Why It’s Important to Personally Take Charge of Your Art Career

You can be one of the best artists on the scene today, but if you’re not serious about the “business” of art, then you’re not likely going to find the success or recognition you deserve. Most artists cannot afford to hire a marketing manager to take care of the important business details.  Success, means that you’re more than likely going to handle the important details yourself.  This means finding a business system that works.

Use the interent and build a powerful presence

The web has been a personal launching pad for many careers, and when you’re looking to enter and make an impact in an industry, the internet can be your best friend.  This is a major way of building your own individual brand and improving your prospect base and perceived worth. 

Your goal should be to develop visibility and industry connections.  If people are going to talk about you, they need to know that you exist. The web is where you can create an effective persona.  Understanding how to gain visiblity on the internet will help you to forge the solid relationships that success demands.

1. Create a blog or a portfolio website.

A blog can help you share your niche topic, and you can also include a page for your resume and portfolio.  Establishing this kind of home base can be in the form of a simple blog or a static site that offers a bio, resume, portfolio, and contact information.  A well-written blog has the benefit of driving traffic to a website.

2. Find the right social communities to join.

You should take your time in this effort.  Finding the right communities to join and particpate in can drive a lot of traffic to your site over time. Your list should target the well-populated social media networks, blogs, and social news sites.  A thorough internet search should yield any number of good results.  Create a “participation” schedule where you can contribute to the online community by commenting, submitting stories, and engaging in discussions etc.

3.  Identify and specialize in your niche topic/s

Write and lecture on the art topics you want to be identified as an authority on.  Continued association of your brand in a specific field will help to develop your reputation as an enthusiast—and in time—an expert.