Networking for Artists

A Lifeblood for an Artist in Business

In my earlier days as a budding artist entrepreneur, I learned an important lesson about the role of being an artist and networking, that is to engage, engage, engage. 

It is about communicating with everyone you meet, building a fan base and to care for your industry at the same time. Building a following of individuals who appreciate your work is one method to establish a successful career as an artist.
Almost any ability, including the art of communication, can be learnt. It doesn't matter whether you're timid or a bad public speaker; by taking tiny efforts at first, you'll discover that networking becomes easier with time. I was terrified to speak in front of a larger group, until I pushed myself into the role of an art teacher, because I loved it too much and within a short time I felt not only at ease but thoroughly enjoyed it. It is exciting to push through fear and expand who you are and grow as a person. By being out there you are creating a fan base. These individuals you learn to connect with, may purchase artwork, commission unique works, share information with others, or promote you on social media. Some musicians use their celebrity to land deals with retailers and other businesses. Networking can help you reach a larger audience and gain more followers.

A Little Background Story

I was on my way to an exhibition sponsored by one of the art organisations that I belonged to.  

As a member, I was aware of the schedule of the press and media coverage, so I decided to time my arrival at the venue, not because I appreciated the value of networking, but just to ensure I didn’t miss any of the action. Well, unbeknownst to me, that turned out to be a very wise arts networking move!
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Just as I was arriving, a TV crew and a journalist were entering the venue too.  As the TV crew moved ahead, the journalist fell behind, and I was able to catch up with him. What happened next is a great illustration of why networking for artists is so essential!

As we got to talking, I introduced myself and the journalist asked about my work. Soon, he asked if he could see some of my exhibits and I gladly complied, explaining in detail some of the finer points of my best display pieces.

As I previously stated, my mind was the furthest from recognising how networking was at work here; but, even though I didn't realise it at the time, that's exactly what was going on; I had just connected with this journalist! 

I spotted a story in the local newspaper a few days after our unforeseen encounter. It was all about the exhibition, replete with my photographs and a description of the art I had on display! You can image how surprised I was when I when I found out about this unexpected publicity! Even though I hadn’t consciously planned networking, I managed to pull off a networking coup!

Later, I congratulated the journalist and complimented him on the quality of his work. He was grateful that, even though it was a hectic time for me, I had taken the time to explain to him concerning my work in great detail, although I was one of the exhibitors. We've known one other for a long time. Overall, I realised that networking for artists not only pays off, but also brings individuals together who share like passions to form a community! 

101 Networking for Artists

My initial experience of arts networking was unintentional, but the long-term benefits of communicating with others has brought many opportunities.

If you are in the art business, networking should be an intentional aspect of your artist promotion and marketing strategy.

This is why: 
  • Identifying possibilities. Having a strong artistic network can help you learn about new galleries, exhibits, and other ways to exhibit your work. Various networking activities can aid in the discovery of a wide range of prospects. Artists' organisations on social networking platforms, for example, frequently post information about upcoming or existing shows that are taking submissions. You may also join a local artist support group, where you can network with the proprietors of local coffee shops and permanent galleries.​
  • Create a Connection Database. Having a strong artistic network can help you learn about new galleries, exhibits, and other ways to exhibit your work. Various networking activities can aid in the discovery of a wide range of prospects. Artists' organisations on social networking platforms, for example, frequently post information about upcoming or existing shows that are taking submissions. You may also join a local artist support group, where you can network with the proprietors of local coffee shops and permanent galleries. As a business person, you need other people, groups and organisations within your sphere of influence. It is through arts networking that those influences are cultivated.​
  • Strong networks can lead to referrals. for future work as well as future assistance you may need to collaborate on joint projects. Attend the opening of any college show, gallery exhibition, or other place where your art will be displayed, and engage with the individuals who come to see your work. You can use the social networks of other artists because many art shows feature numerous artists. An art buyer, for example, might visit a gallery of local artists to support one artist while also discovering a new sculptor or painter to support. Stand or sit near your work of art and answer inquiries from passers-by who might be curious about how you created it or what inspired you.​
  • Establish relationships with other artists. Because you can meet new partners and learn about opportunities in your area, artistic communities can be incredibly successful networking tools. These art clubs could meet in person or online. You can look online or call local community centres and libraries to discover a group of artists in your region. Artist groups frequently offer mentorship services and allow members to discover assistance and tools to aid them in their careers, in addition to opportunities for cooperation. When it comes to getting to know people of influence, and having them get to know you and your work, the artist and networking go hand in hand. If you don’t engage, you and your business are likely to remain largely anonymous!​
  • Maintain an up-to-date web portfolio. A structured portfolio of your work can demonstrate your style and expertise as an artist to potential clients and collaborators. Many online portfolio sites offer free or low-cost options for creating a professional art portfolio. Depending on your media, the method you present your art may differ. If you're a sculptor, for example, your portfolio might include photos of your finished pieces from all angles, as well as detailed images of certain design aspects. On your portfolio page, include your contact information as well as information about your commission fees so that potential clients can contact you.​
  • Submit artwork to a variety of outlets. Submitting work to a variety of institutions will help you gain additional exposure for your work, expanding your customer and fan base. Traditional galleries can be fantastic places for an artist to gain recognition, but getting a gallery slot when you're just starting out might be challenging. Consider craft fairs and community centre shows as alternatives. Local coffee shops and restaurants frequently display artwork by local artists and provide guests the opportunity to purchase pieces. If you notice artwork displaying in one of these establishments, enquire about how to submit pieces for sale.​

So How Does One Go About Networking?

Well, networking opportunities are all around you, in the grocery store, the gym, at the community centre, on the train or bus, all you have to do is reach out:


  • Join Arts Organisations You Like. Perhaps even volunteer on the board or a committee. When you give of your time, like I did on many occasions, you’ll get back manifold! I cannot count the amount of information I gained to get to know the arts industry.
  • Networking For Artists Is About Building Contacts. Make sure you hand out your email and business cards at every meeting, exhibition or social event you go to. And request others to provide their contacts as well, but do not insist!
  • Join Relevant Online Communities. Platforms such as Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms are brilliant, and contribute regularly to those communities. One advantage of using social media is that you can upload stuff that doesn't necessarily belong in your official portfolio, such as process videos or sketches. You may establish an online following by using a variety of media forms, which can help you boost your commission rate and possibly gain gallery space. Provide links to your portfolio and any online marketplaces where you sell your work on your social media sites.
  • Start a Blog. And make sure you respond to every comment or post that you get to your writings, pictures and posts. Your followers will become your most extensive network!

Arts networking doesn’t have to be very complex; but it does need to be a formal part of your marketing and promotional strategy.