“On my way to the big time!” the artist said with unbridled enthusiasm.
After a season of boosted sales activity,she was seeing red dots everywhere.
“I adjust pricing, depending on which customer walks into my studio.”
Red dots were beginning to cloud her vision.

Indicating the sale of art, red dot stickers are usually placed on the title card in a gallery.
An artist- to -artist well wishing for a successful exhibit might be~
“Sending red dot thoughts”.
“I need to be in the galleries,” she continued.“They seek you out, right?”

Not one to discourage artists pursuing their passion, it’s a challenge to be tactful without bursting their red dot balloon.
These are among many common questions I receive weekly from artists.

NEW Red Tree 22×28 Original Oil

Far from understanding the fickle art market, I start by sharing what I know.
One of the top galleries in Canada has up to 400 applicants…a day.
Most have waiting lists years long, possibly representing artists for their lifetime.
An article in 2013 suggested there are more artists than art buyers in North America.
Reported in Art & Culture in Canada (2008), incomes in the artistic sector earned an average of 22,700 annually.
Within the nine catagories, visual artists and dancers have the lowest income.

I focused on the good news,her work being welcomed with encouraging sales.
I advised she establish an online portfolio or website, with consistent pricing.
Pricing should be considered under the advisory of a gallery~ professionals know the market & their clientel.
Research galleries of excellent reputation, perhaps members of an Art Dealer Assoc.
Respect their submission process.
Galleries may review submissions annually. Call before the deadline, ask if they wish to view new work or have questions about your activity in the year.
Like any business agreement, it should be a good fit for you both.
Be certain customers are treated well & informed, the work is represented at it’s best. The gallery is responsible to.…

She was waving me off.
“That’s too much work! Especially when the galleries receive 50% of the price.”
After she left in the wake of her red dot cloud, I pondered her words.
50% is worth it for the right fit. Commissions encompass exposing work to clients~ including corporate clients who work exclusively with galleries, marketing, advertising, online presence, facility utilities, etc.

It might be competitive, but it’s also an exciting time in the global art world.
Artists can expand their market with a flick on their wireless tablets.
Artists are able to sell from their studios and work cohesively with dealers around the world.
Art can be a good life.

Amazingly I have sold paintings, still wet on the easel, to customers thousands of miles away.
When a collector has faith in the power of the work, I am so honoured.
It revolves back to my testament~ Art connects humanity in beauty and spirit.~ d