Getting My Art Out There? 5 Tips to Get Noticed

What is the perennial question that many artists face?

It’s not a lack of inspiration or the funds to sustain oneself. Our research shows that the question is simply: How do I get noticed?

We found that a significant portion of artists (a convenient test group of 50 Asian artists) were not concerned with being noticed. Their art was for themselves, a log of their analysis and thinking put on canvas, and it made them happy. They had no interest in showing or marketing it.

Another group, representing a larger portion, wanted to show their art to friends and family. Their art was a commentary on their observations about themselves or their surroundings. They were happy if someone recognized their work by commenting or even purchasing it from them.

As artists ourselves, we understand that opening your artwork to the public is a big risk, but the benefits, such as receiving wise comments, offers to be represented and recognized, mean a lot.

However, we also realize that it’s difficult to get appreciative eyes on your work beyond your immediate circle. Therefore, we have put together five rapid strategies on how to make your art available.

Start Writing and Publishing

Why write? Isn’t everything you need found in the art itself? We cannot emphasize enough the importance of putting your thoughts in writing. While you may want to leave your audience to interpret your work themselves, writing (giving a good artist statement) provides the audience with a stepping stone to appreciating the finer details of the work. Even if you don’t want to explicitly put your artwork on paper, it’s always good practice to provide hints on what you’re trying to convey.

In a brief attention span world, providing a wise artist statement helps retain the viewer’s interest in your work.

Attend Events

The bane of many artists we talked to, attending openings and exhibitions is the last thing on your mind. We wouldn’t encourage networking if you prefer to focus on your art. However, art dealers and gallery owners often attend such events, and it’s always good to drop them a name card. Some of the most successful artists out there (in terms of sales) are also good business people.

Knock on Doors

Many artists approach galleries themselves. This is a viable option, but it’s always better to show up prepared. A simple picture of the artwork, its details, and an artist statement can do the trick. If you don’t think you can put together a professional-looking portfolio, you could also consider looking for an online art platform such as Artyii or Etsy that does this for you. All you need to do is send galleries your link, and voila!

Attract Publicity

Do something crazy. We wouldn’t suggest this unless you’re completely confident in the creative value of your work. Many artists try to shock and gain some publicity via magazines or bloggers. Putting controversial elements in your work, blowing it up elaborately, and working on installations in public places are techniques that some artists employ. We encourage this – it challenges people’s perceptions, breaks them from their routine lives, and you may even change the life views of the layman in the process.

Go Online

This is your best bet. It’s the most advantageous, cost-effective, and, if done on the right platform, can bring you at least 100 views a day from all over the world. You could create your blog, but its usefulness is limited due to the millions of other art blogs out there fighting for attention.

It’s a wise decision to place your artwork on a platform dedicated to art sales. You may be just another artist on the platform, but the art-focused traffic such platforms provide are more likely to find your work, especially if Point 1 is done right!

Galleries and other art professionals also frequent these websites, providing you with opportunities to be noticed and properly represented. Why approach others when they may approach you?

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME