This article is by Keith Bond, Regular contributing writer for FineArtViews.  You should submit an article and share your views as a guest author by clicking here.

Last week, I encouraged you to invest time and effort into learning the business side of art. I shared that I have been doing this for myself for the past couple years.

As a response, many of you asked for specifics – who/what do I find most helpful?

Before I give you a few specifics, I must point out that I am not getting paid to endorse anyone or any product. My list is in no way an endorsement. I am simply sharing what I find valuable and helpful. Do with the list what you will.

I might add that you are probably reading this because you subscribe to FineArtViews. This is a great resource with lots of great advice from a wide variety of viewpoints from several different writers and guest writers. Although I do get paid to write for FAV (my disclaimer), I do believe it is a powerful resource. But, since you’re already here, I don’t include it in my list.

3 Voices Worth Listening To – This list isn’t in any particular order. They each have a different focus and address the issue from different points of view. This also isn’t a complete list. But it is a good start.

1. Alyson Stanfield – Her focus is specific to art business and marketing. Her book I’d Rather Be in the Studio is a must have for any artist. I refer to it often. She has a great blog and newsletter that I subscribe to. She offers many products and services. Her business is Art Biz Coach. Many of you already know of her, but some of you don’t. Her website is here.

1. Christine Kane – Her focus is entrepreneurship, with a special focus on those who have a “purpose” and feel passionate about their work. She is founder and president of Uplevel You. Her mentorships are only for women, but anyone can subscribe to her ezine/blog, attend seminars and teleseminars, participate in training calls, purchase products, etc. Her approach includes focusing on improving yourself as well as your business. Follow her blog/ezine here.

1. Seth Godin – His focus is thinking creatively and taking initiative. Do something. Don’t settle for the status quo. Challenge it. “Go”. His target audience is much broader than artists or entrepreneurs. His audience is anyone with creative thinking and willing to take initiative – whether self employed or working for someone else. He’s written several books and has a great daily blog. He doesn’t offer many answers or how-to’s. He raises questions and encourages you to think and then act. His website is here.

As I say, it isn’t a complete list. There are many voices out there. I relate well to what these 3 say and I have seen results from doing some of the things they recommend. I may recommend some others in another article.

For now, though, your assignment is to find someone (either from my list or another) and see if what they have to say is something you could benefit from.

Best Wishes,

Keith Bond