I think a lot of people don't take into consideration how much good art supplies cost (Arches paper, Daniel Smith watercolors). It's not 'free'. You painting is stunning and I love that it's in your style.
You are so right about the apologizing part. I am a photographer and used to do weddings. I always felt like I had to apologe for the rate I charged. I had to tell myself that part of how they perceive my work is built into the price. If I charge $500 to do the wedding everyone will think my work is sub par. If I charge $5,000 they will think my work is amazing. Pricing was 100% the most difficult part of the job. You brought up very valuable points.
Now that I’ve watched the whole video a really important point you raised was to paint in one’s own style. It’s so true. I cannot naturally, competently, and consistently paint in someone else’s style. I can’t paint lovely loose florals; when I paint them they look abnormal and like I’m copying someone else. Also, I belong to a FB group and the paintings that I painted and posted I liked the most weren’t necessarily the ones that other people liked the most, and that’s OK. ☺️
A local artist I know is charging $10k for his acrylic paintings, more for oils. He's an excellent artist, quite talented. The time, cost of materials, the time he's spent learning his craft... if he can earn it, more power to him. (And more power to you for your pricing and sales.)
Margot, this painting is incredibly wonder-filled! I could sit and look at it for hours just daydreaming away. (I was 8 years old when I tried to teach myself ballet from a book - lol) To be honest, this painting should be priced more in the $5000 range. The colours, the expression, the liveliness juxtaposed with stillness - I absolutely adore this. And I believe you are absolutely right: the little girls who see this on their way to class will be inspired to a new level every time!
As you mentioned, we artists are trained to undervalue our work. I would add that this is especially true for female artists. We know that male artists make more than female artists on the whole, so we have to demand change. And when we undervalue our work, we undercut other artists. Also, anyone who would undervalue my years of learning and skill-building, and would accuse me of overcharging, isn’t someone I want as a client anyway. Great video!
I am obsessed with this! Your work is stunning! Women historically undervalue themselves. More women refer to themselves as "crafters" when they create art, yet men have no problem calling themselves artist. We need to learn to value ourselves and what we do just as much!
Beautiful painting. I love how you’ve captured whimsy, mythology and beauty in the subject because we all know the years of hard work that goes into becoming a ballerina. Likewise for a painter!
I love hearing the artists perspective on this. I work in a museum and regularly deal with determining the fair market value of artworks and it's super interesting to me. Thank you!
It’s tough. I’ve been an Art Therapist for almost 30 years and stepped into my identity as a professional artist about 17 years ago. I founded an amazing gallery for several years. I’ve acted as a juror, curated exhibitions, won awards.. and I still have seldom let anyone see my work or offered it for sale. I had been making tons of art when I finally showed a local director of an art department my work and he suggested to me that there were people selling paintings for 10k and highly encouraged me to work larger and get studio space. (I’m in Lou, KY.) Later, I spoke with an Art consultant that said I should consider NY or Europe. I’ve been so private and non-commercial in my own process, I know my work shouldn’t sell for 2-300 in a coffee shop, but it’s hard to imagine getting something that feels fair- given the time, energy put into highly original work that I struggle to give away. So… I just don’t put it for sale and have stacks. I’ve never even done a solo show. The price thing is a deterrent. I have considered selling prints, but the originals I am reluctant unless I could get prices that make it feel worth it. To be clear, I wouldn’t expect 10k-20k plus as someone with an unconventional background, and unknown in the art world, but I’ve spent thousands of dollars in quality materials, and thousands of hours… if I couldn’t make thousands vs hundreds I will probably just not offer the work for sale. (And of course, I’ve gotten enough feedback that the work is very good… winning grants based on my portfolio, etc). It’s amazing how much we need and enjoy art but how little support most artists get. I make 160/hr currently as an Art Therapist and creative coach, but that is actually low considering I have a Master’s degree and decades experience. So much of what we get paid has less to do with the actual value and much more with how much people are willing to pay or can afford in our market. The last two times someone approached me for a commission I had to say no, because there was such a disconnect from what was asked and the budget. My last time to participate in a group show, I donated my time to paint a large-scale portrait for a non-profit. Hmmm… not sure what I’m trying to communicate. I didn’t mean to vent and complain. Just thought you might like another artist’s perspective. :). So, in short, I’ve made money as an artist through teaching and coaching, -my work has given me credibility-but I’ve not made money through direct sales.
That’s a beautiful painting - and such an important topic! I love selling my artwork but I have also said no a few times, as I have set myself a minimum price for my work. That filters out people who think they can get a cheap deal - and if I don’t value my work first, why should others do?! There are cases where I regret giving away my artwork as I felt it wasn’t valued enough. On the other hand, I had clients offering me more than I expected, so financially it evens out (and emotionally as well, I guess… 😊)
That painting is magical, I love the glitter and crystal embellishments! I am in awe watching you add all of the details to your paintings. I am just amazed how much difference it makes when you add a little line or a shadow, or drop in a little color. You always know exactly what to do to make the biggest impact! I have no doubt your client was extremely pleased when they saw their new painting!! 😍
Um, also include vacation and sick time, taxes, all business expenses, etc. I have a spreadsheet I've shared over the years with other soloprenuers (non-artists). I agree, take the time to sit down and figure out all the expenses, time, taxes, include vacation, sick time, no matter what business a person wants to start ... plan this stuff out first. Helps a person to enjoy the actual running of the business when the money goals are calculated.
Beautiful piece. You’ve got such a unique style. It reminds me how much I wanted to be a ballerina when I was a child. Thanks for the realistic view on what your time and talent are worth. I’m just learning how to paint, but I’m a weaver and knitter. I’m always shocked at how people ask me to make them something and are unwilling to pay for my time or even the materials involved. Like I can magically conjure it from nothing. Thanks! I love your channel and point of view.
Thank you so much for watching and for your comment. And yes! No matter what your creative skill, it's so easy to say "ok" when someone asks you to make something for them. People take creative work for granted. The comeback to "will you make X for me" should be "ok but first I want you to come over to my house and spend a week reorganizing my garage and then take me to dinner afterwards and I'll make whatever you want" 😜
@@Pointebrush I do that with bread and pasta that I make homemade. I got to the point I was running out of ingredients quicker than when I was making it for myself. I finally found the courage to tell them, if they want me to make it for them they'd have to bring me flour, yeast, eggs or whatever I needed. I used to sweat just thinking about asking people for that. Now it's 2nd nature. Paintings not so much, I shy away from showing people or telling them. its my secret.
That is so whimsical! I love it! I am a huge fan of sparkles too, so I love all the little extra touches. I sold my art 15-20 years ago, and dealing with the "public" drove me away from it. There were a few very dear, sweet customers. But there were enough bad ones that I just couldn't handle it, personally. I need a buffer between me and the "public". 🤣
Hahaha. I totally get it. Ask me what it's like making art for other people and my answer will be different depending on the day 🥰 Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experience! Hope making art for you is proving to be as relaxing and fulfilling as it sounds! ❤️
@SquishyChameleon ~ You are not alone. I am terrible at promoting/marketing myself and what I create. I was a professional musician and singer for a number of years which was okay because I only had to show up and do my thing. Once I started composing music I would sing my songs onstage but couldn't bring myself to take it further. Same with writing poetry. Same with my artwork. Like you, I have always needed a buffer between my creativity and marketing what I create. It's okay, though - maybe someday my children or grandchildren will benefit. 🤣
Thank you for putting an intelligent spin on the topic. Some view the videos suggesting to charge $5000 per art piece regardless of quality and experience.
I have watched this twice, and I learned so much about valuing my work. I’m enjoying my journey, giving paintings to people I love, and have not Sold any! My learning is constant as is my style, which I don’t have yet! My happy time as doing and discovering . Thank you for sharing you words I’m really listening! Your style is amazing, your love of ballet is your gift! Thanks for sharing so much. I’m learning so much, and you are a wonderful teacher!🌈Karen Dirmish
Thanks for sharing this wonderful video with this topic. I have been wondering how to go about this to figure out how to do this. I have priced a piece of art for a family friend who I gave away around the time I was first beginning. Definitely basing it on an hourly rate makes sense. Now I have got to figure out my style & brand. I do love bright bold colors. This has definitely given me something to think 🤔 about now. I love 💕 that inside joke 😂!! Ahh your saving for the jaguar 🐆 convertible too! 😉. Thanks again for this information. I am loving your channel.
Great topic from a professional like yourself! I’m not at the stage where I sell my art and I’m not sure if I will ever get to that point. However, it’s definitely good know about pricing. Thanks! ❤
Hi shadowguard! Honestly, it's even helpful for anyone asking you to do anything for them for free (unless it's a bestie or close family of course). You want me to knit you a scarf? Sure! What's in it for me? 😜
Absolutely true! I did photography and stained glass. I didn’t go cheap like some stained glass (flat solder beads on inside of lamps, etc.) and people didn’t want to pay even what the supplies cost me. That also turned something I enjoyed into something I dreaded. I like one of a kind unique pieces vs churning out a bunch of similar items. So I stopped my business and started a different business and kept my art for myself and people I appreciate. Love your videos. And really admire your style. Thank you!!
I think that's awesome! I recently had a painting accepted to a juried art show and had to decide what to charge for that painting. One of the conditions for entering was that the painting be for sale. I checked out how much other artists at the gallery were asking for their paintings of a similar size and style and priced mine accordingly. I didn't want to overprice but I also didn't want to undercut other artists by pricing too low. All watercolors had to be matted and framed. I took that cost into consideration as well as the commission the art gallery will take when it sells. This would be my first sale. After watching this video, I'll ask more next time. If those other artists have underpriced their work, as I suspect now they have, I need to price mine more confidently. :) Thank you, Margot for posting about this.
LOVE the painting!! Totally agree on VALUE YOUR WORK!! I've gotten so many "if you could donate it, you'll get some great "free" advertising. A-it wasn't free for me to create the work, and wouldn't I get advertising if you paid for it? It's almost easier NOT to sell to friends and family - no guilt trips. Thanks for letting me know I'm not alone!!
What a magical beautiful piece of art!! I love painting portraits & I need to have detail no matter what I paint…but I don’t know what my style is. I love your personality & your channel! I took ballet for 8 years from 5 yrs to 13 yrs old & would have loved seeing this on my way to class.
You are that confirmation that I needed. I felt guilty for not finishing some art school, but whole my life, I am doing everything right. Want to start earning money from my works, future works :) Thank you, hvala from modest extrovert woman from Serbia :)
Thanks Margot, pricing is something I really struggle with, especially as I started off by selling to friends so I obviously priced pieces very reasonably. I know I undervalue myself but I do like the feeling it gives me to know that someone wants my work hanging on their wall and I would rather it be affordable art. That said, I do always struggle with pricing pieces so might have to re-think it. Thanks for your video it was most helpful.
Hi Sarah and congrats on having your art on other people's wall! That's a huge deal and the ultimate compliment! You'll get more confident and more traction as you stick with it. Glad the video was helpful! Xo!
This is true of writers, musicians, craftspeople, and many entrepreneurs. They/we all have such a hard time valuing our work and pricing accordingly. Do we dare ask for what we need and deserve. Great video and love the piece with all the bling. 🤩
Thank you Margot! I think confidence in your work is key. In one of your videos, you made a comment that I didn't know would continue to speak/ whisper often. You said you tended to exaggerate legs/lower body and that you decided to "lean in to that". Then you suggested (paraphrasing) the viewer assess their tendencies and consider leaning in to them. I don't know whether my technique is better, but I am happier as I try to embrace my tendencies instead of fighting them! Thank you again!
Start small! It can get overwhelming when you look at the whole mountain you want to climb. Sell your first piece or trade it for a fair barter! Baby steps!
I love this conversation and I love that you value your work and all that time you’ve invested into developing your art. All those things are extremely important to consider. Much love & thank you for the encouragement 🫶🏻💕
OMYGOD Margot I LOVE the gold and glitter touches, just GORGEOUS!! And absolutely great advice for us novices who aspire to want to sell our Art, thank you for sharing Margot!!❤
Thank you for your common sense approach to charging appropriate -i.e. worthwhile and livable rates - for our work. Your useful tip, find the audience and believe in your own value.
A lot of what you said in this video resonated deeply with me… I have been an artist my entire life, I remember drawing on paper bags and blank book pages when I was four years old… I always did it because I liked it but never took it seriously. until I experienced genetic site loss in my early 40s. also went through a massive personal crisis along with adapting to a new disability.… I decided to check out my old college art supplies and see what I could still do.… Also to get back to myself as a form of therapy. I quickly realized that the art supply world was much more vast than I had remembered! L O L and UA-cam was also a new discovery… Long story short I think my skill set is much better than it has ever been. although I use a white cane to get around in the world, I wield a paint brush in my little apartment studio/bedroom :-) I showed some of my paintings to an art instructor during a paint party last year, I didn’t know he was an art dealer. We are currently working together to launch and list my paintings on a customized website. i’ve never thought anything like that could ever happen.…😀🌸❤️🤨😉
I paint for fun, but I’m hoping I’ll be able to sell my crochet, putting a price on what I make has been agonizing! My husband had to literally take pictures of what others were charging for their items and say, see? It’s alright to charge money for this.
Your painting and style is absolutely beautiful! I know exactly what you're talking about, everyone has a completely different visual eye, and no one can duplicate what your vision and stylist is. I draw and paint extremely detailed work, and since getting into watercolor (I'm an artist for over 55 years and have done oils most of my life but now do other mediums as well), I envy artists who can do light, loose and flowy paintings, but meantime when I do it like that my brain is screaming: " Detail- I need more detail!!" 😂😂😂 I can't stand when a person asks why I'm doing something the style or design I chose and why don't I do it the way they think it should be, and I say- "because it's MY vision and not yours- so go do it the way you want!" 😖😳👩🎨🤗🌹
i think it is very good that you are making a video about these topics and explaining it. Then anyone who is wondering about the "high" prices for watercolours can warmly recommend this video. Well, selling works of art doesn't happen that often, then just one painting that is sold, has to bring in so much money that ideally it lasts for a few days, and it is very advisable for artists to have other sources of income that can compensate for a dry spell of paintings. I have also the impression that people who have hardly come into contact with the production of works of art, estimate the share of the material costs in the production of a painting far too high. If it is one on canvas with a large volume of paint. They then regard the prices as fair for both sides and often think that the artists have a large share of the money for themselves. However, other costs are mainly responsible for these prices of paintings e.g. rent, food, energy, water, time, not the material costs. the material costs are perhaps in the single-digit percentage range, so the artists only have a small share for themselves, because they have calculated it tightly. They expect artists who sell watercolour paintings to charge much less for their paintings, because it's just "a bit of paint on paper" and that hardly causes any material costs. And the attitude is often, too, that when works of art cost little, they are also worth little. probably the artists are not convinced of their own works that they could bring in higher prices that would also be paid.
Hmm 🤔 it’s like you were talking directly to me….🤣 Connected with everything you said. I’m a starving artist (traditional art) 😆 and I find it difficult to even find commissions. Etsy has been a big bust for me. Whenever I tried selling originel pieces and put a price (on Etsy) everyone said too expensive….. in France as you know the shipping rates to send out of the country are far higher than incoming rates. An A4 sized piece for €85 including free shipping I thought 👍 and I would make around…… €25-30 so closed the shop and looking to maybe research other avenues. Your videos are always super helpful . Thank you 🙏
You're such a gem. I love your style in more ways than one! Your sense of humour 🤌 I always look forward to your videos entertaining and enriching. Thank you so much.
@@Pointebrush ❤️ Also soooo excited for the M. Graham video. I own quite a few and they are so enjoyable to paint with. So easy and just fun. I love them and can't wait to hear what you think. I put some in a pallette and they still haven't set 🤣 which I knew better but just call me stubborn.
yes more artist have to realize they are part of their brand. who you are, what you do, how you act, and even what you write online is part of your brand. I am myself online and offline, too much work to be someone else. What you see online or in person is what you get warts and all lol. i really do need to set up a charge list tho, havent really had to need one since i havent done any traditional art to sell for years now due to going to uni
I am getting ready to take the leap. I’m going to get the website. I have been working on my logo… My brand name… I have a very distinctive style which just seems to come out on its own. (Although I am definitely going to watch your video on finding your my own art style 😀) I have survived breast cancer twice and I have a chronic illness as a result of it. But if I had died when I first got breast cancer, I would never have met my grandchildren. So, I always say “I am alive, so I win!” Thank you for helping me with this. I hope you watch for me in the future. I will be Shawna Fine Art.😘
This definitely resonates with me! I had to learn the hard way how to say NO! I’m so glad you are teaching aspiring artists these important lessons and skills, these are the things they never taught us in art school. Again such great content Margot!!
Thank you for sharing. I love your channel and your delivery of content. Your style is quite beautiful! I have been intrigued by watercolors for some time but have been intimidated by them as well. After viewing your videos I am more confident with my exploration of the medium.
If you charged anything less than $1000, it would not be right. You deserve every cent of that and even more! The other thing I am noticing is that for some reason, people WILL pay for an acrylic / oil painting / mixed media painting on canvas way more than a watercolour piece. Watercolour is still seen as just a 'draft', or an illustration type genre. Would love to hear your thoughts on this. Why watercolour art isn't still seen as serious 'fine art' compared to other mediums.
Hi Crystal and thank you so much for your kind words. What a great topic too! You’re right that watercolor doesn’t carry the same caché as oil or acrylics. I’ve been able to sell (albeit large format) acrylics for upwards of 6k but I very much feel like 1k is hard to get above for a watercolor (for me at least). I think historically a lot of the reservations with watercolors have been because they were less lightfast and paper is less durable than canvas. Because the watercolor pigments are diluted, they will definitely be less durable and lightfast than oils + acrylics so that’s always been a problem. Granted nowadays materials have been engineered to be more durable but the “lowbrow rep” of it and fear of degrading still remains. When I go to big art fairs in New York like the Armory or Frieze, it’s pretty rare to come upon watercolors and if you do, they are priced much lower than any other counterpart. Frustrating for sure! Not sure if anyone else has thoughts on this but I welcome the discussion.
@@Pointebrush Thanks for your insights Margot! So sad about the low brow rep of watercolours. :( I guess its our job to raise it's profile and start pricing our work for what it's worth like you said. Love the beautiful sequins you embellished on your painting. So special. Those little ballerinas are gonna love it.
I have watched most of your videos and I just love your work. Can you show us how to frame your artwork or artwork in general? Do you cover with glass? Do you need to spray it? Thank you in advance.
Patty-I have a friend who wants me to paint something for her, and she's willing to pay. I have no idea what to chatge. This will be my first. This video has helped. Still don't know what to charge.
May I ask what brushes you use? I bought Princeton Neptune brushes and they have NO snap, at all, I’d like to ask my husband for a watercolor brush but I really don’t have a good idea for brushes. I like Simply Simmons, they’re the best I have so far.
If you’re looking for good quality synthetic brushes I would point you straight to Princeton’s Aqua Elite line. I think you’ll be really happy. The neptunes are better for large wash areas as they soak up a ton of water like a mop. But I wouldn’t use then for smaller or detail areas as they’re too soft like you mentioned 👍
As a side question 🙋🏻♀️ where did you get the inspiration for the dragon. Do you look for photos on google or Pinterest or is it straight out of your mind?
Usually I find several sources as I don’t like to take from a single source. So I might look at the texture of scales from one image and the pose from another and then I’ll incorporate my own touches to make it original. That’s for things like dragons. For ballerinas where I’m more experienced, I can just draw them from my memory and imagination.
Thanks for that valuable insight--the product of intelligence and hard work and talent: hard to come by for the 'average' citizen. Now that I think about what you've said, I see more of a map. It's difficult to conceive of a way to make things pay in a practical sense. Your inner critic and so on have a bit of a laugh. There's hope in what you've said.
I love your paintings. I love the long arms and legs. The ballerinas look unique. When I buy a home l would love to commission you for a painting for my home.
Question: did you give the ballet studio this piece as is, or did you scan it and sell it as a print? I'm curious sense I'm planning on selling my own art soon. Very beautiful painting, by the way. I just love your ballerinas ❤
I'll never understand people who watch an artist's or that of "just a crafter" and then feel the need that their work is ugly and they would never pay for it. Well, they paid for it, not in money but in time spend watching and by feeding the algorithm. And anatomy is only really important when you draw anatomy books for medical studends. And even then there'll be a part of "exceptions". As for the price of your time and skills - I wonder if an absurdly overpaid CEO (or the like) ever thinks about that. I really like your work a lot, "wrong anatomy" and "tackyness" and all 😍
As someone who put the kids, a wife and myself through university, bought 3 homes, retired and still lives off selling artwork, all before the internet and without social media and ordinal branding, I couldn't disagree more. Especially now a days when the art market is so heavily saturated. An artists work is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. You might believe your worth $500 an hour, but beliefs don't put food on the table. Hence why all you people are on UA-cam selling stickers and your personality.
I’m happy for you and that your career was able to sustain your family and living expenses the way it did. That’s wonderful! But your path is not the only path (nor is mine for that matter). What takes front seat in any good career is grit, patience, perseverance and above all a good business sense. You mentioned that 5x7 sized en plein air paintings go for up to $2700? That might be what you charge but I know artists who charge significantly higher and artists who charge less than a third of that. No one size fits all. I know I charge about $1000 for a 5x7 sized landscape but I never sell my originals or the perpetual usage rights unless it’s a negotiated buyout and in that case it’s significantly higher. As for UA-cam, it doesn’t pay the bills. My art business does and I consider UA-cam more of a teaching gig. Like I said, every path is different.
love all your videos... very educational and entertaining...especially your video editing skillset and your charming personality...love your style and your artwork.. thank you very much for making my day better!
I will be using this video for a bunch of sound bites and tagging back to this video. This video has inspired me soo much! @CurlyLocsLLC I needed to hear all this, and will make sure the locticians/loc artists hear it too!
I think a lot of people don't take into consideration how much good art supplies cost (Arches paper, Daniel Smith watercolors). It's not 'free'. You painting is stunning and I love that it's in your style.
You are so right about the apologizing part. I am a photographer and used to do weddings. I always felt like I had to apologe for the rate I charged. I had to tell myself that part of how they perceive my work is built into the price. If I charge $500 to do the wedding everyone will think my work is sub par. If I charge $5,000 they will think my work is amazing. Pricing was 100% the most difficult part of the job. You brought up very valuable points.
Now that I’ve watched the whole video a really important point you raised was to paint in one’s own style. It’s so true. I cannot naturally, competently, and consistently paint in someone else’s style. I can’t paint lovely loose florals; when I paint them they look abnormal and like I’m copying someone else. Also, I belong to a FB group and the paintings that I painted and posted I liked the most weren’t necessarily the ones that other people liked the most, and that’s OK. ☺️
A local artist I know is charging $10k for his acrylic paintings, more for oils. He's an excellent artist, quite talented. The time, cost of materials, the time he's spent learning his craft... if he can earn it, more power to him. (And more power to you for your pricing and sales.)
Margot, this painting is incredibly wonder-filled! I could sit and look at it for hours just daydreaming away. (I was 8 years old when I tried to teach myself ballet from a book - lol) To be honest, this painting should be priced more in the $5000 range. The colours, the expression, the liveliness juxtaposed with stillness - I absolutely adore this. And I believe you are absolutely right: the little girls who see this on their way to class will be inspired to a new level every time!
As you mentioned, we artists are trained to undervalue our work. I would add that this is especially true for female artists. We know that male artists make more than female artists on the whole, so we have to demand change. And when we undervalue our work, we undercut other artists. Also, anyone who would undervalue my years of learning and skill-building, and would accuse me of overcharging, isn’t someone I want as a client anyway. Great video!
I am obsessed with this! Your work is stunning! Women historically undervalue themselves. More women refer to themselves as "crafters" when they create art, yet men have no problem calling themselves artist. We need to learn to value ourselves and what we do just as much!
Beautiful painting. I love how you’ve captured whimsy, mythology and beauty in the subject because we all know the years of hard work that goes into becoming a ballerina. Likewise for a painter!
Thank you so much Denise! 💗
I love hearing the artists perspective on this. I work in a museum and regularly deal with determining the fair market value of artworks and it's super interesting to me. Thank you!
It’s tough. I’ve been an Art Therapist for almost 30 years and stepped into my identity as a professional artist about 17 years ago. I founded an amazing gallery for several years. I’ve acted as a juror, curated exhibitions, won awards.. and I still have seldom let anyone see my work or offered it for sale. I had been making tons of art when I finally showed a local director of an art department my work and he suggested to me that there were people selling paintings for 10k and highly encouraged me to work larger and get studio space. (I’m in Lou, KY.) Later, I spoke with an Art consultant that said I should consider NY or Europe. I’ve been so private and non-commercial in my own process, I know my work shouldn’t sell for 2-300 in a coffee shop, but it’s hard to imagine getting something that feels fair- given the time, energy put into highly original work that I struggle to give away. So… I just don’t put it for sale and have stacks. I’ve never even done a solo show. The price thing is a deterrent. I have considered selling prints, but the originals I am reluctant unless I could get prices that make it feel worth it. To be clear, I wouldn’t expect 10k-20k plus as someone with an unconventional background, and unknown in the art world, but I’ve spent thousands of dollars in quality materials, and thousands of hours… if I couldn’t make thousands vs hundreds I will probably just not offer the work for sale. (And of course, I’ve gotten enough feedback that the work is very good… winning grants based on my portfolio, etc). It’s amazing how much we need and enjoy art but how little support most artists get. I make 160/hr currently as an Art Therapist and creative coach, but that is actually low considering I have a Master’s degree and decades experience. So much of what we get paid has less to do with the actual value and much more with how much people are willing to pay or can afford in our market. The last two times someone approached me for a commission I had to say no, because there was such a disconnect from what was asked and the budget. My last time to participate in a group show, I donated my time to paint a large-scale portrait for a non-profit. Hmmm… not sure what I’m trying to communicate. I didn’t mean to vent and complain. Just thought you might like another artist’s perspective. :). So, in short, I’ve made money as an artist through teaching and coaching, -my work has given me credibility-but I’ve not made money through direct sales.
That’s a beautiful painting - and such an important topic! I love selling my artwork but I have also said no a few times, as I have set myself a minimum price for my work. That filters out people who think they can get a cheap deal - and if I don’t value my work first, why should others do?! There are cases where I regret giving away my artwork as I felt it wasn’t valued enough. On the other hand, I had clients offering me more than I expected, so financially it evens out (and emotionally as well, I guess… 😊)
That painting is magical, I love the glitter and crystal embellishments! I am in awe watching you add all of the details to your paintings. I am just amazed how much difference it makes when you add a little line or a shadow, or drop in a little color. You always know exactly what to do to make the biggest impact! I have no doubt your client was extremely pleased when they saw their new painting!! 😍
Um, also include vacation and sick time, taxes, all business expenses, etc. I have a spreadsheet I've shared over the years with other soloprenuers (non-artists). I agree, take the time to sit down and figure out all the expenses, time, taxes, include vacation, sick time, no matter what business a person wants to start ... plan this stuff out first. Helps a person to enjoy the actual running of the business when the money goals are calculated.
Beautiful piece. You’ve got such a unique style. It reminds me how much I wanted to be a ballerina when I was a child.
Thanks for the realistic view on what your time and talent are worth. I’m just learning how to paint, but I’m a weaver and knitter. I’m always shocked at how people ask me to make them something and are unwilling to pay for my time or even the materials involved. Like I can magically conjure it from nothing. Thanks! I love your channel and point of view.
Thank you so much for watching and for your comment. And yes! No matter what your creative skill, it's so easy to say "ok" when someone asks you to make something for them. People take creative work for granted. The comeback to "will you make X for me" should be "ok but first I want you to come over to my house and spend a week reorganizing my garage and then take me to dinner afterwards and I'll make whatever you want" 😜
@@Pointebrush I do that with bread and pasta that I make homemade. I got to the point I was running out of ingredients quicker than when I was making it for myself. I finally found the courage to tell them, if they want me to make it for them they'd have to bring me flour, yeast, eggs or whatever I needed. I used to sweat just thinking about asking people for that. Now it's 2nd nature. Paintings not so much, I shy away from showing people or telling them. its my secret.
That is so whimsical! I love it! I am a huge fan of sparkles too, so I love all the little extra touches. I sold my art 15-20 years ago, and dealing with the "public" drove me away from it. There were a few very dear, sweet customers. But there were enough bad ones that I just couldn't handle it, personally. I need a buffer between me and the "public". 🤣
Hahaha. I totally get it. Ask me what it's like making art for other people and my answer will be different depending on the day 🥰 Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experience! Hope making art for you is proving to be as relaxing and fulfilling as it sounds! ❤️
@SquishyChameleon ~ You are not alone. I am terrible at promoting/marketing myself and what I create. I was a professional musician and singer for a number of years which was okay because I only had to show up and do my thing. Once I started composing music I would sing my songs onstage but couldn't bring myself to take it further. Same with writing poetry. Same with my artwork. Like you, I have always needed a buffer between my creativity and marketing what I create. It's okay, though - maybe someday my children or grandchildren will benefit. 🤣
This piece is gorgeous and worth every penny - I bet the studio loves it!
Best advice I have ever heard on pricing art. Thank you
Thank you for this! “Believe in yourself!”
I mean it! 😘
Thank you for putting an intelligent spin on the topic. Some view the videos suggesting to charge $5000 per art piece regardless of quality and experience.
I have watched this twice, and I learned so much about valuing my work. I’m enjoying my journey, giving paintings to people I love, and have not Sold any! My learning is constant as is my style, which I don’t have yet! My happy time as doing and discovering . Thank you for sharing you words I’m really listening! Your style is amazing, your love of ballet is your gift! Thanks for sharing so much. I’m learning so much, and you are a wonderful teacher!🌈Karen Dirmish
"Find your people, and make cool things for yourself ..." - Best business advice I've ever heard!💖
Thanks for sharing this wonderful video with this topic. I have been wondering how to go about this to figure out how to do this. I have priced a piece of art for a family friend who I gave away around the time I was first beginning. Definitely basing it on an hourly rate makes sense. Now I have got to figure out my style & brand. I do love bright bold colors. This has definitely given me something to think 🤔 about now. I love 💕 that inside joke 😂!! Ahh your saving for the jaguar 🐆 convertible too! 😉. Thanks again for this information. I am loving your channel.
I bet the kids LOVE that painting! I especially love the dragon! And the bling!
Great topic from a professional like yourself! I’m not at the stage where I sell my art and I’m not sure if I will ever get to that point. However, it’s definitely good know about pricing. Thanks! ❤
Hi shadowguard! Honestly, it's even helpful for anyone asking you to do anything for them for free (unless it's a bestie or close family of course). You want me to knit you a scarf? Sure! What's in it for me? 😜
@@PointebrushI feel this as a crocheter
Absolutely true! I did photography and stained glass. I didn’t go cheap like some stained glass (flat solder beads on inside of lamps, etc.) and people didn’t want to pay even what the supplies cost me. That also turned something I enjoyed into something I dreaded. I like one of a kind unique pieces vs churning out a bunch of similar items. So I stopped my business and started a different business and kept my art for myself and people I appreciate.
Love your videos. And really admire your style. Thank you!!
I think that's awesome!
I recently had a painting accepted to a juried art show and had to decide what to charge for that painting. One of the conditions for entering was that the painting be for sale.
I checked out how much other artists at the gallery were asking for their paintings of a similar size and style and priced mine accordingly.
I didn't want to overprice but I also didn't want to undercut other artists by pricing too low.
All watercolors had to be matted and framed. I took that cost into consideration as well as the commission the art gallery will take when it sells.
This would be my first sale.
After watching this video, I'll ask more next time.
If those other artists have underpriced their work, as I suspect now they have, I need to price mine more confidently. :)
Thank you, Margot for posting about this.
I love your view point and style. You are a great soul. You've given us all important things to think about. Thank you!
Thank you so much and it makes me happy to know these videos are motivating! xo!
Watching you paint that, it is a LOT more complex than it seems at first glance. I love the dragon. 😁💖
LOVE the painting!! Totally agree on VALUE YOUR WORK!! I've gotten so many "if you could donate it, you'll get some great "free" advertising. A-it wasn't free for me to create the work, and wouldn't I get advertising if you paid for it? It's almost easier NOT to sell to friends and family - no guilt trips. Thanks for letting me know I'm not alone!!
What a magical beautiful piece of art!! I love painting portraits & I need to have detail no matter what I paint…but I don’t know what my style is. I love your personality & your channel! I took ballet for 8 years from 5 yrs to 13 yrs old & would have loved seeing this on my way to class.
You are that confirmation that I needed. I felt guilty for not finishing some art school, but whole my life, I am doing everything right. Want to start earning money from my works, future works :)
Thank you, hvala from modest extrovert woman from Serbia :)
Thanks Margot, pricing is something I really struggle with, especially as I started off by selling to friends so I obviously priced pieces very reasonably. I know I undervalue myself but I do like the feeling it gives me to know that someone wants my work hanging on their wall and I would rather it be affordable art. That said, I do always struggle with pricing pieces so might have to re-think it. Thanks for your video it was most helpful.
Hi Sarah and congrats on having your art on other people's wall! That's a huge deal and the ultimate compliment! You'll get more confident and more traction as you stick with it. Glad the video was helpful! Xo!
This is true of writers, musicians, craftspeople, and many entrepreneurs. They/we all have such a hard time valuing our work and pricing accordingly. Do we dare ask for what we need and deserve. Great video and love the piece with all the bling. 🤩
Thank you Margot! I think confidence in your work is key. In one of your videos, you made a comment that I didn't know would continue to speak/ whisper often. You said you tended to exaggerate legs/lower body and that you decided to "lean in to that". Then you suggested (paraphrasing) the viewer assess their tendencies and consider leaning in to them. I don't know whether my technique is better, but I am happier as I try to embrace my tendencies instead of fighting them! Thank you again!
Many times, I have thought about selling my pieces, but I never have. I do think my motivational word is...BELIEVE🧚🏼♂️
Start small! It can get overwhelming when you look at the whole mountain you want to climb. Sell your first piece or trade it for a fair barter! Baby steps!
@Pointebrush Thank you. That was very wise advice.💕
You deserve much more! You create such beautiful art. Great topic.
I love this conversation and I love that you value your work and all that time you’ve invested into developing your art. All those things are extremely important to consider. Much love & thank you for the encouragement 🫶🏻💕
Your breakdown was so understandable. Thank you for sharing.
Pure joy to watch and listen to you! Amazing painting, so vibrant.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Congratulations on this nice commosion! I can only hope I could ever get that good.
OMYGOD Margot I LOVE the gold and glitter touches, just GORGEOUS!! And absolutely great advice for us novices who aspire to want to sell our Art, thank you for sharing Margot!!❤
Thank you for your common sense approach to charging appropriate -i.e. worthwhile and livable rates - for our work. Your useful tip, find the audience and believe in your own value.
A lot of what you said in this video resonated deeply with me… I have been an artist my entire life, I remember drawing on paper bags and blank book pages when I was four years old… I always did it because I liked it but never took it seriously. until I experienced genetic site loss in my early 40s. also went through a massive personal crisis along with adapting to a new disability.… I decided to check out my old college art supplies and see what I could still do.… Also to get back to myself as a form of therapy. I quickly realized that the art supply world was much more vast than I had remembered! L O L and UA-cam was also a new discovery… Long story short I think my skill set is much better than it has ever been. although I use a white cane to get around in the world, I wield a paint brush in my little apartment studio/bedroom :-) I showed some of my paintings to an art instructor during a paint party last year, I didn’t know he was an art dealer. We are currently working together to launch and list my paintings on a customized website. i’ve never thought anything like that could ever happen.…😀🌸❤️🤨😉
I paint for fun, but I’m hoping I’ll be able to sell my crochet, putting a price on what I make has been agonizing!
My husband had to literally take pictures of what others were charging for their items and say, see? It’s alright to charge money for this.
Oh I know this feeling so well! Give yourself permission to value yourself as much as other artists you respect. You are worth it.
@@Pointebrush thank you so much for talking about this, it’s so important.
❤️
Your painting and style is absolutely beautiful! I know exactly what you're talking about, everyone has a completely different visual eye, and no one can duplicate what your vision and stylist is. I draw and paint extremely detailed work, and since getting into watercolor (I'm an artist for over 55 years and have done oils most of my life but now do other mediums as well), I envy artists who can do light, loose and flowy paintings, but meantime when I do it like that my brain is screaming: " Detail- I need more detail!!" 😂😂😂
I can't stand when a person asks why I'm doing something the style or design I chose and why don't I do it the way they think it should be, and I say- "because it's MY vision and not yours- so go do it the way you want!" 😖😳👩🎨🤗🌹
Thanks 👍 I appreciate you helping us with this topic!
Wow. Thank you for this video! To the pointe ;) and has its own value!!
i think it is very good that you are making a video about these topics and explaining it.
Then anyone who is wondering about the "high" prices for watercolours can warmly recommend this video.
Well, selling works of art doesn't happen that often, then just one painting that is sold,
has to bring in so much money that ideally it lasts for a few days,
and it is very advisable for artists to have other sources of income that can compensate for a dry spell of paintings.
I have also the impression that people who have hardly come into contact with the production of works of art,
estimate the share of the material costs in the production of a painting far too high.
If it is one on canvas with a large volume of paint.
They then regard the prices as fair for both sides and often think that the artists have a large share of the money for themselves.
However, other costs are mainly responsible for these prices of paintings e.g. rent, food, energy, water, time, not the material costs.
the material costs are perhaps in the single-digit percentage range,
so the artists only have a small share for themselves, because they have calculated it tightly.
They expect artists who sell watercolour paintings to charge much less for their paintings,
because it's just "a bit of paint on paper" and that hardly causes any material costs.
And the attitude is often, too, that when works of art cost little, they are also worth little.
probably the artists are not convinced of their own works that they could bring in higher prices that would also be paid.
Hmm 🤔 it’s like you were talking directly to me….🤣
Connected with everything you said. I’m a starving artist (traditional art) 😆 and I find it difficult to even find commissions. Etsy has been a big bust for me. Whenever I tried selling originel pieces and put a price (on Etsy) everyone said too expensive….. in France as you know the shipping rates to send out of the country are far higher than incoming rates. An A4 sized piece for €85 including free shipping I thought 👍 and I would make around…… €25-30 so closed the shop and looking to maybe research other avenues.
Your videos are always super helpful . Thank you 🙏
An excellent video with great explanations. A beautiful painting you've created.
I loved this painting. I wish it was available as a poster. I would buy it. Do you sell posters or prints of your artwork?
I have found everything you said to be 100000% true in my own business! Great video on this topic!!!!
Thank you so much and wishing you continued success with your business! It takes a lot to own your own business so kudos to that! Xo!
You're such a gem. I love your style in more ways than one! Your sense of humour 🤌 I always look forward to your videos entertaining and enriching. Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for your kind words. It means the world to me 🥹
@@Pointebrush ❤️
Also soooo excited for the M. Graham video. I own quite a few and they are so enjoyable to paint with. So easy and just fun. I love them and can't wait to hear what you think. I put some in a pallette and they still haven't set 🤣 which I knew better but just call me stubborn.
yes more artist have to realize they are part of their brand. who you are, what you do, how you act, and even what you write online is part of your brand. I am myself online and offline, too much work to be someone else. What you see online or in person is what you get warts and all lol. i really do need to set up a charge list tho, havent really had to need one since i havent done any traditional art to sell for years now due to going to uni
I am getting ready to take the leap. I’m going to get the website. I have been working on my logo… My brand name… I have a very distinctive style which just seems to come out on its own. (Although I am definitely going to watch your video on finding your my own art style 😀)
I have survived breast cancer twice and I have a chronic illness as a result of it. But if I had died when I first got breast cancer, I would never have met my grandchildren. So, I always say “I am alive, so I win!”
Thank you for helping me with this. I hope you watch for me in the future. I will be Shawna Fine Art.😘
Thanks for covering this topic. 😊
My pleasure!
This definitely resonates with me! I had to learn the hard way how to say NO! I’m so glad you are teaching aspiring artists these important lessons and skills, these are the things they never taught us in art school. Again such great content Margot!!
Thank you so much for putting this message out there! It's such an important thing for artists to know and develop. Beautiful painting as well~
valuable information, i'm happy to learn. Thx for sharing and your style and the painting is so beautiful🤩
Thank you for sharing. I love your channel and your delivery of content. Your style is quite beautiful! I have been intrigued by watercolors for some time but have been intimidated by them as well. After viewing your videos I am more confident with my exploration of the medium.
If you charged anything less than $1000, it would not be right. You deserve every cent of that and even more! The other thing I am noticing is that for some reason, people WILL pay for an acrylic / oil painting / mixed media painting on canvas way more than a watercolour piece. Watercolour is still seen as just a 'draft', or an illustration type genre. Would love to hear your thoughts on this. Why watercolour art isn't still seen as serious 'fine art' compared to other mediums.
Hi Crystal and thank you so much for your kind words. What a great topic too! You’re right that watercolor doesn’t carry the same caché as oil or acrylics. I’ve been able to sell (albeit large format) acrylics for upwards of 6k but I very much feel like 1k is hard to get above for a watercolor (for me at least). I think historically a lot of the reservations with watercolors have been because they were less lightfast and paper is less durable than canvas. Because the watercolor pigments are diluted, they will definitely be less durable and lightfast than oils + acrylics so that’s always been a problem. Granted nowadays materials have been engineered to be more durable but the “lowbrow rep” of it and fear of degrading still remains. When I go to big art fairs in New York like the Armory or Frieze, it’s pretty rare to come upon watercolors and if you do, they are priced much lower than any other counterpart. Frustrating for sure! Not sure if anyone else has thoughts on this but I welcome the discussion.
@@Pointebrush Thanks for your insights Margot! So sad about the low brow rep of watercolours. :( I guess its our job to raise it's profile and start pricing our work for what it's worth like you said. Love the beautiful sequins you embellished on your painting. So special. Those little ballerinas are gonna love it.
I have watched most of your videos and I just love your work. Can you show us how to frame your artwork or artwork in general? Do you cover with glass? Do you need to spray it? Thank you in advance.
Great advice and clear explanation ❣️
What was the glitter you used on the painting and how did your client like the picture. I’m sure they loved it!
I Love YOUR style 💞....🎉....💞
Your awesome ty so much
Thankyou Margot - Lynne Australia xx
You're very welcome Lynne! ❤️
Thank you for sharing this! ❤❤❤ this helps me a lot!
You're so welcome! Glad it helped! ❤️
Patty-I have a friend who wants me to paint something for her, and she's willing to pay. I have no idea what to chatge. This will be my first. This video has helped. Still don't know what to charge.
May I ask what brushes you use?
I bought Princeton Neptune brushes and they have NO snap, at all, I’d like to ask my husband for a watercolor brush but I really don’t have a good idea for brushes.
I like Simply Simmons, they’re the best I have so far.
If you’re looking for good quality synthetic brushes I would point you straight to Princeton’s Aqua Elite line. I think you’ll be really happy. The neptunes are better for large wash areas as they soak up a ton of water like a mop. But I wouldn’t use then for smaller or detail areas as they’re too soft like you mentioned 👍
@@Pointebrush thank you so much!! That’s so helpful!
I appreciate it so much. Upgrading my brushes was the last thing I needed.
Can I please ask what that pale blue is that you are dipping into at 1:46? It's a great blue!!
Okay, I want my extra points for the banana taped to the wall! I'll also take extra points for the mop and bucket too! 😉😂
So beautiful
As a side question 🙋🏻♀️ where did you get the inspiration for the dragon. Do you look for photos on google or Pinterest or is it straight out of your mind?
Usually I find several sources as I don’t like to take from a single source. So I might look at the texture of scales from one image and the pose from another and then I’ll incorporate my own touches to make it original. That’s for things like dragons. For ballerinas where I’m more experienced, I can just draw them from my memory and imagination.
Thanks for that valuable insight--the product of intelligence and hard work and talent: hard to come by for the 'average' citizen. Now that I think about what you've said, I see more of a map. It's difficult to conceive of a way to make things pay in a practical sense. Your inner critic and so on have a bit of a laugh. There's hope in what you've said.
I love your paintings. I love the long arms and legs. The ballerinas look unique. When I buy a home l would love to commission you for a painting for my home.
That's so kind of you to say. It would be an honor 🥹
Question: did you give the ballet studio this piece as is, or did you scan it and sell it as a print? I'm curious sense I'm planning on selling my own art soon. Very beautiful painting, by the way. I just love your ballerinas ❤
Thank you so much! I sent them the original along with a digital file to use for some of their marketing :)
That's good to know, thank you!
Here! Here!
Hi Amirah! 👋😘
@@Pointebrush 💖hi there!!
5 x 7 plein air paintings go for 1200.00 - 2600.00 a pop
Great video 🌸
I’ve paid a lot more than $1000 for a watercolor!
I think I needed to watch this.
Heh.
I tell people to save my paint lings so they can sell them when i am famous like Gramma Moses... Seriously, I am struggling with finding my style!
I'll never understand people who watch an artist's or that of "just a crafter" and then feel the need that their work is ugly and they would never pay for it. Well, they paid for it, not in money but in time spend watching and by feeding the algorithm. And anatomy is only really important when you draw anatomy books for medical studends. And even then there'll be a part of "exceptions". As for the price of your time and skills - I wonder if an absurdly overpaid CEO (or the like) ever thinks about that.
I really like your work a lot, "wrong anatomy" and "tackyness" and all 😍
Hi !
Hi there! 👋
As someone who put the kids, a wife and myself through university, bought 3 homes, retired and still lives off selling artwork, all before the internet and without social media and ordinal branding, I couldn't disagree more. Especially now a days when the art market is so heavily saturated. An artists work is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. You might believe your worth $500 an hour, but beliefs don't put food on the table. Hence why all you people are on UA-cam selling stickers and your personality.
I’m happy for you and that your career was able to sustain your family and living expenses the way it did. That’s wonderful! But your path is not the only path (nor is mine for that matter). What takes front seat in any good career is grit, patience, perseverance and above all a good business sense. You mentioned that 5x7 sized en plein air paintings go for up to $2700? That might be what you charge but I know artists who charge significantly higher and artists who charge less than a third of that. No one size fits all. I know I charge about $1000 for a 5x7 sized landscape but I never sell my originals or the perpetual usage rights unless it’s a negotiated buyout and in that case it’s significantly higher. As for UA-cam, it doesn’t pay the bills. My art business does and I consider UA-cam more of a teaching gig. Like I said, every path is different.
I think it’s worth $3000. Minimum. Just my opinion 😃
You're so sweet. Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️
Is people offering to pay artists with "exposure" rather than money as bad in the traditional art world as it is in the digital art world lol?
Anywhere there’s talent, there’s someone who wants to get it for free.. I mean “exposure”
love all your videos... very educational and entertaining...especially your video editing skillset and your charming personality...love your style and your artwork.. thank you very much for making my day better!
I will be using this video for a bunch of sound bites and tagging back to this video. This video has inspired me soo much! @CurlyLocsLLC I needed to hear all this, and will make sure the locticians/loc artists hear it too!