My first Open Studios event in Devon resulted in 14 sales even though visitor numbers were disappointing (we’re a bit out of the way and my signposting was rubbish). I’m told my prices were far too low but I was just happy to reduce the pile of artwork gathering dust around my studio. My original work sold better than my "studies after” though these were a great talking point. I loved meeting new people and local artists and getting their feedback.
Here’s what I learnt:
Card payment devices won’t work unless you charge them (I used Zettle); you need reliable wifi too.
My taste in frames is suspect - better to leave that to others and sell mostly unframed work unless you have a good eye and deep pocket.
Presentation is key to good sales. I uses tabletop cardboard display stands to showcase my work. Some cheap options are available from SAA.
Try not to sound surprised when people say they like a painting that you don’t - they might buy it!
Note ratio between glasses of prosecco poured and number of paintings sold.
Greetings cards sell well. Everyone loves a bargain so offering five cards for the price of four was a good tactic. I use fine art print specialists Sixprint in Cornwall, who allow a minimum run of only 10 cards per design and a multi design discount.
Have a clear logical pricing policy and stick to it.
Not everyone likes dogs, so it’s best to home them elsewhere for the duration.
It’s advisable to take out public liability insurance. This is to protect you if a third party takes legal action against you because your work causes them to suffer injury or they trip over your dogs. Mine was included in my A-N membership fee. https://www.a-n.co.uk/
Think carefully about access (are there steps?) and parking. Be prepared for muddy boots and dripping umbrellas. Will you allow people to use your loo?
Keep a record of sales and customers’ contact details for future events.
Stick a business card on the back of each painting and have some on display.
Have plenty of protective wrapping materials - scruffy, old carrier bags won’t do!
Don’t be in a rush to take commissions, unless you are confident you can produce the work within a reasonable timescale and it’s a subject that excites you.
Don’t be shy. To start with I found it really hard to show neighbours my work and to call myself an artist (if you paint you are an artist). Now I happily keep them updated about my latest paintings, sell them greetings cards made from my work and invite them to private views. Some of my best sales have been to friends of neighbours. One even auctioned a painting of mine to raise money for the local church…his wife bought it.
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