Expert: DJ Murphy - 9/3/2004

Question
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Hi DJ,
My name is Darcie and I am interested in becoming a famous artist (instead of a starving one!!) I was hoping you could give me some good advice.
Since I have commited to my oil painting, I have completed one painting about every 2-3 weeks and now have about 10 to work with. I am interested in reproducing my works into limited edition Giclees. I have been to Harvest Productions, checked out the whole process of Giclee making and have started scanning some of my pieces for printing.
 In the meantime, I have entered a few local art shows.
  Could you please give me advice on what my next steps should be towards selling my Giclees?
I would appreciate any information you could give me on Fine Art marketing, legal aspects, pricing, things to watch out for, approaching galleries.....pretty much anything and everything!!!
Thank you,in advance, for all your time,
Darcie
PS. Hope you had a great time in Europe!!


Answer
Hello Darcy,

Thank you for your sentiments.  I did have a terrific time in Europe...and even found a few new artists for my gallery.

Now to your question........unfortunately it is the question without an answer.  Famous as an artist...first you produce many works in your lifetime.....and then you have to die.....before being recognized for your creative genius!

Just kidding.....but remember Van Gogh only sold two paintings in his lifetime and one was to his brother.

The only reason I can think of for having your work printed as giclees is that your originals are so valuable that you can't sell them for a good return.  If you are selling originals quickly then I would say yes do giclees.....but if you are just starting out......you need to have some recognition as an artist.....before you giclees will have any demand.

Don't know if you subscribe to Art Calender Magazine...but go online and find their web site   artcalendar.com   There are many articles written by experts that address your questions.  If you can't find it...go to your library and have them order an issue or two for you.  They have had many fine articles that are practical for artists.

Approaching galleries.......remember that galleries are there to make money...and most if not all have a particular "bent" that they favor.  Check out Gallery Guide .....galleryguide.com  to see which galleries are exhibiting your style of work....drop them a note with a few images....and a brief bio....then call to follow up.  Most galleries do not respond to unsolicited mailings by artists........I know it isn't kind...but that is the real world.

I wish you much success........remember don't get discouraged....it is an uphill battle...but if you believe in your self...then something good will happen.

dj murphy