The Business of Being an Artist

by Daniel Grant

Overview

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 contains information on how artists can learn to sell their work directly to the public with an understanding of the principles of marketing and sales as they're applicable 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. Without a doubt, The Business of Being an Artist is a must-have book for every artist ready to turn their talent into a successful business.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781621538134
Publisher:	Allworth
Publication date:	10/04/2022
Edition description:	6th Edition
Pages:	288
Sales rank:	219,371
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.80(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Daniel Grant is a contributing editor of American Artist magazine. He is the author of six books including The Artist’s Guide: Making It in New York City, How to Grow as an Artist, and The Fine Artist's Career Guide (all published by Allworth Press). His articles and essays have appeared in such publications as ARTnews, Art in America, the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, New Criterion, Art & Auction, and Art & Antiques, among others. He has taught courses and lectured on career issues for visual artists at numerous colleges and public arts agencies in the United States. He lives in Amherst, Massachusetts.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 The Goal of Earning a Living through One's Art 1

Chapter 2 Finding Other Venues for Display 25

Chapter 3 Talking to Collectors 55

Chapter 4 Expanding the Area of Sales and Income 69

Chapter 5 Developing Relationships with Art Dealers 95

Chapter 6 Artists and the Law 129

Chapter 7 From School to the Working World 161

Chapter 8 The Materials That Artists Use 201

Chapter 9 Getting Ready to Handle the Pressures 227

Chapter 10 End Stages 261

Acknowledgments 280

Index 281

What People are Saying About This

Dore Ashton

Daniel Grant has been a sympathetic witness of the art world for a long time. His observations in this book go far beyond a 'how-to' approach. It is an intelligent and selective overview of the art world and its specialized mechanics, highly suitable for younger artists on the threshold of professional life. (Dore Ashton, critic, author of The New York School)

Stephen Doherty

Daniel Grant is one of the best-informed and most resourceful writers in the field, and this book will certainly prove to be a valuable guide to the visual arts. (Stephen Doherty, editor-in-chief, American Artist)

Editorial Reviews

The Business of Being an Artist "is an invaluable resource for aspiring artists and those who feel they need to check in with a real expert from time to time. Most people agree that art schools need to offer more 'survival courses' for their students, and I can't think of a better book for this purpose.

Crafts Report