Identifying Your Needs

The foremost aspect of organizing your artwork is to understand your specific needs. This should be determined by the nature and size of your collection, the frequency of acquiring new pieces, how often you interact with your collection, and your long-term goals for the artwork. If you own a small collection that you display in your home, you might want to organize it differently than if you are a gallery owner or a serious collector with a rotating display.

Choosing a Logical System

After identifying your needs, select a logical system that suits them. A few ways you could categorize your artwork include:

• By Medium: This is especially practical if you have a diverse collection featuring different mediums like oil paintings, watercolors, photographs, sculptures, etc. Separating by medium allows for easier access and can help ensure that each piece is stored under appropriate conditions for its specific needs.
• By Artist: If your collection features work from various artists, it might make sense to organize them by the artist’s name. This is particularly useful for art dealers or collectors who focus on works from certain artists.
• By Genre or Style: Grouping pieces by their genre or style (abstract, surrealism, impressionism, etc.) allows you to quickly navigate to pieces that share a similar aesthetic or theme. This can be useful when trying to curate a display that tells a certain story or creates a specific mood.
• By Date or Period: If your collection spans different periods or if you have artwork from the same artist that spans different stages of their career, you might want to consider organizing by date or period. This can also help in understanding the evolution of an artist or art form.

Consistency and Intuitiveness

No matter which method of categorization you choose, ensure the system is consistent. This means that every piece of art has a predetermined category where it belongs. An intuitive system will make it much easier to locate a particular piece of artwork in the future. In addition to that, consistency in labeling, whether physical labels or digital entries, is crucial to avoid confusion.

Documentation

Document each artwork in your collection. This should include all relevant information about each piece – its name, the artist’s name, the medium, the date it was created, its size, its acquisition details, etc. Also, photographs of each piece will help in tracking and identification. This could be stored in a physical file or digitally. There are even specific art management software options available for this purpose.

Physical Arrangement

If your collection is physically extensive, consider how the artwork is stored or displayed. It should reflect your categorization system. For instance, you might have separate rooms or sections dedicated to different mediums or artists. Make sure the environment is suitable for the type of art stored there – consider light exposure, temperature, and humidity.

Regular Updates and Review

As you acquire or let go of pieces, it’s crucial to keep your system updated. Regularly review and possibly revise the system as your collection changes or grows. Ensure that new acquisitions are incorporated into the system promptly and correctly.

Create Detailed Records

Cataloging artwork requires creating detailed records for each piece. Include essential information such as the artist’s name, title, year of creation, medium, dimensions, provenance, and any other relevant details. Additionally, consider adding high-resolution images of each artwork to the catalog to facilitate identification and reference.

Utilize Technology

Leveraging technology can significantly enhance your art collection management process. Numerous software options and online platforms are available specifically designed for cataloging artwork. These tools offer features such as database management, image uploading, tagging, and search capabilities, making it easier to efficiently organize and locate specific artworks.

Moreover, some of these platforms allow for augmented reality viewing, allowing you to envision how an artwork will look in a particular space before purchase or installation. Advanced features like artwork condition reporting, provenance tracking, and valuation data further enrich the utility of these tools. The integration of technology into artwork organization and cataloging reduces manual effort, increases accuracy, and provides a more comprehensive understanding of your art collection.

Implement a Barcode System

A barcode system can streamline the process of tracking and managing your artwork. Assign unique barcodes to each piece and create corresponding labels or tags to attach physically. By scanning these barcodes, you can instantly access information about the artwork, update its location, or view its history within your cataloging system.

Prioritize Conservation and Documentation

Conservation and documentation are integral aspects of organizing and cataloging artwork. Implement proper preservation techniques to safeguard your collection against damage or deterioration. Document any changes, repairs, or restorations that artworks undergo over time. This information will prove invaluable for future reference and provenance verification.

Regularly Update and Review

To ensure the accuracy and relevance of your catalog, it is essential to establish a routine for updating and reviewing your records. Make it a habit to document new acquisitions promptly, update information as needed, and remove artworks that are no longer part of your collection. Regular reviews will help maintain the integrity and efficiency of your cataloging system.

Back-Up Your Data

Lastly, always back up your cataloging data to prevent loss or damage. Store your records in multiple locations, including physical backups and secure digital storage solutions. This precaution will provide peace of mind and safeguard your hard work from potential data loss incidents.

Conclusion on the Best Practices for Organizing and Cataloging Artwork

Organizing and cataloging artwork can be time-consuming, but it is an investment that pays off in the long run. By following these best practices, you can streamline your art collection management, enhance accessibility, and ensure the longevity of your valuable assets. Embrace technology, maintain detailed records, and prioritize conservation to create a cataloging system that empowers you to enjoy and share your art collection fully. Start implementing these practices today and watch your organization skills flourish.

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Author Bio:

Marie Lawson is a seasoned art enthusiast, tech aficionado, and acclaimed blogger on the intersection of art and technology. Working at Golans Moving and Storage inspired many practical storage ideas for art collections. She believes that integrating technology into the art world preserves our artistic heritage and paves the way for unprecedented creativity.

The post Best Practices For Organizing and Cataloging Artwork appeared first on Art Business News.

1. Reevaluate the artwork

Evaluating unsold artwork is a crucial step for artists to understand why their work may not be getting the recognition they desire. Therefore, it’s important to take a closer look and identify potential drawbacks or improvement areas. And being completely honest about the strengths and weaknesses of your artwork is essential.

To best evaluate unsold artwork, try to view it from a buyer’s perspective:

• Would you buy this artwork?
• Would you pay the price you’re putting it as?
• Does the artwork convey a message or elicit an emotional response?
• Does the artwork have a unique or distinctive quality that sets it apart from similar works?

Understanding your artwork can help you make informed decisions about what changes to make. This process may be challenging, but it can ultimately help you improve your craft and make your artwork more marketable. So, don’t be afraid to take a step back and reevaluate your work – it could lead to great opportunities.

2. Offer the artwork to other venues

If your artwork isn’t selling, don’t get discouraged. Sometimes the first try doesn’t work, and that’s okay. Diversifying the places where you offer your artwork for sale can increase the chances of finding buyers and provide you with more things to do with unsold artwork. Consider reaching out to different venues such as galleries, art fairs, or online marketplaces to showcase your unsold artwork. Before approaching these venues, it’s essential to do your research and find the ones that fit your style and target audience.

When presenting your artwork to potential buyers, create an attractive portfolio or display that showcases your work in the best possible light. By presenting your artwork professionally and targeting the right venues, you can increase your chances of finding buyers and selling your unsold pieces. Remember, every artist faces challenges in selling their artwork, but with persistence and creativity, you can find new opportunities to share your art with the world.

3. Repackage the artwork

Repackaging unsold artwork can be an excellent way to give your artwork a fresh perspective and potentially make it more appealing to buyers. Repackaging can be as simple as changing the framing or display method or as complex as creating a completely new artwork by combining multiple pieces. Another option is for you to consider grouping similar pieces together or offer them as part of a limited-edition series.

To market repackaged artwork, consider using social media to showcase the new presentation and generate buzz. Creating a newsletter or email campaign can also be an effective way to reach potential buyers and showcase your repackaged artwork. Alternatively, consider hiring an art agent who can help you repackage and market your unsold artwork effectively. With a little creativity and strategic thinking, repackaging unsold artwork can be a great way to breathe new life into your work and increase your chances of making a sale. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things – you never know what might work until you give it a try!

4. Store it for the future

Sometimes, artwork doesn’t sell because it’s ahead of its time or just not the right fit for the current market. It’s okay and storing it away for the future can be a smart move.

However, it’s important to store your unsold artwork properly. This way, you’ll ensure they remain in good condition and are ready for future opportunities. After all, imagine the frustration of removing your unsold artwork from storage to sell it, only to discover that it was damaged due to improper storage. Therefore, some simple steps to avoid many issues are using acid-free materials and avoiding direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. It’s also a good idea to keep an inventory of stored artwork and label each piece to make it easy to find in the future. If storage space is limited, consider renting a storage unit to keep the artwork safe and secure. By storing unsold artwork properly, artists can ensure their work is ready for future exhibitions or opportunities.

5. Donate the artwork

By donating artwork to a non-profit organization or charity, artists can support a cause they believe in while also generating goodwill and potential recognition. When donating artwork, it’s essential to choose the right organization that aligns with your values and mission. Research potential organizations and their goals to ensure that your artwork will be used in a way that you are comfortable with.

Some organizations that accept artwork donations include:

• Hospitals and medical facilities
• Schools and educational programs
• Museums and art institutions
• Charity auctions and events

Donating unsold artwork is a great way to give your art a home and support a worthy cause. Plus, it’s one of the many things to do with unsold artwork that can help artists positively impact their community.

6. Repurpose the materials

Sometimes, despite an artist’s best efforts, certain pieces of artwork simply don’t sell. In these cases, repurposing the materials used in the artwork can be a way to breathe new life into the pieces and make something new and valuable. Furthermore, it helps reduce waste. However, it’s important to note that this should only be considered as a final resort if the artist truly believes the piece is no longer of value. To safely repurpose the materials, artists can carefully deconstruct the piece and reuse the materials in a new project. For example, the canvas from an unsold painting could be a base for a new piece.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many things to do with unsold artwork. From repackaging artwork to repurposing the materials, artists have a variety of strategies to explore. It’s important to try different approaches and not give up on your artwork. Remember that unsold artwork doesn’t mean failure; there are always new opportunities to showcase your work. So keep creating, keep pushing boundaries, and keep believing in your artistic vision.

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Author bio:

Meet Samantha Davis; a teacher turned blogger. She is an avid traveler and writer who currently works as a consultant for Beltway Movers. Her love of travel has taken her to various art galleries and exhibitions around the world, inspiring her passion for art. She now writes about it any chance she gets. Through her writing, Samantha hopes to share her love of art with others and inspire them to explore its beauty and creativity.

The post 6 Things To Do With Unsold Artwork appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself and your gallery — who you are and what is your vision?

A: Making our youth dream come true, my husband Emanuele and I opened VALENTINARTE Art Gallery in 1987.

VALENTINARTE, since Valentina was the name chosen for our daughter born shortly before. She had brought so much happiness into our lives and we wanted to replicate the same successful result with the Gallery.

Q: What is your background?

A: Our primary goal was selling ART, quality ART. We started to sell ancient and modern art in the early years and then started inserting contemporary art into our gallery without falling into the obvious and the predictable.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your gallery?

A: Our aim has always been to make Italian creativity loved by a large international clientele who had already chosen Lake Como and Bellagio as a destination for the Grand Tour in the nineteenth century and continue to choose it as a top Italian destination not to be missed.

Several choices were made in proposing artists. We met Italian ones over the years and many well-known or emerging artists. We always offer quality works, because art must not be a sterile reproduction but grant goosebumps and shivers to observers. It must make people falling love, drift them away for a few moments, evoke sensations, and excite them.

You fall in love with the painting, It remains in your memory and when you revisit it, it must go on making you feel the same emotions.

Over the thirty-six years, the Gallery has made itself known for its precise style, love for art and detail, care, and customer attention.

We receive letters of thanks and visits, perhaps unexpected after years, of art-loving collectors from all over the world, who return to rediscover the same joy experienced the first time.

Q: What does exhibiting at Artexpo New York 2023 mean to you? 

A: Unfortunately, Emanuele passed away in 2016 and after that, I have continued to work alone. It’s hard. To save all the commitment and work done before, not losing in quality and proposals, but rather trying to improve by joining the Italian Gallerist Owners Association and participating in events dedicated exclusively to art, such as Artexpo New York, which allows me to stay updated on trends and novelties and follow the market.

For tickets to Artexpo New York visit this link.

The post Meet the Gallery: Valentinarte Gallery appeared first on Art Business News.

And how you can do it will be our topic of the day.

KEEP EVERYTHING NEUTRAL

When people think about abstract art, the first thing that comes to their mind is usually a splash of bold colors. Abstract art can indeed be like that, especially if it tries to tell the artist’s story. But this is not always the case. Sometimes a story of abstract art can be told with gentle, simple, and neutral colors. Many artists prefer neutral, earthy, or even soft pastels in their art. These colors will bring warmth to any room and elevate it with elegance.

So, when you decide to style your home with abstract, don’t feel pressured to go bold. Go neutral instead. Moreover, choose colors that match the ‘vibe’ of your room. And, of course, pair them up with nice frames – white frames, for example, match neutral colors the most.

FILL YOUR SPACE 

However, if you are not new to abstract art, if you are not afraid to display its bold colors and peculiar shapes, then fill up your space with it. It will make your home look amazing and unique. Just think about all the exciting conversation starters you will have.

But let us get one thing straight — you can’t just hang pictures and photos randomly on the wall, and you can’t just put figurines and other pieces of art randomly on the shelves. Abstract art is abstract enough! You need the order to make it stand out. The best way to do that is to plan where your pieces will go. Use the empty space in your home and experiment with your art pieces there.

DARE TO GO SMALL 

Yes, most abstract art is big — paintings, photos, figures, and even things like bowls tend to be more prominent in size when abstract. But, if you want to style your home with abstract art, don’t think that bigger is always better. It is not! Your home will not look aesthetically pleasing if you fill it with a lot of big abstract pieces — they will look ununified, and they will always stand in your way.

So, instead of using big abstract pieces, go small instead. It is much better to fill your space with many small pieces than two big ones. Moreover, we know that sometimes it might be hard to find many art pieces for your home. After all, they should all match. If you experience difficulty when doing this, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional — an art dealer or gallery that you trust. This kind of professional will be able to answer all your questions, fill your collection with some of the best pieces, and make your home look amazing.

MIX THINGS UP 

Who said that art in your home must belong to the same genre? It doesn’t! Moreover, who said that art pieces must stand on an empty wall or have a special place dedicated to them? It doesn’t! You can style your home with abstract art without worrying about your other art pieces, decor, and furniture. Of course, everything should match in a way, but don’t let that be the primary focus of your attention. You can have many colors and styles in your home if an element ties them together.

So, play around with the objects in your room. Put art in the middle of furniture. Experiment with colors. And, if you want to make everything polished, try to match the colors of your abstract art pieces with something in your room. Match it to something smaller – a pillow, a frame of another art piece, a vase, etc. This will make a lot of difference.

THINK – DOUBLE 

If you have a big room and a big, empty wall to fill out, abstract pieces will work in your favor. But, this time, don’t use one big piece or plenty of smaller ones. Use doubles. Many abstract artists create these kinds of pieces called identical or mirrored. These pieces look very similar to one another or connect to one another. They can be a great way to style your home with abstract art, especially if you don’t know where and how to start incorporating abstract art in your home.

Moreover, you can use this idea for many things, not just for pictures and photos in your living room. Doubles look great above bed frames, cabinets, and even above fireplaces. So, don’t be afraid to try this out if you have some space to fill out. Just be careful of the dimensions of the art. The doubles you choose should match the size of what’s underneath them. That is the best way to style your home with abstract art and make it look interesting and unified at the same time.

Author Bio: Sarah Collins currently works for a2bmovingandstorage.com movers as a consultant. She enjoys writing articles for her blog in her free time. She covers topics such as decorating, remodeling, gardening, moving, parenting, etc. Sarah is also a wife, a mum of one girl, and a cat owner.

The post How to Style Your Home with Abstract Art appeared first on Art Business News.

CHOOSING ART PIECES FOR YOUR HOME – THE ULTIMATE GUIDE

We completely understand how choosing art pieces for your home sounds like a difficult task, especially if you don’t have experience. But if you follow the six steps in this guide, we guarantee you’ll have a fun experience.

#1 FIGURE OUT YOUR STYLE

Before you start shopping for art pieces, you need to figure out the overall style you have and want in your home. Finding your interior design style is essential as it will dictate what type of art you’ll want to look for.

If the art pieces you’ve chosen feel out of place and simply don’t fit with your interior design, they will conflict with the impression of your home. Therefore, assessing the style of your space should be your priority. It will make choosing art much easier.

#2 DECIDE IF AND WHERE ART WILL BE THE FOCAL POINT

Every room needs a focal point, but not all focal points are good. A focal point is the first thing you notice when you walk into a room, so if the first thing that catches your eye is an aircon vent on the wall, something needs to be changed.

Art is always an excellent choice for a focal point. However, always remember that every room should only have one focal point. In case you’re choosing art for a room that already has a gorgeous rug as a focal point, make sure to go for a painting that’s not too visually striking.

#3 FIGURE OUT WHAT’S THE RIGHT SIZE

One of the common mistakes people make when choosing art for their home is not getting the size right. Either they pick tiny pieces for massive walls or overwhelm a small space with an oversized piece of art. Make sure to assess every room in detail before deciding on the correct size. 

Here are some tips to help you decide what size art you should choose:

• If you’re choosing artwork for your bedroom, keep in mind that it should span almost the entire width of the headboard of your bed.
• If you’re decorating your dining room, make sure to choose art that spans almost the entire width of your dining table or sideboard.
• For artwork, you want to use above the entry table in your hallway, make sure never to go over the full length of it.
• In case you’re choosing art for a wall with no furniture below it, make sure that the art takes up a large amount of that wall.

So, before you go shopping, measure your dining table, headboard, or any other item you want to hang art above, as this will stop you from making a big mistake. Also, you should always be mindful and choose the right ways for hanging art in your home.

#4 CHOOSE ART THAT SUITS THE ROOM

One of the most important things to consider when choosing art for your home is the overall ambiance and atmosphere you’re trying to create. You should pay attention to the color scheme and lighting, too.

Also, make sure to factor in the room’s function. For example, art in the living room is usually the centerpiece of the room and the crown jewel of the owner’s collection. On the other hand, art in the bedroom is more intimate and, in many cases, has a special meaning.

#5 DECIDE ON DETAILS

Another thing you should do before you go shopping is to decide on the specifics. It’s crucial to figure out what type of art you want and how many pieces would work well in the space.

In some cases, a triptych is your best option, while in others, it can be a simple and tiny framed photograph. Also, in some rooms, canvas artwork fits perfectly, while framed doesn’t. Or it might be a collection that makes an impact. It’s all about understanding the space and choosing art accordingly.

#6 CHOOSING ART PIECES FOR YOUR HOME

And you’ve reached the final step – looking for and choosing the art pieces for your home. Now that you know your home’s style and what you want to achieve in every room, you can enjoy and make the most of this process. All that it’s left is to find art that fits into what you’ve imagined and planned.

However, don’t get disappointed if you don’t fall in love with every piece of art that turns out to be the best choice for a specific room in your home. As long as you like it, you can focus on making the room look whole with and without the piece in question. Also, keep in mind that artwork requires care and maintenance, so make sure you take good care of the pieces you’ve chosen for your home.

GOOD LUCK CHOOSING ART PIECES FOR YOUR HOME

We hope our guide to choosing art pieces for your home helps you select artwork that perfectly complements your home. We’re sure that once you step foot into the fantastic world of art, you won’t be able to get enough of it! So, make sure to subscribe to art business news, and you’ll always be in the know!

Author bio:

Devin Sheard is a writer with a great passion for interior design. She is currently working as a content manager for Zippy Shell DMV. However, she’s also running a successful blog where she shares different home decor and interior design tips. 

The post Guide to Choosing Art Pieces for Your Home appeared first on Art Business News.

THE DO’S AND DON’T ON FINE ART PACKAGING MATERIALS

Artwork packaging ensures protection and facilitates manipulation by considering its specifications and features. The packing supplies you choose for your art pieces vastly affect their safety. On the one hand, the choices are diverse. On the other hand, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and choose the wrong types of packaging under pressure.

To ensure you know what you’re doing, here’s a guide on what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to fine art packaging materials.

ARTWORK PACKAGING SUPPLIES – THE DOS

1. FOAM CORE

Foam board or foam core is a lightweight material that can easily be cut. It is regularly used for safe packing, shipping, and storage of valuable art pieces. Another good thing about foam core is that it’s available in different degrees of thickness. So as far as its availability is concerned, this is a type of material you can find at almost any craft or art supply store.

2. ACID-FREE PAPER

Acid-free paper, which is PH neutral, is an absolute must-have for those dealing with art. It is even crucial if you want to protect your art from potential damage during moving and storage. Furthermore, acid-free paper is perfect for wrapping, as it doesn’t cause any chemical reactions with the art piece. A version of this paper every professional recommends is glassine. Besides being PH neutral, it is also air, water, and grease resistant.

3. BUBBLE WRAP

This is one of the most popular packing materials. We are sure you’ve encountered it many times, as well as tried popping all the bubbles and keeping your fingers busy. Back to the serious side, this material is famous for a reason. It is cheap, lightweight, and provides efficient protection against damage. Firstly, bubble wrap cushions the artwork from impact, and secondly, it prevents movement.

4. PACKING TAPE

When picking out the packing tape that will do the job, it’s essential to invest in a high-quality one. It would be good to consider whether it can ensure fully secured seams and protect packed items from moisture.

5. CORNER PROTECTORS

All flat items have highly vulnerable corners. Thus, they require additional attention. To reduce the risk of warping or scoring, use corner protectors from foam or cardboard. The good news is they can be found in any art or moving supply store. Alternatively, you can make them yourself.

6. CUSTOMIZED CRATES AS FINE ART PACKAGING MATERIALS

Crates are usually wooden containers used to ship delicate, large, heavy, and unevenly shaped art pieces. A customized crate can be built precisely to fit the specifications of the artwork you want to transport, and therefore, protect it.

Whether it’s a sculpture, a fragile item, or a massive painting, customized crates are always the best option.

ARTWORK PACKAGING SUPPLIES – THE DON’TS

1. TRASHBAGS

First, you don’t want to make your art look like trash. This is especially true for those trying to get into a gallery or send their art to a reputable buyer. Second, this is a lousy option for insuring the safety of the art you’re trying to transport.

Make sure you only use materials intended for the shipment of art.

2. TISSUE PAPER

Another bad idea is to use paper of non-archival quality. As we’ve mentioned before, you should only use PH-neutral and acid-free paper for packing art.

3. REGULAR PACKING TAPE

Finally, using regular, low-quality packing tape can, unfortunately, result in the fine art being damaged.

THE ‘HOW TO’

Now that you know the best (and worst) artwork packaging materials, it’s time to learn how to handle different art pieces when packing them.

UNFRAMED PAINTINGS

To safely pack your unframed paintings, you should follow these steps.

1. Use white cotton gloves to avoid touching the piece of art with your fingers.
2. Wrap the art piece in acid-free paper and then wrap it with plastic (to protect it against moisture).
3. If you don’t have corner protectors, you can make your own by folding the acid-free tissue paper into triangles with one side open.
4. It would help to mount your wrapped piece of art to foam core or cardboard by taping only the corner protectors.
5. Placing a few layers of cardboard on each side of the painting is an excellent way to protect it. Just don’t forget to tape the pieces together.
6. Take two pieces of corrugated cardboard, place your art piece between them, and tape all the sides.

FRAMED PAINTINGS

1. You can build a crate or find a box that fits the piece. First, however, you need to make sure there are three inches of space available on each side of the painting.
2. Again, wrap your artwork in acid-free tissue paper.
3. Then wrap the piece in bubble wrap, and ensure the corners have adequate coverage.
4. Place a layer of foam or some other packaging material to create a layer your frame will sit on.
5. Stuff all the open areas with packing material.

SCULPTURES

1. Place bubble wrap twice around the upper part of the sculpture. At this point, only half of your sculpture needs to be wrapped, so cut off the rest and secure the loose ends with tape. Then, overlap the top of the bubble wrap and secure it with tape. This way, you will ensure the top of your sculpture is safe and protected.
2. Wrap the bubble wrap twice around the bottom part. Overlap the bubble wrap in the middle slightly. Then cut it and secure it with tape down the side and around the middle where the two pieces of bubble wrap meet. Also, overlap the bottom, so it protects the sculpture.
3. Fill in the box with shredded paper or packing peanuts. About 1/3 of the box should be filled. Then, make a hole in the middle. This is where you will put your sculpture. Finally, fill in the rest of the box.

PRO TIP: Don’t forget to use stickers that say ‘fragile’. This way, everyone will know those boxes require extra care.

THE TAKEAWAY FROM FINE ART PACKAGING MATERIALS

Fine art packaging materials are many. There are good and bad ones. As there’s a right way of maintaining your art collection, there’s a right way of packing and storing your art pieces. Make sure you refer to this article again when you start selling your art!

Author bio: George Simons has been working as a consultant for NYC Mini Storage. He specializes in the transportation, storage, and packing of fragile items, and valuable works of art. George has only recently discovered his passion for writing. Now, he likes to share his accumulated knowledge with art lovers around the globe.

The post Guide to Fine Art Packaging Materials appeared first on Art Business News.

Do you want to sell your art online? If yes, it is not as tough as you may think. However, it does need some effort to get things going. There are few ways available for you to achieve your online selling goals. The prime task is selling art through creative content. Yes, valuable and informative content will help you sell art online with a positive outcome for collectors.

Impeccable content lets you sell your art without losing customers’ interest. Persuading customers to buy your art directly might not bring the results you want — but add creative content and it helps you reach your goal easily. Providing useful and valuable content to the readers is the key to your success.

Tips for Content That Can Help You Sell

So you’ve decided to sell art online. Now you need to rise above the online marketplace and its platform of perpetual advertisements. Giving readers fresh content without a sales pitch is a gift indeed. This type of content is valuable and gives readers information and knowledge about you and your art.

Let’s see some ways to promote your art with creative content.

Tip #1 Blog Creation

Change the trend by creating emotional content for your customers, which will give you a major inroad to success. A triangular love is established between your art, customer, and you through creative content on your blog. This technique helps sell your art online — and is so much easier than a sales pitch.

Develop a free blog and create content that touches the mind and soul of the reader. Developing an emotional connection for promoting your art on your blog will give you better results.

Tip #2 Share Your Creative Content on Social Media

As an artist, you can tell your story, again and again, rebuilding on the past with today’s impressions can help make you memorable to your readers. An artist can connect with online fans on social media with intriguing posts. Fun and engaging content, but not in an aggressive way, will bring readers and fans back for more.

Building a good relationship with fans on social media is an easy way to promote your work. You don’t have to persuade fans, instead, you move with them by expressing your views about your artwork. Post the work with your mind-blowing comments and impressions.

Engage with collectors and fans by posting photos of the art along with content to entice them. Then they will share your posts increasing your impact.

Tip #3 Creative Content on Videos and Photos

Whenever you post videos and images of your art to support your content, it entices your customers. Sometimes, ordinary photos or videos do not attract fans online. You will need to use all the latest techniques when you create videos and photos to go along with your compelling content. Then you will see success gradually build and sales increase. Remember to also post your videos on YouTube to maximizes your videos’ reach.

Tip #4 Newsletter with Soul

Use a newsletter to give fans and collectors insight into your creative thoughts and musings. Give them a glimpse into your soul. Introduce them to or remind them about your latest work. A newsletter that is heartfelt with great content will always be compelling. For example, you could share a catchy story and news about an upcoming art exhibition through the newsletter.

Tip #5 Host A Podcast with Creative Content

You might try hosting a podcast to promote your art. A strong podcast that is enticing and attractive with content can lead to sales.

For example, share an inspiring story about artwork, your experiences with your art, or what you’ve learned along the way. A podcast using some of these ideas can provoke interest for a listener to buy your art. And it is a great way to encourage a fan to buy your art online. Make it creative and it’s a top-line way to reach fans.

Creative Content Starters

Use these examples as a starting place for your descriptions, comments, and stories:

• Art is not a work, but it is life to all of us.
• We can realize ourselves through art.
• We can change the world through art.
• Art is magic if you view it through all your senses, not just your eyes.
• Focus on the art with your feelings and emotions, not your brain. The feeling you get from viewing the art should be sensational.
• My artwork is not simple colors and words, but my thoughts and understanding of the world.
• It can guide you to endless happiness.
• Endless and unlimited happiness is possible through the heartfelt emotions that occur through my artwork.

Conclusion

Start now creating content that intrigues buyers. A mesmerizing artwork described with emotion and great content not only kindles the interest and passion of the audience but lets them share their creativity virally. A committed audience of followers and collectors is equal to millions of dollars spent on advertising online or offline. Your inspiring artwork reaches customers with content that adds wings to your artwork, thereby helping you achieve your sales goals.

Author Bio: Addys Mayers is a freelance writer on Omnipapers. She is also a marketing specialist. She enjoys sharing her writing tips and experience on blogs. See more of her most recent work @addys_mayers.

The post How Creative Content Can Help Sell Art appeared first on Art Business News.

Art Requires Resourcefulness

Succeeding as an artist is challenging since there is so much talent in the world. To stand out from the crowd, you will need to push hard and develop a strategy to turn it into a successful business. It is a common misconception that being an artist’s work ends with the act of creation. Like with any other job, you need resourcefulness and skills in handling all the other aspects involved in this line of work. Preparing the pieces for transport is not hard if you follow a few tricks of the specialized items transport trade. Packing and shipping your canvas art can also be done by professional services if you don’t have the time or patience to deal with it.

Necessary Materials for Canvas Art Protection

Packing the artwork, like creating it, is impossible without the right tools. Hence, acquiring the game-changers in the job will make things easier in the long run. All of them are affordable and can be bought in most specialized stores. To prepare your package for shipment, you will need:

• plastic wrap or glassine paper
• cardboard
• a tape gun with high-quality tape
• bubble wrap
• a box of adequate dimensions
• measuring tape
• markers

The Most Efficient Packing Procedure

Unlike glass, the canvas is somewhat less fragile. Still, if we don’t protect it adequately, damage during transport can happen. Hence, using multiple layers is a great solution to prevent any mishaps.

Step 1 – The first layer

Even though some people apply plastic wrap directly on canvas art, it’s preferable to use glassine paper as the first layer of protection to avoid plastic wrap sticking to the art. The sticking doesn’t always damage the work, especially during the short period of transport. Still, the choice it’s up to you.

Step 2 – Cardboard protection

It’s never easy to find a cardboard box the exact size of your artwork. In such cases, it’s necessary to be creative. Using a tightly wrapped cardboard layer of protection will absorb the shock of rough handling or dropping the piece. The cardboard comes in single and double-wall sheets, and using either option is good, though a single-wall sheet might be easier to handle. After all, canvas art is usually not very heavy or delicate like glass or antique pieces with rich frames. But here comes the hard part. Wrapping will require some measuring and cutting. Thus, putting the canvas on the sheet and marking where to fold it will do the trick. Following these lines should be easy. After folding, secure it with tape. If you haven’t done it before, it might take some practice to make it look clean and professionally packed, but don’t worry, you’ll get there.

Step 3 – Bubble wrap for extra padding

The artwork is adequately protected with the previous layers, but you can ensure it is impenetrable by providing extra cushion protection. This will be the last step before putting it in the shipping box. It would be ideal to cozily tuck in your canvas without giving it extra space for movement.

Step 4 – Shipping box

When buying shipping boxes, pay extra attention to the size. If possible, get the closest dimension to your art piece, but don’t forget to count in some extra space for protective layers that go around it. If not, you can modify the boxes the same way you’ve done it with the cardboard protective layer. Any additional space inside the outer box can be filled with more wrapping paper to prevent tumbling. To be safe, wiggle it to see if there is any movement before sealing it.

Step 5 – Taping

Finally, tape the box on the outside. While doing it, have in mind that your taping skills will be noticeable to everyone who sees the package, so think about the professional appeal you want to achieve. There is no room for messy and chaotic moves here. Use the tape gun with high-quality tape and use it right. It’s imperative to carefully secure every seam of the box. Only by having done all that can you safely transport your artwork.

Step 6 – Labeling the package

Every valuable or delicate object should have a label that says fragile on the outer box. No matter the method of your shipment, having the screaming sign to remind the carrier means more than you know it.

Shipping the Artwork

The ideal way of delivering artwork is the old-fashioned personal method. Personally delivering things shows dedication and respect towards the buyer. We all know how hard it can be to sell artwork, so keeping clients is crucial. But if your client is miles or continents away, this would be time and money-consuming. Logically, you’ll want to do it in the best way possible, prioritizing professional service and affordability.

The Cost of Services That Transport Canvas Art

Even though there are many great shipping companies, going for a verified one is the best way to transport canvas art. When shipping regular items, weight is often considered as the main factor to estimate the costs. However, when it comes to artwork, dimensions play an important role as well. No matter how light the package is, both size and weight are taken into account when transporting specialized items.

Different companies have developed different ways of estimating shipping costs, so contacting several of them will help you decide which offer suits you best. Naturally, smaller packages will cost less, but shipping a huge canvas can cost you three times more than you’d expected. No matter the size/weight ratio, big pieces will take up a lot of space during transport, so the company will consider that during the estimate.

Insurance of Your Artwork 

No matter how well you’ve protected your work, canvas art can still get damaged or destroyed during transport. And even though these mishaps are rare when hiring quality service, consider getting insurance for your art. Having a business insurance policy is smart if your goal is to find the best ways to transport canvas art. But if you find this option not so affordable and ship the art only occasionally, you can always go with carrier’s insurance, even though the coverage is minimal. Either way, it’s up to you to decide the value of the artwork you create.

Author bio: Geoffrey Waller is an art enthusiast and a consultant at Best Cross Country Movers. His experience in packing and relocation of specialized items helped him develop a knack for handling delicate artwork. 

The post Best Ways to Transport Canvas Art in 2021 appeared first on Art Business News.

The Black Lives Matter movement has helped our entire society understand the dominant forces of white supremacy that have run our nation for hundreds of years. This movement is just one example of the influences of this centuries-old approach on our culture. Further, it gives us a course of action for how we can change it. And this all starts with inclusion and diversity.

The state of diversity in the art industry

No industry or organization is immune from this awakening. And that includes the world of art.

Nearly two million Americans consider themselves artists. Yet, most of what America views as art is produced predominantly by white artists. In New York City galleries alone, 88 percent of artists featured are white.

Institutional racism keeps Black people locked out of the art world, putting these talented artists in a disadvantaged position, subject to exploitation and discrimination.

The danger lies when we, as a society and fellow artists, pretend we don’t see it or worse, feel we can’t do anything to change the narrative.

Here are a few ways to encourage diversity in the art world and support Black artists.

Use the wow factor to pioneer change

Photographer and artist, Brien Hollowell, knows the pressure of having to deliver. “As a Black artist, I am always searching for how to bring beautiful work to the table and deliver the story of how my journey as an artist began,” Hollowell says.

His work on the soon-to-open Clayton Members Club in Denver did exactly that. With a mixture of previous work and brand-new features, Hollowell’s goal was to wow his audience with cutting-edge work. Incorporating Black life and art into the walls of a historically one-dimensional experience was important to the founders of the Clayton Club and Brien’s photography brings to life the everyday and extraordinary.

Art has the ability to make people experience the world in a new way and challenge their perspectives. Take the Don’t Hide mural installation at 14th & Stout for instance. Housed along Denver’s theater district, the expansive installation is the largest mural ever created by renowned street artist Shantell Martin and tells the story of the process, creating a piece with no defined beginning or end.

When looking at art for your organization, remember to consider more than just the interior walls. A parking garage, exterior wall, or even a fence can make for a unique art experience.

Embrace the lessons in history and storytelling

Art tells a story and shapes our views of the world. For Kendra Dandy, the artist behind some of the vibrant works at the forthcoming Catbird Hotel in Denver, art gives insight into the lived experience.

“Being a Black artist means being able to express my creativity through a unique perspective due to what we’ve experienced in our lives and through our culture,” says Dandy.

There are many ways to embrace history and diversity when it comes to your immersive artworks. There’s no better place to start than with the artists themselves. At NINE dot ARTS, clients are often told that it’s easy to hang art on the walls. But having an artist articulate their inspiration allows viewers to understand the vision and connect with the history and experience of the piece.

Another way is to incorporate local artifacts and regional significance into art design. Find ways to embrace the culture of your space and the community you serve. Even the most historic areas can benefit from an immersive art experience.

Creating narrative events is also important in telling the story of your project, the local community, and the artist’s experiences. In Martin’s “Don’t Mind. You + Me” bench sculpture, a message of togetherness springs forth from her design through bold, yet straightforward words and her trademark style of black and white drawings. As a self-described “cultural facilitator,” Martin emphasizes the way colors, shapes, philosophies, and identities are intertwined, chronicling the connected paths of us all.

Bring the right voices to the table

Inclusion and diversity begin with the understanding that life is viewed from a myriad of perspectives. By bringing different voices to the table, you directly address the deficits in your way of thinking and doing business. It gives you a fuller, multi-faceted view of the world.

As you begin to create immersive art experiences, don’t just focus on the message you’re hoping will connect with your audience. Focus also on who should deliver that message.

The Bonfils-Stanton Foundation knows firsthand the importance of art. As one of the leading arts funding foundations in Denver, they wanted their new space to express the beauty of the local arts community they support. Critical to this endeavor was the use of multiple, diverse voices from established and emerging local artists. They even created a bilingual curatorial packet of the art collection for non-English speaking visitors to the space.

This is just one example of how an inclusive art experience can enable important and valuable perspectives. Yet sadly, diversity is often not thought of when it comes to art projects.

“It’s only recently that institutions across the country have exhibited and collected the work of Black artists in significant numbers,” says Floyd Tunson, the artist behind multiple pieces at The Elizabeth Hotel. “As art centers become more inclusive, they’ll be better for it.”

This kind of inclusion doesn’t only impact the audience. Inclusion matters to up and coming artists looking to see their faces and voices reflected. “When I started as a photographer in Denver, I didn’t have any Black artist role models locally,” says Hollowell. “However, in New York, I was surrounded by many talented Black photographers. The things I learned there allowed me to pioneer my way here.”

It’s time to embrace diversity in art

Art brings heart to an organization. It provides eye-opening opportunities to have important conversations about race, history, and power. It requires multiple voices and vulnerable, honest communication.

This all begins with more representation for artists of color and increased support. “In the commercial art world, Black artists, except for a very few, fall behind when it comes to commanding top prices for top-level work,” says Tunson.

Yet, he is hopeful this will soon change. And for NINE dot ARTS, we believe it must. The more diversity you have, the more you realize the truth of the world. And art can be the catalyst to make sure that story is told.

About the Author: Martha Weidmann, CEO, and co-founder of NINE dot ARTS

Martha’s deep understanding of the art business and tenacious drive for business success is something all her own. As CEO and co-founder of NINE dot ARTS, Martha oversees all business operations and is basically our head cheerleader and evangelist to the world. Martha graduated from Colorado State University with a dual major – Communications and Fine Arts. She started her career with Walker Fine Art gallery in Denver, then moved on to the most prestigious art consulting firm (at the time) in the region, McGrath and Braun, from which NINE dot ARTS was born.

The post History and Diversity: Creating Immersive Experiences Using Community Collaboration appeared first on Art Business News.

1. Keep all original receipts and bills of sale. A serious buyer will want documentation of a work’s provenance. Receipts and bills of sale are critical for authentication purposes and will avoid the expense and frustration of tracking down an artist or artist’s estate to confirm authenticity. Further, an inability to prove authenticity may significantly diminish a work’s value.
2. Keep a record of each purchase and note the price you paid. This practice will make the determination of tax consequences much simpler and more accurate. A simple way to engage in this practice, if you have original auction house catalogues, is to note the pieces you purchased, along with the price you paid for each piece.
3. Keep a record of all appraisals. Appraisals are relevant in determining fair market value of the work for tax purposes, as well as for insurance or replacement values. Each appraisal should note its purpose and include the contact information of the appraiser.
4. Keep insurance carriers updated on the status of pieces in your collection. Regularly update insurance carriers about your pieces, their values, and your storage methods. Also, notify insurance carriers when you complete a sale so that the item may be removed from your policy. Contact information for the insurance agent should be noted.
5. Keep a photographic inventory. Maintain a detailed inventory of your collection with photos. In addition to each photograph, at a minimum, the inventory should note the title, the artist, a brief description, and the date of creation. Update the inventory whenever items are purchased, sold, loaned, or donated. This practice is especially relevant to large collections with pieces in various locations. Photographs also serve to identify each piece in the collection in the event that someone handling the collection is unfamiliar with a particular artist’s work.
6. Document all background information related to the work. Note any personal connection or relationship shared with the artist, interesting stories about how the piece was created, and details about your acquisition. Also, record biographic information about the artist, previous owners, and the work’s history of exhibition. This information may be important to potential buyers seeking to form a deeper connection with the art they purchase. Auction houses like to include personal background stories that complement the piece’s uniqueness, because it ultimately drives up the purchase price.
7. Be aware of any foreign-made works in your collection. Very old works that were created in countries such as Greece, Egypt, and Italy and acquired before stronger provenance regulations were introduced may present difficult issues for collectors. Gaps in historical records complicate the determination of whether the work was legally acquired. Depending on how the works were acquired, it may ultimately be determined that the works cannot be sold at public auction and need to be returned to their country of origin. If all of this is being sorted out after the collector’s death, the collector’s estate may also be left entangled in very complex estate tax issues.

These tips may add significant value to your collection by increasing marketability to potential buyers. Do not risk the value of your investment by trying to do this from memory. Memories fade, and if your collection is large, it is easy to omit details or confuse the artwork. Further, if you die without accessible collection records, your estate will face the challenge and inconvenience of tracking down information, which may or may not be complete and will likely affect the value and legacy of your collection.

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