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Artists and Digital: Why Social Media is the New Gallery

by Lauren Drell

The starving artist is such a cliche, and fortunately, it might become a thing of the past. Using social media tools and platforms, visual artists have new ways to market their work and connect with buyers far and wide. And because these websites are free to use, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram are quickly becoming as important to an artist as the paintbrush and palette.

For artists like Kus, who may not be able to find the time to build up and maintain a social media presence, there’s good news: It’s actually not that hard or time-consuming.

Alyson Stanfield, the “Art Biz Coach,” offers tips for artists who are looking to utilize social platforms. She says it takes just 15 minutes a day, and offers insights on what to do on Facebook and Twitter. Her biggest piece of advice is that the important thing to remember is that work comes first — social media is great, but it’s a waste of time if you have no art to market. “Don’t use social media during your peak productivity time,” says Stanfield. “Studio first, then business, then social time.”

Woolery devotes even more time, spending up to 10 hours a week working on social media, much of which can be done during dead time or while he’s on the go. “With different apps on my phone, it’s relatively easy to push photos and videos to fans,” he says. “For artists, I think [social media is] crucial, because people connect with your work but also want to connect with you as a person … they are going on a journey with you.” Try not to think of your art and your personal life as disparate entities — have your Twitter and Facebook feeds be a blend of your own personality and your art, which makes it easier for people to get to know you, and makes the act of social networking feel more natural.

Use your artwork as your avatar on social media platforms and be active — you never know whose interest you may pique with a tiny thumbnail of your work. “I’ve heard from two of my clients who were discovered by galleries because they left a comment on my Facebook Page,” says Stanfield.

Lastly, have fun. “If you’re not having fun, you’re doing something wrong and probably won’t be effective,” Stanfield says.

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