Six (free) Ways to Support (living) Artists
Jennifer Markowitz. "Ukraine, March 2, 2022", Hand embroidery on cotton voile. 11x17 with frame, 2022. Learn more about Jennifer’s work and purchase Ukraine, March 2, 2022 here.
In working for ISU Extension and Outreach, within ISU College of Design, and as a regular old artist, I often consider myself sort of a translator.
Example 1: I have to remind myself and other artists that most often our audience isn’t the contemporary art world. Art jargon may not be the best way to connect with folks, unless our folks are a very specific, very small pool of people.
Example 2: Non-artist folks sometimes don’t realize that artists can play a bigger role in our communities than that of beautifier (no shade on beautification). Creatives see possibility, connect dots, and can engage folks from different communities in unusual (and sometimes more effective) ways.
Visit artist’s studios, like Kristin M Roach’s glorious creative space in downtown Ames. You can learn more about Kristin’s work here - be sure to sign up for her newsletter to hear about upcoming events. Photo: Kristin M Roach
Another topic that arises fairly frequently is:
How can I support artists if:
I can’t afford to buy their work,
have already bought their work/seen their performance
don’t have room for their work in my home,
can only buy so many books, see so many performances, etc, etc, etc.
Well, friend, this list is for you.
SIX EASY, FREE-ISH WAYS TO SUPPORT ARTISTS
Show up for free events, such as book signings, community performances, art walks, studio events.
If you like what you see/experience, take a quick photo or video (with permission), and share it on your social media. Please tag your artist friend.
If you’ve supported work in the past, tell 2 or 3 of your friends and family about your artist friend. You can forward artist newsletters and/or share posts. Most folks don’t realize that upwards of 80% of art sales come from referrals. That’s a lot. You have great power in creating raving fans and driving future collectors to your creative friends.
If you own a small business or other public space, showcase your friend’s artwork, music, or writing or provide space for flyers, posters, or business cards.
If you have a platform, such as a blog or podcast, offer to interview creative folks who address topics or methods that align with your content, such as sustainability, social justice, mental health, etc.
If you’re a collector or a fan, consider offering to write a testimonial for your friend for their website and to share on both your social and their social.
Artist friends, what are other creative ways folks have supported your work?
For creative ways to support artists that may cost a little money, check out the following posts:
Take a page (ha) from Dog-Eared Books in Ames and host or promote an event. Learn more about the Ames Writers Collective here.