The World Health Organisation declared a global pandemic this month and most of us are hunkered down at home practicing social distancing. To say that the world is upside down right now would be an understatement.
In unprecedented times like these, we creatives need to band together and keep moving forward. Keep creating, keep putting our work out there, and keep moving our art businesses in the right direction.
Fortunately, there are a tone of resources out there to help the creative community right now. We’ve put together a list of 10 tips to help you navigate this new normal.
1. Get Creative
It goes without saying that the best thing we can do as creatives is to, well…create. If you are struggling to self-motivate or come up with new ideas, consider a daily drawing, painting or photography prompt.
2. Practice Routine
Consider adding structure to your day by creating your art in the morning and working on your art business in the afternoon. Don’t forget to take regular breaks and stay hydrated.
3. Learn Something New
Take an online class or learn a new practical skill. Maybe you want to learn a new creative skill? Or, perhaps, hone your art business skills so that you are ready to hit the ground running when things return to normal.
Check out the link below to learn about our signature program, Art Business Boot Camp “A proven step-by-step system to help artists reach more collectors, make more sales, and grow a stellar social media following.” Enrollment is only open for a limited time. You can get started today for $375 a month (3 months) or save $128 by paying in full.
4. Apply for a Grant or Financial Relief
We’ve gathered together a list of resources where you can apply for financial support:
Foundation for Contemporary Arts Emergency Grant
5. Join a Membership Club
At Conception Arts we are delighted to announce the launch of our monthly membership club: Artists in Action. Launching April 9th, the club includes a monthly creative workshop plus business masterclass. In addition, you can attend live accountability Q+A sessions, download a monthly workbook, and participate in group challenges.
Artists in Action: Monthly Membership & Masterclass Club: Pre-Launch Waitlist
6. Sell Your Art Online
Just because shows are canceled or postponed right now doesn’t mean that you should close up shop. There is a multitude of online platforms where you can present your work for sale. If you haven’t done so already, consider uploading and promoting your work to one of the following platforms:
7. Share your Experience
Consider live streaming from your studio. What better way to connect with your audience than taking them behind the scenes for a sneak peek at your creative process. Or, maybe share with the world how you are feeling right now.
8. Listen to a Podcast
Add listening to a podcast episode into your daily routine to keep your mind engaged. Check out Smart Art Business for over twenty episodes featuring advice from gallerists, artists and business professionals.
9. Apply for a Show or Residency
While we have no clear idea as to when things will return to normal, it is safe to say that things are not going to be like this forever. Use this gift of time to get into action. Apply for art shows, exhibits, and residencies. Perhaps even put together a proposal to submit to a local institution.
Apply for France residency – December 2020
10. Stay Connected
Stay connected to your loved ones and fellow artists. Now more than ever, we need each other so send out those virtual hugs and messages of inspiration and keep on keeping on. Why not organize a hang out with your artist friends. Check out Zoom for quick and easy video conferencing options.
