Secrets Of My Success

Thanks for sharing your story, John, and congratulations!

You're so right -- I found that getting out and about in the community is key to taking an art business to the next level.

A few years ago, my art business was hit with a triple whammy -- my worsening health issues, the loss of my 'show buddy' (she's not dead, just unavailable!) and, maybe more importantly in this case, suddenly not having a car. This pile-up of issues has seriously impacted the momentum I'd built up locally, and the decrease in face-to-face business has taken an enormous bite out of my finances. Selling online doesn't even come close to the power and results of human interaction. I'm still working on practical ways to push back some of these mountain-sized obstacles. Hope springs eternal! ;-)

I think you're doing everything right: your work is awesome, and you're getting your name out there, on many levels. An online art business is one thing, but you can really build something by becoming recognized in your community. Your new studio/gallery space will only increase your local credibility as a working artist. I also think your geographical location is a great advantage, which you seem to be making the most of.

It seems your retirement has given you the luxury of time, and you're using that time for all it's worth, enriching lives in the process. That's awesome, and I hope your story inspires more artists to get themselves and their work out there, into the real world!

Cheers! :-)

Thanks for sharing - I have to think location is an important element of success. Living in a dynamic area with lots of people and good incomes has to help. The Airport spot should be excellent. I was in the Calgary airport last summer and was checking out a couple of art displays. People who travel have money and your work is shown to a wide variety of people.

John,

Thank you for your post. Some may judge this post to be negative, but it is not intended that way. I like to voice opinions that are honest, even if they trend against the emotional theme at the time. But I am posting this because I feel the below thoughts are valid, too.

First, congrats on your success. However, for those who do not know the state of North Carolina, Asheville is a highly art-oriented city. In fact, it is, in most people's opinion, by far the most "artsy" city in the state. Some might say the city IS art. It's in the mountains, has the feel of a mountain community, and attracts "different" demographics like aging Deadheads, hippies, and the like. Don't take me wrong, it is a very nice place, but it DOES revolve around art, food, culture, and tourism. I'm not taking away from your success, but as a resident of NC there is no doubt, at least in my mind, part of that success you write about is because of where you live.

Second, and most important in your success story, is this line:

"I must mention that I am spending far more than I am taking in right now"

There are many here producing art out of enjoyment who have no desire to profit. That's a given and that's fine. But there are also many here who's goal is to profit from their art. And losing money like you do is not the definition of "success" to those people.

The one productive thing I took away from your post is the community contact / marketing aspect. I don't do that and should, but where I am at (Greensboro) it is hard to do because except for a handful of places, it is not an art community. In fact, over the last few years or so, whatever spattering of art was around here has almost all closed down. Nonetheless, it's useful info because once outside of my area hope exists.

Again, nice post and thank you for it. I just wanted to make sure that people not familiar with Asheville knew that the "flavor" of the place is part to play in your success. If I were asked to describe the attributes of Asheville in order of priority it would be: tourism, art, food, and music. Asheville IS a different place. It's unique not only in North Carolina, but in the south.

Thank you for sharing John, Congratulations!

Getting out into the real world is so often mentioned in keys to success and is the hardest thing for me to do. I sometimes find it ironic that I create stuff that I want to share with the world yet I don't. I know I don't ...I make excuses...no time, day job, the financial investment, it's too cold, it's too hot, got to clean the house...the worst of it is I live in a perfect spot for selling art....LOL must be scared of success.

Thank you this is just the kick in the butt that I need.

No offense taken, Dan. You are right. As a matter of fact, that is one reason I retired to Asheville instead of staying in warm, sunny Arizona where I lived before or moving to Florida or somewhere else. Asheville is unique in 1,000 different ways. And art is a big part of who we are here.

Depending on where you live, your mileage may vary. :)

Sounds as though you have a plan, John, and it appears you'll be busy accomplishing your set goals. Congrats!

Thanks for sharing your story. Sounds awesome! You worked your whole life to spend that some of your kids inheritance for some fun. Enjoy!

I'm glad you are enjoying what you are doing. However, giving work away for 5 years and still not pulling in more than you are spending is not really a success, as far as selling or making a living from artwork. If you have been getting a lot of local press and that sort of thing then there is perhaps something missing with you leveraging that publicity. The story here is, do what I do and work you ass off for no return for 5 years. But, YOUR definition of success is not going to be the same as mine with that said. I just don't get it, and that is not being "negative" either for those of you that even want to go there.

Whatever, Kevin. You play the game your way and I'll play mine.

I learned many years ago from playing Santa gigs and doing photo restorations that building a clientele and creating a good reputation takes time. I was brand new here 5 years ago. I didn't even start selling until 2 years ago - I laid groundwork first. I only gave away small pieces last summer - not for 5 years. Doing that got me a ton more publicity. Call it advertising, if you will, but on a personal basis not through impersonal print media.

As I noted - my road to success is not everyone's. Where you live, what you have for tools, what form of art you sell, all play in the equation.

Like any business, my start-up costs will take years to pay off. It doesn't mean I am not succeeding. My new $40,000 studio won't be paid for right away.

But after all, Rome wasn't built in a day.

Whatever road you choose, I wish you success. Don't follow in my footsteps by any means - make your own path and be happy.

"...Whatever road you choose, I wish you success. Don't follow in my footsteps by any means - make your own path and be happy."



With age comes wisdom. Well said, John.

Thank you so much for sharing

Thank you so much for sharing John. I am very new to this, having thought about trying to sell my images for years. I naively totally underestimated the commitment needed in terms of marketing so that has been a big wake up call! I will do what I can while my teaching job takes up most of my time and energy. BUT, hopefully will start to lay some groundwork for future success. It is good to hear individual stories as to how others have started to realise their dreams. So thanks again.
Mo

Well if anything it is certainly the reality of how hard it is, and how much work has to go into it. A good reality check for those thinking they can just put up photos and have people come buy them. And yes, I agree that it is like any other business in the sense that it takes time.

Thank you for sharing some of your ideas, John. Very helpful knowing what other people are doing.

I envy you John, for being in Asheville. I researched many relocate cities and Asheville NC is an artist destination. I have dreams of moving to such an art buzz place someday. Right now I am in Lovejoy Ga and as far as art scene well lets just say it's not exactly hopping. Very conservative subdued art scene. Interestingly I sell my art and prints nationwide and Georgia is barely on the radar as far as art buyer and I lived and tried to get my foot in the door for over 25 years.


I am stuck here for financial reasons and make the best of it. I did art shows a few years back and the physical strain was too much for me. At the end of the trips I barely broke even financially. Unfortunately I am not independently wealthy or have any savings. I worked all my life and never made more than hand to mouth. Some day I hope that will change. I do donate works to charities that I care about and even some money, which I probably should not considering. To me success also means financial success simply because I do not believe in taking handouts or living off other people and there are minimal bills that must be paid. If I made 50 grand a year I would consider myself a millionaire.

I dream in my next life the world will have finally rid itself of the monetary system, all basic needs are taken care of and everyone can do what they love without having to charge for it,no hunger, or fear they can't pay their electricity bill.

My success story is that despite many hardships and financial struggles, especially since moving to the US, I am still a very positive person who loves to hear how well others are doing.

Painting is my refuge, my solitude, my inspiration, my comfort my adventure.

All my best to you!

oh BTW John... when they day arrives that I may be able to realize my dream of moving to an artsy town and I chose Asheville, do you mind if I call on you for some sound relocation advise?

Call or write any time! My door and my heart are always open. :)

Thank you John. XOX

Thank you for sharing John!! :)

Great read of a great story.

Thanks for posting.

Great story and great way to go through life. There are certainly measures of ROI aside from making big profits.

If there is a path to profitability, I'm sure you'll find it if you want to. I've met a few folks along the way who love to shoot, paint, sculpt or whatever who have taken it up as a "second career" of sorts.

They've made enough money doing other things the rest of their lives that the number one goal of career 2.0 is to love what they do and specifically do not want it to turn into the drudgery of a "business" and instead prefer the recognition of local art fairs, contests and aim to come out about even.

Its a nice spot to be in and its great to connect with folks like that. They tend to be some of the most generous folks you'll find, often willing to share the secrets of their success be it photo or painting tips, offering space in a gallery or introductions to other artists, art buyers or art groups.

Profits are great but loving what you do is often a lot better.

That's great John! I find that when I go to my local downtown area and interact with people I am also very successful at making new connections. It really does pay to get out there and meet people and interact with them. It's so much better then trying to connect with people online.

Great story!

Awesome John, sounds like you are happy.. that is what its all about..I know everyone on here wants to get rich.. and sounds like they think they should be..but the secret to a successful artist is publicity ,shows,shows ,shows and connections.. I mean.. have you ever been to a place like Paris or New York? Do you see pieces of crap..that go for from 80000 to half a million because they have a "name" of someone on them? Its all about connections and being in the Vogue.. If you can be there then you are in the right place..People I have seen that deserve to make the kind of money I just put here never seem to and the ones that are well connected and brought to bear in a market because they were promoted by the right people and in the right groups and made to be the person to buy art from for offices and famous stores.. etc.. Its funny.. worldwide..I see so many many talented incredible artist that can't pay their rent or afford to buy their paints of tools of the trade because they aren't promoted or didn't show in certain galleries and many many famous artist from the past never got recognition when they were alive or could barely eat but when they died then all of a sudden they were in the vogue .... because someone saw their art and made them famous.. It is an incredible world..nothing make sense as far as making money from art or what is special and what isn't .. If you are on FAA and you think you will get rich.. well I wish you good luck...If you can make a living by being only an artist..i say bravo but if making art makes you happy and if you can afford it...I think that is satisfaction enough.. if you think you will be the next Rembrandt or Picasso ..or whomever.. good luck with that.. if you are it will be more or less after you are dead.. and the income won't matter at all.. I read your post and think that as long as you are happy doing what you are doing.. that is the number one reason for doing it. I also am an artist ,I sell works from time to time..in the past I have sold too many and been far to much in demand..it became work to me ,not fun ,not art,just drudgery. That is why I no longer do shows,marketing, or promotional events..I rather just get a little member account here..and use it more for a album of fond memories and things I like..the sole reason im here.. not really to make a living or even sell..it would be nice to sell.. but that is not why im here.. just here because its nice to be here and put things in public view that im fond of and keep things that i create to look at from time to time.. But good luck to each and everyone of you that are here to make a living from this site.. I wish you all the best.. .and John...fantastic post and keep it up..Jean

Needless to say John, you are truley blessed with a uniqe technique. I've seen a lot of your outstanding work and it speaks for itself. I'd promote you any day! Yes it's true, you've made the efforts and it paid off. Your confidence pushing you and talent pulling you...what a wonderful combination. For the many other great artists out there, I am great ful for your post. You've made a lot of great detailed points of interest that can help them. Sharing your story to help others promote themselves is a wonderful aspect of your determination geared toward a reward within itself.