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The (complex) business side of being an artist

artists

26 April 2012

I have met many artists in need of an "agent" – someone to liase between a gallery and the artist, or an opportunity and the artist. As we know, artists are not that interested in the business side of being an artist.

I can understand this. Business is a full-time job. It is difficult to make the work and then negotiate the sale of the work.

However, how do you be an agent and earn an income? This is a tricky question, as artists generally do not have extra cash to pay for a right hand person. It's not only about selling works and receiving a commission. It is about listening, offering advice and giving solutions to the artist, understanding situations and being their voice when the artist is too afraid to speak up.

I have talked to many artists who are with great galleries; however, they do not sell any work. They sold previously to being represented and now are in a situation that seems to be similar to a bad relationship, one that is tired and boring.

I do not normally air my thoughts. However, this month has been about support, care, advice to artists and numerous coffees with them.