As another year comes to an end, I can't help but think about if could I have done any better. It has been a good year for me as an artist; (though not so good health wise) but of course I could have pushed a bit harder.I realise that I have been slacking off, relying too much on the online galleries for sales.The galleries do give us artists much needed exposure but they also take a huge chunk out of our profits. Plus, we don't get to connect with the buyers as we would like to. Art is about that connection, isn't it. I would love to be able to talk to my buyers freely, without the 'Big Brother' watching!
There is a gallery that I am a member of; which has given me some sales but I don't get to know anything about the buyer other than their name and address.They can't write to me, neither am I supposed to communicate with them. I have absolutely no idea if they liked their painting or not. Doesn't give me a good feeling. Also, we are not allowed to price our art any lower on other sites including our own websites so that there goes our chance to sell direct!
On the other hand in last two weeks I had emails from two different buyers who came through my personal website.One wanted to see the art in person and eventually we managed a viewing at my place.He ended up buying four paintings! Second buyer commissioned one but bought two when he came to visit and had a look at my work in person.
This brings me to a conclusion that its alright to start with online galleries, but we must be ready to spread out our wings eventually. Keeping our personal websites upto date and building a rapport with past buyers is time well spent. Sending cards and emails occasionally might help keeping their memories fresh. I must admit I have been quite lazy in this regard so far. The task seems so daunting and so time consuming that I have been putting it off. But deep down I know I should be trying harder. So this year's resolution is to change my ways, do things differently.
Hope you all have a very Happy and Successful New Year xx
There is a gallery that I am a member of; which has given me some sales but I don't get to know anything about the buyer other than their name and address.They can't write to me, neither am I supposed to communicate with them. I have absolutely no idea if they liked their painting or not. Doesn't give me a good feeling. Also, we are not allowed to price our art any lower on other sites including our own websites so that there goes our chance to sell direct!
On the other hand in last two weeks I had emails from two different buyers who came through my personal website.One wanted to see the art in person and eventually we managed a viewing at my place.He ended up buying four paintings! Second buyer commissioned one but bought two when he came to visit and had a look at my work in person.
This brings me to a conclusion that its alright to start with online galleries, but we must be ready to spread out our wings eventually. Keeping our personal websites upto date and building a rapport with past buyers is time well spent. Sending cards and emails occasionally might help keeping their memories fresh. I must admit I have been quite lazy in this regard so far. The task seems so daunting and so time consuming that I have been putting it off. But deep down I know I should be trying harder. So this year's resolution is to change my ways, do things differently.
Hope you all have a very Happy and Successful New Year xx
Arti - thank you for your thoughts on this subject. I have been considering some galleries on line to get started selling on the web. Your thoughts make good sense. Wishing you the best success in the coming New Year. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteHi Debbie.Galleries are a good way to get exposure when you are starting.I have been using them for about three years now.I am just saying that our own websites are as important.Are you with ETSY? I like their model better than others.
ReplyDeleteHi, Thank you for sharing your thoughts on selling art. I wanted to know about "ETSY". Is it user friendly? I want to start with some online store, where one can do payments using Debit/Credit card. I am not having PAYPAL account. Do let me know.
ReplyDeleteThanks
Hi Manju, ETSY is definitely worth a look.They are quite user friendly, easy to upload and edit your work. Paypal account is a plus but not a requirement,I think.Best if you go to the site and check it out yourself.All the best.
ReplyDeleteI really likes your blog! You have shared the whole concept really well and very beautifully soulful read!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing
ดูหนังออนไลน์