Artists and crafts people often find it difficult to figure out how to sell their artworks. Many newer artists and craftspeople began pursuing a creative endeavor as a stress relief from a difficult job or life situation, and thus have never been exposed to an entrepreneurial approach to anything.
Some artists start selling their work on a small scale, but then have no idea how to take it to the next step.
That’s where the “The Business of Crafts” workshop comes in. Tailored to fit the specific needs of this unique market niche, this unique workshop takes place Oct. 13 and 14 at ArtWorks in Edmonds.
Taught by Pam Corwin, artist and owner of Paper Scissors Rock, and Manya Schilperoort, jewelry designer and owner of Kindred Circle Art Gallery, participants will have the opportunity to glean the fruits of their experiences.
The weekend seminar includes classes on selling craftworks in retail settings as well as through wholesale outlets. Pricing and marketing tips will be addressed, as well as ideas on how to make a display booth stand out in the middle of a crowded show. There will be an opportunity to hear the stories of other artists who earn their living through selling their art. There will even be a panel of art gallery owners who will share their tips on how to make a great impression on them.
One of the most coveted parts of the weekend is the opportunity to get honest yet kind feedback on your own artwork from Corwin, Schilperoort and other retailers. There will be tips on how to price items, marketing aspects best suited to specific styles, and where the best target markets lie from experts who are in that area of business already and gently offer feedback and encouragement.
Corwin and Schilperoort met many years ago at a show — Corwin selling her clocks and Schilperoort selling her jewelry. Both businesses grew over the years and the two stayed in touch sporadically. Schilperoort opened her successful gallery of contemporary fine art and craft in 2000and Corwin became more well known during that times as well. By coincidence, both started teaching about the business of crafts independently.
Now they have joined forces to create this workshop to help other artists travel the road they traveled — but without as many bumps.
To register for this weekend seminar, and to take advantage of an early bird price break that ends Aug. 15, visit www.businessofcrafts.com, or call Pam Corwin at 360-357-3480, or email Manya Schilperoort at Manya@kindredcircle.com.
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