By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach
Is your art or art gallery committed to promoting social issues and social causes? If so, what methods do you use to communicate your important messages and how do you educate the public?
I'm seeking answers to such questions as:
What marketing activities have worked best for you?
How have you attracted publicity for your cause?
With whom have you collaborated (organizations, celebrties, etc.) to help you further your message and attract support?
I'm writing a "How to" article on this subject that will include several artists and art dealers.
After reading your story I may also include it in my upcoming book.
I think this blog post will be informative for other readers and will help spread the word about your cause.
For example, Lisa Cooper, shown here, is owner of Elisa Tucci Contemporary Art (ECA, www.elisaart.com) in Riverdale, New York. She advises, "I think it's critical to work with a charitable partner whose mission is aligned with your beliefs and passions." Her gallery's motto is: "Changing the World through Art."
She had volunteered with Free Arts NYC since 2005, and saw firsthand the positive impact of creating art and art projects with children in underserved communities. "I saw how families learned to communicate with each other by creating works together, and how children who were often invisible lit up as they presented work that they made with their own hands."
She knew, when she launched her art business, she wanted it to have a philanthropic element. A portion of every sale from ECA goes to Free Arts NYC or one of the other ECA supported charities.
Lisa is always interested in new artists who are aligned with its vision and create "Art that transforms." Her submission process can be found on the gallery's Web site.
If you are already donating money to your favorite charities, but have not known how to approach them with your art, Lisa suggests, "Consider 'pitching' an idea for an art project by writing a letter to the Executive Director; describe how your vision would work." For example, "If you work with recycled or found objects, you can create a step-by-step guide on how children . could create their own piece. Many programs are looking for inspired ideas and this may be a great foot in the door."
She adds, "I think a personalized letter with a photograph of your work and a follow up call is the best bet. We are all so overwhelmed with email (and much of it ends up in the spam box)."
Thank you in advance for your comments.
If you prefer, you can also join the discussion I started on LinkedIn in the Manhattan Arts International group.
