Business of Art
Overview
The business of art refers to the commercial aspects of the art industry, including the buying and selling of artwork, the management and promotion of artists, and the operation of art galleries and museums. It also includes the creation and distribution of art-related products and services, such as art restoration and conservation, art storage and transportation, art appraisal and authentication, and art education and publications.
The business of art encompasses a wide range of activities and organizations that are involved in the production, promotion, and distribution of art.
Art galleries, for example, are businesses that specialize in the sale and exhibition of artwork, often representing a roster of artists and promoting their work to potential buyers. Museums, on the other hand, are institutions that collect and display artwork for the purpose of education and cultural preservation.
Art fairs and auctions are also a major part of the business of art, where art dealers, collectors, and enthusiasts gather to buy and sell artworks. Art fairs are events where galleries come together to showcase and sell works from their artists, while auctions are sales events where works are sold to the highest bidder.
Another important aspect of the art business is art promotion and representation. Many artists are represented by art agents or art managers, who work to promote their career and help them navigate the art market. They are responsible for finding exhibition opportunities, negotiating sales, and helping artists to build their reputation.
Additionally, there are many ancillary services that support the art industry, such as art storage and transportation companies, art restoration and conservation services, art appraisal and authentication services, and art education and publications.
Overall, the business of art is a complex and multifaceted industry that encompasses many different activities and organizations, all of which play a critical role in the creation, promotion, and distribution of art.
Organizations and Roles They Play
Museums
Museums play a crucial role in the business of art by collecting, preserving, and exhibiting artwork for the purpose of education and cultural preservation. They are also an important part of the art market as they purchase works for their collections, commission new works from artists, and lend works to other museums for exhibition.
Museums are also a major destination for art lovers and tourists, and they are able to generate revenue through admissions, memberships, and art-related merchandise such as catalogs, posters, and other souvenirs. Additionally, museums also generate revenue through renting out their space for special events and private functions.
Museums also play an important role in the promotion of artists and the development of the art market by organizing exhibitions, publishing catalogues and other publications, and providing support and recognition for emerging artists. They also serve as a platform for artists to showcase their work to a wider audience, and provide a space for the public to engage with and learn about art.
Furthermore, museums also have a role in art conservation, preservation and research. They have experts in these fields to ensure that the artwork in their collection are well taken care of and that their preservation is in line with current standards.
Overall, museums play a vital role in the business of art as they provide a platform for the display, promotion, and preservation of art and artists, as well as being a major source of revenue for the art industry.
Government
Government can support the arts by providing funding for art programs and organizations, as well as promoting policies that encourage the growth of the art industry. They can also play a role in the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage by supporting museums and other art organizations that focus on preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
Schools and Universities
Schools and universities can play a role in the business of art by offering art classes and programs, as well as supporting art organizations and events. They can also play a role in the development of the art market by providing opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their work and connect with potential buyers.
Hospitals
Hospitals can play a role in the business of art by incorporating art into the healing process. Many hospitals have art collections, and some even have art therapy programs for patients. They can also display art in public areas to create a more pleasant and calming environment for patients, visitors and staff.
Commercial Establishments
Commercial establishments can also play a role in the business of art by displaying art in their spaces, such as office buildings, hotels, and restaurants. This can help to create a more pleasant and engaging environment for customers and employees, and it can also help to promote local artists and the art industry.
Overall, government, hospitals, schools, universities, and commercial establishments can play a role in the business of art by providing support, resources, and opportunities for the arts, as well as promoting and incorporating art into their operations, which can help to support and grow the art industry.
Local Communities
Local communities play an important role in the business of art by providing support and engagement for artists and art organizations, as well as fostering a culture of appreciation for the arts.
Local communities can support the arts by providing funding for art programs and events, volunteering at art organizations, and attending art exhibitions and performances. This support can also come in the form of buying art from local artists and businesses, and encouraging local government to invest in the arts.
In addition, local communities can also play a role in the development of the art market by providing opportunities for artists to showcase their work and connect with potential buyers. This can be done through the organization of art fairs, exhibitions and other events that bring together artists, collectors and art enthusiasts.
Furthermore, local communities can also play a role in the education and engagement with the arts. Museums and other art organizations often offer educational programs and outreach activities that provide opportunities for people of all ages to learn about art and culture.
Additionally, local communities also play a significant role in the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. Many local communities have their own unique traditions and customs, and museums and other art organizations can play a role in preserving and promoting these cultural heritage through exhibitions, performances and other cultural events.
Overall, local communities play a vital role in the business of art by providing support, engagement, and opportunities for the arts, which helps to foster a culture of appreciation for the arts, and in turn, helps to support and grow the art industry.
Being an Artist
Brring Joy and Hope
There are many ways that a trained artist can use their skills and creativity to bring joy and hope to a community. Some examples include:
Creating public art: A trained artist can create large-scale murals, sculptures, or other pieces of public art that can brighten up a neighborhood and bring a sense of pride and community ownership to the area.
Teaching art classes: An artist can teach art classes to people of all ages and abilities, helping them to develop their own creativity and to explore new ways of expressing themselves.
Organizing art events: An artist can organize art events such as art fairs, gallery shows, or open studios, which can provide opportunities for community members to come together and appreciate art.
Creating art for social causes: An artist can use their skills to create artwork that raises awareness about social issues and inspires others to take action.
Using art for therapy: An artist can use art as a therapeutic tool to help people cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotional challenges.
Creating art for hospitals, schools and other public spaces: An artist can create artworks to decorate hospitals, schools, and other public spaces to make them more welcoming and uplifting places.
All of these ways of using art can bring joy and hope to a community by providing people with opportunities to connect with one another, to appreciate beauty, and to explore their own creativity.
Getting Paid
There are several ways that an artist can get paid for their work in a community:
Commissioned work: An artist can be commissioned by a community organization or government agency to create a specific piece of art. This can include public art installations, murals, sculptures, or other works.
Grants: An artist can apply for grants from organizations such as the National Endowment for the Arts, the state arts council, or local foundations. These grants can provide funding for specific projects or for general support.
Sponsorships: An artist can seek sponsorship from businesses or individuals to support their community art projects.
Sales of artwork: An artist can sell their artwork created for the community, either during art events or online.
Art classes or workshops: An artist can teach art classes or workshops to people of all ages and abilities and charge fees.
Art therapy sessions: If an artist is trained as an art therapist, they can provide art therapy sessions and charge fees for those sessions.
It’s important for the artist to discuss the payment plan with the community organization or government agency before starting any project and make sure that it’s clear and reasonable for both parties. Additionally, the artist should also be prepared to provide an invoice for the work and to comply with any tax or legal requirements.
Self-Promotion
There are many things that an artist can do to promote themselves and their art, including:
Building a website: Having a website that showcases your art, provides information about you as an artist, and includes a way for people to contact you or purchase your art is an essential tool for promoting yourself and your art.
Utilizing social media: Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can be very effective in promoting your art and connecting with potential buyers.
Participating in art shows and exhibitions: Participating in art shows, exhibitions, and fairs can help you to get your art in front of a wider audience, and also help to build your reputation as an artist.
Networking: Building relationships with other artists, gallerists, curators, collectors and art enthusiasts can be very beneficial in promoting your art. Joining artist organizations, attending art-related events and workshops, and building a community around your art can be a great way to network.
Creating a press kit: Having a press kit that includes high-quality images of your art, a bio, and a statement of your artistic vision can be helpful in getting your art covered in the media.
Creating limited edition prints or merchandise: Creating limited edition prints or merchandise such as t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, etc can help to generate additional income, and also help to promote your art.
Collaborating with other artists: Collaborating with other artists can be a great way to build your portfolio and also help to promote your art.
Overall, promoting your art and yourself as an artist takes a lot of time, effort, and creativity, but by utilizing different strategies, artists can increase their visibility and attract potential buyers and supporters.
Taking Business Online
Here are some steps a traditional artist can take to take their art business online:
- Create a website: Your website will be the central hub of your online art business. It should showcase your artwork and provide information about you and your art. Consider using a website builder like Wix or Squarespace to create a professional-looking website.
- Set up an online shop: Consider using an online platform like Etsy or Shopify to sell your art online. These platforms make it easy to set up an online shop and start selling your artwork to customers around the world.
- Use social media to promote your art: Social media can be a powerful tool for promoting your art business online. Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share images of your art, announce new products, and engage with your audience.
- Participate in online art communities: There are many online communities for artists, where you can share your work, connect with other artists, and learn about new opportunities. Consider joining art forums and groups on sites like Reddit and LinkedIn, or participating in online art exhibitions and contests.
- Offer online art classes or workshops: Another way to generate income from your art business online is to offer online art classes or workshops. You can use platforms like Zoom or Google Meet to host your classes and reach students around the world.
- Collaborate with other artists and businesses: Collaborating with other artists and businesses can be a great way to expand your audience and generate new income streams. Consider partnering with other artists to create joint projects, or reaching out to businesses to see if they are interested in featuring your art on their products or in their stores.
Funding Opportunities and Resources For Artists
Funding Opportunities
There are many resources available for artists to look for funding opportunities, here are a few examples:
National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): The NEA is an independent federal agency that provides funding for the arts. They offer grants for individual artists, as well as for organizations and programs.
State Arts Councils: Many states have their own arts councils that provide funding for artists and arts organizations. Check your state’s government website to see if they have an arts council and what kind of grants they offer.
Regional Arts Organizations: Some regions have regional arts organizations that provide funding and support for artists and arts organizations.
Local foundations: Many local foundations offer grants for artists and arts organizations. Look for foundations that focus on arts and culture or that have a mission that aligns with your project.
Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter, GoFundMe, or Patreon can be a good way to raise funds for a specific project or to support ongoing work.
Artist-in-Residence programs: Many organizations and institutions offer artist-in-residence programs, which provide artists with a stipend, studio space, and/or other resources.
Professional Artist Associations: Many professional artist associations offer grants, awards, or other opportunities for members.
It’s important to note that many of these funding opportunities have deadlines and specific guidelines that you should review carefully before applying. Also, artists should also be prepared to show their previous work and a clear plan for their project, and to comply with any tax or legal requirements.
Resources in the New York Area
Here are a few specific resources for artists in the New York City area:
New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA): NYFA offers a variety of grants and resources for artists in all disciplines, as well as a job board and other professional development opportunities.
The Bronx Council on the Arts: The Bronx Council on the Arts is a non-profit organization that offers grants and resources for artists in the Bronx.
Brooklyn Arts Council: Brooklyn Arts Council is a non-profit organization that offers grants, residencies, and other opportunities for artists in Brooklyn.
Queens Council on the Arts: Queens Council on the Arts is a non-profit organization that offers grants, residencies, and other opportunities for artists in Queens.
Staten Island Arts: Staten Island Arts is a non-profit organization that offers grants, residencies, and other opportunities for artists on Staten Island.
Lower Manhattan Cultural Council: Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC) is a non-profit organization that offers grants, residencies, and other opportunities for artists in Lower Manhattan.
Art Commission of the City of New York: The Art Commission of the City of New York reviews and approves the design of all public art in the City of New York, and it also manages the Percent for Art program which funds public art projects through a percentage of the budget for City-funded construction projects.
These are just a few examples of the many resources available for artists in the New York City area. It’s always a good idea to check with the local government website, or search online for opportunities and funding sources.