Creating Demand for Your Art: Why It Matters and How to Start (ep. 206)

Peek inside the elite art world. Host Alyson Stanfield speaks with Michael Findlay, a long-time art dealer and author of the new memoir, Portrait of the Art Dealer as a Young Man: New York in the Sixties. They discuss his extensive career, insights into the evolving art market, and memorable stories, including an amusing anecdote about Andy Warhol. Findlay emphasizes the importance of immersive, in-person art experiences and the qualities that make a great art collector. He also reflects on changes in the relationship between dealers and artists over the decades and the impact of modern technology on art collecting and appreciation. 01:36 Michael's Early Art Experiences 08:07 Art Education and Its Impact 17:41 The Role of Curiosity in Art Collecting 27:14 Modern Art Collecting Challenges 29:54 Michael's Career and Gallery Work 39:45 Andy Warhol Stories 45:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   🎧 RELATED EPISODES Qualities Galleries Are Looking For in Their Artists with Jeremy Tessmer (ep. 123) Secrets from Copying a Masterpiece with Lilianne Milgrom (ep. 87) Focusing on the Art, Not the Art Business with Rebecca Welz (ep. 134)   📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/findlay-memoir ✅ While you’re there, click on the graphic to download a copy of my Comprehensive Exhibitions Checklist + Timeline—totally free with opt in. ⭐️ Connect with Michael Findlay: https://michaelfindlay.com ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

This is a letter I wrote in 2017 to help a concerned father support his introverted artist son. I wanted to help him—and anyone else who wants to help an artist—understand the struggles of artists and how they can be most helpful. My 7 pieces of advice (outlined in the timestamps below) isn’t given lightly and is based on decades of experience working with artists. host: Alyson Stanfield 00:44 Dear Loved One 01:33 Insight 1: Accept Me as I Am 02:34 Insight 2: Respect the Way I Work 03:32 Insight 3: Acknowledge the Difficulties 04:41 Insight 4: Ask About My Goals 05:32 Insight 5: Offer Help 06:48 Insight 6: Support Me 08:01 Insight 7: Just Love Me 🎧 RELATED EPISODES How to Feel Like a Successful Artist (ep. 165) Being an Artist with Geoffrey Gorman (ep. 124) How Do You Know When You’re an Artist? with James Holmes (ep. 88)   📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/advice-for-helping-artists/   🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.   ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.   ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

host: Alyson Stanfield Artist and advocate Virginia Broersma talks with me about her efforts to support fellow artists through practical resources. Virginia shares how she founded The Artist's Office to help artists manage administrative tasks and created The Artist's Contract, a free tool for artist protections. We also explore her Studio Loan program, which connects artists needing temporary studio space. Virginia's work highlights the importance of collaboration, transparency, and empowering artists to navigate their careers confidently. 00:22 Meet Virginia Broersma  01:16 Virginia's Recent Projects and Initiatives 02:15 The Evolution of Virginia's Career 03:49 The Artist's Office: Supporting Artists 06:03 Navigating Opportunities and Challenges 07:36 Balancing Art and Administrative Work 08:41 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Studio Time 24:57 The Artist Contract and Studio Loan Program 34:57 Encouraging Artist Collaboration and Networking 🎧 RELATED EPISODES How to Legally Protect Your Creative Work with Kathryn Goldman (ep. 125) Artist as Problem Solver with Michael Gadlin (ep. 93) Risk, Rejection, and Resilience with Christine Aaron (ep. 114)   📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/broersma-contracts ⭐️ Connect with Virginia and see more of her art: https://virginiabroersma.com   🟪 I have a short webinar that would be a great resource for helping you to increase the perceived value of your work. It’s called How to Ask for More Money for Your Art. It's only $20. And the reason that I make it so affordable is because it's fundamental. I created How to Ask for More Money for Your Art because I noticed so many artists were sabotaging their work. If you need to increase the perceived value of your art, check it out.   ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

Host Alyson Stanfield delves into the necessity of creating demand for your artwork in order to achieve a certain level of success. She discusses the balance between ambition and practicality in the art market and offers five essential tips to assess and cultivate demand effectively. Alyson stresses the importance of setting realistic expectations, refining your unique artistic voice, and nurturing genuine relationships. Through examples from past episodes and insightful advice, she aims to help artists understand and thrive in their respective markets. 00:29 Understanding the Art Market 01:46 Being Unrealistic in Your Art Marketing Strategies 02:48 Defining “Demand” in the Art World 05:20 Challenges and Realities of High Demand 08:22 Benefits of Being an In-Demand Artist 10:12 Two Key Steps to Take 14:32 Five Practical Tips for Artists to Assess Demand 17:00 Resource: How to Ask for More Money for Your Art 📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/demand 🎧 MENTIONED EPISODES The Internet Might Be Ruining Artists’ Livelihoods with William Deresiewicz (ep. 205) She Knows Exactly How Much Her Art Income Will be Every Month with Kelly Pelfrey (ep. 162) Growing Beyond Being an Instagram Artist with Sara Schroeder (ep. 119) How to Guarantee that People Remember You with Skip Hill (ep. 187) 🟪 I have a short webinar that would be a great resource for helping you to increase the perceived value of your work. It’s called How to Ask for More Money for Your Art. It's only $20. And the reason that I make it so affordable is because it's fundamental. I created How to Ask for More Money for Your Art because I noticed so many artists were sabotaging their work. If you need to increase the perceived value of your art, check it out. ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

A deep discussion about the significant impact of the internet on the arts economy and the evolving role of artists in today's market that is ruled by the internet. Host Alyson Stanfield talks with William Deresiewicz, author of The Death of the Artist: How Creators are Struggling to Survive in the Age of Billionaires and Big Tech. Bill discuss the challenges of discoverability and financial instability while emphasizing the importance of community support as artists navigate this changing landscape. Bill offers valuable insights on adapting to new opportunities in the digital era, helping artists feel less alone in their journeys. 00:54 The Reality of Being an Artist Today  03:43 The Economics of Art in the Digital Age  07:04 The Challenges of Self-Promotion 18:33 The Evolution of the Artist's Role23:49 The Fourth Paradigm: Producer  25:05 The Professional vs. The Bohemian  26:19 Financial Realities and Transparency in the Arts 27:39 The Cost of Being an Artist 31:25 Community and Collaboration Among Artists 33:55 The Role of Cities in Supporting Artists 38:07 Defining What It Means to Be an Artist 42:43 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts 🎧 RELATED EPISODES She Knows Exactly How Much Her Art Income Will be with Kelly Pelfrey (ep. 162) Increasing Self-Sales by 400% with Sarah Becktel (ep. 157) Self Sales, Open Studios, and Relationships with Interior Designers with Carol MacConnell (ep. 171) 📖 To read more, see images, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/death-of-the-artist ⭐️ Connect with William Deresiewicz and read his articles and books: https://williamderesiewicz.com 🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention. ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

Host Alyson Stanfield talks with artist Joan Chamberlain, whose creative journey has taken many twists and turns. Joan shares her story, from her early days as a botanical artist and licensed illustrator to her time as a product developer and dentist. Now living in Eugene, Oregon, Joan reflects on how moving has impacted her art, her lifestyle, and her happiness. Joan discusses: How attending Alyson’s first live workshop in 2003 shaped her dedication to her art business. The positive impact the move has had on Joan’s art practice and why she insists that location matters for an artist. The challenges and benefits of transitioning to a new art community, and how volunteering helped her make key connections in Eugene. How Joan found her niche and is excited to develop more work in that direction. Her informal audience research to find the best market for her work, including the potential for reproductions. Whether you're thinking of moving, looking for a fresh perspective, or simply searching for joy in your art practice, this episode offers plenty of inspiration. 📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/chamberlain-community ✅ While you’re there, click on the graphic to download a copy of my Comprehensive Exhibitions Checklist + Timeline—totally free with opt in. 🍷 Connect with Joan and see more of her art: https://joancdesigns.com/ 🎧 RELATED EPISODES These episodes touch on what it’s like to reestablish your art business in a new location. Adapting through Curiosity and Connection with Debra Disman (ep. 202) Using Her Superpower and Biomaterials with Kelly M. O’Brien (ep. 196) Overcoming Anxiety about Making Art World Connections with Heather Beardsley (ep. 160) 🔸 STRENGTHEN YOUR ART BUSINESS FOUNDATION See my art-marketing intensive, Essentials for Artist Success full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

Host Alyson Stanfield talks with Iris Scott, a talented artist who has had tremendous success on social media. A large portion of the discussion was driven by questions from her dedicated followers. Iris shares how the social media landscape has evolved since the early days of her art career and how she adapts to those changes today, including her approach to TikTok and paid advertising. The insightful conversation also touches on: Iris’s time living in Taiwan, where the low cost of living was instrumental in her artistic development. The challenges of overcoming doubt and how she finds inspiration in her work. Her view of technology as a collaborator, with insights into how she incorporates AI into her creative process. A detailed breakdown of Iris’s income from original pieces versus reproductions. Balancing a successful art career with motherhood and maintaining a healthy work-life balance as a mom to a toddler. 📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/scott-technology ⭐️ Connect with Iris and see more of her art: https://www.irisscottfineart.com/ 🎧 RELATED EPISODES Growing Your Art Business on Instagram with Jeanne Rosier Smith (ep. 67) Growing Beyond Being an Instagram Artist with Sara Schroeder (ep. 119) The Key to Success on Social Media with Cathy Nichols (ep. 154) Stop Incessantly Feeding the Social Media Algorithms with Kamal X (ep. 172) 🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention. ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

host: Alyson Stanfield In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield talks with Debra about her dynamic journey as an artist and entrepreneur. Debra reflects on her career that spans teaching, studio work, decorative painting, and involvement with various communities. She shares the challenges she faced navigating the competitive art world, her time running Artifactory decorative painting studio in the Bay Area, and her eventual move to Los Angeles to support her husband's acting career, which also opened new opportunities for her. Debra emphasizes the importance of enthusiasm, showing up daily, and the step-by-step process of building an art career. She also touches on the benefits of engaging with people, the power of reaching out, and the satisfaction of participating in jury shows and contributing to the community. 📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/disman-adapting ⭐️ Connect with Debra and see more of her art: https://debradisman.com/ 🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention. 🎧 RELATED EPISODES Boldly Reaching Out to Art World Influencers with Laurence de Valmy (ep. 108) Lessons from a Wildly Successful Pop-up Art Gallery Event with Mai Wyn Schantz (ep. 109) Overcoming Anxiety about Making Art World Connections with Heather Beardsley (ep. 160) ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield chats with artist Julie deBoer, founder of Mastrius, a mentorship platform for artists. Julie shares her journey of discovering her unique style with the help of a mentor, and how she resisted what was coming out of her until she began understanding where it came from. She discusses the challenges of working with galleries, transitioning to solo sales, and the importance of community in the artist’s journey. Julie also delves into how Mastrius differs from other online learning platforms by focusing on personalized mentorship and community support. The episode wraps up with one of Alyson’s favorite discussions: how Julie finds the time to fit everything in while prioritizing her art. 🎧 RELATED EPISODES Expanding Your Skillset to Respond to Opportunities with Detour (ep. 128) Being an Artist with Geoffrey Gorman (ep. 124) Planning a Year's Worth of Artwork with Dawn Williams Boyd (ep. 72) 📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/deboer-style ⭐️ Connect with Julie and see more of her art: https://juliedeboerart.com 🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and processes you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention. ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

host: Alyson Stanfield In the 200th episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield explores the deeper motivations behind artists' desires for more recognition and sales. She emphasizes the importance of pursuing true fulfillment in art, beyond external validation and social media metrics. Alyson shares her personal journey of prioritizing happiness over career stability and discusses various forms of fulfillment for artists, such as making their best work, gaining gallery representation, and receiving positive feedback. She encourages artists to exhibit their work in public more frequently and to engage with their audience to find deeper meaning and joy. 00:00 Our Desire for MORE  01:23 Personal Journey: Finding Happiness 02:16 Milestone Reflection: 200th Episode 02:39 True Fulfillment as an Artist 04:53 The Importance of External Validation 05:49 The Role of Exhibitions and Shows 07:38 Art as Communication and Connection 08:55 Commitment to Showing Your Art 09:34 Conclusion: Celebrating the Journey 📖 To read more, see photos of me with some of my guests, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/fulfillment 👉 I give you a process for honoring your commitments in my planning workshops, which I lead 3x a year to help you make a plan for the upcoming season and beyond. AND to make sure that you aren’t over-committed—that you have just the right level of challenging projects and space for creativity and self-care. 🔶 The next workshop is coming up, and you can save a little when you sign up early. So you want to be sure to be on the notification list. Go to artbizsuccess.com/makeaplan to add your name to that list or sign up now if registration is available when you visit. ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/