Artist Networking

As an artist one of things I find the least enjoyable is all of the competition. It seems like the world of homemade, professional arts and crafts can become jealous and competitive, especially since the economy is suffering and things like the arts are often heavily affected by trouble in the economy. When people can’t afford the necessities of life, often the arts are the first things to be cut out of the budget. One of the ways I have found to overcome this difficulty is through artist networking organizations and collaborations with other local artists.

Social networking as an artist is one of the most enjoyable but often most challenging aspects to a career as a professional artist or craftsman or craftswoman. Places like the typical online social networking sites are a great idea, but lack the specific focus of catering to artists and lovers of the arts. To create an online community that supports each other, collaborates, comes together to openly share and voice opinions is one of the most important things we can do to market ourselves and get our art out there to be seen.

Having a personal website is only the start, because marketing an individual website and getting enough traffic to make your site lucrative can be very challenging. However, linking your site to a profile page on a directory of artists that is comprehensive, vast and diverse can make your traffic increase beyond what one might think possible. Artists need as many outlets and avenues to promote themselves and their work as possible, and it is very helpful to have at your disposal a whole wide network of other people working in the same fields or with similar values and ideas as yourself.

Making friends from other parts of the country or other parts of the world can be incredibly beneficial, not to mention unbelievably fun for any artist or crafter. The possibilities of shows and opening in other parts of the nation or other corners of the planet start to open up when a world wide community of artists comes together for the common goal of expanding and promoting the arts, and strengthening the connections and collaborations between previously separated artists.

Imagine having your work seen by galleries and buyers from all over the world, from each part of the country coast to coast, or from right there in you very own town. Share processes, techniques and skills as your offer up you style, and simultaneously acquire new and previously undreamed of inspiration, ideas and methods from other bright folks who are doing work elsewhere.

Social networking for artists and crafters is increasingly more important as we move into the modern age, and now that we have the resources and a community willing to be a part of it, we should jump at the chance. Every artist knows the frustration of repeated denials and the labor of combing galleries and weekend craft fairs to try to make a living. Every edge that can be taken should be, and not to mention the enjoyment of it. Being an artist as a way of life should be rich, rewarding and fulfilling. Managing the business end of things, as well as the marketing and social end can be daunting. Becoming part of the premier online social networking site for artists is one way to help get ahead and get more enjoyment out of your career as a professional artist.