Ann Rea, Artist & Mentor

Your intention and attitude are going to shape your success.

Even if you don’t sell your art, you have planted some seeds.

Artist & Mentor

7 Steps to Hosting An Artist's Appreciation Party

7 Steps to Hosting An Artist’s Appreciation Party

This is a simple strategy, but it is not a cheap trick.

Your intention and attitude are going to shape your success.

I have used this strategy to sell my art, and so have my students.

Don’t trust me? Well, I’ve taught this simple approach to a high-powered executive from Wells Fargo Bank here in San Francisco. 

He did it, and he and his boss were thrilled as it generated significant repeat business.

Using seven simple steps, you can sell your art, without feeling like a sell-out in less than 30 days. 

Note. Even if you don’t sell your art, you have planted some seeds. Some crops take longer to grow. 

Step 1. Pick a date and your guest list.

Rather than having another stiff, and likely dull, open studio, with people milling around aimlessly just eating all of your cheese and crackers, throw an Appreciation Party for your best collectors.

For example, invite your top ten collectors and or supporters and ask them to bring a guest.

Don’t complicate this. Just send a free electronic party invitation.  

Step 2. Display your art and be ready to sell it.

Be ready to sell. Display your art with the prices shown, don’t make someone ask.

Don’t complicate this. Have a tested means to accept credit card payments, a la Stripe, Square, or Paypal.

Step 3. Appreciate your guests.

Once all of your guests arrive, you are going to gather everyone around in a circle.

Then genuinely thank each of them, one at a time, for supporting your business.

Don’t complicate this. Keep it short and sweet.

Not sure what to say? Just tell the truth. Be prepared by writing it down one clear sentence in advance.

Just keep it real because you are going to read it out loud to everyone at your appreciation party to hear.

Once you have demonstrated genuine appreciation, the energy of the room is going to vibrate at a high level. 

Step 4. Ask for referrals.

Once you have genuinely thanked your guests, then say something like, “I have enjoyed working with each one of you. About 80% of sales come by way of referrals. So if you can think of one or two people just like you who would also enjoy owning my art, please let me know the best way to make an introduction and when it would be most convenient.” 

Hint: This is the primary purpose of the party, yet it should take you less than 60 seconds. 

If you are enrolled in the Making Art Making Money program, then share your mission BEFORE you ask for referrals because of you with increase your chances exponentially. 

After you have shared your mission, 

Step 5. Have fun!

After you have asked for referrals, then get on with your party. Just have fun.

If you feel awkward, do it anyway. You’ll be glad you did, and so will your guests.

Be sure to clean out your studio or home and serve some light refreshments and nutritious appetizers.

You don’t have to go overboard or blow your budget. 

Step 6. Remember your intention.

Don’t be attached to the outcome. Just remember, you intend to appreciate those who support you genuinely. Revenue equals relationships.

Please note. Even if you don’t sell a thing, you will be planting the seeds for the future. What goes around, comes around. 

Step 7. If it’s not scheduled, it’s not real.

Take the very first step now. Call someone who supports you. 

If you’re a student of mine in the Making Art Making Money program, then get on a video call with a Study Partner this week.

Tell them that you are going to host an “Appreciation Party, ” and you want them to support you in following through and celebrating your victory. 

Note. Don’t ask for support from artists who have a scarcity mentality, who are sarcastic or cynical. You know the type, the jealous and competitive ones who can’t stand to see someone else succeed.

Ask someone who cares about you to support you and be sure to return the favor.

Selling art by yourself will never work. It’s too damn hard, too lonely, and it’s just no fun!

Commit right now by leaving a comment below about when you will be hosting your Appreciation Party and who you will be inviting.

If you take this first small action to comment below right now, it alone will propel you forward.

Take one step at a time, and you will get there!

6 Responses

    1. Everyone starts with no clients 😉 Start with where you art. Ask the people you know. Ask them to invite the guest. Read the post.

  1. Okay I have tried some of these techniques. What I really understand here is, some positive genuine action moving forward will bring more of this action! Love your methods.

  2. I held my first ever exhibition last summer and sold four paintings & gave two away as gifts in kind. I’ve also been asked for a print of one & commissioned next summer for another. However I’m studying Inclusive Arts Practice at the same time & need to sell more of my paintings. The tricky thing the people that bought the paintings live 50 miles away from each other & I’m by the cost – otherwise an appreciation party would be a great idea – any other suggestions?..,I did ask two local businesses if they would put a painting in their restaurants/ cafes none have got back to me..,any other ideas would be great. Thankyou

    1. If you give your art away do not expect to be paid for it.

      You do not have an “Arts Practice” you have a business.

      Understanding this is your next best step.

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