Saturday, October 31, 2009

Marketing

Marketing...what a challenge for many artists. The ability to create beautiful work is not often matched with the skill to find customers and to promote the sales of the artwork.

This it a topic that is very obvious to me right now as I have spent several hours during the last few days working on a set of CDs on the topic of Marketing developed with the artist and craft producer in mind.

There are a few things that all successful marketing campaigns have in common, regardless of the service or product or art work being offered for sale. The first is the simple fact that there is a development and documented plan. An attempt to logically develop how and where the items or services will be offered, the methods that will be used to tell potential customers about the opportunities available and details of the benefits of making a purchase.

The second common item is the development of a budget to plan when and where advertising and promotional expenditures will happen.

The third common thread is the review and revision of the marketing plan to reflect new facts or circumstances as they become available.

This aspect of a business may be difficult for some but it does become easier with practice. It is important and essential if the artist or craft producer wants to increase sales through new customers or venues.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Pieces

Yesterday morning I finally dragged out the bits of material, cut the funny little shapes and handsewed the first, of what I hope will be several, quilting projects. The ideas for designs and shapes and colours tumble around in my mind and sneek out when I am not paying attention. I will be driving to work and realize that I am thinking about the combination of colours that would make an interesting quilted insert on the front of a knee length vest. I have several ideas for wearable art and as the designs finalize themselves in my jumbled mind the job of actually creating these items will become easier...at least that is the theory.

We made the opportunity to visit the craft centre in the Hostel building in Port Mouton yesterday afternoon. Interesting place. Some of the work is beautiful, some not so much. They were holding a bake sale and they have used books for sale and they have an indoor flea market. A jumble of new and used, unique and common, bargains and valuables. We were invited to buy tickets on a quilt made to assist with the finances of the centre. The draw will take place just prior to the season's close in December.

Pleasant activities for a cold rainy Saturday.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Great Show at Wildwood Cafe


A very good friend and a terrific artist, Christine Marin, is have a showing of her interpretive paintings, etchings and other works in Bridgewater Nova Scotia. What beauty and what a great experience to see all the beauty and intricate delicate shapes and shades.
If you have the opportunity to visit the cafe sometime in the next month or so it is worth the time. A chance to have some good food while enjoying the beautiful pictures. Great job Christine!

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Art Show at a Golf Club

What a great idea! I read an advertisement that the local nine hole golf course was having an art show in their club house before the close of golf season. They have invited local artists to participate and are hoping to make more people award of both the art available and of course the golf club's facilities and course. A good partnership.

Where could you display your art work. Is there a business that would be suitable for you to exhibit. Of course there are several cafes and coffee shops that have been hanging art work for years. Have you approached your local cafe and asked for some wall space?