10 Tips For Emerging Artists, From An Artist Consultant
Artist consultant Danielle Glosser of Client Raiser. Image via Client Raiser.
*This post was originally published on August 26, 2019 and updated on June 23, 2021.
This Artist Consultant’s 10-step blueprint is the gateway to financial independence for new and emerging independent artists everywhere!
Every creative needs a sounding board. Ideas don’t exist in a vacuum, and neither does your career as an independent artist!
Whether you’re a self-taught artist or you’re operating with years of academic training under your belt, there comes a point in every artist’s career when they’re in need of guidance.
Enter: The Artist Consultant.
What Does An Artist Consultant Do?
Think of an artist consultant like a personal fitness trainer or therapist – they’re connoisseurs in field of fine art who exist to help you accomplish something specific, on your own time and with proven techniques! They act not only as a sounding board for new ideas or ventures you’d like to explore, but help you narrow your focus to one goal at a time, so you can advance your career on your own terms.
Most artist consultants specialize in working with artists on specific but common issues that arise throughout their art careers. Some may provide pointed feedback on your website or social media presence, while others will help you get your finances in order so you can start meeting your financial goals.
Why Work With An Artist Advisor or Artist Consultant?
Artist consultants are seasoned professionals who can help you navigate the art world in whatever capacity you might need assistance. Some, like Washington, D.C. based artist consultant Danielle Glosser of Client Raiser, even brings business to artists through her extensive network of connections in the art world.
Here are a few signs that you may be ready to work with an artist consultant:
You’re new to the art scene and looking to establish your art practice
You’re getting ready for your first art fair and aren’t sure where to start
You’re feeling stuck in your career as an independent artist
You want to start selling artwork – or making more sales
You’ve recently seen success, but now you’re not sure what’s next!
Have you noticed any of these signs in your own art career or practice? It might be time to add an artist consultant to your support team!
Artist Consultant Danielle Glosser’s Top 10 Tips For Emerging Artists
Danielle Glosser of Client Raiser. Image via Client Riaser.
For Washington, DC-based artist consultant Danielle Glosser, business savvy is key for artists seeking success. Since founding her business Client Raiser in 2014, Danielle has helped well over 100 creatives jump-start their careers as independent artists by implementing her proven business strategies.
Have you exhibited with us before? East Coast artists may recognize Danielle from Superfine’s Washington, DC debut in 2019, where she met with countless exhibiting artists to briefly explore their business needs.
Her foundational list of tips for emerging artists has been developed over numerous years of working with over 100 artists at all stages of their careers, and are relevant no matter what the goal may be – from helping artists who are stuck wondering how to grow your art business, securing a new client and even building and maintaining financial independence.
Keeping these strategies on-hand is a surefire way to secure continued success as an artist:
Tie Your Goals to a Timeline
According to Glosser, planned and tangible goals are a must. “Have short term and long-term goals. Each artist needs to define what that means to them. For some a short-term goal may occur in a week, while another might prefer using a year as a benchmark.”
Create Captivating Marketing Materials
“Your website is everything,” Glosser states. “Be sure it is simple and easy to navigate. It’s best to have 20-30 images per series with size, medium, title of work. Of course, having a photo of the artist in action on the about page is ideal. Be sure to include your artist statement and CV as well as a contact page.”
When it comes to business cards, straightforward and clear is key. “Business cards should have an image of your work on one side and your contact information on the other. Do not use funky fonts that are difficult to read. I always say, be creative with your art, not your business card.”
Have a Social Media Plan!
“It is essential for artists to be a part of the conversation on Instagram. Good photos are important since it’s a visual platform,” says Glosser. We know playing the field on social media can be daunting. Not sure where to begin? Check out our blog for social media tips + simple steps to start marketing yourself today.
Keep an Inventory of Your Work
Keeping tabs on what you’ve created, what works are available for sale and what has already sold is critical. Seeing red dots is a signal to collectors that your work is in demand, but if they set their sights on a piece that is sold, having other options for them to consider might mean more sales for you. Having an inventory database for reference is an easy way to ensure more sales and connection.
Grow Your Network
Communicate with your friends, collectors, and followers to keep them in the loop regarding where they can see your work (and help promote you!). “Keep your nearest and dearest up to date with your art practice through newsletters. Mailchimp or Constant Contact are great platforms. Build your list as you get to know your community.”
Danielle’s offerings as an artist advisor also include art consulting for private collectors – which means that your work has a guaranteed audience of people who are looking for top-notch, quality artwork for their homes and offices.
Cultivate an Inspiring Studio Space
“Studio visits should be treated as a professional endeavor,” Glosser notes. “Be prepared by providing a price sheet, postcard or brochure for folks to take, and your business card. Having a guest book to build your database is a good idea as well. Also, be sure to follow-up with a thank you card or email the next day. Cultivating relationships with your potential clients and collectors is critical to establishing a solid art practice.”
Have an Elevator Pitch Ready
When it comes to being prepared to talk about your work Glosser states, “I suggest highlighting key statements from your artist statement and memorizing them. Be sure to include what type of work you create. You have to give the other person a golden nugget to go on so describe something about your process or content that everyone can relate to in order to continue the conversation.”
Know Your Worth
Keeping a price sheet handy for easy reference is crucial to communicating the worth of your paintings. Not sure where to start? Talk to an artist advisor.
Diversify Revenue Streams
While some artists might seek funding by applying for grants, prizes, fellowships, residencies and other endeavors, emerging artists seeking success through financial independence will benefit from pop-up exhibitions, digital methods, and art fairs – all sure-fire and efficient ways to sell work and grow clientele by building relationships first-hand.
Follow your dream.
It’s not about what others want from you. Whether it’s your art itself or next steps for your practice, your dream and your career come first!
Keep these tips in mind when planning for your next art fair, exhibition, digital pop up and more. Stay up to date with our curated content for emerging artists by listening to our podcast, The Artist Business Plan!