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Self-Promotion: Open Studio Tours

You have poured your creative energy into many pieces of artwork which have now become a finished body of work. Perhaps your artwork has become not only one, but several un-showcased collections of creative masterpieces. So what do you do next? Naturally, you continue to produce art because this is what you do.

As an artist trying to earn a living and striving to make your name, simply creating the art isn't enough. Your artwork will not benefit anyone if it is just collecting dust. It should receive the attention it deserves, as should the individual behind it — you.

If you want to achieve such goals, it is important for you and your work to receive public exposure. Hiring an agent to promote your work is one avenue, and the alternative more economical option is self-promotion. After all, who knows your work better than you?

Over the years, Open Studio Tours have grown in popularity, especially among smaller artistic communities. These are group events, where artists open the doors of their homes or studios to the public. An Open Studio Tour is an excellent channel for the artist to engage in self-promotion, by receiving exposure of their artwork, forging relationships within their community, and connecting with their audiences. Most of all, it is feasible because there are numerous artists involved who can share the responsibilities of organization and most importantly, promotion.

It's a win win situation for you and your audience. From a marketing perspective, you get to know who is looking at your art, and essentially what this market is looking for. If you're the public, then you have the opportunity to view fabulous works of art, and how many times have you admired a piece of art and wanted to meet the artist who created it? Don't miss out on the following communities holding Open Studio Tours:

Greater Victoria area:

  • Community Arts Council of the Saanich Peninsula, Spring Studio Tour June 12th & 13th 250-656-7400, www.cacsp.com

  • First Annual Gordon Head Studio Tour, May 8th & 9th

  • Saltspring Island summer-long studio tour held every year. www.saltspringstudiotour.com

Vancouver/Lower Mainland Areas:

To find out about studio tours or open studios in your community, check with your local community arts council, recreation centres, non-profit art organizations, artists' co-ops and art clubs for the latest events. You can also visit any Opus store and check our postings area for announcements.

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