The Business of Being an Artist

You've got the artistic talent; now learn how to make a career out of it!

Fine artists are taught many things about the history, theory, and craft of art in art schools and university art programs, but rarely do they learn much, if anything, about how to make a career of their talents. The Business of Being an Artist, now in its sixth edition, contains information on how artists may develop a presence in the art world that leads to sales. The book provides guidance on how artists can learn to sell their work directly to the public with an understanding of marketing and sales principles as they apply to works of art. Artists will also learn how to find a suitable gallery that will arrange sales and commissions and how to set up a contractual relationship with the dealer that is both equitable and profitable.

Among the topics covered in The Business of Being an Artist are: the range of exhibition opportunities for emerging and mid-career artists; how to set prices for artwork; when or if artists should pay to advance their careers; how artists may communicate with the public; applying for loans, grants, and fellowships; areas of the law that concern artists; using art materials safely; online sales and marketing, and much more.

In addition to all of this priceless information, The Business of Being an Artist includes a unique discussion of some of the emotional issues that face artists throughout their careers, such as working alone, confronting stereotypes, handling criticisms and rejection, the glare of publicity, and the absence of attention.