How Do You Describe Yourself and Your Work?

In a recent conversation with a Gallery Owner, I was told that she did not allow many of her artists to talk with potential clients.  Naturally I asked why…her response was;

“Because they lose more sales than they make!”

This is not unique to this gallery alone, in fact, many artists are more comfortable talking about their friend’s work than their own.  I am told this by a staggering number of artists themselves.

If you are an artist reading this, is this true for you? Are you OK with this?  Why is that? Is talking about your work an opportunity or an activity to avoid?   If you could change your attitude towards describing your work, would you? 

Then why do you continue to take that path?  Fear, lack of words, don’t believe in your work, or how about the ultimate avoidance posture, “The work should speak for itself, and let the viewer determine what it is about?!”

Just remember this…”What you say about your work is what others will say when you are not around”  And to add to this, If you do not speak of your own work, “What is said about your work is what others will remember and repeat!”

Regardless of how you handle this, it is essential that you control the narrative.  If someone else does, you have just lessened your chances of sales, as well as repeat and further exhibitions in the future.

You exhibit your art, which is an extension of you.  You put your all into this work and allow complete strangers into your most private world.  If it is too sensitive to talk about, there are methods to speak without getting overwhelmed by emotions, or dragging your audience into your dark inner world.  Regardless of what is holding you back, it is possible to overcome.  But no matter what, YOU must take control and let people know what your work is about.

 

All the Best My Friends,

Mike O’C.