Art Marketing 101: A Handbook for the Fine Artist

I took so many notes when reading this as a library book that I've decided I'd better just own it. One of the best books on marketing my artwork and making a living as an artist that I've ever come across, and I've read several.

This book, all by itself, can set an artist in motion, pull an artist out of "block," and transform the life of a friend/artist who feels there is no hope. Funny, I bought "Art Marketing 101" to help a friend/artist, and two months later found her art in galleries, shows, and then I discovered that the artist was making lists (while inputting them into her computer) of all the possible patrons, exhibits, and other extended ways to display her beautiful art. She now runs a business FOR her art, ABOUT her art, and WITHOUT anyone else (other than galleries) needed. This book is an incredible inspiration for anyone wanting to learn marketing... about anything... simple, thorough, and experienced. It's not just about footwork (good tennis shoes and good b.s.) ... Marketing is about your passion -- your art! This book never lets you forget who you are!

This is an invaluable "how-to" book. From the psychology of selling to legal matters, it covers it all. The amount of information is overwhelming...I went through it with a highlighter checking off the sections that were applicable to my needs, and then read those sections in depth. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, you'll gain a lot from this and will maximize your potential and earning power. Being an artist today requires the kind of knowledge contained in this volume, because the competition is fierce. Perhaps you have more talent than the next guy, but if he has the marketing skills, the world will be looking at his art instead of yours. Get this book and make the most of your artistic gift !

I have been a professional artist for many years and this is information that I have heard many times, but it's concise, and easy to read. I am always preaching to art students -- any one for that matter -- to take business and merchandising courses! We may want to be an artist but we need to earn a living at it! This book brings it all home. I find myself reading it over again and again, reinforcing the old info and putting even more of the dreaded business / merchandising ideas into practice. It's a must for ANY artist!

Constance Smith and Allen Hollingsworth have created a wonderful introductory guide for those of us who are entering the art profession. As an art student, I've noticed that many institutions and universities fail to teach the fundamentals of advertising and marketing one's art. Even though we learn the techniques of painting and drawing, many are left clueless as to begin an art career. This guide gives a thorough overview for the beginning art student in an easy-to-read format as well as related suggestions for further reading throughout each chapter topic. I would definitely recommend investing in this guide for the beginning art student to have an idea of what is to be expected when studying art. When compared to Art & Reality : The New Standard Reference Guide and Business Plan for Actively Developing Your Career As an Artist by Robert J. Abbott, this book is a vital stepping stone to Abbott's more thorough explanations and recommendations. Otherwise, one would be lost trying to understand Abbott's in-depth reading material. Both guides are excellent, but Art Marketing 101 is necessary to read first, before you jump to Abbott's "400" level.