Tracking Artwork Inventory in Style

What comes to mind when you think of tracking inventory? Maybe it sounds boring, time intensive and complicated. Or perhaps you don't think it's necessary for your type of artwork. And yet, with all of the end of year shows and sales, you need to keep tabs on your work. One simple spreadsheet can host all of the information to help you foster a successful creative business. This matters whether your are producing multiples or only originals, whether you show in galleries or at art fairs, whether you have an online store or simply a portfolio. So how do you keep it simple?

It's possible that spreadsheets are not one of your favorite tools (unless you are one of those clever Excel artists), but when it comes to tracking your artwork inventory, I can't think of a better option. Of course, there is software like Artwork Archive, but if you don't want to pay a subscription fee, I'm here to help you set up your own fully customizable inventory spreadsheet (or improve on what you may already have). Once you develop a system for tracking your art, and yes, it will take some time to get the process started, but then all you have to do is update it once a week or month, depending on your rate of production. Let's get tracking!

Calendar Planning for Q4

Can you believe it's almost October?! That means we are embarking on Q4, which is the most wonderful time of year, but for artists and makers, it's also often the busiest time of year. Chances are you've already applied to the big end of year events, and you've gotten your acceptances, so now it's time to start planning. You'll need to account for inventory, special holiday collections, marketing, and more. The sooner you get yourself organized, the more smoothly these three months will go. Let's talk through the key considerations so you can map out your Q4 for success!

10 Reasons to Join Me at CMBXP

I think we all can agree in the importance of treating your creative endeavors like a business, especially if you want to make a living off these skills. While that doesn’t mean you need an MBA, it does require learning about business best practices. Accounting, Marketing, Legal; You wear all of these hats in your business on top of being the artistic powerhouse you are. And if you’re like most of the artists I work with, you'd rather concentrate your time in the studio, so the more efficient you can be in these other areas, the less of your creating time they’ll take up. There are tons of options out there for professional development - Books, Classes, Workshops, Facebook Groups, Blogs, Coaches - so how do you narrow down and make the best use of your time? Oh and did I forget to mention Networking? It’s exhausting to think about all of these outlets, even more so if you’re an introvert and right brain dominant. Well guess what? I have an awesome solution that will serve you no matter where you are in your business: CMBXP, a networking and professional development experience specially designed for creatives!

Do Artists Need Resumes?

As artists, many of us would like to think that our work speaks for itself in terms of experience and expertise. Why would we need to write out our education, awards, show history? Plus, who wants to brag about all of that when the real focus is making more work? There are plenty of situations in which your art alone will be the deciding factor on whether or not you are included in a show or event, but as with any other career, professional artists will have use for a resume and / or CV. But what’s the difference? What should be included in each? Let’s chat about best practices for documenting your artistic track record and giving yourself credit for work well done!

Artist Statements: The What, How & Why

I talk a lot about the importance of photography for artists because I believe very strongly in the power of great visuals to SHOW your talent. With that said, there are going to be times when you need to TELL people more about yourself as an artist, and the most common format is an Artist Statement. Can you describe your art and your style in a quick couple of paragraphs? Whether you're applying to a gallery or an art fair, you'll likely need this kind of writeup handy to help the judging parties get to know your How, What and Why. Let's review what makes for a strong Artist Statement as well as some tips to make your writeup memorable.

Time to Apply: Cherrywood Art Fair

The most wonderful time of year will be here before we know it. That's the handmade holiday shopping season in case you were wondering. Chula League's Cherrywood Art Fair has become a classically Austin event that happens the second weekend of December. If you offer giftable fine art and handmade items, this show would be a great opportunity to get in front of lots of buyers. Plus, there's music, food, family entertainment and more. The Artist Application is now live, and ready to hear from you. Below I've outlined more details about what to expect. Good luck!

Time to Apply: Blue Genie Art Bazaar

The holiday season is one of the best times sales opportunities for artists and handmade business owners. If you have work that is easily giftable, consider Blue Genie Art Bazaar. This event is unique in that it's open for a full month and showcases a wide range of talent. Artists aren't on site the whole time which allows them to keep making items. The application went live in May, but there is still plenty of time to submit. Just be sure you get everything in by August 10th. Here are some key considerations.