Market your art effectively without compromising your integrity

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Hello, {{ subscriber.first_name }}, do you know that feeling you get when you pour your heart and soul into your art and put it out into the world, and you get crickets? Well, I know what that feels like; it feels like someone just sucked the energy out of you; it's discouraging, to say the least. 

Let me ask you, do these scenarios sound familiar to you, artist?

• People come to your art booth and leave empty-handed.
• You may hear kind comments on your social media posts, but you also listen to crickets on your bank account.
• Or perhaps you are new to the art world and haven't exhibited yet because you feel intimidated by sales.

​But what if I told you you could turn those crickets into cha-ching? Listen, it's not because of your art itself that it's not sold, but the way it's been marketed. I'm talking about actually selling but with a different strategy; I'm talking about connective marketing. It's a strategy that can transform your artistic journey, turning your passion into a sustainable career. 

​So, what exactly is connective marketing? Well, a lot of people see marketing as a bit pushy, like you're forcing people to buy something. But connective marketing is the complete opposite. It's all about building a real connection with your audience. It's about understanding what they care about, their values, and then showing them how your art fits into that. 

It's not like, 'Hey, buy my art,' but instead say, 'Hey, this is what my art is all about, and I believe you can connect with it.' It's about building relationships, not just transactions, and making your audience feel seen and appreciated. 

Here are some examples: 
I often purchase meaningful things, and most of these products convey the product's health, environmental, or humanity benefits. I enjoy this kind of marketing because I want to choose things that benefit me and the world.

For example, I buy Beeswax candles because they are healthier for my body, contain no toxins, give me peace of mind, and promote a healthier lifestyle.

I purchased furniture made of reclaimed wood because I am passionate about sustainability. By doing so, I am an integral part of global waste management.

I indulge in Paul Newman's dressing because the proceeds go to Newman Own Foundation, which supports kids and their community.

Why is my purchasing power necessary? Because I can contribute to better health, the environment, and humanity. These are the core of my belief system; therefore, I support them.

That's the thing about connective marketing: You are not just selling a product; you are telling a story, a belief, a connection. It is about aligning your values with your customers. 
  
As an artist, you know you have a unique perspective and values to your work. Knowing where those values are is vital so you can align your perspectives with your customers.

If you are an artist who creates art from recycled materials, you should weave that story into everything you do, from your website to your artist's bio to how you interact with people at art fairs. It's not just the artwork; it's the whole package. It is about creating a brand that reflects your values and resonates with your ideal customers. People buy from someone they trust and have something in common with.

Artists sometimes feel that selling compromises their integrity, like they are selling out. However, marketing is not about selling out; it's about sharing your art with the world in a supported and understood way. It's about reframing how you think about sales, and realizing that you're not just creating art for yourself; you're creating it to share with others.

The more art you sell, the more resources you have to keep going. It's not about the money; it's about sustainability; it's about keeping doing what you love. 

Now, I want to leave you a little challenge. I want you to think about one core value or belief that your art embodies. Maybe it's about sustainability, self-expression, or telling the stories of your community. Whatever it is, I want you to think about how you can connect with your audience on a deeper level.

Please leave me a comment below and let me know what is the true core value that your art embodies. I answer to all my correspondence.

​Remember, my friend, your art deserves to be seen. With practice, those crickets can be your biggest fans.

With Joy,
​Ting