep talk but for the variety of art on show. IMHO some of the pieces were wonderful and some not, which exposes the potential problem of being your own curator, something that I am bad at. This channel won't change my lack of sensibility where curation is concerned but it is what I need right now for other reasons. I will be following with great intent. Cheers mate.
Very interesting, As someone who has been thinking about getting my art in a gallery, this has made me reconsider my options. VERY good point you made about not knowing who is buying your work, this requires thought about how i feel about that...
Whatever you decide will be right for you - important thing is to make an informed decision based on gathering and assessing facts and opinions. I wish you luck!
Great advice! Regarding galleries not being able to move fast enough - imagine if you change your style..., chances are they’d drop you like a hot potato - and then what do you do...? Fyi, happened by chance across your Pollock drip painting video the other day - that was 10yrs ago Ed..., time is an interesting counterpoint to artists and art making.... cheers & thanks for the insights... 🙏
I’m at a place right now where selling my art isn’t a priority. I’m just enjoying creating art. I would like to sell some in a low pressure way, that won’t rob me of all the enjoyment & fulfillment I’m experiencing. I have a friend who makes astronomical income thru her art. She travels the world & is in some of the finest galleries. Her stories of her experiences abroad & in all these fine galleries are so much fun & exciting to hear about. But when I think about it, that would be so overwhelming for me. I really don’t even want have my work in a gallery. I just want to paint, & maybe sell some of my work in a chill environment. That’s what attracted me to your video. I cringe at the thought of ever having to deal with a gallery. I’m far from wealthy. Painting is one of the few passions I have left, that I haven’t been robbed of over money.
Galleries are so snobbish, particularly in Cornwall. A lot of the time, I can’t even get an acknowledgement email response from them. I’ve got my own small home gallery studio now. I do it all myself.
I just finished my first abstract inspired by you. I love all types of art and trying new things. It is a lot of work getting effect I can’t imagine big canvas. 😁love your work
Hi Ed , fully agree with you with the obsolete traditional gallery , been there done that , therefore I opened my own and do represent other artists with my own business model , I have been blessed to have a beautiful property with woods and on the bank of a beautiful river in Central Ontario with a lot of tourism in the summer months , I don't charge a commission for the artists , they set their prices and I offer the public an art experience , the art is hung on grids under natures canopy in the woods , hung on a good day and brought in at the end of the day on prime summer months , minimal hanging fee , this model has grown over the years , and continues to do so , thank you for your engaging videos and wise words.
Sounds wonderful Daniel and I'm sure your artists feel very at home with how you do things. Great to hear about your own journey so thanks for sharing that with us today. Have a great weekend!
Your video was very informative for me. I'm new in the artist world. I'm a graphic artist, it's as been 7 years now that I'm retired and I have a collection of paintings/sculpting on canvas (all in one). Thank you for video, this give me a better view how the Galleries are taking advantage of the artists.
Galleries have a purpose. They connect potential art buyers with your art. They have to pay for the gallery space and the person who works it. These are costs and benefits. Yes you can sell your stuff on the internet but it's probably very unlikely that somebody buys a $50,000 painting from an unknown artist on the internet. The gallery also connects your art with other maybe better known artists, that makes your art "better" for the potential buyers as well.
@@SwarezArt The gallery is actually a market which was not there in the first place. Look at gallerist's like Gagosian or other top galleries. They connected with museums and made sure that the best pieces of an artist where reserved for them. They created the fame of a lot of artists. You might not like that, but this is pretty much a fact.
Just a few words about your art ~ Stimulating. Inspirational. Sensational. Awesome. Thanks for the tour of your gallery. It was an absolute retreat from this world. ❤️🙏🏽😊
What a great video! I just put one of my paintings in an exhibit for the first time. I could not attend it, because they didn't answer me when I asked if the facility was HC accessible. After the event I found out it is not. Had to drive down to the city to drop it off and then go back to pick it up. I do have a FB page where I post my work. Your paintings are excellent!
Just like there are good and bad artists, so there are good and bad galleries. What sets good galleries apart from the rest is their social agenda. They generally have great brick and mortar locations and can get display space in social circles sometimes inaccessible for artists as well as equivalent spaces abroad. They should also have support infrastructure (framing, delivery). All in all it's not bad to have different ways to show one's work. Online can only go so far... Art is meant to be seen live
I’m returning to this video after having been here before because it’s such a good video and you’re so right in everything you’re saying. I misted needed to be reminded of that. I’m a part time artist as I have a full time job but have the dream to do this for myself full time and have a plan of what I need to do. I’d love to pick your brains and maybe meet up with you one day when I’m closer to my goal. I’m only in Wiltshire. 🙏
You are always welcome to come and say hello - but drop me a line first as I may not be in or could be with clients or painting etc... Thanks for watching
In a way you are right, but artwork for collector is an investment. Collectors do not have time search on internet. They prefer to go to private views and exhibitions. And most of them go to recognised galleries. And if i do not have gallery space or i live in a middle of nowhere?
For this style of work that Swarez does it can be sold online. Similarly decorative crafts do well online. Contemporary art of interest will have collectors and requires a gallery network.
Totally agree. Seth Godin marketing genius says the same. Create your own followers and your creativity is your niche. Galleries turn your art into a product and take away from creativity .
I wish you were right, A good gallery can be a good way to make you name in the art world. Regional and international. No need for exclusively, it's to discuss isn't it !?
To make your name in the art world? Why? That's the whole problem here. That we have to be someone to get on, to connect or be recognized. Every creative can find their niche and their client base. Directly. Efficiently. Sensibly, Successfully. But if that's not the goal for an artist then by all means let them climb on the merrygoround that we have been enduring for 200 years.
Not only paintings but all artist want. Even on this medium there is, most expect miracles to see but there are little gems everywhere. People only get focused on studio performances but they actually get scammed of fake perfectionism made by machines. 😂
Actually there is a way to make it as a artist, just only make fake perfectionism that people like. But what real artist wants to sell his soal to the devil ? 🙂
So I am wondering, your beautiful display of amazing art, going from room to room, in a very large space, seems like an art gallery. Is it? Do you have your own gallery, featuring solely your own work? Tell us more about this space, and why you have chosen to do this, and how you justify the expense (😊because it must work!) including the gorgeous high end furnishings. It is spectacular! Where is it located? In the city....commercial?, away from the city and expense? Thank you. Loved your video.
Sorry! You are a new “delicious” discovery! After I subscribed I found all your videos and the one where all my questions here were answered! You are the most amazing artist, businessman, producer, space designer, rehabber, creator, tech guy, social media guy, builder, presenter, on and on and on. Thank you so much for sharing all this!
You are very welcome Victoria, as you may have seen myself and Adrian do it all !!! It,s really hard work and sometimes even we struggle to get up in the mornings but someone has to do it and no employees to pass over the mountains of work to 😊
Another stonking video there Swarez, you hit the nail on the head every turn. I've spent virtually of my art career doing commissions, but in the past was offered an exhibition in a very prestige gallery. The owner told me their rate was 55%., plus I was to ware the opening night party cost plus advertising and printing, I nearly fell over. However I was to busy doing commissions at the time and taking all the money for my self.... Working directly for, or with customers can also have it's draw backs. I did a lot of work for a woman that was somewhere between slightly eccentric and barking mad. ( actually come to think of it she was bonkers ) Commissions can some what stifle creativity, but balance that of against I've got bills to pay, and it's a bit of rock and a hard place situation. I've been quietly watching you videos for a while now and I'm getting a bit of an itch for doing some for sale canvasses, as there are some avenues I would like to experience that my commission work doesn't cater for. It must be getting warmer up there soon, time to ditch the hat and jacket !!!
Ha! Yes, once the warm weather returns I can hopefully lose a layer or two! Great observations and thank you for sharing that with us - very informative!
Very welcome and great advice Ed. Working on my website at this moment. Also a learning proces. Thank you again. Looking forward on your following up on this topic. Cheers!
The only reason I'd go with a gallery is if it is centrally located in a major city where people can actually see your work in person. Selling prints online is one thing, but having them on display in a well-lit setting where they can be shown to their best advantage is a big deal, especially for budding collectors. Viewing a work of art online is truly not the same, like texting someone is not 'the same' as being in their presence. One alternative (if you can afford it) is to maintain an apartment in a city's hub that serves as a private gallery. I know a few artists who do that, but of course that requires you to be well off financially in advance. Not a solution for startups! So some compromise is called for. Yes, selling online is a great idea, but many people, a lot of them potential buyers, need to have a chance to experience your work in its true size, color, and texture to make a decision, an experience lost on a computer screen. But a storefront in a city's hot spot is even more expensive than an apartment. So what CAN you do? Get together with a few trustworthy people, also artists, and get a center city apartment or storefront as a co-op. Or join an existing co-op. But remember what makes or breaks a place, especially a brick and mortar gallery, is location, location, location. Accessibility is the key to success. A beautiful exhibition space is not enough. And do a deal with a local parking garage. Public parking is not an option, not these days! And, BTW, never enter a contest. If you win, all it proves is your work is liked by the judges. If you don't, all it means is the judges don't like it. What would happen if Picasso, Edward Gorey, Auguste Renoir, Helen Frankenthaler, Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Frida Kahlo, Marcel Duchamp, Salvador Dali, and Georgia O'Keefe entered a contest together. Which one would get first prize? Which one second? Which one third?
Thank you so much Jonathan - very wise words indeed and some excellent alternatives in your suggestions. agreed that art needs to be experienced in the flesh - it really is the only way to do things. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for speaking truth to power, and in the process distilling where exactly we need to focus our energies for outreach. Love your vibe (and your art), you're a great teacher.
I get your point about commercial galleries and I agree that doing direct sales is a better option for many artists. Do you feel the same about co-op galleries, university and non profit galleries, or a public exhibition at a museum that puts out a call for art?
It depends what the objective of those exhibitions are and what you expect to get from it as a result. I would always judge every opportunity on its own merit
I agree with a lot you are saying, but Art Galleries are places of social meetings. It would be send to loos such places. People need people, not more time browsing websites. Websites do nor work anymore. People are looking for ways of interacting with one another.
Well, as I say in so may other posts, things would get boring if I sat in my office and did this. My audience is creatives and artists - not clients, so walking around and showcasing my work has zero effect on anything. I shoot the videos to help people - yes I know it's true!
I think the hope about being in a gallery is that you enter the reviewer/collector/museum continuum. I would say that there are many art worlds… And I know that there are plenty of artists out there who are making wonderful work that are selling their work and have dedicated collectors. And I think they’re artists and would like to have their work have an impact on the culture somehow… If you’re looking for that I think the notion is that being with a gallery is the way to do it… The same way as getting a record deal and being on a major label is a way of getting reviews and awards and being part of all of that is the record Business… Of course that model is kind of outdated. Maybe the gallery model is out there as well. Having said that… I think you have a lot of lovely work… I took a quick visit to your website. Clearly put a lot of work into it into framing (no pun intended) each piece with a nice description and story. I certainly appreciate your attitude about taking the business into your own hands and being proactive with your work and your life.
@@SwarezArt It’s very interesting because right now I’m kicking around the idea of creating my own gallery/art space. It’s very much dependent on a certain particular piece of real estate so that may or may not go through. But I like the idea of creating environment that has a certain vibe to it… Or I can show my own work… And maybe even create work and of course show the work of others. I’ve sold almost no artwork in my life. I met the most unusual person… Who is now a friend… Who actually purchases art from living artist just because he likes it. I really think that kind of person is unusual… He’s not rich… Certainly has enough money to spend on Art, but it’s his willingness to follow his own taste and his desire to have Art in his home and you support artists that makes him so unique.
@@JohnnyArtPavlou very elnightening! Although, there are more people like your friend than you may imagine. There is definitely a shift change with the way people are noe buying and enjoing art. Galleries beware!! Hope you can get to do your own thing - it is rewarding beyond monetary gain i assure you!
@@SwarezArt Thank you so much! I mean, the idea of making space for a place for people to come in and experiences certain vibe, hang out a little and feel like they’re part of something… That would be so great. Add to take on the challenge of making a space age of the Internet where people really wanna come and see it and feel it. To me, that’s a cool challenge to take on. And then of course I think about how to make it work… Monetarily. How to have work in items at various price points so that people can leave with a little something… And we can keep the support supply coming in. Rather than calling it money. Rather than having it be about making money.
That may be so Claire but how much stronger would your position be if you took back control for yourself? That's the question here. If how you do it suits you then power to you. For many, sadly, it simply doesn't work out. Thanks for sharing.
@@SwarezArt believe me ,I'd love another way , but I'm not a good with technology,my website sits in space doing nothing 🙄 I just want to paint,I hate everything else . Check it out www.clairemaguireart.com ,only thing I do is paint I'm hopeless
@@SwarezArt The problem is that most of us, artists are good at making art and enjoying it. Personally, I am not a community manager, neither a great seller, and I want to spend my time making art, not dealing with technology and trying to control everything.
@@sylvieperrinqueenofclay I am exactly the same - that's exactly what I want to do. I loathe all the other stuff that goes with it. But I choose that path for lots of reasons and after all, what life is lead if we are not to challenge what we are capable of? Thanks for sharing
Very insightful video. I work in a public gallery part time and they have recently increased the commission to 40%! I am rebuilding my artist website atm and SEO is a foreign language to me. Can you recommend any learning resources that could help me with that? Love your art & vids🎨😊
Thanks for your kind feedback - interesting what you say about the gallery you work for. For SEO try this - direct from Google: support.google.com/webmasters/answer/7451184?hl=en
Great comment on the importance of labelling the website with the correct long-tail keywords. I knew about this, but once I checked my site I saw many pages were just not that obvious in keywords. Thanks for the tip!
My experience with galleries is that they either have too little work to look at or so much that you can't see anything. The single gallery left in my town is in a good spot but has SO MUCH stuff that the interior is just stacks of paintings. It's hard to even walk in the door let alone look at something. Even the jewelry cases are overflowing with art pieces layered on top of each other. It's honestly better for me to wait for the two big art festivals that hit my area during the summer so I can see a lot of art and talk to the artists. Also, the art walk through your gallery was amazing!
You also have the problem of galleries asking you to do all the work for them. Back in the 80s and 90s, a gallery would promote your work for you and get you into magazines. Now, you are expected to have a media presence before you even go to the gallery. They want to know that you have an Instagram/Twitter/Facebook/website and expect you to promote them.
That was part of the commission the gallery took: promotion of the artist. And yes, today we should be doing that ourselves. But before the internet age, making media packets and submitting to journals for exposure took a lot more effort so it was a good bang for your buck. It just isn't anymore because those mechanisms don't exist anymore. Thanks again for the amazing your and for the video as a whole!
Great video and great inspiration to all the artist & art lowers ! Your story is one of the few so that is why is so powerfull. I am self-taught artist and in Slovakia where I am living galleries dont even talk to artist without a school so I decide to f...k them and I start to promote on my own and sold 30 smaler paitings last year without any gallery help. I can tell you some of the academic artist in Slovakia dont sell this amout of art with help and support of galleries. Of course is hard work and long hours and nonstop online work but that what is have to take to develop any business. I am big fan of your work and your videos and wish you lot of success and lot of happy customers of your great paintings ! God bless you !
@@SwarezArt Thank you very much :-) I am sure you are doing much better than me and you have achieve much more in the art scene than me yet. Thank you for sharing all ideas and your great art space with your great art !
I was told by a gallery owner that because I didn’t go to art school, I can’t expect to make as much, so they can’t expect to make as much. Yet my art is so much better than SO Many art school grads, even masters students so yeah, been there and don’t accept that one at all. It’s hard to promo yourself without art school on your resume for sure, which is why I’ve decided I don’t need the galleries. I’ll create my own gallery, thank you. I would like to do some work with older kids in my space though to help pay for it. A couple of workshops.
Many ways I do agree, it is a great video.. First, I do sell my works by myself too, here in Hungary. People never ask about awards, background etc; That is true, they only care about the art itself. But if an artist would like to focus solely on making art, and highly afraids from gettin an eye strain, I think that means you need that really good, special gallery. The Uk is full with tricky galleries, I know that, that is why I agree with you. But the EU is different many ways. The way I approach a gallery is not based on business, but whether they represent true and pure art, or not. The UK, US are both full with commercial galleries, that can force and brake artist into creating sellable "kitsch". For example, Germany is very much different, since "kitsch" rarely sells and galleries work with artists for a lifetime in many cases. The topic depends on location, very much. Again, great video!
The cut isn't justifiable if you keep the price the same, but the gallery can move art at double the price so essentially you're taking a 0% cut since you're not losing anything. They can do this because the people that buy from galleries are already expecting a certain higher price point than what you'd charge directly. So its all a matter of perspective and pricing higher. You're gonna be hard pressed to reach the same buyers as galleries using social media unless you become famous. The only way you'd lose something is if you make an exclusivity deal with a gallery, don't do that. Otherwise its all upsides
Completely agree with you on all points, Ed, this is something we as artists can take on for ourselves. Yet it is not easy, as you said, it is WORK. You cannot simply slap a website up there and expect the buyers to come, there are many steps in addition to having a cracking website. I'm switching art full time after 25 years of corporate jobs and raising family. I'm at the point where I've built up a decent number of good quality paintings (it took a while!) and I'm ready to get it all put together for the big marketing push--new website, social media, and several efforts I have planned to gain public attention locally. I believe I know my buyers. I paint in a windowless room in my basement--what I wouldn't give to have a nice space half the size of yours where clients could visit--but that will have to come later if step one of my plan is successful. Yes, I realize you built up to your beautiful studio/gallery over a period of years. I'm lucky in that I worked on websites and marketing in my last two jobs so I feel I know what to do for step one. I'm going to go with my real name in this art effort (Nooce is an old pen name of mine, not my real name). I did consider Nooce since it is rather odd and memorable, so sometime I'd love to hear you discuss the pros and cons of using Swarez for your art, and your thoughts on building a brand. Love your live streams! If I lived in England I would pop in to see you and grab up one of your big works for my very own! Thank you for what you do!!
you dont see what he is saying, he didnt say its easy, he said the steps are easy and simple enough, but hes saying everyone is lazy, you canot be lazy , you actually have to do hard work, which is what galleries and shops often dont get, often shops just expect people to walk in the door and buy, which sometimes they do, but those shops could do so much better if they were actively selling. he is saying i think.... get rid of your human natural laziness, because art is the number one thing to fail at if your also lazy about it!
I began working with a gallery here in Chicago back in 2006. I had to break ties with them because they kept under selling me and because when 2008 happened the checks started bouncing. I've been trying for years off and on to retrieve the remainder of my pieces from them. A few years back, I was only able to get back half (about 6 pieces). The reason for the half hearted effort was because, at the beginning of the break up, there was always an excuse for why they weren't available to coordinate a pick up time. The whole ordeal literally made me want to give up painting!! And for YEARS, in essence I did, outside of a commission here and there. Recently, I tried to make contact again. NO RESPONSE. Do I have any legal recourse? What should I do? I can't see small claims court being worth it.
I am no lawyer I'm afraid so I cannot speak for any legal position or possible outcome of that action. I feel for you as this is a common problem. Unless you can track a director down or something then I cannot think of a way forward for you. Thanks for the comments
That's typical. So many of them don't give a shit, and they constantly don't pay, and when they cough up the dough (6 months) late they act as if they're doing you a big fucking favor. A guy here in Portland, Oregon skipped town owing artists thousands. There's no overiste in this business, and so many of them figure that when they get the money in their hot little fists, it's ALL theirs.
You hit the nail on the head there. Exactly! Besides you might carry your works into a gallery and walk out with them under your arms when an employee or the owner tells you your art is not up to standard and you later find out that he or she had never held a paintbrush ! 'Art Critics' they call themselves ! Secondly they inflate the price to such a degree that your works stay there unsold and we know the consequences of that I.e frustration and with no money.....!
A nice and truthful presentation the the do I need to show in an "Art Gallery". I have owned my own brick and mortar Gallery, I am an artist as well. So I did the job of 2 people. I soon realized I was killing myself for nothing. The biggest problem I have had with Galleries now and in the past is their perceived value as a business. The make you believe they are the experts in the Arts, meanwhile I have seen some of the most overpriced and pathetic art out there. Because of this perception on their part, they make you have to beg to show your work in their gallery. I don't beg for anything. A year ago I showed my work in a high end gallery in Santa Fe.. They sold 4 large paintings of mine after being on display for 3 months. I got paid 9 MONTHS later. I had to threaten legal action to finally get my money. MY point is that is a growing lack of respect for artists by gallery owners. You are only a number and your value to them is when they sold your last painting. AS a final point I have gotten weary of the "Art Exhibitions". It is pretty much what they are an exhibition. I have never sold a piece showing my art in this fashion. I am tired of preparing my work for an exhibition, packing it up, transporting and hang it for pretty much display only. I have won awards for my work, big deal people who love your work and buy it could care less.
That's a brilliant insight of your experiences Terry - thank you so much for sharing that with us all. It is, sadly, an all-too familiar story these days. Just goes to show what a ball-ache the whole system is for too little reward and an utter lack of respect. Shameful way to be treated Terry. There's a lesson for us all in there. thank you again!
I never liked percentage businesses, ie those who make more off certain transactions with the same amount of work for them. So if I create something special that people are willing to pay more for, the gallery gets more of that difference than an average piece but with the same amount of work. I can understand a fair flat fee or charging me a sq foot fee for how much space I’m taking up on their wall. But a percentage feels too much like I’m being used.
Hi! Great content as always, just one question. Lots of new artists struggle to get visibility on their works, aren't gallery a great opportunity to attract critics, and get the basic renown that you need to get into an auction?
Perhaps. but at what cost? Can they access 500 million people like you can? Why do you want to get in to an auction? Thanks for the feedback by the way!
@@SwarezArt I am not online as much... in order to get millions to see what I do. I have not that skill and energy to apply myself for that. However I would not mind my work to be auctioned (for instance see Banksy how well he did! Years ago he was an unknown artist). In my case, over the years my art work has been appreciated by organising my own show and even in group. I must admit that doesn't sell very well. I don't believe in critics. Unless they know you well they are not interested. You are right about art galleries. They exploit artists. See the Saatchi gallery how decades ago was buying British art works from emerging artists in bulk. Some of them are very famous now. So not being a name does not pay in art business.
I think the harder is to find the audience, I personnaly get easily overwhelmed by all the social media online. I think when you have no knowledge what so ever in marketing its really hard to make your way to sell online. This is what I need to study if I want to sell on day.
Thank you for this video and several of your other videos, they're very informative. I am about to start my own business with my art as well and I watch your videos as a guide for how to stay creative and be an independent artist.
Well I totally agree but tried so many times to do the online thing and to me it’s just confusing I’m just clueless even though I watched videos and read articles all about it still I’m just not techy enough maybe just don’t have the patience to do it I definitely need somebody to to get started on it and I can maintain it!
I was the same Natalie. The only way to crack it is to be consistent - even when you have no interest or desire to do something you don't like. Persistence is key. You can totally do this - you absolutely can. Don't ever doubt that. If you can type you can do anything!
Thank you Steve. Displaying my work isn't clever really because my channel only appeals to other creatives and not clients. So therefore my actual market rarely engage with the content. Ergo, I doubt I will ever sell anything from showing off the work. I DO IT BECAUSE i HATE BEING SAT IN MY OFFICE ALL FRIKKIN DAY! Glad you found the vid worhty.
First time here. I subscribed within the first minute. Awesome video, very articulate and informative! I appreciate the time energy and effort that you put in your videos. Thank you.
Fantastic. Thanks for the advice and hearing you explain it so well, I’m now much more likely to do it myself and invest that 50% back into content marketing and advertising, even hiring someone to help out with it... that will be a much better way to invest the income. I’m predicting (hoping and working towards) being in the position to show, sell and market my art sometime this year and the advice is invaluable. Cheers.
Couldn't agree more, I ran a successful historical reproduction pottery business for 15 years, (gave it up due to health reasons) and the best part was getting to know my wonderful customers as well as having their input. I LOVED the personal aspect of my business. Now I am exclusively doing photo-realistic oil paintings and drawings, and represent myself, and do quite well and still enjoy the personal interaction-wouldn't have it any other way. And I have never had awards, advertised nor do I list credentials, I too let my work speak for itself, LOL Enjoyed looking at your beautiful work as you speak. Cheers and Lots of Love from New Mexico USA, Julia
Now that's a great story! Thank you for sharing that with us all. Great to hear from you and thank you foe your generous feedback. Have a great weekend :)
@@SwarezArt You as well
i am sorry i dont agree with this advice at all, good galleries and good promoters and art dealers that there full time job always been like that, that is how now we know about the history of art, and this is nothing to do with our modern time at all, this is going on ever since artist should only paint, i work with galleries since 20 years ago with out them i wont be still painting now ,big misunderstand for sure.
I'm a multi medium artist and I live in an area where the tourism draw is HUGE. Art galleries in towns like mine I see ass basically window dressing for the local tourist trap sections of the area. Outrageous rents are what these galleries pay each month and they burden any artists represented in places like this with insulting consignment fees. Sad.
@@kalgajoum6400 If galleries never existed you would still find a way right? If you are happy with what you do then great! This is for all those people who aren't - and there are a lot of them out there.
As someone who's sold my art without a gallery for about 5 years now, I do think they're in trouble. My advice wouldn't be all that different. I would 100% try to build your own audience and clientele in 2020. Don't rely on others to do it for you, it's worth it in the long run.
Thanks Chuck; really appreciate your words.
As a gallery owner, I understand and respect your thoughts on this. I have been a solo artist for about 5 years and I have done very well selling art, creating a continuous following, commissions, etc. The thing that you aren't saying is the reason gallery owners open for business; however, I will speak for only me. I wanted to work with the community on events, teaching, and just sharing the beauty of art. My split is not a lot and it is important for the gallery owner such as myself to know all I can about each artists art, process, and meaning behind each piece. Then, build a rapport with each customer, learn what the customer is looking for and direct them in that direction. After the sale is complete, I then take a picture of the collector and the work, get their information such as name, number, email, etc., so that the artist can have all of that for their records and continue to build on that relationship with THEIR new collector. This is what I have always wanted and did not get in the gallery that represented me in the beginning. I decided to run my gallery the way I see is beneficial to the artist, the collector and the gallery. Win Win for everyone.
Thanks for sharing your ethos and practice Amy!
This is exactly why I love galleries.
You are so 100% correct! I hope you keep making these kind of videos to help fellow artists. I have been with galleries for years since 1986, they gave me headaches and upset stomach. They don’t really care about artists just making money on them. Abusive! But starting 2017 and last 2019 I produced my own 45th one man show and it was incredibly satisfying and fulfilling financially and psychologically! I only hired one girl to do sales and marketing and gets 10% of sales of each painting. We were an effective team of 2! I just paid rent of space in a prime location,frames, invites, girl doing sales, caterer,, I did minimal delivery myself, and yes! I retained all of my income, no gallery chopping off your income to 50% or more. I really love being my own boss. I understand your being emotive about this topic, I am too, thank you for caring about your fellow artists, more power to you and what you do!
Thank you Stella - that's great to hear that you took back control and oh, look what happened? You sold, made money and were happy! If anyone needed a reason to ditch the galleries then what you've just said says it all. Thank you.
Swarez Art wow! So honoured that you replied to me a fellow painter! I’m a figurative oil painter in Manila, Philippines, with a 34 year career, but I can appreciate your abstract art too and can relate to the difficulties you encounter as a painter that’s why I subscribed to your channel. Love your videos on not needing galleries, you are merely spreading the truth. In fact I shared this video in my Facebook account.- Stella Rojas.
@@stellarojas4639 Wahoo! Thank you very much for that! Yes, we must spread the word...
Swarez Art yes that is true I did sell a lot and surprised myself, and the funds will not only make it possible for me to survive but to continue the work that I do, I’m excited to do future one man shows knowing I am my own boss, your videos really spread the truth, funny how artists from here and the other side of the world have the same universal problems. It’s time to call a spade a spade. 50-60% off artists income is abusive
As someone who interviews gallery owners and people in the Art World here in Washington D.C... You bring up some amazing points. The Core fact of "you have what you do and have to find people who love it." is the entire game. I think from the gallery owner perspective is that they have more connections to "real buyers" and "people with money". Thats the fascination there.
Thank you for sharing that with us today!
Yes, however there is still a perception that you’re not a “real artist” unless you’re in a gallery by most people who love art! That doesn’t mean you can’t succeed without the gallery but it does mean if you want to be perceived as a real artist by a huge portion of the population then that might affect your choice to or not to
@@philippagrimoire5968Maud Lewis didn't do art gallery 😉 Yet they built up a museum for her art... Maybe you are the one who feels not being a real artist if your are not in a gallery ? 🤔
Many buyers buy because of the “credibility “ as an investment, that’s why all the artists “history” matters, they care less about the art and more about the investment
Which is a shame Rob and why we have such a ridiculous system at almost every level. Same with classic cars.
These markets tend to be "created" in many instances as of the last 30 years. Artists like DH buying their own art to inflate prices! etc. Provenance is a genuine concern for purchasing the masters but even much of that has been shown to be false, But what you love!!!!!!!!!
Sell to people who love your art - Dali was kept afloat by one patron who loved his work!
I would say at certain segments of the market it is dependent on branding of the artist. I used to work as an art manager selling Picasso, Dufy, etc. We had an original Impressionist painting, 3rd tier, kind of unknown artist. At the Ritz Carlton, they didn't even look at the impressionist painting and went straight to Picasso. It really blew my mind. I was jumping up and down, this is a painting vs. a print. Oh well. LOL
@@williama.hovestreydt6623 DH as in Damien Hirst?
I'm a beginner in the art world and I have been feeling confused and lost about what to do with my art, since the main known thing about being a painter is being with an art gallery and I've started looking for ways to do it too.
This video might have just put some sense into my brain and probably saved me.
Thank you for this wonderful video!
You are very welcome - glad to have helped!
In two minds about commenting on this, however I think it's worth pointing out that most of the animosity towards art galleries is a culmination of assumptions about the art world/market which in the majority of cases aren't true. Do artists need galleries? It depends. What do you want to achieve as an artist? Sell your work, receive recognition, be part of a scene, have exhibitions, get in a museum? There is a lot to consider.
Thank you for your observations Michael, they are very much appreciated and I am glad at least one gallery owner has commented so thank you. Perspective and goals are important for sure, but animosity is largely derived, from what I can see and hear in the comments, by individuals having poor experiences or not getting their needs met.
Those needs and expectations are always going to be personal and for those who can't find a way through there is always an alternative. Asking every creative the question "What is it you actually want?" is perhaps the most fundamental one that everything else should be derived from in my opinion. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts.
Good dealers facilitate commerce, good curators fascilitate understanding and good artists fascilitate priceless sentiment.
The absence of genuine quality in all aspects of this transaction is the issue as far as I'm concerned. In this far greater responsibility lies with artists than with administrators. If a dealer short sells for a quick profit or status she will leave nothing and be forgotten. However, a painter only needs to follow the rules of supply and demand to create a legacy of several hundred objects that say nothing about the intellect that made them and everything about the interior design trends of 2020
I love the honesty of this video, ok i'm not very good at articulating myself but ill give it a go...I grew up as a punk living on the streets and abandoned buildings with my brother struggling with mental health, self harm, addictions all that stuff you can spiral into when you don't really care if you live or die... and the One positive thing i took from living like that for most of my life was the concept of D.I.Y ... a punk band called Crass taught this to me and i live by it to this day.. and this video reminds me of that same attitude, Do It Yourself ! having the power in your own hands with no red tape or authority telling you what to do is the best feeling ever !
I now paint in oils and do very well because i'm good at talking to people in the real world with no hidden agenda..they trust me and buy my work. its simple, the acknowledgment of trying is the reward. Remember that and good luck♥
Wise words well spoken! Thank you so much for this, really appreciate it!
It does help if you are a people person. Sadly, I'm not. I struggle with that side of things, although I'm great with a computer and keyboard (and piano, but that's another story).
You are absolutely correct. My experience with my first art show was so condescending and unprofessional. Showing my work myself is challenging but rewarding.
Well said!
I might be a lone voice here, but I continue along the gallery route. Now this is not without certain conditions. First of all, it's very true that "real" galleries are increasingly difficult to find. The biggest reason I see, is that most galleries I've met along my search are more framers than actual galleries. My first consideration is that an art gallery is actually that - a real working gallery that sells art, and only art.
As for a brief background, I was an illustrator for almost thirty years before moving into fine art. In those days I had an artist's representative, better known as an agent. Today, I exhibit with two galleries in three locations. Yes, I do indeed pay fifty percent in commission. What do I get for that? I get solid representation, promotion, and some regular buyers (yes I've met many of them). The job of your gallery is not only to promote you, but to keep you abreast of changes in the market, a sense of where I fit in it, and valuable feedback and direction to were I can go with my work. You need a look to be represented. If you want to be successful with gallery representation, you need to find your look and style. You need to produce work your gallery can sell.
As I follow this video, I'm not seeing any art I would actually buy. I can't tell if all this work is by this artist, or many. Also there's no mention of pricing. The galleries I sell through garner prices that I would never command on my own (I've tried). The commission you pay to a gallery goes to maintaining and running that gallery, as well as promotion. The key to all of this of course, is finding a gallery that's actually a gallery.... fineartamerica.com/profiles/2-david-henderson
Everything in the video is my own work and if it's not for you then great, no problem. I expect that of most people to be honest. I'm fine with that. If the gallery system is preferable one for you then good for you Dave. I am simply trying to make the point that there is an alternative for the hundreds of artists that write to me and tell me they are pissed off with the whole system. I have proved you don't need it.
Dave, what you mention is exactly what I don't like from galleries: they tell you to have a look that carries from painting to painting, in order to create a brand around you. I find this to be artistic death. I saw your paintings, and they're nice. I know that in the US you will find buyers for these paintings, particularly in more rural places, or with older audiences. But as an artist, I want to be experimenting. I want to do collage, abstract, illustration, paintings etc. A mixing pot of ideas and experimentation. Sitting on one good idea and then replicating it over and over on command from the gallery, doesn't sound artistic to me. It sounds boring, and full of complacency. Eventually, it wears you down. I know, because I did it to myself with collage from 2012 to 2018. Customers went a specific genre, and I was giving it to them daily. I made money alright, but it was soul crushing. When I'd giving them some better art, like some abstract collage, they wouldn't buy. As I said, soul crushing.
@@EugeniaLoli Hi Eugenia,
Something you wrote here has prompted me to respond. I'm truly saddened to hear any artist use the phrase 'soul crushing'. In the above, I don't mean to imply that a gallery is for everyone. Certainly not; I can only relate my own experience with them. A good gallery will never tell you what to paint, their job is to let you know how your work is doing. They display, promote and develop a clientele for you. The reason I choose not to self promote, is because it can be a full time job for five people. I want to create. I spend my days making all kinds of things; not just painting. For me, "artist" is not a job; it's a way of life.
@Dave H. yes yes yes! That is the reason I worry about galleries. I cant/wont do the same art over and over again. That is incredibly uncreative and unnatural. I am "art-curious" (just made that up lol), so I want to try different types of art. I have so many ideas all the time and wouldnt want to stifle that. And the art in this video is like the canvas put on a spinner for a spray effect and that sort of simple process. Maybe it sells, but it's not the work I'd expect to have in a nice gallery. I say do both. Bragging rights to have gallery shows with cocktails to invite your friends to once in a while right? ;)
@@m-well6843 Hello M-Well,
I like your "art-curious". As I think about that, I believe it defines the way an artist sees the world, and also to self-explore. I write here in the context of this "Art Galleries.." post, but to clarify, a gallery should be but one part of your artistic life. I produce work for three galleries, but I actually do many things beyond painting. I'm a stained glass artist, most of which is in our old house that I've been restoring for years. I've designed and built furniture, and restore picture frames for which I make all my own surfaces.
Certainly, galleries are not for everyone, but to clarify, a gallery will (should) never tell you what to paint. Not good for you, and not good for the gallery. They take you on for the way you think. That reflects in your work as style. It's hard to describe, but in recent years, I've come to notice that whatever I've made, somehow looks like "me"..... My last paycheck job was a factory night shift I left in 1980. I've been a full time artist/craftsman ever since. I love it! Keep doing what you're doing and let your style ultimately find you!
I've had decent experiences with physical galleries, but I've also had absolutely miserable experiences, and I've yet to have a great experience. Some are just insanely unprofessional, run by people who don't have the faintest clue about art. I've had one question my pricing, take a cut to put up a painting on the wall AND a 50% off the sale, and not pay me for months at a time.
I'm now dealing with an online gallery run by a young and tech-savvy crew who put back a lot of their profits into advertising, and I'm much happier for it.
As far as I know galleries will rise the price of your art, so they are not really taking your money. If a gallery does it's job properly it will save you a huge amount of time and distress. Of course, how many reliable and hard working galleries are out there? I've heard pretty terrible stories...
None
Art galleries are for plonkas mate
I consider myself lucky to find a gallery that was interested in representing me. Never sold a single painting before they showed my work. On other hand i haven't really sold much in the past two years, but i am working on improving my art, because that is probably the case
As someone stated already galleries aren't interested in art, they're interested in investments. Your art isn't the problem, you just need to find your audience and a gallery doesn't care about doing that or helping sell your work for you.
I fully agree with this. I've sold in both galleries and online. My real income is from online sales. I can count on two hands how many paintings three different galleries have sold for me, but I've sold hundreds of paintings online, myself, without outside help. We are in different times now and there's never been a better time to be an artist. 💯
Thanks Carole - well said!
Love how you're giving us a good look at all of your paintings. Guiding us through all that color.
Thank you Sally
that was part of the deal.
Yes. It's beautiful
I was reading an article on how to write an artist CV/bio that will stand out and in the examples given, there was a section of accomplishments, education etc and being a self-taught artist, it just made me go, "ohhh....😔😔", I don't have all that....😟. I am quite motivated again after watching this video and I suppose the key thing is the audience and the appeal that they have towards my work. I've not dealt with galleries before but true enough as you have said, in this modern technology age, we can definitely be our own gallery and have control of things. Thank you for this, Ed! 😊
Thank you so much Maureen - that's a great way to look at things and a an astute observation. We all must embrace tech and the ability of connect with real people to succeed. Once we define what it is we want it's then just a series of processes to get there. I will be breaking this down in the coming months to help make things a bit more practical (well that's the plan anyway!)
@@SwarezArt Looking forward to them, Ed :))
I just deleted a CV I composed last year after one gallery asked for mine and nevered replied.
A CV. Like am being employed.
@@africaart Mine is 'I am an artist. Nothing else matters.' I have never had a complaint about that in any gallery. The work sells itself.
@@heraldeventsandfilms5970 yes! Great to hear!
Thank you for this. This is exactly what I needed to hear. I was getting bogged down in believing that I'll never be anybody if I don't get my artwork into a gallery.
You’re welcome Jonny!
Thank you for this video. I'm currently going on two years of remission from cancer. B-Cell ALL Lukemia, to be exact! I really want to do what makes me happy. I love to draw and paint. I have only recently started printing and framing my drawings. Although chemo and radiation has caused me some long term health issues along with hand pains. I will go on and defeat this as well. I would love to get my art-work out there. Your video here gives me much needed hope.
Thank you so much for sharing that with us Merinna - great to hear you are in remission. Never give up. On anything. Stay the course, believe in a better tomorrow and in yourself. Now go and be mighty! A huge welcome to the channel 😊
Some of the many reasons I opened up my own gallery. Them expecting you to do their inventory to see what they sold and still taking 6 months to pay, damaging frames and then they don’t sell, selling things and going out of business, renting your artwork (!)... And not to mention you are paying for their inventory (art and frame) but only getting a markup on the art, while they take a commission on the frame you bought months earlier. It makes more sense to open up a frame shop! Or, better yet, a t shirt shop!
Galleries will bring in a certain kind of clientele. Serious buyers don't look for good art on Etsy. Serious businesses don't care about Facebook and Twitter. It's all just noise. Visual art has to be seen in reality. Would you rather look at a photo of a Rembrandt or be the only person in the world experiencing it in a magical moment? Of course I am talking about public galleries where work might not be on sale but I visit commercial ones as well for the same reasons. As for percentages, what do you think is the mark-up of ANYTHING in selling? As for your own work, a combination of showing in galleries, staging solo shows in unusual venues where there are monied people, going after corporate clients, showing in art fairs and most importantly, encouraging clients to visit your studio and building relationships with them is something that works for me. I like visiting galleries, even the ones that won't take my work. I like galleries. These are the places to properly see art.
Most of the successful artists in brief art history were on a gallery roster, and the artists promoted in some of the national art magazines are with a gallery.
So the natural thought is, I need to be with a gallery to "make it" as an artist. Most "important" galleries have a roster of 100 or more artists they are representing. And even if you get in one, you can get lost in the shuffle.
You're absolutely right.
Galleries are not needed.
Find your audience, and do the work yourself.
Spot on Thomas - thank you!
Thank you so much for this video! This is what I needed to confirm my decision to leave galleries behind and run my own business! It takes time to find and reach your clients but it's worth it! Thumbs up!
Thanks Ute - glad you found it helpful!
I was just feeling that my solo show never really happened at the gallery that never told me who my buyers were and took 50%...and it is something I feel unfinished with. WRONG! Thanks! Back to work.
Thank you for sharing that with us; much appreciated!
@ExposingMiLabs Their policy. Lack of trust.
All true and well said. It always amazed me that galleries get free stock, have no digital marketing and no mailing list, take 50% then claim to suffer because they pay rent. Exceptions are few and far between. Makes no sense. Subbed.
Thanks Malcolm; very much appreciated!
The only issue I have with the old model is the percentage of the price that's going to the gallery.This has always been an area open to abuse.
Amazing advice and you are absolutely right! With the internet, there is no gate keeper, we can have the control we need!
Absolutely!!
Hey dude this was brilliant. I have had so many galleries reaching out to me lately and they want me to pay up to 250 EUR exhibition fee, which means they make money either way if it sells or not. The more "established" galleries in my local area also refuse to exhibit artists that havent already done exhibitions so thats a bit of a Catch 22. You also need an arts education, but the ones I´ve seen with master degrees make the most boring art. There is so much snobbery in this business and you opened my mind that I dont really need em. In fact; fuck em all. I will sell the art myself! have a nice day
I can't tell you how refreshing this is to hear - the system is total shite and only exists to make profit for the galleries - it has nothing to do with art and hasn't for decades. With some effort, focus and discipline you CAN succeed on your own and follow your own path. We have done it from absolute zero. No money, no education, no system - just a belief and a willingness to learn. Have a wonderful day!!
Feeling really unhappy and now I've watched this I want to scream, I was going to drop an invite to you to a new exhibition of mine that opens next saturday but I haven't sent any out as the gallery I am going to be in have done nothing to promote the show and I don't want my patrons to go there. By the time my work comes out of there I will have found somewhere to put my art and the 40% they were taking for doing nothing will be my own advertising/sales budget. Thank you
Oh Vanessa - I really feel your pain. So sorry to hear this. Well, when you do get to that position of sending an invite out then please do send one my way - would love to come and hang out!
@@SwarezArt Thanks for the support x
If you are a new artist the gallery wants You to get as many of your friends and family as you possibly can to come to the gallery on opening night. In the hope that they will buy paintings out of support for you and also increase their client base and importantly that other people will see if you and gallery are popular. Popular = status. High status = high prices.
VANESSA RHEAD ART oh my goodness. We are having the same experience!! I can’t have friends and family travel all that way for something not even promoted. I am taking back my power!!
@ExposingMiLabs I said they have done NO ADVERTISING, Turns out the lady I was dealing with was trying to contact me with a different email address that my computer didn't know so dumped in junk and then her computer wasn't showing any new emails (not just mine other artists too) She thought no one was getting back to her and it was only because of her phoning me the day before my work was to be hung that we realised all the problems, she has now phoned round everyone to assure them she is still available, Then the world fell apart, Opening night delayed, Opening night cancelled, Gallery closed. Oh well worse things happen at sea, sat here giggling while I typing, I would say stuck at home painting but I work at Aldi too (husband just finished UNI) so off I pop to fend off the public and their germs :D
Your passion really comes across and makes me sit up and listen with real intent .
I had a gallery message me that one of my pieces had fallen off their wall - ok, my fault with how I made the hanging piece- but it took them a WEEK after it happened! Their communication verges on pure ignorance .... and for that reason( reinforced by this vid..) I' M OUT!! Keep on kicking artistic ares ! 😎👍🏻⭐️😁
Thank you so much - we will keep pushing!
Thank you so much for this advice, I have to say that I have been watching your videos for years now and I've even watched some more than once because the advice you give if very true and authentic.
This may come off as a rant, but I won't waste too much time complaining about this.
I haven't had a pleasant experience with galleries so far and what kills me about the gallery business model, especially nowadays (because it comes off as a trend) is that they tend to approach young and emerging artists who, at that stage aren't even fully sure what kind or artist they are. On top of that, all if not most galleries, want exclusivity from their artists, which makes no sense because emerging artists and even mid level and established artists make their income from various shows/projects/ collaboration, etc, so basically that means you then have to rely on that one source of income from said gallery, and that's only if you sell or if they decide to focus on your work for that season. (on top of that, during these times of lockdown, social media is helping a lot of artists who aren't represented, because people are spending a lot of time online.)
This was my experience literally a year ago and luckily, I very quickly walked away from that situation. Now, my main aim is to find my audience and build those relationships because that's what I enjoy doing most aside from making the work.
Again thanks for the advice, apologies for the long comment and please continue doing what you do!
I absolutely love what you said and it's sadly typical of the system and the way many, but not all, galleries work. I am delighted you have found the videos useufl and i hope to be making a lot more now as I have comitted to making at least one a week in 2021! Ouch!
Agree 100% It's about our art and bringing people along in our lifes to see and feel our passion about it 🎨😊
Spot on. I have been saying this exact message for years ! So refreshing to hear another artist with same ideology !
Thanks very much!
Thank you! Your advice is greatly appreciated. I’ve started painting again after a stroke, and I’m working abstractly which I love. Previously I sold in the area I lived in my Art was in a cafe and I did well. Now I am finding it harder to find clients. I’m on Instagram and people do love my work, but I can’t seem to sell. I’m getting offers to promote me, and I’m overwhelmed, I don’t know how to get from people loving my work to selling it. Before it wasn’t a problem. I wish I knew if I should try toI sell through Etsy or my own website?
It can be a complicated thing to work through Moe. No easy solution to building up a base of raving fans who engage with and buy your work. You can try Etsy for sure but I am a firm believer in building a strong site and pointing everything towards that. However, platforms like UA-cam can also offer similar traffic if you're prepared to work at it. Find your niche, the thing that makes you different from others, the hook, the USP. I do have other videos on the channel that may help but realistically there's no secrets or quick wins except for determination and resilience. 13 years down the line from you and I am still having to work at that every single day!
Thank You Swarez Art.
Good information again.
👏🥰🇬🇧🍀🇬🇧
I am however displaying
my Art, in my Son and his partner's Cafe. They have not long taken it over. When I saw the empty walls, I
asked and they said yes. We will have to see how it goes. 🤭😇
I hope you negotiated fees? (only kidding!) good luck to you - exciting.
I think the one thing here to consider is how much your work is being sold for-When you sell out of your studio, it’s hard to have the exponential leaps in terms of pricing. But, if you get in on a blue chip gallery, the sky is limit for your pricing because the big collectors are collecting those brand items and paying for that. But, that’s like 1 to 2% of artists that are occupying those roles.
A very good point of view Miles, thank you for sharing!
Agreed with everything you said. To promote your own art - build an engaging website and drive business to it. Simple. Well, not really. As you pointed out, many galleries don’t even do this - and that is their business. Avoid. Nothing wrong with outsourcing the work to a gallery. Just make sure they are going to earn their commission. Great if you have can combine creative, business and marketing skills as you have. Appreciated the gallery tour.
Thank you so much!
Yes i used to be selling well in a gallery charging 25% couldnt believe my luck in finding them, then they decided they had to put their commission up, they would put the prices of my paintings up to cover, but, what happened predictably is a huge drop in sales and eventually closes down. Absolutely yes, you never know who has bought your painting. However I had a really good web site but lost interested in it when nobody went there. I was accused of not marketing. I then signed into to one of the big online ones, got thousands of viewings which was encouraging but alas not one sale. Gave up painting. Later went back to it, again I signed into an online gallery. Thousands of viewings favourates heaps of times but alas not one sale. Family said cut prices ,but I based them on the same standard and type of paintings on the site. Since then 90% of my paintings burnt in house fire. What I want to know is how you crossed the bridge what you would do about prices charged for similar paintings though I proudly say very few are. Should I be selling for the same as I did twentyfive years ago. The family say yes, I find it offensive, groveling, why should I sell what can I say? Very pro semi abstracts for less than I did? What was your first marketing tactic, where do you go what did you do. Gill
First marketing tactic? I don't know. To go big I guess... I can't remember. Except for endless learning about search engines and how to have a good online presence.
The Gallery method has expired much like the record companies in the music industry and for many of the same reasons. The core goal is the same, build a following and take care of them.
Well said David, thank you for sharing!
me thinks when you sign a contract with a gallery or record company it can be for say 20 paintings or 2 records; until you get established and maybe decide to jump ship (naive perhaps).
Brilliant video thank you very much for sharing so much information. I have been stuck and given up for a long time on my dream after trying everything including the galleries but didn't get anywhere and stopped believing in myself. I have just finally started getting my power and self belief back and this gave me the inspiration to go back to my website and revamp it and promote it properly. It's been just sitting online and flatlined just to serve my ego when someone wants to see my website. Loved to see all your art on the walls and the presentation was clear and to the point. Also I would love for you to do a video on what a great website should be. Thanks again and look forward to watching more of your videos.
Hi,
I just watched some of your videos today for the first time and agree with your arguments in this section. I am a self taught artist and started painting at the age of 69 and satisfied with the result though there is lot more to do. For example, I tried a painting today after seeing you painting a large canvas in enamel paints. I paint in acrylics and water colors besides color-pencil drawings mainly nature and birds and animals as realistic expressionist and wanted to diversify in abstract painting. This I am already doing in many of the backgrounds for my main subject. However, I tried one small painting today as it is a day of playing colors in India (called Holi), and it was liked by my friends and family when I sent my wishes for this festival with photo of this painting. Since I have no experience of enamel paints, I did this in my acrylics (though bit expensive) and was happy to paint it. Thanks for your videos that inspired me. What you said about the galleries, I had the same view but an opinion from an artist like you gives me courage. I have subscribed to you today. Best regards, Mahesh
Thank you very much Mahesh - it's great to hear you are creating in the way you want and on the day of Holi too. What a feast for the eyes that must be! Thank you for subscribing and a very warm welcome to the channel
Thank you so much Ed! I cannot add much to what the others have so graciously stated, (one can feel the relief and "enlightenment" from their comments!), only that the fundamental point here is: TAKE RESPONSIBILITY for your financial dignity. Years ago, I came to the same conclusion with my investment portfolio; why pay fees to a brokerage firm to simply squirrel your hard earned money into mutual funds and mysterious instruments at high fees, when it is not complicated to do your own research/work and reap the rewards. Keep up the good work, and I must say your UA-cam channel is the best!
Thanks Jimi - I really appreciate your kind words. Great to see so many creatives share an equally frustrated point of view and that they have the desire to change it. That's what this is all about. Have a great day!
Stellar advice and insight as always. Thanks, Ed. 👍🏼
My pleasure and thank you!
A great video that I needed to see, not just for the pep talk but for the variety of art on show. IMHO some of the pieces were wonderful and some not, which exposes the potential problem of being your own curator, something that I am bad at. This channel won't change my lack of sensibility where curation is concerned but it is what I need right now for other reasons. I will be following with great intent. Cheers mate.
Thanks Stephen - I really appreciate that!
Very interesting, As someone who has been thinking about getting my art in a gallery, this has made me reconsider my options. VERY good point you made about not knowing who is buying your work, this requires thought about how i feel about that...
Whatever you decide will be right for you - important thing is to make an informed decision based on gathering and assessing facts and opinions. I wish you luck!
I had to pause and just say that some of these paintings in the background are phenomenal. Amazing.
That's very kind of you - thank you so much!
Great advice! Regarding galleries not being able to move fast enough - imagine if you change your style..., chances are they’d drop you like a hot potato - and then what do you do...?
Fyi, happened by chance across your Pollock drip painting video the other day - that was 10yrs ago Ed..., time is an interesting counterpoint to artists and art making.... cheers & thanks for the insights... 🙏
Ah how time flies Stephen! Thanks for your generous feedback; much appreciated :)
An excellent message. You're explaining something people really need to understand or they are selling themselves short.
Thanks Rod!
I’m at a place right now where selling my art isn’t a priority. I’m just enjoying creating art. I would like to sell some in a low pressure way, that won’t rob me of all the enjoyment & fulfillment I’m experiencing. I have a friend who makes astronomical income thru her art. She travels the world & is in some of the finest galleries. Her stories of her experiences abroad & in all these fine galleries are so much fun & exciting to hear about. But when I think about it, that would be so overwhelming for me. I really don’t even want have my work in a gallery. I just want to paint, & maybe sell some of my work in a chill environment. That’s what attracted me to your video. I cringe at the thought of ever having to deal with a gallery. I’m far from wealthy. Painting is one of the few passions I have left, that I haven’t been robbed of over money.
Thank you for sharing that with us today Brenda.
Agree 90%. If there’s a gallery out there that treats me well and sells, I’m ok. But I’m not exclusive.
Thanks Anita!
Galleries are so snobbish, particularly in Cornwall. A lot of the time, I can’t even get an acknowledgement email response from them. I’ve got my own small home gallery studio now. I do it all myself.
It's the best way Tracey! Power to you for taking control
I just finished my first abstract inspired by you. I love all types of art and trying new things. It is a lot of work getting effect I can’t imagine big canvas. 😁love your work
Thanks very much!
Hi Ed , fully agree with you with the obsolete traditional gallery , been there done that , therefore I opened my own and do represent other artists with my own business model , I have been blessed to have a beautiful property with woods and on the bank of a beautiful river in Central Ontario with a lot of tourism in the summer months , I don't charge a commission for the artists , they set their prices and I offer the public an art experience , the art is hung on grids under natures canopy in the woods , hung on a good day and brought in at the end of the day on prime summer months , minimal hanging fee , this model has grown over the years , and continues to do so , thank you for your engaging videos and wise words.
Sounds wonderful Daniel and I'm sure your artists feel very at home with how you do things. Great to hear about your own journey so thanks for sharing that with us today. Have a great weekend!
Your video was very informative for me. I'm new in the artist world. I'm a graphic artist, it's as been 7 years now that I'm retired and I have a collection of paintings/sculpting on canvas (all in one). Thank you for video, this give me a better view how the Galleries are taking advantage of the artists.
Glad it was helpful!
Galleries have a purpose. They connect potential art buyers with your art. They have to pay for the gallery space and the person who works it. These are costs and benefits.
Yes you can sell your stuff on the internet but it's probably very unlikely that somebody buys a $50,000 painting from an unknown artist on the internet.
The gallery also connects your art with other maybe better known artists, that makes your art "better" for the potential buyers as well.
How much of that $50,000 will go to the artist ?? Or is it the gallery has inflated the price by at least ten fold to earn more money ??
@@SwarezArt The gallery is actually a market which was not there in the first place. Look at gallerist's like Gagosian or other top galleries. They connected with museums and made sure that the best pieces of an artist where reserved for them. They created the fame of a lot of artists. You might not like that, but this is pretty much a fact.
Just a few words about your art ~ Stimulating. Inspirational. Sensational. Awesome. Thanks for the tour of your gallery. It was an absolute retreat from this world. ❤️🙏🏽😊
Thank you so much!
What a great video! I just put one of my paintings in an exhibit for the first time. I could not attend it, because they didn't answer me when I asked if the facility was HC accessible. After the event I found out it is not. Had to drive down to the city to drop it off and then go back to pick it up. I do have a FB page where I post my work. Your paintings are excellent!
Thanks very much!
Just like there are good and bad artists, so there are good and bad galleries. What sets good galleries apart from the rest is their social agenda. They generally have great brick and mortar locations and can get display space in social circles sometimes inaccessible for artists as well as equivalent spaces abroad. They should also have support infrastructure (framing, delivery). All in all it's not bad to have different ways to show one's work. Online can only go so far... Art is meant to be seen live
I’m returning to this video after having been here before because it’s such a good video and you’re so right in everything you’re saying. I misted needed to be reminded of that. I’m a part time artist as I have a full time job but have the dream to do this for myself full time and have a plan of what I need to do. I’d love to pick your brains and maybe meet up with you one day when I’m closer to my goal. I’m only in Wiltshire. 🙏
You are always welcome to come and say hello - but drop me a line first as I may not be in or could be with clients or painting etc... Thanks for watching
@@SwarezArt bless you David. Of course, I’d phone first 🙏
In a way you are right, but artwork for collector is an investment. Collectors do not have time search on internet. They prefer to go to private views and exhibitions. And most of them go to recognised galleries.
And if i do not have gallery space or i live in a middle of nowhere?
For this style of work that Swarez does it can be sold online. Similarly decorative crafts do well online. Contemporary art of interest will have collectors and requires a gallery network.
Totally agree. Seth Godin marketing genius says the same. Create your own followers and your creativity is your niche. Galleries turn your art into a product and take away from creativity .
Well said!
Great video, and I love your motivational energy, Thank you.
You are so welcome
I wish you were right,
A good gallery can be a good way to make you name in the art world.
Regional and international.
No need for exclusively, it's to discuss isn't it !?
To make your name in the art world? Why? That's the whole problem here. That we have to be someone to get on, to connect or be recognized. Every creative can find their niche and their client base. Directly. Efficiently. Sensibly, Successfully. But if that's not the goal for an artist then by all means let them climb on the merrygoround that we have been enduring for 200 years.
All artist want their works be praised isn't it.
You don't need to make it as they want to see but some recognition would be a great boost ! 🤔 😜
Not only paintings but all artist want.
Even on this medium there is, most expect miracles to see but there are little gems everywhere.
People only get focused on studio performances but they actually get scammed of fake perfectionism made by machines. 😂
Actually there is a way to make it as a artist, just only make fake perfectionism that people like.
But what real artist wants to sell his soal to the devil ? 🙂
So I am wondering, your beautiful display of amazing art, going from room to room, in a very large space, seems like an art gallery. Is it? Do you have your own gallery, featuring solely your own work? Tell us more about this space, and why you have chosen to do this, and how you justify the expense (😊because it must work!) including the gorgeous high end furnishings. It is spectacular! Where is it located? In the city....commercial?, away from the city and expense? Thank you. Loved your video.
Sorry! You are a new “delicious” discovery! After I subscribed I found all your videos and the one where all my questions here were answered!
You are the most amazing artist, businessman, producer, space designer, rehabber, creator, tech guy, social media guy, builder, presenter, on and on and on. Thank you so much for sharing all this!
You are very welcome Victoria, as you may have seen myself and Adrian do it all !!! It,s really hard work and sometimes even we struggle to get up in the mornings but someone has to do it and no employees to pass over the mountains of work to 😊
Great advice Swarez I am an spray paint artist that loves your live streams I wish you the best God Bless
Thank you so much amigo!
Another stonking video there Swarez, you hit the nail on the head every turn. I've spent virtually of my art career doing commissions, but in the past was offered an exhibition in a very prestige gallery. The owner told me their rate was 55%., plus I was to ware the opening night party cost plus advertising and printing, I nearly fell over. However I was to busy doing commissions at the time and taking all the money for my self....
Working directly for, or with customers can also have it's draw backs. I did a lot of work for a woman that was somewhere between slightly eccentric and barking mad. ( actually come to think of it she was bonkers )
Commissions can some what stifle creativity, but balance that of against I've got bills to pay, and it's a bit of rock and a hard place situation.
I've been quietly watching you videos for a while now and I'm getting a bit of an itch for doing some for sale canvasses, as there are some avenues I would like to experience that my commission work doesn't cater for.
It must be getting warmer up there soon, time to ditch the hat and jacket !!!
Ha! Yes, once the warm weather returns I can hopefully lose a layer or two! Great observations and thank you for sharing that with us - very informative!
Very welcome and great advice Ed. Working on my website at this moment. Also a learning proces. Thank you again. Looking forward on your following up on this topic. Cheers!
Thanks very much - great to hear!
The only reason I'd go with a gallery is if it is centrally located in a major city where people can actually see your work in person. Selling prints online is one thing, but having them on display in a well-lit setting where they can be shown to their best advantage is a big deal, especially for budding collectors. Viewing a work of art online is truly not the same, like texting someone is not 'the same' as being in their presence.
One alternative (if you can afford it) is to maintain an apartment in a city's hub that serves as a private gallery. I know a few artists who do that, but of course that requires you to be well off financially in advance. Not a solution for startups!
So some compromise is called for. Yes, selling online is a great idea, but many people, a lot of them potential buyers, need to have a chance to experience your work in its true size, color, and texture to make a decision, an experience lost on a computer screen. But a storefront in a city's hot spot is even more expensive than an apartment.
So what CAN you do? Get together with a few trustworthy people, also artists, and get a center city apartment or storefront as a co-op. Or join an existing co-op.
But remember what makes or breaks a place, especially a brick and mortar gallery, is location, location, location. Accessibility is the key to success. A beautiful exhibition space is not enough. And do a deal with a local parking garage. Public parking is not an option, not these days!
And, BTW, never enter a contest. If you win, all it proves is your work is liked by the judges. If you don't, all it means is the judges don't like it. What would happen if Picasso, Edward Gorey, Auguste Renoir, Helen Frankenthaler, Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Frida Kahlo, Marcel Duchamp, Salvador Dali, and Georgia O'Keefe entered a contest together. Which one would get first prize? Which one second? Which one third?
Thank you so much Jonathan - very wise words indeed and some excellent alternatives in your suggestions. agreed that art needs to be experienced in the flesh - it really is the only way to do things. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for speaking truth to power, and in the process distilling where exactly we need to focus our energies for outreach. Love your vibe (and your art), you're a great teacher.
You are so welcome, thank you
I get your point about commercial galleries and I agree that doing direct sales is a better option for many artists. Do you feel the same about co-op galleries, university and non profit galleries, or a public exhibition at a museum that puts out a call for art?
It depends what the objective of those exhibitions are and what you expect to get from it as a result. I would always judge every opportunity on its own merit
Fabulously honest and such clarity about galleries...I totally agree..Thank you for making us artists believe in ourselves more than ever!
Thanks very much!
I agree with a lot you are saying, but Art Galleries are places of social meetings. It would be send to loos such places. People need people, not more time browsing websites. Websites do nor work anymore. People are looking for ways of interacting with one another.
Brilliant way to showcase your work while prattling on! I think you might have missed a painting though. Cheers!
Well, as I say in so may other posts, things would get boring if I sat in my office and did this. My audience is creatives and artists - not clients, so walking around and showcasing my work has zero effect on anything. I shoot the videos to help people - yes I know it's true!
I think the hope about being in a gallery is that you enter the reviewer/collector/museum continuum. I would say that there are many art worlds… And I know that there are plenty of artists out there who are making wonderful work that are selling their work and have dedicated collectors. And I think they’re artists and would like to have their work have an impact on the culture somehow… If you’re looking for that I think the notion is that being with a gallery is the way to do it… The same way as getting a record deal and being on a major label is a way of getting reviews and awards and being part of all of that is the record Business… Of course that model is kind of outdated. Maybe the gallery model is out there as well.
Having said that… I think you have a lot of lovely work… I took a quick visit to your website. Clearly put a lot of work into it into framing (no pun intended) each piece with a nice description and story. I certainly appreciate your attitude about taking the business into your own hands and being proactive with your work and your life.
Thanks very much Johnny - I really appreciate you sharing your thoughts with us all - Ed
@@SwarezArt It’s very interesting because right now I’m kicking around the idea of creating my own gallery/art space. It’s very much dependent on a certain particular piece of real estate so that may or may not go through. But I like the idea of creating environment that has a certain vibe to it… Or I can show my own work… And maybe even create work and of course show the work of others.
I’ve sold almost no artwork in my life. I met the most unusual person… Who is now a friend… Who actually purchases art from living artist just because he likes it. I really think that kind of person is unusual… He’s not rich… Certainly has enough money to spend on Art, but it’s his willingness to follow his own taste and his desire to have Art in his home and you support artists that makes him so unique.
@@JohnnyArtPavlou very elnightening! Although, there are more people like your friend than you may imagine. There is definitely a shift change with the way people are noe buying and enjoing art. Galleries beware!! Hope you can get to do your own thing - it is rewarding beyond monetary gain i assure you!
@@SwarezArt Thank you so much! I mean, the idea of making space for a place for people to come in and experiences certain vibe, hang out a little and feel like they’re part of something… That would be so great. Add to take on the challenge of making a space age of the Internet where people really wanna come and see it and feel it. To me, that’s a cool challenge to take on.
And then of course I think about how to make it work… Monetarily. How to have work in items at various price points so that people can leave with a little something… And we can keep the support supply coming in. Rather than calling it money. Rather than having it be about making money.
I've sold a lot of my original work at a gallery ,yes they get their chunk but they push them out the door for me ,I consider it a necessary evil 😆
That may be so Claire but how much stronger would your position be if you took back control for yourself? That's the question here. If how you do it suits you then power to you. For many, sadly, it simply doesn't work out. Thanks for sharing.
@@SwarezArt believe me ,I'd love another way , but I'm not a good with technology,my website sits in space doing nothing 🙄 I just want to paint,I hate everything else . Check it out www.clairemaguireart.com ,only thing I do is paint I'm hopeless
@@SwarezArt The problem is that most of us, artists are good at making art and enjoying it. Personally, I am not a community manager, neither a great seller, and I want to spend my time making art, not dealing with technology and trying to control everything.
@@sylvieperrinqueenofclay I am exactly the same - that's exactly what I want to do. I loathe all the other stuff that goes with it. But I choose that path for lots of reasons and after all, what life is lead if we are not to challenge what we are capable of? Thanks for sharing
Very insightful video. I work in a public gallery part time and they have recently increased the commission to 40%!
I am rebuilding my artist website atm and SEO is a foreign language to me. Can you recommend any learning resources that could help me with that? Love your art & vids🎨😊
Thanks for your kind feedback - interesting what you say about the gallery you work for. For SEO try this - direct from Google: support.google.com/webmasters/answer/7451184?hl=en
That SEO indication is a gem, checking it out.
Great comment on the importance of labelling the website with the correct long-tail keywords. I knew about this, but once I checked my site I saw many pages were just not that obvious in keywords. Thanks for the tip!
My pleasure - I also talk about them here: ua-cam.com/video/_SzcdpHdtvI/v-deo.html
I am working on a series at the moment that I was thinking of finding a gallery for...not anymore, invaluable information thanks Ed
You are most welcome and thank you!
My experience with galleries is that they either have too little work to look at or so much that you can't see anything. The single gallery left in my town is in a good spot but has SO MUCH stuff that the interior is just stacks of paintings. It's hard to even walk in the door let alone look at something. Even the jewelry cases are overflowing with art pieces layered on top of each other. It's honestly better for me to wait for the two big art festivals that hit my area during the summer so I can see a lot of art and talk to the artists.
Also, the art walk through your gallery was amazing!
You also have the problem of galleries asking you to do all the work for them. Back in the 80s and 90s, a gallery would promote your work for you and get you into magazines. Now, you are expected to have a media presence before you even go to the gallery. They want to know that you have an Instagram/Twitter/Facebook/website and expect you to promote them.
You really should be having that as a minimum anyway but I do take your point...
Thanks Nicolle - really appreciate your feedback and thank you for sharing your experiences.
That was part of the commission the gallery took: promotion of the artist.
And yes, today we should be doing that ourselves. But before the internet age, making media packets and submitting to journals for exposure took a lot more effort so it was a good bang for your buck. It just isn't anymore because those mechanisms don't exist anymore. Thanks again for the amazing your and for the video as a whole!
I'm not a big fan of abstract art but you've got some nice paintings, love your color choices and your black and whites.
Thanks very much Howard - I'll take that!!
Great video and great inspiration to all the artist & art lowers ! Your story is one of the few so that is why is so powerfull. I am self-taught artist and in Slovakia where I am living galleries dont even talk to artist without a school so I decide to f...k them and I start to promote on my own and sold 30 smaler paitings last year without any gallery help. I can tell you some of the academic artist in Slovakia dont sell this amout of art with help and support of galleries. Of course is hard work and long hours and nonstop online work but that what is have to take to develop any business. I am big fan of your work and your videos and wish you lot of success and lot of happy customers of your great paintings !
God bless you !
Thank you very much Michael - that's very kind of you! Great to hear you have been doing good!
@@SwarezArt Thank you very much :-) I am sure you are doing much better than me and you have achieve much more in the art scene than me yet. Thank you for sharing all ideas and your great art space with your great art !
@@michaelgavrieli745 Thanks Michael!
I was told by a gallery owner that because I didn’t go to art school, I can’t expect to make as much, so they can’t expect to make as much. Yet my art is so much better than SO Many art school grads, even masters students so yeah, been there and don’t accept that one at all. It’s hard to promo yourself without art school on your resume for sure, which is why I’ve decided I don’t need the galleries. I’ll create my own gallery, thank you. I would like to do some work with older kids in my space though to help pay for it. A couple of workshops.
You’re so right! It’s more than time to move on and walk with our own legs!
Thank you Katia - wise words!
thanks for giving us these insights, as well as showing us around a bit....these are remarkable, strong paintings
Glad you enjoyed it and huge thanks for your kind words!
I love the piece behind you @ 12:06 Is that shown on your website?
Thank you. Yes you can see it here: www.swarez.co.uk/modern-art-paintings-for-sale/line-of-sight/
Many ways I do agree, it is a great video.. First, I do sell my works by myself too, here in Hungary. People never ask about awards, background etc; That is true, they only care about the art itself. But if an artist would like to focus solely on making art, and highly afraids from gettin an eye strain, I think that means you need that really good, special gallery. The Uk is full with tricky galleries, I know that, that is why I agree with you. But the EU is different many ways. The way I approach a gallery is not based on business, but whether they represent true and pure art, or not. The UK, US are both full with commercial galleries, that can force and brake artist into creating sellable "kitsch". For example, Germany is very much different, since "kitsch" rarely sells and galleries work with artists for a lifetime in many cases. The topic depends on location, very much. Again, great video!
Tha is for the insights into how things work in other parts of the world. Appreciate you taking the time to comment
The cut isn't justifiable if you keep the price the same, but the gallery can move art at double the price so essentially you're taking a 0% cut since you're not losing anything. They can do this because the people that buy from galleries are already expecting a certain higher price point than what you'd charge directly. So its all a matter of perspective and pricing higher. You're gonna be hard pressed to reach the same buyers as galleries using social media unless you become famous.
The only way you'd lose something is if you make an exclusivity deal with a gallery, don't do that. Otherwise its all upsides
Completely agree with you on all points, Ed, this is something we as artists can take on for ourselves. Yet it is not easy, as you said, it is WORK. You cannot simply slap a website up there and expect the buyers to come, there are many steps in addition to having a cracking website. I'm switching art full time after 25 years of corporate jobs and raising family. I'm at the point where I've built up a decent number of good quality paintings (it took a while!) and I'm ready to get it all put together for the big marketing push--new website, social media, and several efforts I have planned to gain public attention locally. I believe I know my buyers. I paint in a windowless room in my basement--what I wouldn't give to have a nice space half the size of yours where clients could visit--but that will have to come later if step one of my plan is successful. Yes, I realize you built up to your beautiful studio/gallery over a period of years. I'm lucky in that I worked on websites and marketing in my last two jobs so I feel I know what to do for step one. I'm going to go with my real name in this art effort (Nooce is an old pen name of mine, not my real name). I did consider Nooce since it is rather odd and memorable, so sometime I'd love to hear you discuss the pros and cons of using Swarez for your art, and your thoughts on building a brand. Love your live streams! If I lived in England I would pop in to see you and grab up one of your big works for my very own! Thank you for what you do!!
Nooce Miller well if you want one buddy I can soon enough send you one out! Thank you for the wonderful feedback too, very grateful for your support.
you dont see what he is saying, he didnt say its easy, he said the steps are easy and simple enough, but hes saying everyone is lazy, you canot be lazy , you actually have to do hard work, which is what galleries and shops often dont get, often shops just expect people to walk in the door and buy, which sometimes they do, but those shops could do so much better if they were actively selling. he is saying i think.... get rid of your human natural laziness, because art is the number one thing to fail at if your also lazy about it!
I began working with a gallery here in Chicago back in 2006. I had to break ties with them because they kept under selling me and because when 2008 happened the checks started bouncing.
I've been trying for years off and on to retrieve the remainder of my pieces from them. A few years back, I was only able to get back half (about 6 pieces).
The reason for the half hearted effort was because, at the beginning of the break up, there was always an excuse for why they weren't available to coordinate a pick up time. The whole ordeal literally made me want to give up painting!! And for YEARS, in essence I did, outside of a commission here and there.
Recently, I tried to make contact again. NO RESPONSE. Do I have any legal recourse? What should I do? I can't see small claims court being worth it.
I am no lawyer I'm afraid so I cannot speak for any legal position or possible outcome of that action. I feel for you as this is a common problem. Unless you can track a director down or something then I cannot think of a way forward for you. Thanks for the comments
That's typical. So many of them don't give a shit, and they constantly don't pay, and when they cough up the dough (6 months) late they act as if they're doing you a big fucking favor. A guy here in Portland, Oregon skipped town owing artists thousands. There's no overiste in this business, and so many of them figure that when they get the money in their hot little fists, it's ALL theirs.
You hit the nail on the head there. Exactly! Besides you might carry your works into a gallery and walk out with them under your arms when an employee or the owner tells you your art is not up to standard and you later find out that he or she had never held a paintbrush ! 'Art Critics' they call themselves !
Secondly they inflate the price to such a degree that your works stay there unsold and we know the consequences of that I.e frustration and with no money.....!
Couldn't agree more!
Brilliant advice. That’s a game changer. Thank you 🙏🏻
Glad it was helpful!
A nice and truthful presentation the the do I need to show in an "Art Gallery". I have owned my own brick and mortar Gallery, I am an artist as well.
So I did the job of 2 people. I soon realized I was killing myself for nothing. The biggest problem I have had with Galleries now and in the past is
their perceived value as a business. The make you believe they are the experts in the Arts, meanwhile I have seen some of the most overpriced and
pathetic art out there. Because of this perception on their part, they make you have to beg to show your work in their gallery. I don't beg for anything.
A year ago I showed my work in a high end gallery in Santa Fe.. They sold 4 large paintings of mine after being on display for 3 months. I got paid
9 MONTHS later. I had to threaten legal action to finally get my money. MY point is that is a growing lack of respect for artists by gallery owners.
You are only a number and your value to them is when they sold your last painting. AS a final point I have gotten weary of the "Art Exhibitions".
It is pretty much what they are an exhibition. I have never sold a piece showing my art in this fashion. I am tired of preparing my work for an exhibition,
packing it up, transporting and hang it for pretty much display only. I have won awards for my work, big deal people who love your work and buy it could care less.
That's a brilliant insight of your experiences Terry - thank you so much for sharing that with us all. It is, sadly, an all-too familiar story these days. Just goes to show what a ball-ache the whole system is for too little reward and an utter lack of respect. Shameful way to be treated Terry. There's a lesson for us all in there. thank you again!
I never liked percentage businesses, ie those who make more off certain transactions with the same amount of work for them. So if I create something special that people are willing to pay more for, the gallery gets more of that difference than an average piece but with the same amount of work. I can understand a fair flat fee or charging me a sq foot fee for how much space I’m taking up on their wall. But a percentage feels too much like I’m being used.
Hi! Great content as always, just one question. Lots of new artists struggle to get visibility on their works, aren't gallery a great opportunity to attract critics, and get the basic renown that you need to get into an auction?
Perhaps. but at what cost? Can they access 500 million people like you can? Why do you want to get in to an auction? Thanks for the feedback by the way!
@@SwarezArt I am not online as much... in order to get millions to see what I do. I have not that skill and energy to apply myself for that. However I would not mind my work to be auctioned (for instance see Banksy how well he did! Years ago he was an unknown artist). In my case, over the years my art work has been appreciated by organising my own show and even in group. I must admit that doesn't sell very well. I don't believe in critics. Unless they know you well they are not interested. You are right about art galleries. They exploit artists. See the Saatchi gallery how decades ago was buying British art works from emerging artists in bulk. Some of them are very famous now. So not being a name does not pay in art business.
I think the harder is to find the audience, I personnaly get easily overwhelmed by all the social media online. I think when you have no knowledge what so ever in marketing its really hard to make your way to sell online. This is what I need to study if I want to sell on day.
Agreeed - it can be tough. But common sense plays a big part and listening to what goes well and what’s doesn’t
@@SwarezArt absolutely, and thank you for sharing with us your precious experience, it definitely gives hope. Together we are better 😉🥰
There’s still a prestige element associated with the exclusive ones
Thank you for this video and several of your other videos, they're very informative. I am about to start my own business with my art as well and I watch your videos as a guide for how to stay creative and be an independent artist.
Glad we are helping creatives in every corner of the world 😊
Well I totally agree but tried so many times to do the online thing and to me it’s just confusing I’m just clueless even though I watched videos and read articles all about it still I’m just not techy enough maybe just don’t have the patience to do it I definitely need somebody to to get started on it and I can maintain it!
I was the same Natalie. The only way to crack it is to be consistent - even when you have no interest or desire to do something you don't like. Persistence is key. You can totally do this - you absolutely can. Don't ever doubt that. If you can type you can do anything!
@@SwarezArt thanks !
Very good info. I have wondered this for quite some time. While passing along this info to us, you've cleverly managed to display your own work.
Thank you Steve. Displaying my work isn't clever really because my channel only appeals to other creatives and not clients. So therefore my actual market rarely engage with the content. Ergo, I doubt I will ever sell anything from showing off the work. I DO IT BECAUSE i HATE BEING SAT IN MY OFFICE ALL FRIKKIN DAY! Glad you found the vid worhty.
First time here. I subscribed within the first minute. Awesome video, very articulate and informative! I appreciate the time energy and effort that you put in your videos. Thank you.
Thanks very much Clayton!
Fantastic. Thanks for the advice and hearing you explain it so well, I’m now much more likely to do it myself and invest that 50% back into content marketing and advertising, even hiring someone to help out with it... that will be a much better way to invest the income. I’m predicting (hoping and working towards) being in the position to show, sell and market my art sometime this year and the advice is invaluable. Cheers.
Thank you Simon - very grateful for your feedback. You have totally got this okay? Never ever stop believing that.