What is an art consultant?

Art consultants make a living selling art. They are always striving to find new talent. The ultimate goal between the art consultant and artist is to place artwork in a corporate setting, which helps artists develop a name for themselves.

The relationship between the artist and art consultant is invaluable. The art consultant guides the artist, giving him/her feedback about the subject matter, color and scale, all while understanding the artist’s budget.

Artists that are interested in forming a relationship with art consultants should have a significant portfolio of work, an artist statement, an updated biography and a website.

Art consultants can explain the type of artwork they place and where they place it. This may include banks, medical facilities, corporate environments, educational centers and office buildings. Art consultants may take artists to these business centers so they have a feel for the type of artwork these businesses are looking for.

Most art consultants prefer working with artists that do not mind taking direction on projects. This may include specific size and color for projects. Working with artists that do not mind taking recommendations makes art consultants’ jobs much easier.

The turnaround time for projects is often quick and the artist’s portfolio allows the client to make a decision about specific types of artwork and visions they see in their buildings.

A great way for artists to meet art consultants is to join LinkedIn, a social networking site. Excellent LinkedIn networking groups include Professional Fine Art Network, Contemporary Art Network Group and Creative Art Consultants. There are also local and national network organizations, as well as those listed by state.

Another way that art consultants reach out to find new artists is by visiting national and local art fairs and exhibitions. Some art gallery owners post notices on their website when they are looking to work with new artists, so it is well worth artists’ time to research art consultants.

Today’s artwork has greatly evolved. While it still includes traditional classics, such as black oval picture frames, other techniques include bubble glass picture frames, a rectangular shadow box frame, domed glass or even vintage oval picture frames.

Dimensional pieces include clay wall sculptures, wood, fiber art, metal and even hanging mobiles. Other dimensional designs consist of bamboo, acrylic, fabric and tile. Art consultants still frame approximately 75-percent of their pieces, while the other 25-percent are modern designs that do not require framing, such as sculptures.

Art consultants can help artists break into the field of modern art, allowing them to gain footing in today’s competitive world.

References:

http://www.artsyshark.com/2010/11/24/how-to-work-with-art-consultants/