@@meanqueensuperscrimper8908 - Good to see you here ilona - Rafi is one of the most honest artist's on youtube and has great info for artist's of all skill levels. Plus him and Klee keep it entertaining and fun to watch :) I just subbed yesterday.
What you're saying is be authentic. 100%. Or as Klee so often says, "You do you, Boo. You do you." (I love that phrase.) If people feel a connection with you, or with your art, then they will buy. It's as simple as that. You can't fake a story to force a connection. The human connection only happens when we are brave and authentic. I'm a fair bit desperate to make money, as are we all, since we all need money for shelter and food. I especially feel the pressure because I'm supported by family, since my illness prevents me from managing on my own. This is something I could hide. In fact, many people have given advice that says things like, "Don't talk about your problems. Don't talk about your illness. Be upbeat and positive." The problem is, I'm not ALWAYS upbeat and positive. Sometimes I have DAYS. Today was a good example - I'm prepping for a show. From bed. It is what it is. I started my website originally to let people see the darker side of Fibromyalgia and other invisible illnesses. There are plenty of inspirational sites out there. We didn't need another. I got plenty of advice to stop. Complaints that I didn't post enough, or do this or that enough. Then I started doing artwork, and people kept telling me to separate business from my illness. That would not be authentic, though. I'm being 100% me. I talk about pain when I need to, I uplift others when I can, my art is my salvation - it keeps me alive and wanting to get out of bed every morning. Over time, I've drawn my own audience. It's taken time, and it's slow, but I LOVE my people. They get me, and I get them, and whenever one of my pieces find a home, I know it's because someone loves my work. In fact, they love ME, because in order to understand my work, you have to know me.
Oh, thanks! I needed to hear that! Also living with fibromyalgia, and struggling a bit about what or how to share... As you say, there are DAYS. I fi d it hard to be authentic without talking about the Days, but I'm also afraid to make it sound like a sob-story, or being unprofessional. I'm beginning to realise that I need to open up a bit though and let the worlds collide... I create, mostly Jewelery and Christmas Ornaments (the sparkle heals me 😁) and I'm exhausted and in pain all the time too. And I'm happy a lot of the time too. The several expressions of life can coexist. 😊 Do you have a link to where you share your art / thoughts? Lots of love to you.
"I want to, I want to, I want to..." I imagine clicking my heels 3x and being at home with myself; sharing my artist story with others. Thank you for such wonderful encouragement in the social media abyss re: one's art. I'm looking forward to your upcoming book, Rafi.
Yes Rafi. I agree whole heartedly. When we create, what we are feeling at that moment, or the emotional connection to the work, seeps in, like it or not. So if we are predominately worried about money or are making the work just for money, that will seep through. And then the work will reek of either cynicism or desperation. Artists embody the dichotomy you talk about: you love the work, that's why you do it, even the hard parts, but on the business side you have a business to run. You have to let your work go, and be tough to ask what its worth. (or get someone/gallery to do this for you).
"Get Rid of the desperation." Awesome! Best remark, idea that you have shared. Do you have any recomendations for me and others like me. Who do not want to go full time into the art career. I like doing my job. I also HAVE to do art. If I do not do something everyday I feel it. I would like to show and maybe sell some stuff. Selling would be great because then I do not have to store those works, or loose a ton of money giving it away. I am looking for suggestions on how to slowly get into the art world. Most of the books and other guides just say to go for it. All in. Some of the markets that you have suggested are going all in. The Farmers Market and Flee Markets are places you have to show up every time it is open. I guess I want to be the person who dips my feet in the pool and not cannon ball in. :D Any help or ideas would be nice.
I love Etsy because through the stupid new free shipping policies I found you two. You’re the most interesting, lovable people on UA-cam. I enjoy watching you and I know I’m learning a lot even though I’m not watching for knowledge, I’m watching because you’re adorable!!!
I love you guys! I am a fiber artist and have found that simply by sharing my works on social media while they are in progress generates interest. Not only for that particular piece, but people begin asking if I can do "this" or "that" for them. The snowball keeps rolling and I typically have more work than I can handle. Thanks for being out here Rafi & Klee
Pinky and the Brain! What a flashback! You guys are the best because you're so real and genuine and authentic. We love you, never stop doing what you do. 😀
🤣It's brilliant!! 🤣 "When we were starting, I just feel like I am in the Internet Sibiria" 😂 That moment when you are a starting artist from Sibiria (Tomsk - town, you could google it) with 120 followers on the Instagram and watching this video 🤣. Love it :))) This hugs for you, my Sibirian friend 🤗😂
I love your video and how you honestly explain things. The one thing is that I’ve been having a hard time finding a video on how to actually sell your art. Not the marketing necessarily, but how to physically sell it. Like tips on packaging for shipping, Where you sell it, how you get paid, and how you decide how much you get paid. I would love if you showed us how you go about this so I can get a general idea.
Thanks for all the helpful tips and constructive perspective. I love the complimentary personalities you guys have. And Klee’s sarcasm and take on things cracks me up. Thanks for what you guys do. It helps me feel less alone out in this big scary world. 🥰🙏😁
Always great information. I have been preparing to become a fulltime artist in 2020. I'm closing my successful construction company following my destiny. I have listened to countless videos of you two. And I very much appreciate it. Cheers!
I just wanted to say what a breath of fresh air it was to hear someone address a difficult issue with freshness and a down to earth approach. After my heart attack and the inability to work it has been difficult but I think this approach will help to calm the nerves and just flow with what happens. Thanks so much!
Thank You! You always make me laugh, and of course you are right. You guys are so great! Klee you are so much fun! Yes, I get it, yeah, I think just keep your head in the game, and allow yourself enough time, have fun, make art, share it. Keep at it. Thanks again!
Being creative is the equivalent of being able to breathe for me. If no social media existed, I'd still be creating. If my creativity stopped, no amount of social media would save me. Thank you for what you do and share. The pinky and the brain, the pinky and the brain...one is a genius, the other insane. Who's who here Rafi and Klee? ;p Love you both ♡♡♡ :)
8:17 I would say Instagram is heavier with the tags than twitter. On twitter, due to readability and character limits you typically only want 1-2 tags, maybe 3 max, but Instagram after the caption you put as many relevant tags as possible. Tumblr is like that too but for tumblr the first 5 tags are the only ones that show up in search, so you need the first 5 to be relevant and the others to be more categorized so people can search on the blog itself for what they’re looking for. With IG I try to keep the tags a lot lower cuz I cross post to twitter and it’s also better to have maybe 10 really specific and most relevant tags than it is to have 30 tags that are only semi relevant.
I've never been comfortable with the "sale-sy" marketing. I realize it works for certain products, but it just never sat well with me. I've been slowly morphing my IG account to be more about the things I enjoy and am inspired by, and less about getting exposure for what I sell. Relieved to hear I'm not weird for feeling this way. 🙂
funny, the commercial that played after I watched this was a freemaster class describing how to sell you art online and skip public events and have 10s of thousands of loyal customers, many of who are repeat customers and an inbox full of orders EVERYDAY!
I'll use this early opportunity to tell you two how much I love your videos! They are very VERY helpful! I enjoy your videos and am always happy to watch more!
Great video Little clarification... Anybody, paid or unpaid, who can make sure that their users stay longer on the platform will get organic reach and will not get suppressed... They will most definitely not suppress or downgrade particular posts of 'organic profiles' because they want to make place for adds at that particular moment... If some of your posts perform less then others it's because they are simply not as engaging and interesting as your better posts... it's still a social platform and people might not like the same things you as an artist like...
Hey Ooak, Clarification: If you need those credentials, I have 10.000+ followers on other platforms but here's the best part... Most living artists sold at Sotheby's or Christies don't have websites or social media pages... Think about that... The artworld doesn't care about likes or followers... You choose where you put your focus. Ps: I didn't intended any critique or bad vibe just wanted to clarify and help out... Much love
@@driesketels I have thousands of followers on platforms myself and I sell thousands of things as well you can check my credentials. I just had stated my opinion and etsy have said that they will put promoted listings and people that offer free shipping higher up in search results than anyone who doesn't. I sell a decent amount on etsy and I've had that email myself that is a fact. I'm not saying social media always sells or doesn't. I personally don't find it does for me. To be quiet honest I thought I was speaking to rafi not to you sorry.
@@susanvarleyart2095 Etsy... I do have to state I have no experience with Etsy so they have probably different ways of doing things... I see it personally more as an Ecommerce site then a social media platform... Anyway good luck with your listings on Etsy... I hope things go well for you with all the updates. Cheers
Such good advice Rafi😀 I like what you said about giving people the opportunity to go and purchase your art. The word opportunity really struck me. Like it’s something FOR them. Somehow that makes a difference for me, it makes me feel happy and peaceful, so thanks!
I set aside ONE day a week (sometimes up to a month) to take photos. And then use those throught the week/month as my pictures. I snap several in progress shots on my phone while creating customs, and upload those right away. I also make one UA-cam video per month (recording on my phone!) And upload that at the beginning of the next month, so I dont burn myself out trying to edit everything on such a tight schedule
Hi Rafi! Wanted to say a big thank you for your videos! Gave me the motivation to finally start doing art shows this year, and even make my own youtube art channel of my time-lapse paintings! I just linked to your video about diy art panels on my most recent upload showing my own panels I made for my booth, thanks to your video. Thanks again for all your valuable information you share; it is much appreciated! Let me know if it's ok that I added your video link in my description. If not I can delete!
This was awesome advice Rafi & Klee. Thank you. I know this is off point, but I think your studio space is awesome. It looks alive with creative dust. ♡
I'm always sharen' my stuff on my page. Rotating my Art on my cover pic all the time. Great video, you two are funny, love your video's. Have a good one
Awesome video! A side note to your intro: a buddy of mine that works for Warner Bros is working on Animaniacs! It’s coming back and most of the voice actors are on board!
I enjoyed watching your video, I am not currently trying to sell online having retired from a digital art position and going back to traditional art, it has been hard but rewarding maybe when I get enough to sell I will but until then I’ll be posting for fun and sharing my journey. Thank you for sharing your outlook and giving us good content to watch!
13:05 making tons of money with your art just means you’ll be able to make more art in the future. The whole reason things like Patreon exist is so that people can give a little bit of money here and there to creators they love so that they can ensure they’ll keep creating the things they love. Making money from your art means you can not only support yourself but you can keep going as an artist a lot easier cuz you have money to buy the things you need for your art.
Thank you for this video- I have always been loathe to engage in self-promotion for a variety of reasons, but after listening to this, I will commit to posting daily on my instagram!
Thanks so much for all of your honest advice and perspective ...I’ve been an artist most of my life, and compromised( happily) for many years , by painting my designs on clothing ( in the late 80’s and 90’s).. I had discovered a way to continue painting , but on items that were easier to sell . I am , now , for the first time in my life , in a place where I can paint for the love and excitement of it .. I can totally appreciate the struggle and the balancing act that it takes, to do something we love , and pay our bills.. we had a small store , and still had to do about 40 art/ craft shows a year.. it was the hardest thing to keep doing , but it allowed us to keep our store going .... you guys are wonderful to learn from , and be inspired by.. thanks so much for all your heartfelt efforts .. best of luck to you both!! Sincerely Norakag ( my nick on Instagram ) Be well..
Your video resonated with me because I spent parts of today wondering why I continue to make and post the videos I make since mostly no one watches them. They are all about a computer game that is now over 10 years old and was out of date before I ever thought of making the videos. Sometimes I think of quitting but I just don't seem to be able to do that yet. The channel won't ever be monetised so the money doesn't come into it either. I just seem to like doing it. So I suppose I'll just continue with it for a bit longer. My long term goal is to start a completely new channel and tell my own story and show my art. I am making progress with that. Im definitely spending more time on the art and less on the game as my health issues are coming under control. I will look forward to your next video.
My hobby is card making and I sell strictly by word of mouth, however marketing is a huge black hole for most people. But I agree with you, people buy your story n the art is just a snip it of that story. Keeping a day job or multiple jobs is almost a must in today's economy.
I DO feel like you’re FaceTiming with me! We need to be in it for the long haul, not a fast buck. No haters! It IS scary. Amen! Create because we NEED to! Duh! Lololol Klee.
10:00 a lot of artists including myself have noticed with things like ads on Instagram that our non paid posts get more engagement than the ads we paid for. It’s really weird tbh
I tend to post sporadically according to mood and have found followers, especially on my IG page, don't like being "sold" to. You gotta give Pinterest a little credit, it's been great for traffic to my Etsy store. Thanks Guys, great advice as always. Looking forward to the book/s ;)
Nadia How do you link Etsy from Instagram without gong through Pinterest? know this question might sound daft but i'm just getting to grips with this social media malarkey
Loved the intro to this! I love Pinky and the Brain. I think the story on my website about how my creative "business" started and was named is pretty good. It started when I was a teenager. For my new line I am trying to get going it is because I love the water and fish. I say trying because I am currently dealing with a pretty severe depression. I wouldn't even be trying this at all but for the fact I love it so much. I would be feeling so much more joy from this if I can just get my head right again. I spent so much time in the water my whole life and found peace there. Sometimes I used to pretend I was a mermaid. :p I loved being underwater and just looking around for as long as I could hold my breath anyway. Thanks as always for sharing your awesome thoughts in a video. - Heidi
I love this video! I make art because I love creating, I think that's why I straights to take it any further because the business/Selling side of it puts me off.
Hey Rafi....i'm in Canada. Do you hold your Q&A segments at the same time? How often? What time? I don't see your videos live... would like to interact :)
Love your videos, as far as posting to multiple platforms, I use IFTTT to automatically update Pinterest and Tumblr from my Instagram. It isn't quite as effective for twitter as that requires engagement. But Pinterest and Tumblr keeps the content spread out in case that is where folks look at your work too. Lots of good functionality in IFTTT and it is pretty easy to use.
Amen brother!👊 Forget about the $ it's all about the QUALITY not the quantity... and oh yeah, the story... Who doesn't want to know the genesis of an idea and how it really came to be? I love getting in the head of those I admire and perhaps can learn from.
Pinterest strikes me as a collage or dream/vision board. The kind of thing that hangs on your wall and say this is where I am and eventually want to be.
You're awesome, Rafi, but for me, I'm just now getting my art career started at 46 years old, and I would not even be developing all this social media if it was not so I could sell my art. I have never liked all this, but if I want to get my art out there, then I'm going to have to post on platforms I would otherwise ignore for the very reason of selling my art. Sharing myself with the world is just not something I am otherwise inclined to do. However, I will never be fake or push something with advertising lingo. (I trained in advertising, by the way.) Being genuine is what I do, and people will know that I am selling my art, but I will never be able to find the will to post because I want to. I hardly care to share my life with the people I care about. So to me, all this social media stuff is both a chore and a necessity. I cannot afford to take the stand of posting because I want to, because if that were the case, I would go back to posting a few times a year, and that is just not an option if I want to sell art online. The Rogue Artist's Survival Guide sounds great.
Consistency is my nemesis, lol I live with fibromyalgia, so it can be difficult to schedule my time, as I never quite know when I'll suddenly have a day (or several) where everything is thrown off because of health issues. It has also been holding me back from sharing my story / my life, since some days are just like "yay me, got my son off to school! Now I'll go sleep until he returns home! Cya! Zzzz" 😉 So figuring out what to share (I do have a lot to share...sometimes at least) can be hard, I think. Since "a picture of my day" is not always share-able / interesting... But I will think on what you said about finding my reason for sharing. Not to sell, not to share pain-points of my life in ways I'm not comfortable with... but finding something that I actually WANT to share, that lights me up to share... I have to think about that. I think some part of my brain is trying to get my attention. I will try to listen. Thanks for your videos. I'm binging them at the moment. ❤ You guys make me calm down and remember that I'm good at finding solutions. 😊 Thanks for all that you share. You are very inspiring! Lots of love to you both.
The entire reason I returned to the canvas was to get off the digits and pixels. I don't do social media around my art. I'm only interested in in-person viewing and interest. Website. Email. Cell number. That's as tech as I care to go.
Lol that pinki and brain opening had me 🤭 so hard. Oh and that background art that's my favorite art for this week even over my own and the paw print my cat made on my table. So you feel good and very acomblished cuz thats like the highest praise I have to offer 🙌👍👌 And now I feel all kinds of emojis and self aware about my Instagram 🙁😲😨😬😳🤪😱
I'm glad you've emphasized this point both in today's video and previously. I confess I do listen to the marketing gurus, but I've learned over time that if I'm not very picky about the principles and tactics I choose to implement, I'm going to be frustrated and overwhelmed and start sounding desperate. So I listen and try to learn, but I only do those things that resonate with me, seem to be part of playing the long game, and for into the time I have allotted for marketing. If that makes sense?
I was recently in a group discussion about using our art in other ways like prints and such. Well I am a potter and sculptor. Some suggested molds, but I am not a fan of that because I don't want reproductions and my work is usually to challenging to make molds. I really enjoy making unique items. I do see the value in the extra income. Any ideas?
I know this is WAY late, but do you put any designs or patterns on your pottery? Maybe that would make a good print or even a repeating pattern for print-on-demand items?
my deal is able to make a living and knowing how as a nomad. Living full time in an RV, on the road doing festivals etc...but I know one needs more than just that. Because the cost of materials and travel and oh yeah..the cost of the space you reserve..sigh...
Tomorrow is my very first EVER vender fair.. omg, I wanna crawl in a whole and not come out! Every time I sell something I feel the need to give them (customer) some stuff for free because I just know that my products aren’t as good. Then it surprises the shit outta me when customers get on social media talking about how much they love their EO perfume I blended for them and that they would purchased from me again .. Or they love the body butter and soap they purchased. Ugghhh IDK. How come I can’t say the things customers say about me , to myself! Lol I really wish I enjoyed ppl and were interested in socializing. I always laugh at ppl who are standing in a crowd blabbing about how they are so “antisocial..” Really 🤣👍 Anyways, I wandered of subject... I actually do great at selling myself on social media. It’s comfortable “socializing.” If all goes well I get to ship products and never actually meet ppl.👍You guys are awesome 👍
I like your honesty and work ethic. You and Klee are the real deal :)
I know I'm in the right place when I see Scott and Rafi on the same page. Both of you make fantastic art and brilliant videos. ilona xxx
@@meanqueensuperscrimper8908 - Good to see you here ilona - Rafi is one of the most honest artist's on youtube and has great info for artist's of all skill levels. Plus him and Klee keep it entertaining and fun to watch :) I just subbed yesterday.
What you're saying is be authentic. 100%. Or as Klee so often says, "You do you, Boo. You do you." (I love that phrase.) If people feel a connection with you, or with your art, then they will buy. It's as simple as that. You can't fake a story to force a connection. The human connection only happens when we are brave and authentic. I'm a fair bit desperate to make money, as are we all, since we all need money for shelter and food. I especially feel the pressure because I'm supported by family, since my illness prevents me from managing on my own. This is something I could hide. In fact, many people have given advice that says things like, "Don't talk about your problems. Don't talk about your illness. Be upbeat and positive." The problem is, I'm not ALWAYS upbeat and positive. Sometimes I have DAYS. Today was a good example - I'm prepping for a show. From bed. It is what it is. I started my website originally to let people see the darker side of Fibromyalgia and other invisible illnesses. There are plenty of inspirational sites out there. We didn't need another. I got plenty of advice to stop. Complaints that I didn't post enough, or do this or that enough. Then I started doing artwork, and people kept telling me to separate business from my illness. That would not be authentic, though. I'm being 100% me. I talk about pain when I need to, I uplift others when I can, my art is my salvation - it keeps me alive and wanting to get out of bed every morning. Over time, I've drawn my own audience. It's taken time, and it's slow, but I LOVE my people. They get me, and I get them, and whenever one of my pieces find a home, I know it's because someone loves my work. In fact, they love ME, because in order to understand my work, you have to know me.
Oh, thanks! I needed to hear that!
Also living with fibromyalgia, and struggling a bit about what or how to share...
As you say, there are DAYS. I fi d it hard to be authentic without talking about the Days, but I'm also afraid to make it sound like a sob-story, or being unprofessional. I'm beginning to realise that I need to open up a bit though and let the worlds collide... I create, mostly Jewelery and Christmas Ornaments (the sparkle heals me 😁) and I'm exhausted and in pain all the time too. And I'm happy a lot of the time too. The several expressions of life can coexist. 😊
Do you have a link to where you share your art / thoughts?
Lots of love to you.
You two kids are by far my favorite MUST watch on UA-cam and Social Media. Thanks again for sharing your Inter-webs knowledge :)
"I want to, I want to, I want to..."
I imagine clicking my heels 3x and being at home with myself; sharing my artist story with others.
Thank you for such wonderful encouragement in the social media abyss re: one's art.
I'm looking forward to your upcoming book, Rafi.
Yes Rafi. I agree whole heartedly. When we create, what we are feeling at that moment, or the emotional connection to the work, seeps in, like it or not. So if we are predominately worried about money or are making the work just for money, that will seep through. And then the work will reek of either cynicism or desperation. Artists embody the dichotomy you talk about: you love the work, that's why you do it, even the hard parts, but on the business side you have a business to run. You have to let your work go, and be tough to ask what its worth. (or get someone/gallery to do this for you).
"Get Rid of the desperation." Awesome! Best remark, idea that you have shared.
Do you have any recomendations for me and others like me. Who do not want to go full time into the art career. I like doing my job. I also HAVE to do art. If I do not do something everyday I feel it.
I would like to show and maybe sell some stuff. Selling would be great because then I do not have to store those works, or loose a ton of money giving it away. I am looking for suggestions on how to slowly get into the art world. Most of the books and other guides just say to go for it. All in. Some of the markets that you have suggested are going all in. The Farmers Market and Flee Markets are places you have to show up every time it is open.
I guess I want to be the person who dips my feet in the pool and not cannon ball in. :D Any help or ideas would be nice.
@@Rafiandklee Awesome! Thank You
I love Etsy because through the stupid new free shipping policies I found you two. You’re the most interesting, lovable people on UA-cam. I enjoy watching you and I know I’m learning a lot even though I’m not watching for knowledge, I’m watching because you’re adorable!!!
Same here
After seeing the video of making wood necklace displays I think HGTV should give them a show. I don’t watch any tv nowadays but I’d never miss a show!
I love you guys! I am a fiber artist and have found that simply by sharing my works on social media while they are in progress generates interest. Not only for that particular piece, but people begin asking if I can do "this" or "that" for them. The snowball keeps rolling and I typically have more work than I can handle. Thanks for being out here Rafi & Klee
Pinky and the Brain! What a flashback! You guys are the best because you're so real and genuine and authentic. We love you, never stop doing what you do. 😀
I love the "throwing a penny into outer space" comment. You two are so fun to watch.
And, "It's like the opposite of 'Use your words!' " That hilarious.
I just discovered youz guyz! I am loving your videos. You guys are beautiful human beings!
🤣It's brilliant!! 🤣 "When we were starting, I just feel like I am in the Internet Sibiria" 😂 That moment when you are a starting artist from Sibiria (Tomsk - town, you could google it) with 120 followers on the Instagram and watching this video 🤣. Love it :))) This hugs for you, my Sibirian friend 🤗😂
Aaw, "YT is like facetiming with someone who loves you." We love you two cwazy kids!
I love your video and how you honestly explain things. The one thing is that I’ve been having a hard time finding a video on how to actually sell your art. Not the marketing necessarily, but how to physically sell it. Like tips on packaging for shipping, Where you sell it, how you get paid, and how you decide how much you get paid. I would love if you showed us how you go about this so I can get a general idea.
Thanks for all the helpful tips and constructive perspective. I love the complimentary personalities you guys have. And Klee’s sarcasm and take on things cracks me up. Thanks for what you guys do. It helps me feel less alone out in this big scary world. 🥰🙏😁
You are so right. I never really see your art on UA-cam! I love your art message!
Always great information. I have been preparing to become a fulltime artist in 2020. I'm closing my successful construction company following my destiny.
I have listened to countless videos of you two. And I very much appreciate it. Cheers!
I just wanted to say what a breath of fresh air it was to hear someone address a difficult issue with freshness and a down to earth approach. After my heart attack and the inability to work it has been difficult but I think this approach will help to calm the nerves and just flow with what happens. Thanks so much!
Thank You! You always make me laugh, and of course you are right. You guys are so great! Klee you are so much fun! Yes, I get it, yeah, I think just keep your head in the game, and allow yourself enough time, have fun, make art, share it. Keep at it. Thanks again!
A year later from when I first watched this... and a 2nd watch reinforces your advice. Thanks man for being genuine.
Being creative is the equivalent of being able to breathe for me. If no social media existed, I'd still be creating. If my creativity stopped, no amount of social media would save me. Thank you for what you do and share. The pinky and the brain, the pinky and the brain...one is a genius, the other insane. Who's who here Rafi and Klee? ;p Love you both ♡♡♡ :)
8:17 I would say Instagram is heavier with the tags than twitter. On twitter, due to readability and character limits you typically only want 1-2 tags, maybe 3 max, but Instagram after the caption you put as many relevant tags as possible. Tumblr is like that too but for tumblr the first 5 tags are the only ones that show up in search, so you need the first 5 to be relevant and the others to be more categorized so people can search on the blog itself for what they’re looking for. With IG I try to keep the tags a lot lower cuz I cross post to twitter and it’s also better to have maybe 10 really specific and most relevant tags than it is to have 30 tags that are only semi relevant.
Loved this video. Whenever I'm feeling down or about to give up, your videos always make me feel better. Thank you so much
OMG Klee... you are flipping awesome!!! hahhaha loving these tips. I've been binge watching this am..... thaaaaaaank youuuuuuuu!!!
I've never been comfortable with the "sale-sy" marketing. I realize it works for certain products, but it just never sat well with me. I've been slowly morphing my IG account to be more about the things I enjoy and am inspired by, and less about getting exposure for what I sell. Relieved to hear I'm not weird for feeling this way. 🙂
funny, the commercial that played after I watched this was a freemaster class describing how to sell you art online and skip public events and have 10s of thousands of loyal customers, many of who are repeat customers and an inbox full of orders EVERYDAY!
I'll use this early opportunity to tell you two how much I love your videos! They are very VERY helpful! I enjoy your videos and am always happy to watch more!
Great video
Little clarification... Anybody, paid or unpaid, who can make sure that their users stay longer on the platform will get organic reach and will not get suppressed... They will most definitely not suppress or downgrade particular posts of 'organic profiles' because they want to make place for adds at that particular moment... If some of your posts perform less then others it's because they are simply not as engaging and interesting as your better posts... it's still a social platform and people might not like the same things you as an artist like...
@@Rafiandklee Seems like it's working for you. I trust people that have subscribers. I find your videos good and honest.
Hey Ooak,
Clarification: If you need those credentials, I have 10.000+ followers on other platforms but here's the best part... Most living artists sold at Sotheby's or Christies don't have websites or social media pages... Think about that... The artworld doesn't care about likes or followers... You choose where you put your focus.
Ps: I didn't intended any critique or bad vibe just wanted to clarify and help out... Much love
@@driesketels I have thousands of followers on platforms myself and I sell thousands of things as well you can check my credentials. I just had stated my opinion and etsy have said that they will put promoted listings and people that offer free shipping higher up in search results than anyone who doesn't. I sell a decent amount on etsy and I've had that email myself that is a fact. I'm not saying social media always sells or doesn't. I personally don't find it does for me. To be quiet honest I thought I was speaking to rafi not to you sorry.
@@susanvarleyart2095 Etsy... I do have to state I have no experience with Etsy so they have probably different ways of doing things... I see it personally more as an Ecommerce site then a social media platform... Anyway good luck with your listings on Etsy... I hope things go well for you with all the updates.
Cheers
@@driesketels I also do honestly wish you well. I'm no expert that's why I do watch channels trying to gather information.
Such good advice Rafi😀
I like what you said about giving people the opportunity to go and purchase your art. The word opportunity really struck me.
Like it’s something FOR them. Somehow that makes a difference for me, it makes me feel happy and peaceful, so thanks!
Really... I love you guys, the inspiration you guys provide me with to just get off my butt and get work done has been such a blessing.
I really struggle with taking and posting phots of my work. Of course part of my issue if the literal pain that doing that causes.
I agree. It is much more difficult that it appears. Time consuming and ultimately frustrating.
I set aside ONE day a week (sometimes up to a month) to take photos. And then use those throught the week/month as my pictures. I snap several in progress shots on my phone while creating customs, and upload those right away. I also make one UA-cam video per month (recording on my phone!) And upload that at the beginning of the next month, so I dont burn myself out trying to edit everything on such a tight schedule
Oh my God I love your intro are used to watch Pinky and the brain with my children back in the 80s !!!!😆💖
You two are nuts. In a good way. "Taking over the world..." Also great information.
Hi Rafi! Wanted to say a big thank you for your videos! Gave me the motivation to finally start doing art shows this year, and even make my own youtube art channel of my time-lapse paintings! I just linked to your video about diy art panels on my most recent upload showing my own panels I made for my booth, thanks to your video. Thanks again for all your valuable information you share; it is much appreciated!
Let me know if it's ok that I added your video link in my description. If not I can delete!
@@Rafiandklee No, thank you!
WAIT. Post for the enjoyment of the creative process instead of the expectation of income? WHAT BLASPHEME IS THIS? ;)
😂
You people are Awesome!
Thank You!
I like the play by play subtitles at the end, that kinda helps!
Awesome actionable tips. You changed my mind on a few social media tactics. Thanks! 👍🏿😎
This was awesome advice Rafi & Klee. Thank you.
I know this is off point, but I think your studio space is awesome. It looks alive with creative dust. ♡
I'm always sharen' my stuff on my page. Rotating my Art on my cover pic all the time. Great video, you two are funny, love your video's. Have a good one
This is great way to look at the whole Social Media spectrum - makes sense! Thank you.
Awesome video! A side note to your intro: a buddy of mine that works for Warner Bros is working on Animaniacs! It’s coming back and most of the voice actors are on board!
Love your videos. You and Klee do a great job of conveying 'good energy'. That is what keeps me motivated in returning to your videos. Thank you!
You & Klee rock! These to social media videos are great. So down-to-earth and true and I really appreciate all that you share. Thank you!
Thank you for your honesty and advice!!! Entering this realm of bringing my creativity to the world is scary. Love to you both❣️
I just rewatched this. I got it👍🏻❤️ my main focus is getting out there in person.
It's so true, love your advice.
Super great advice.
I enjoyed watching your video, I am not currently trying to sell online having retired from a digital art position and going back to traditional art, it has been hard but rewarding maybe when I get enough to sell I will but until then I’ll be posting for fun and sharing my journey. Thank you for sharing your outlook and giving us good content to watch!
Good luck with finishing the book.
13:05 making tons of money with your art just means you’ll be able to make more art in the future. The whole reason things like Patreon exist is so that people can give a little bit of money here and there to creators they love so that they can ensure they’ll keep creating the things they love. Making money from your art means you can not only support yourself but you can keep going as an artist a lot easier cuz you have money to buy the things you need for your art.
Great information about using social media! Thanks for sharing!
Nicely done. Thanks for continuing to share.
Thank you for this video- I have always been loathe to engage in self-promotion for a variety of reasons, but after listening to this, I will commit to posting daily on my instagram!
Thanks so much for all of your honest advice and perspective ...I’ve been an artist most of my life, and compromised( happily) for many years , by painting my designs on clothing ( in the late 80’s and 90’s).. I had discovered a way to continue painting , but on items that were easier to sell . I am , now , for the first time in my life , in a place where I can paint for the love and excitement of it .. I can totally appreciate the struggle and the balancing act that it takes, to do something we love , and pay our bills.. we had a small store , and still had to do about 40 art/ craft shows a year.. it was the hardest thing to keep doing , but it allowed us to keep our store going ....
you guys are wonderful to learn from , and be inspired by.. thanks so much for all your heartfelt efforts .. best of luck to you both!!
Sincerely
Norakag ( my nick on Instagram ) Be well..
Your video resonated with me because I spent parts of today wondering why I continue to make and post the videos I make since mostly no one watches them. They are all about a computer game that is now over 10 years old and was out of date before I ever thought of making the videos. Sometimes I think of quitting but I just don't seem to be able to do that yet. The channel won't ever be monetised so the money doesn't come into it either. I just seem to like doing it. So I suppose I'll just continue with it for a bit longer. My long term goal is to start a completely new channel and tell my own story and show my art. I am making progress with that. Im definitely spending more time on the art and less on the game as my health issues are coming under control. I will look forward to your next video.
This was very helpful!!! Thank you!
Thank you for this. Love your honesty and integrity.
Right on Rafi!!! Love this your words of wisdom, very inspiring and so helpful. Thank you!!
My hobby is card making and I sell strictly by word of mouth, however marketing is a huge black hole for most people. But I agree with you, people buy your story n the art is just a snip it of that story. Keeping a day job or multiple jobs is almost a must in today's economy.
My man!!!
I DO feel like you’re FaceTiming with me! We need to be in it for the long haul, not a fast buck. No haters! It IS scary. Amen! Create because we NEED to! Duh! Lololol Klee.
I’m so excited for the book(s)!!!
Love your attitude to social media. It is definitely about connecting with people first and foremost. Thanks for that reminder. 😊
Love you guys! Excited to see that sub count going up, you guys deserve it!!
Great information! Thanks for the helpful tips.
10:00 a lot of artists including myself have noticed with things like ads on Instagram that our non paid posts get more engagement than the ads we paid for. It’s really weird tbh
Rafi ! Shhhh ...You're giving away all the secrets !! :)
Thank you
Great video Rafi! Genuine, sincere, comprehensive, thank you. New subbie.
I tend to post sporadically according to mood and have found followers, especially on my IG page, don't like being "sold" to. You gotta give Pinterest a little credit, it's been great for traffic to my Etsy store. Thanks Guys, great advice as always. Looking forward to the book/s ;)
Nadia How do you link Etsy from Instagram without gong through Pinterest? know this question might sound daft but i'm just getting to grips with this social media malarkey
This is why I love you guys💖
Absolutely correct!
I am curious about gallery networks like Deviant art and what you guys think?
I've learned so much from you, thankyou so very much! I appreciate the work you put into these videos. Your honesty is refreshing😁
I love the pair of you and really enjoy watching your vidz 💕💕😂
Great video y’all 😂 hilarious and educational as always!
I have a stockpile of photos 30 days worth of content for my social media, so I can have consistency, and also focus on my larger pieces.
Loved the intro to this! I love Pinky and the Brain. I think the story on my website about how my creative "business" started and was named is pretty good. It started when I was a teenager.
For my new line I am trying to get going it is because I love the water and fish. I say trying because I am currently dealing with a pretty severe depression. I wouldn't even be trying this at all but for the fact I love it so much. I would be feeling so much more joy from this if I can just get my head right again.
I spent so much time in the water my whole life and found peace there. Sometimes I used to pretend I was a mermaid. :p I loved being underwater and just looking around for as long as I could hold my breath anyway.
Thanks as always for sharing your awesome thoughts in a video.
- Heidi
You guys are so much fun to watch 😅
Keep it coming.
😁🤣😁🤣4:35 I heard my mind on through Klee !!!😁
I love this video! I make art because I love creating, I think that's why I straights to take it any further because the business/Selling side of it puts me off.
Awesome! Thanks for the advice!😀🤘
Hey Rafi....i'm in Canada.
Do you hold your Q&A segments at the same time? How often? What time? I don't see your videos live... would like to interact :)
Love your videos, as far as posting to multiple platforms, I use IFTTT to automatically update Pinterest and Tumblr from my Instagram. It isn't quite as effective for twitter as that requires engagement. But Pinterest and Tumblr keeps the content spread out in case that is where folks look at your work too. Lots of good functionality in IFTTT and it is pretty easy to use.
Amen brother!👊
Forget about the $ it's all about the QUALITY not the quantity... and oh yeah, the story...
Who doesn't want to know the genesis of an idea and how it really came to be?
I love getting in the head of those I admire and perhaps can learn from.
Pinterest strikes me as a collage or dream/vision board. The kind of thing that hangs on your wall and say this is where I am and eventually want to be.
What are your thoughts on scheduled posts? To bang out a months worth and schedule them so you don't have to stop and do it every day.
I think it's great! However, my impatience won't let me sit for that long.
You're awesome, Rafi, but for me, I'm just now getting my art career started at 46 years old, and I would not even be developing all this social media if it was not so I could sell my art.
I have never liked all this, but if I want to get my art out there, then I'm going to have to post on platforms I would otherwise ignore for the very reason of selling my art. Sharing myself with the world is just not something I am otherwise inclined to do.
However, I will never be fake or push something with advertising lingo. (I trained in advertising, by the way.) Being genuine is what I do, and people will know that I am selling my art, but I will never be able to find the will to post because I want to.
I hardly care to share my life with the people I care about. So to me, all this social media stuff is both a chore and a necessity. I cannot afford to take the stand of posting because I want to, because if that were the case, I would go back to posting a few times a year, and that is just not an option if I want to sell art online.
The Rogue Artist's Survival Guide sounds great.
Klee: your reply and my instant thought reply were the exact same! DUH
Consistency is my nemesis, lol
I live with fibromyalgia, so it can be difficult to schedule my time, as I never quite know when I'll suddenly have a day (or several) where everything is thrown off because of health issues.
It has also been holding me back from sharing my story / my life, since some days are just like "yay me, got my son off to school! Now I'll go sleep until he returns home! Cya! Zzzz" 😉
So figuring out what to share (I do have a lot to share...sometimes at least) can be hard, I think. Since "a picture of my day" is not always share-able / interesting...
But I will think on what you said about finding my reason for sharing.
Not to sell, not to share pain-points of my life in ways I'm not comfortable with... but finding something that I actually WANT to share, that lights me up to share... I have to think about that. I think some part of my brain is trying to get my attention. I will try to listen.
Thanks for your videos. I'm binging them at the moment. ❤
You guys make me calm down and remember that I'm good at finding solutions. 😊
Thanks for all that you share.
You are very inspiring!
Lots of love to you both.
Oh yeah, that’s so me on Instagram - post, post, post, then ‘peace!’
The entire reason I returned to the canvas was to get off the digits and pixels. I don't do social media around my art. I'm only interested in in-person viewing and interest. Website. Email. Cell number. That's as tech as I care to go.
Lol that pinki and brain opening had me 🤭 so hard.
Oh and that background art that's my favorite art for this week even over my own and the paw print my cat made on my table. So you feel good and very acomblished cuz thats like the highest praise I have to offer 🙌👍👌
And now I feel all kinds of emojis and self aware about my Instagram 🙁😲😨😬😳🤪😱
I'm glad you've emphasized this point both in today's video and previously. I confess I do listen to the marketing gurus, but I've learned over time that if I'm not very picky about the principles and tactics I choose to implement, I'm going to be frustrated and overwhelmed and start sounding desperate.
So I listen and try to learn, but I only do those things that resonate with me, seem to be part of playing the long game, and for into the time I have allotted for marketing.
If that makes sense?
I am going to watch an episode after this video (it's been a awhile).
INSTANT CREDIT for Pinky and the Brain. INSTANT.
@@Rafiandklee Troz!
Yes! 🧠
I was recently in a group discussion about using our art in other ways like prints and such. Well I am a potter and sculptor. Some suggested molds, but I am not a fan of that because I don't want reproductions and my work is usually to challenging to make molds. I really enjoy making unique items. I do see the value in the extra income. Any ideas?
I know this is WAY late, but do you put any designs or patterns on your pottery? Maybe that would make a good print or even a repeating pattern for print-on-demand items?
Speaking of telling you story...tell us your story, i.e how did you and Klee meet and form such a seemingly successful partnership?
my deal is able to make a living and knowing how as a nomad. Living full time in an RV, on the road doing festivals etc...but I know one needs more than just that. Because the cost of materials and travel and oh yeah..the cost of the space you reserve..sigh...
Tomorrow is my very first EVER vender fair.. omg, I wanna crawl in a whole and not come out! Every time I sell something I feel the need to give them (customer) some stuff for free because I just know that my products aren’t as good. Then it surprises the shit outta me when customers get on social media talking about how much they love their EO perfume I blended for them and that they would purchased from me again .. Or they love the body butter and soap they purchased. Ugghhh IDK. How come I can’t say the things customers say about me , to myself! Lol I really wish I enjoyed ppl and were interested in socializing. I always laugh at ppl who are standing in a crowd blabbing about how they are so “antisocial..” Really 🤣👍 Anyways, I wandered of subject... I actually do great at selling myself on social media. It’s comfortable “socializing.” If all goes well I get to ship products and never actually meet ppl.👍You guys are awesome 👍