Sure it’s great to hang out with your artist friends, but consider opening up to fresh opportunities. Here are a few suggestions to shake up the routine and get out of your comfort zone.
• Go to places that foster your art. If you want to get into galleries, go to art openings, check out the galleries, find out where your art fits into the art world.
• Talk about your art. Practice talking about your art by teaching your art to kids, or demonstrating your art to fellow artists in local arts councils, collectives or associations. These situations are low pressure and good practice for when you get the opportunity to talk to a curator or gallery director.
• Use the six degrees of separation to your advantage. Chat about your art with everyone, your hairdresser, your mechanic, your dentist, and anyone who will listen. Make your intentions known with people you know and the people they know that might know someone who can connect you with a gallery, museum, interior designer or someone in the art business.
• Have postcards or business cards with your artwork ready to hand out to people you meet. Physical pieces speak volumes and handing one over shows your level of professionalism and readiness.
• Join groups that have nothing to do with art. Indulge in a little fun while you build your circle of acquaintances and colleagues. Join a cultural group, a non-profit volunteer group, an alumni group, or any group that supports your other interests or hobbies. Once you’re familiar with folks, don’t be shy about your art and your goals as an artist.
Expanding your network and gaining new admirers doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact it can be really fun connecting with people who appreciate your art.
