And you’re absolutely spot on about clinical, pretend research. I found it to be somewhat unreliable and a guide at best.

Thanks!

The weekend markets are a huge opportunity! A number of artisans that I have worked with collected great information on their product and went on to create some amazing results. Research – especially for those of us who came out of the corporate world doesn’t have to be elegant surveys and focus groups. It’s authentic interaction with those people who can make or break your brand in the marketplace.

Yeah, markets aren’t always the best avenue for some products and wares – and in your case I imagine that you don’t get the serious art buyers. But it really can depend on the market as well. I found markets to vary greatly in their style and theme and thus the type of person/buyer they attract.

The Eumundi Markets on the Sunshine Coast (a couple hours north of Brisbane) calls itself “Australia’s premier craft market” and specialises in showcasing original products/wares only – as in all stallholders must be the concept designer and/or the artisan. They really keep their standard high and offer first-class stuff. People flock there both for the experience and to get something unique and original. Hugely popular market which has helped to produce a number of millionaires.

I’m really not familiar with markets in North America, but if you can find one like that you might fair better. A “gimmick” that might work well at the markets is to offer portraits, or something like that. Meantime, best wishes for securing the right art gallery!

Have you thought of displaying them in classy coffee shops on consignment? – I bought a beautiful photograph at a coffee shop once. Or maybe get some bookmarks made (featuring one of your paintings) and ask certain bookstores if you can leave them on the counter for people to take. Just an idea!

Keep us posted!! Maybe you can do a marketing case study on Ed Roach the artist!

I spent most of last summer in a booth at art fairs. I paint in watercolour.

I agree that you learn many things about human nature and sales in general, but I have to say My wife Rose and I felt we wasted our summer in that booth last year. We are only doing 2 shows this year. My goal is to find an art gallery to represent me. Some of the techniques we use to lure people into our booth is to put kid friendly pictures on the back wall to lure kids dragging moms and to have a large dog dish of spring water to lure dogs dragging owners.

Your post triggered a conversation we just had with some creative friends who are doing the circuit this summer. My wife says she feels like a carnie worker, I have to admit it’s not the most enjoyable way to sell your work. I find it is not the serious art buyer out there – just good folks looking for something to do with the kids in the sun.

I meet a lot of fellow artists though. Good conversations from time to time and a great ego rub most times.

Yeah the theatrics of some of the sellers is really something isn’t it! I love watching them – it’s entertainment in itself

Wow, you’re from Charleston hey. I travelled throughout the U.S. some years ago (we did a big loop) and I loved all of it, it was fantastic, but Charleston was one of my favourite places – what a beautiful city and the history was fascinating. I’ve always remembered it.

Cheers, Danielle

Thank you for recommending Idea Sellers for providing solid sales tips. I sincerely appreciate it!