Selling Art: Simple Strategies to Grow Your Income
Got art you want to move? Whether you’re a hobbyist or a full‑time creator, the biggest question is how to sell it without feeling lost. The good news is you don’t need a fancy degree or a big budget – just a few clear steps and the right mindset.
Pick the Right Platform
First, decide where you’ll showcase your work. Online marketplaces like Etsy, Saatchi Art, and Instagram give you global reach, but they also come with fees and a lot of competition. If you’re just starting, set up a simple shop on one platform and focus on great photos and clear titles. Offline, think about local galleries, coffee shops, or pop‑up markets. These spots let buyers see your art in person, which can lead to higher prices.
Price Like a Pro
Pricing is the toughest part for most artists. Start by adding up material costs, the hours you spent, and a small profit margin. Then look at what similar artists are charging – don’t undervalue yourself, but avoid pricing yourself out of the market. A quick rule: if you spend 20 hours on a piece and value your time at $20 per hour, that’s $400 plus materials. Adjust up or down based on size, medium, and demand.
Another tip: offer a few price points. Have a small, affordable print or digital version, a mid‑range original, and a premium, large‑scale piece. This mix captures casual buyers and serious collectors alike.
When you list a piece, write a short story about it. People connect with the why behind the work. Mention the inspiration, the technique you used, or a funny studio moment. A personal touch makes the art feel less like a product and more like a shared experience.
Market Without a Budget
Social media is your free billboard. Post regular updates, behind‑the‑scenes clips, and progress shots. Use hashtags that match your niche – think #abstractart, #watercolor, or #portraitpainting – and engage with comments quickly. Email newsletters are also handy; a short monthly roundup of new works and upcoming shows keeps your audience in the loop.
Don’t forget offline promotion. Hand out business cards at events, ask local cafés to display a few pieces, and attend art fairs. Even a simple flyer with a QR code linking to your online shop can turn a curious passerby into a buyer.
Lastly, ask for reviews. A happy buyer’s testimonial on your shop page or social feed builds trust. If a collector shares a photo of your art in their home, repost it – it’s free social proof.
Selling art isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all formula, but combining the right platform, smart pricing, and genuine marketing will get your work into more hands. Start small, track what works, and scale up. Your next sale could be just a post away.
