Step 1: Create a Professional Portfolio
Developing a professional portfolio of your artwork is the first step to selling your art locally. Make sure the portfolio contains quality photos of your work that showcase its best features. You should include the title, size, medium and the year of completion of each piece in the portfolio. Consider hiring a professional photographer to take the photos of your artwork, as this will ensure the quality of the images is high. Additionally, create a website that contains information about yourself and your art and links to your online portfolio.
Step 2: Reach Out to Local Galleries and Art Collectors
When you have established a professional portfolio, you should then reach out to local galleries and art collectors. Find out who is looking for new artists and how to submit a portfolio. Many galleries will have an online submission form, while others may require a face-to-face meeting. Additionally, attend various art events and exhibitions in your area and network with local art collectors and gallery owners. You could also consider joining an artist’s collective or association, which could give you access to potential buyers who are interested in buying local art.
Step 3: Establish a Good Online Presence
Having an online presence is essential for selling art locally. Create accounts on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Post photos of your work, write blog posts about your art, and create videos to showcase your work. Additionally, you could join online forums related to art and reach out to potential customers. You should also start an email list and send out regular newsletters to your subscribers featuring your latest work.
Step 4: Consider Local Craft Fairs and Markets
Craft fairs, farmer’s markets and other local events are great places to display and sell your art. Such events usually require low entry fees, so you can attend without a large financial investment. Make sure that your artwork is well presented, as this will attract potential customers. Additionally, consider setting up a stall at local festivals or art walks. This can be a great way to get your work seen by a larger audience.
Step 5: Utilize Print Media
Print media can be an effective way to reach local customers. Place advertisements in local newspapers, magazines, and other print media. This can be a great way to get your work seen by potential customers in your area. Additionally, consider offering discounts for local customers, as this can be an effective way of enticing people to buy your art.
Step 6: Promote Your Art in Your Community
Promoting your art in your local community is a great way to get your work seen by potential customers. Consider creating flyers, postcards or other promotional materials and handing them out in public places. You could also create a public display of your work in a local cafe or gallery. Make sure to include contact information and a website address on your promotional materials.
Step 7: Collaborate with Other Local Artists
Collaborating with local artists is a great way to increase your exposure and reach potential customers. Consider organizing workshops or classes to showcase your artwork and teach other artists techniques. You could also organize group shows with other local artists and attend various art events in your area. Additionally, consider hosting open studio events in your studio or gallery, where people can come and view your work.
Step 8: Utilize Online Platforms
Online platforms such as Etsy, Saatchi Art, and Artsy are great places to reach potential customers. These platforms allow you to showcase your artwork to a global audience. Additionally, they make it easy to accept payments and ship your artwork to customers. Make sure to include detailed descriptions of your artwork and quality photos so potential customers can get an accurate idea of what they are buying.
Step 9: Offer Customization of Your Artwork
Offering customization of your artwork is a great way to attract local customers. Consider offering prints of your work in various sizes, or creating custom artwork for customers. You could also offer framing services for your artwork or create special commissions for customers. This can help you stand out from other local artists and attract potential buyers.
Step 10: Stay Up-to-Date with Trends
Staying up-to-date with trends is essential to selling your art locally. Make sure to research current trends in the art world and adjust your portfolio accordingly. Consider attending art shows and workshops in your area and networking with other artists. Additionally, make sure that your portfolio and promotional materials are regularly updated with new work.
Conclusion
Selling art locally can be a great way to increase your exposure and reach potential customers. Make sure to create a professional portfolio of your work, reach out to local galleries and art collectors, and establish an online presence. Additionally, consider utilizing print media, promoting your art in your community, collaborating with other local artists, and utilizing online platforms. Offering customization of your artwork and staying up-to-date with trends can also help you stand out from other local artists and attract potential buyers.