As artists, we often notice that fall and winter bring more opportunities and sales, especially with holiday shoppers. Unfortunately, often times once the New Year comes around, sales tend to slow down, and that can be tough to navigate. However, instead of getting discouraged, there are plenty of ways to stay productive and maintain a positive mindset during this less profitable season.
1. Stay Smart with Your Spending First and foremost, don’t spend more than you're making. It’s easy to get excited about sales at art stores, but staying mindful of your budget is key. Use what you already have and avoid overindulging just because something is on sale.
2. Tackle Neglected Tasks Use this slow time to catch up on things you might have set aside. Update your website, refresh your social media profiles, or clean and reorganize your art studio. You can also create coupons, flyers, and signs for your online shop or upcoming events using resources like Canva, which offers templates for everything from business cards to social media posts.
3. Start Something New Got a project you’ve been meaning to try? Now is the perfect time! Whether it’s starting a new art series, launching a blog, or creating your own YouTube channel or podcast, use this time to explore new ways to engage with your audience. If you’re interested in starting a podcast, check out Buzzsprout for easy podcast hosting, or learn how to create your own YouTube channel.
4. Offer Specials or Coupons. If original art isn’t selling as quickly, offer something else. Pet portraits can be a fun and personal way to bring in extra income. You can also create specials or offer limited-time coupons for the merch on your online shop. Tools like Canva make it easy to design these promotions quickly.
5. Explore Warmer Markets If you’re in a colder climate, explore opportunities in warmer vacation spots where art sales may be thriving during the winter. Research galleries in these areas and apply to sell your work there. Warmer regions might provide a more profitable market during the slow winter months.
6. Focus on Education Use this time to enhance your art business skills. Reading books can be an excellent way to learn about business strategies and trends in the art world. Stores like Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million have great selections on art marketing, business growth, and creative entrepreneurship. Also, don’t forget to browse for online courses that can help boost your business knowledge. Part of education could also be networking with other artists, during artwalks and art openings or visiting the local museum. You could also consider taking some of the small business administration free classes and workshops to level up your business knowledge. www.sba.gov
7. Build or Update Your Website If your website needs an upgrade or you’re thinking of building one from scratch, platforms like Wix and Squarespace are user-friendly and offer beautiful templates to showcase your art professionally. Make sure your website is user-friendly and optimized for both mobile and desktop viewers.
8. Stay Informed on Art Trends Stay up to date on art market trends to keep your business competitive. You check out the latest trends in the art market from sites like Art Basel or Artnet.
9. Focus on the Bigger Picture Finally, remember that slow seasons are part of the natural business cycle. Instead of letting a dip in sales bring you down, focus on why you became an artist, because you love creating. Use this time to refresh, work on new projects, and stay connected to your passion.
10. For the Artist of Faith There are numerous verses to remind you that you are not alone, during trying times. I suggest writing them down and placing them around your workspace, approaching God with a grateful heart in prayer, seeking guidance, peace, and direction, for He will take care of you. Even when you don't feel like it, use praise as a source of encouragement. Here are a couple of verses for your reflection: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1) "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10) For further inspiration and comfort, visit www.biblegateway.com or www.biblehub.com.
During slower times, it's important to see them as opportunities for growth in your art business. Take advantage of this period to build a stronger foundation for the future. Focus on managing your finances, enhancing your skills, exploring new markets, and staying creatively engaged to turn what might seem like a setback into a period of significant advancement. Remember that your passion for art is what drives your success, so embrace challenges and keep creating with joy.
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