Some questions for the artists on here!

Sol

Sol

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Sorry, wasn't really sure where I could put this and don't really know who else to ask!

I've been taking commissions for a while now, just pencil portraits really, and I like doing them but find it hard work, especially fitting them in around school work and riding and still trying to get them done in a reasonable time. Sixth form next year so I don't know if I'll have more or less time!
I don't really draw for the money, but it IS helpful (goes towards entry fees/lessons mostly!) and I enjoy the fact that it has a use rather than there just being stacks of art around the house :p So... what else can I do??
Had a friend suggest that I enquire about a craft stall at an event they're involved with in August but don't really know what I'd need?? I have no idea about getting prints made etc. so only have originals at the moment which means I also wouldn't have a lot to take...

So... any ideas? Anyone know what I might need to set up my own stall or something at the odd place?
Or should I just give up and be content with the odd commission? :D

(and yes, I know my art doesn't compare with a lot of people on here but I'm only 16 and working hard to improve ;) I can keep hoping!)

Thanks :D
 
Hi I used to do a few animal drawings when i had time as a hobby and i know how t:)ime consuming they are. I found a website which is connected to artists magazine which i found really useful i dont know how to post the link but it is paintersonline.co.uk google it and take a look, it has a forum etc hope this helps and good luck :)
 
Thanks! Time consuming they certainly are, and stressful at times too! (especially when someone decides they'd quite like theirs by, say... the end of the week! eeeek)
Thank you for the website, will go take a look now :D
 
Great Idea, you have a real talent however to be successful selling at events I would suggest the following -

Limited number of prints - added value - speak to a local printing company regarding costs of producing approx 20 in each design and a range of sizes. So will need a little investment money to start with.

I would suggest getting some cheap business cards done - check out Vista print they offer the first 250 free! People will take these away and think about your images for gifts/present if not a purchasing a commision.

When accepting a commision explain to the customer that you would like to reproduce the artwork for resale so they get the orginal and you can sell the prints. 2 birds 1 stone!

Look into the cost of a basic website even if it is only a couple of pages, mine costs 5 pounds a month and was really easy to build!

Look at turning your images into other items ie postcards, mugs etc

I hope this helps - I say have a go what have you got to lose!

Good Luck!
 
EmmaJaneWilliams - Thank you for taking the time to reply & come up with some ideas! :D

I already have a website of sorts (www.ramelia-images.daportfolio.com) which is totally free & really easy to update if a little limited in what you can do with it. Cheap & cheerful though! :p
I think business cards are a great starting point thinking on it, as I wouldn't think they could be too expensive anyway? And easily distributed too (:
Will have a look for printing companies & prices etc too I think, I'm sure I could find some money to start off somehow...
I'd also quite like to have a go at getting some cards or something printed, I quite like making bookmark type things as well (even just originals, as they're quite quick & look really neat laminated and finished off!)

Thanks again! Like you say, I've got nothing to lose so might as well, it's all fun anyway (:
 
you will definitely have LESS time at VI form. I'm in the first year, doing AS and this has accumulated in me selling my little pony through lack of time :'(
 
I've just looked on your website and your drawings are amazing! i took GCSE art and did a book on horses and they look like a 6 year old has drawn them compared to yours!xxx
 
ClarePauling - Sorry to hear you had to sell your pony :(
I'm only taking 3 subjects even at AS (rather than the usual 4) for various reasons but still expect to have a lot less time anyway :/ I just hope I can find a way to juggle everything!
And thank you (:
 
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