Artist Opportunities in the Funerary Market

by Carolyn Edlund

Planning to sell your art into new markets? Consider whether your work fits into this lucrative niche.

What happens when a hand thrown lidded ceramic vessel is sold as a cremation urn rather than as a decorative or functional container? It may triple in price.

Custom made and artist-made urns, memorial sculpture, portraiture, jewelry and other types of “personalization” are a growing trend, recognized by the funerary industry itself. Consumers are looking for ways to make services and memorials of loved ones as individual as possible. There are numerous ways that artists can serve this need and grow their own businesses by gearing work towards this niche.

Cremation is on the rise. Urns and containers are increasingly needed, but generic manufactured offerings are a pretty sorry lot. Artists interested in working with families and individuals to create personalized memorials have a great opportunity. There is a high emotional value to the client, and tapping into this can be a rewarding experience.

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