![]() Over the last few weeks, my wife Tanya and I have experienced a whirlwind of change. Our son, Cameron, has relocated to Salt Lake City, aiming for a job at a ski resort and embarking on his next big adventure. This transition gave us the chance to dive into the empty nester life, and we took a scenic journey back home, soaking in some incredible experiences along the way. A Journey Through Artistic Hotspots Our route back from Salt Lake City took us through Moab and Arches National Park, down to Durango where we unexpectedly reconnected with old friends, and finally to Santa Fe. Santa Fe, with its vibrant art scene, was an eye-opener. Known as the "NFL of the art world" and Canyon Road as the "Super Bowl," Santa Fe boasts over 300 galleries. It’s truly a hotbed of incredible art and art collectors. Here are some key takeaways from our trip that I want to share with you: 1. Location Matters Just like in real estate, location is crucial for selling art. You need to be where people are actively looking for and purchasing art. Hanging your art in the right place can make all the difference. 2. Who You Sell With Matters The reputation of the gallery and the other artists you are associated with can significantly impact how your art is perceived. High-quality galleries can elevate the perception of your work. 3. Presentation is Key Successful galleries know how to set the stage. From lighting to placement to ambiance, presenting your art in a high-end way can make a huge difference in how it’s received. 4. Ask for the Sale Don’t be shy about selling your work. Great galleries have staff who are professional and friendly, immediately engaging potential buyers and guiding them towards a purchase. 5. Tell Your Story Connecting with potential buyers through your story is crucial. Share the inspiration behind your work, your process, and who you are as an artist. People buy art because of the connection they feel. 6. Big Art Sells In Santa Fe, we noticed a trend towards large, contemporary abstract works. Big art makes a big impact and often comes with a big price tag. 7. Quality Matters Every piece of art we saw in Santa Fe was presented perfectly. High-quality finishes, impeccable framing, and attention to detail were consistent across the board. 8. Fewer Artists, More Impact Many galleries in Santa Fe represent a limited number of artists, allowing each artist to showcase a significant body of work. This gives potential buyers a comprehensive view of the artist’s style and range. 9. Competition is Stiff In a place like Santa Fe, competition is fierce. To stand out, your work needs to be unique, masterful, and desirable. Mid-career and late-career artists with a strong, unique voice dominate these galleries. 10. Offer Shipping Make it easy for buyers, especially those from out of town, by offering shipping. This convenience can make the difference in securing a sale. 11. Value Relationships Maintain good relationships with galleries. If you start having success, don’t rush to renegotiate terms. Value the partnership and work together to gradually adjust prices. 12. Take Risks Be willing to take risks and be open to new opportunities. Friendly conversations and willingness to share your work can open unexpected doors. Trust that God is working behind the scenes to bring you into divine appointments. Embrace the Journey I hope these insights encourage you as you continue to build your art business and take it to the next level. Remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Our Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program is here to help you grow your business, deepen your faith, and connect with a supportive community. Since 2016, we’ve been helping artists like you achieve their dreams with proven strategies and expert guidance. Thanks for spending time with me today. Until next time, my friend, keep thriving!
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AuthorMatt Tommey is an artist, author and mentor who is passionate about empowering artists to thrive spiritually, artistically and in business. |