The Nasty Things That Keep Us From Painting

We all say “I just want to paint” but handling the business end of your artistic pursuits can be just as critical as the creative and artistic pursuits. Unless you have a spouse, significant other, family member or dear friend to handle all the business aspects of being an artist… you are it!

Even if you are fortunate to have somebody else to handle the business end of your creativity, you still need to be involved. It may be a weekly meeting, at the minimum, with that person so you know where you are, regarding upcoming shows, money coming in, going out, gallery communications, publicity, demos or workshops you may be giving, etc.

One time I was asked to speak to a high school class of future artists. The first thing I told them, besides how to understand my “Bahston” (Boston) accent, was when they enter college in the Fall, they should study a minor in business.

Why? Because, while you can hire an accountant, a lawyer, a marketer, a family member or friend to run your business, it is important that you ‘the artist’ have at least a basic knowledge of what the lawyer, accountant, etc. is saying or showing you.

In addition, understanding the business end helps you better work with galleries, entering shows, publicity, keeping track of which shows you’ve entered, your inventory, keeping up with collectors and just where your art is at all times, and not forgetting the importance of sending ‘thank you’ notes and being in touch with those important people who purchase and promote your art.

So remember, it’s your art! It’s you that is out there, putting yourself out there, and part of that is following good business practices to ensure you get the most out of your creative efforts towards a long, successful and happy career as an artist!