Back when I owned an art gallery and spent most of my time selling art, I stumbled upon a little "secret" I'll let you in on - I didn't really "sell" art, at least not in the way we think of a car salesperson "selling" you a car. The truth is, I spent most of my time being a storyteller...Here, let me illustrate what I mean, here were some of my stories that tended to "sell" artwork.. [...]

Mary Aslin - Her graceful use of light and color creates a stunning symphony of harmony and light. [...]

And more great news is the testimony to the power of the newsletter--. The latest newsletter results (it went out this past Saturday)---- I have sold 3 paintings, have another one under consideration that I am working to close, and got a full pay for a workshop scheduled in June of next year that I just announced! Now all of those things happened specifically because of the interest the newsletter keeps stirring up... [...]

'AWAKENING' by Scott Mattlin was a Finalist in the September FineArtViews Painting Competition. [...]

One of the most difficult things to learn as one begins a journey in painting is to think of the world as a combination of flat shapes rather than realistic objects. [...]

In short, John has always been a friend to the art community...sharing his artwork, his ideas and his stories. We've all learned a lot from him. We've all benefited from the help he has generously provided...And now, John is asking for your help...In this post we have republished the situation, in John's own words. If you would like to help him, feel free to contact him directly. [...]

Art Links for Artists Who Want to Change the World [...]

Art workshops are a great way to sharpen your skills by learning new techniques - from both the workshop teacher and from the other students taking the class with you. Workshops can also help you get reinvigorated and rededicated to your craft [...]

Artists can endear themselves to their collectors and promote their artwork at the same time by giving the purchasers of their artwork a token of appreciation. One way that I do this is to give my collectors five note cards featuring their recently purchased painting on the cover of the cards. [...]

I admit that I haven't done Twitter for very long and I am certainly no expert on the subject. I have, however observed a few things that I would like to address. There has been quite a bit written lately about content (how to effectively tweet - post sweet not bitter tweets), so I will focus on the quantity issue. [...]

As an artist, I have a maximum of freedom and flexibility with my time. This is one of the things that makes being a professional artist a joy. At the same time, it creates a war within me. The daily struggle to choose the right thing to do for the advancement of my artwork is very real. [...]

Art Links for Artists Who Want to Change the World [...]

Every artist needs reassurance from time to time that what you are doing is what you should be doing. You need to strengthen that faith in yourself and your work. Faith and fear cannot coexist. [...]

Our esteemed judge, Keiko Tanabe has completed the judging of the September 2009 FineArtViews painting competition. [...]

What would happen if hundreds of us made a request that our gallery owners share contact info? What if we all did this on the same day or the same week? Would it make a difference? [...]

I have learned that time spent dreaming is critical for my creativity. These moments are when my mind is free to wander and wonder. . . . I find these forays into the dreamscape are a simple way for me to clear my mind. When I return to my to-do list, I find that I have more energy and creativity to tackle the tasks at hand. [...]

Art Links for Artists Who Want to Change the World [...]

A personal art affair that showcases your recent work in a home, studio, or restaurant is a great way to make personal contact with potential collectors and eliminates practically all of the expenses that you'd have to pay to participate in an established art fair or gallery show. . . . Below are some ideas and questions to ask while getting started with your own event. [...]

Have you ever been to a gallery or museum and been grabbed by a work of art from across the room? You then move forward towards the art and delight in the beauty of the piece, which holds you for some length as you let it communicate with you. You then decide to walk right up to the piece and examine its textures and you became thrilled at the surface quality of the work. The techniques thrill you; the textures and colors send your mind into a realm of wonder and discovery. [...]

Art Links for Artists Who Want to Change the World [...]

Collectors Rarely Want Only One Artwork by A Given Artist - Market Accordingly [...]

Think about that. An artist who is considered to be pushing the edge of modern technology is telling you that the core of her non-art activities are phone calls, emails and meetings (all mediums that provide personal, one-on-one interactions with collectors)...I seem to recall saying ad nauseum that Art Marketing is Conversations. [...]

Words are just as powerful in creating images as your paint and brushes. Don't be bland or predictable. Realize that dozens of other artists are using the same words to describe what they do. That ought to energize you into searching for a different way of saying it. [...]