DIY Publicity is for all visual artists.
It is especially important for visual artists who are just starting to take their artworks public to know how to publicize their own works. It’s also important for those visual artists who are beginning to take a more professional approach to their artistic careers.
For artists who are in the beginning process of trying to show their artworks, and will have art shown mostly in small venues and not large galleries, it is important to publicize the art show to as many people as possible.
By contacting the local media, and providing the press with the right type of information, your chances of getting your artwork and your career as an artist some publicity, will increase.
DIY Publicity for Visual Artists
Announce the Exhibit
Once the venue and the dates of you exhibit are firmed up, you need to send an announcement or press release to the local press.
Insider’s Tip: Do not rely on the venue to do it, even if it is the type of venue that does publicize exhibits. It does not hurt to have two announcements sent to the press.
Create an Artist’s Statement
Write up an artist’s statement about your artistic vision, and the history and progression of your artwork.
Insider’s Tip: When you are crunched for time, and do not have time to write a detailed Artist’s Statement, at least write one for the exhibit you are having. The artworks are most likely tied together by theme, medium or format. A paragraph or two about the creation of the works will bring the art to life for the editor or writer.
When you show that you can intelligently describe your work and the internal or technical processes that brought you to create the pieces in the exhibit, you will be more likely to get coverage and maybe even an interview.
Write an Artist’s Bio
Take the time to also include a short artists’ biography about the town where you live, were you were educated, and where you were born or grew up.
Insider’s Tip: It is not necessary to include your age and any details about your personal life. Unless your art is directly tied to some aspect of your personal life. For example if your paintings are about motherhood, you can include “mother of two” in your biography.
Take Photos
Send along a quality photo of your artwork to the local press.
Insider’s Tip: Send a follow up e-mail to the editor advising them that you can email digital files of artworks if they’d like to publish them with any article they are considering writing.
Create a List of Previous Shows
Compile a list, not matter how long or short, or all previous exhibits. Start with the most recent and artwork backwards.
Insider’s Tip: Include all group shows as well, to pad out the list.
By doing your own publicity, you will increase attendance at your art exhibits and gain more interest in your artwork.
