top of page
Artist's Launch Academy Logo (3).png

What is Marketing for Artists (and Why Should You Care)?

Writer's picture: Kasi DrummerKasi Drummer

Updated: Jan 2

Marketing often feels like the last thing artists want to focus on – after all, you’d rather be in the studio creating. But if no one sees your work, how will they ever buy it?


The truth is, marketing isn’t about selling out – it’s about inviting people into your world.


In this post, we’ll break down why marketing matters for artists, how to overcome common fears, and how Artist’s Launch Academy makes the process simple (and dare I say, enjoyable). If you’re ready to turn more of your followers into collectors, keep reading.


Why Artists Struggle with Marketing

I’ll never forget sitting across from one of my first artist clients, explaining SEO and email lists. Her eyes glazed over, and she said, “I just want to paint.” I get it. Marketing can feel like the furthest thing from creating art.


But here’s the truth – if no one sees your work, how can they buy it? That’s why I created Artist’s Launch Academy. After interviewing over 100 artists, I realized the biggest hurdle wasn’t talent – it was the lack of marketing knowledge.


Why Traditional Art Education Falls Short

Art school teaches technique, not business. Graduates leave with stunning portfolios but no clue how to promote or sell their art. Self-taught artists hit the same wall. You can master YouTube tutorials on painting, but no one’s teaching you pricing or marketing​.

Pro Tip: If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll focus on marketing when my art improves,” stop right there. Your art is already valuable – the missing piece is how you present it.


Marketing is About Connection, Not Sales


Think of marketing as part of your creative process:

  • Social media is your window display. It gives people a glimpse of your art, but they need to step inside to see more.

  • Your website is the shop. This is where collectors can browse, fall in love, and buy.

  • Email lists are personal invites. They keep people coming back for private viewings and exclusive previews.

Marketing Tool

How It Benefits Artists

Social Media

Acts as your window display, drawing attention and creating engagement.

Website

Your virtual gallery - open 24/7 to display your art and then sell your art

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Helps collectors discover your art organically though online searches on Google, Bing, or Yahoo!

Blogging

Tells your story, improves SEO, and keeps your website fresh with content that will engage and educate your audience.

Email list

Builds personal connections with collectors and nurtures long-term interest.

Collaborations with artists

This expands your audience and SEO naturally with fun projects within the artist community


Imagine walking by a beautiful gallery with striking art in the window. That’s your Instagram or TikTok feed. But can you buy the art from the sidewalk? rt from the sidewalk?


Nope. You have to step inside – and that’s what your website does. It invites collectors to explore, connect, and ultimately purchase.



Overcoming the Fear of Self-Promotion

Do these sound familiar?

  • “I don’t want to seem pushy.”

  • “My work should speak for itself.”

  • “I wouldn’t even know where to start.”


Here’s the reframe: Marketing isn’t bragging – it’s inviting people into your world.


How Artist’s Launch Academy Makes Marketing Easier

At Artist’s Launch Academy, we simplify marketing by focusing on three pillars:

  1. Education That Makes Sense: We break down complex concepts like SEO and social media marketing into actionable steps – just like learning art techniques​. Check out an overview of Module 1 research.

  2. Community Support: Learn alongside other artists. Sharing ideas and challenges helps everything click.

  3. Practical Tools: Our Launch Workbook is like a sketchbook for marketing – less jargon, more action. I created the workbook to be ADHD friendly and is a complimentary workbook to the lecture of the academy.



Actionable Steps to Start Marketing Today

Here are quick 5-minute tasks to kickstart your marketing:

  • Post one piece of art to social media

  • Engage with three artists or collectors

  • Add a subscriber to your email list

  • Share the story behind your art

  • Update a product listing on your website



Final Thought: Marketing isn’t intimidating when you have the right tools. Let’s grow your art business one step at a time. Sign up for the newsletter to stay updated on Artist’s Launch Academy and secure your spot in the pilot program.


Your art deserves to be seen – let’s make sure it gets there.


3 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page