You're Not Doing Enough

The toughest truth to accept is that you're not doing enough. Whether you agree or not, deep down, you know it's true. As a professional artist, you're essentially an entrepreneur, requiring 100% responsibility for your success or failure. Over my 20 years of mentoring artists, I've seen many with great potential but not getting the recognition they deserve because they simply avoid the uncomfortable task of selling.

Imagine if Mercedes came out with their new line of cars for 2024. They spent all year designing new cars, built all those cars, shipped them out to dealerships worldwide, but then spent no time advertising or trying to tell anyone they are available. Then they started work on their 2025 line of cars, making no attempt at selling their 2024 line of cars. Is that a plan for success? You would probably say they were crazy. My point is that you have to spend time marketing and selling your work before you end up with a studio filled with great work and a depressing feeling deep down inside that you are a failure. It isn't the world that is doing anything to you; the harsh reality is that it is your responsibility.

Coming to terms with this truth is challenging. Lowering your defenses and being critical about your efforts require strength. Even I struggled with this as a shy kid with low self-esteem. Every failure made me better, and over the years, I realized I could do much more than I thought. We all have the capacity to grow, improving through practice, just like in our art-making process.

Think of selling your art like lifting weights for the first time. It's uncomfortable initially, but quitting isn't the answer. Return the next day, adopt the habit, and get stronger. The same applies to selling; continuous effort, no matter how small the progress, is better than doing nothing. Taking the first step is crucial; you must take some action each week. All the advice and knowledge in the world means nothing without action.

👉 Here are three actions you can take today to enhance your sales potential:

1) Take Responsibility: Only you can sell your work. No one will care as much as you do, whether it's a gallery, your parents, or friends. Own the responsibility.

2) Build Yourself Up: A positive mental state is essential for marketing and selling your art. If you don't believe in yourself, selling becomes challenging. Embrace the positivity you have for your artwork and apply it to yourself.

3) Start Building Networks: You're a stranger to sales unless you bring your artwork to the people. Form a daily habit of sharing and building new relationships, both in real life and online. Be courteous and uplifting, attracting the same energy from others. Your next sale could be from someone you met at the supermarket or in an online art group.

I hope this helps you or someone who needs it. My very best to you.


If you'd like to study with me or to have me as your mentor go to:

Mentorship: https://www.ericarmusik.com/page/18463/artist-career-consultations

Drawing and Painting Lessons: https://www.ericarmusik.com/page/18505/private-art-lessons