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Promoting Art in the COVID Economy Era

Promoting Art in the COVID Economy Era
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The year 2020 has been unexpected, and not in a good way. Most economies in the world are struggling with the double impact of strain on their healthcare systems and losses in businesses across the globe. We are living through one of the worst times in past few decades. But there is a silver lining to all this. We have spent much more time with our loved ones, we have learned to appreciate idling away, and some of us have also recommenced our hobbies.

Since people have been spending more time online, eCommerce has flourished in this difficult time. This year, the growth in eCommerce
industry has been double than that in 2019. With many places under lockdown and most people scared to venture outside in this pandemic-stricken world, one way to shop for all goods – essentials or non-essentials, is online. An interesting trend has been a direct result of people spending a lot of time at home – desire to decorate their homes. Combine all the above, and online art marketplaces have started to enjoy a surge that would have probably taken a couple more years otherwise.

Art galleries and museums have started doing ‘virtual tours’ for their patrons. Art supplies are available easily online, and so is art. My children’s art teachers asked them to “visit” the most famous art galleries in Europe as part of their e-learning activities! This kind of experiences are rarely sought or available for most people. But, as people look for more avenues to entertain themselves, rather than just watch TV, opening art museums and galleries for virtual tours has brought more awareness and interest amongst a wider global audience. However, increased access to a global customer base may not necessarily imply increase in demand for art. Most people who attend these virtual tours may just be passing by. Many of them are there out of curiosity rather than specific interest in art. Such visitors simply meander through these virtual tours with little interest to engage. Nonetheless, this lack of interest could simply be because of lack of embracing technology to provide an enhanced experience by these art galleries and museums because they are not targeting selling their prized artwork online.

On the other hand, some art ecommerce platforms embraced digital advancements, and started providing a superior experience to their customers through use of modern technology like Augmented Reality, AR. 

Those who have succeeded to engage more with their customer base have also focused on offering a seamless buying service as well. This is a terrific news for those considering selling their artwork online through artist-friendly platforms like RtistiQ.

Promoting art in Covid-19 era has been easier owing to another factor viz. technology. Owing to this unique situation, digital technology has evolved quicker than ever before. On top of that, adoption of digitization has been quicker amongst those who have access. 

Online art marketplace became an inadvertent beneficiary of these advancements. For example, London based art gallery ‘Artfinder’ reported a surge of more than 100% in weeks following lockdown, selling an artwork every 12 minutes. 

Read our guide on Selling Art Online 

Though it is believed that the surge in purchase of artwork could mean more than just a desire to redecorate their homes. Famed neurobiologist and father of neurobiologist at the University of London, Semir Zeki, discovered that viewing art gives the same pleasure as falling in love. 

Government’s Role in the Recovery Process

Various governments across the globe have also realized that culture and arts play an important role in not only well-being of an individual, but also of interactions within and between societies. 

Hong kong

With tourism shutdown during pandemic, many countries have seen support from governments to jumpstart the recovery process of arts and culture. For example, in Hong Kong, the government’s Anti-Epidemic Fund has allocated around $20 million through the Home Affairs Bureau to support the arts sector. 

Singapore

Singapore launched an extensive support scheme for the arts and culture sector, including wage support, training support, workforce special payments, and financing for digitalizing arts and cultural resources where possible. In Croatia, the Ministry of Culture is supporting independent artists who have lost income due to COVID-19. 

South Africa

In South Africa, the National Arts Council (NAC) will continue paying artists who had been confirmed for activities with Council support which have now been disrupted by the pandemic.

UNESCO

UNESCO has been monitoring the scale of disruption to the cultural sector and published weekly ‘Culture and COVID19: Impact and Response Tracker’ with an intention of sharing research and experiences around the world. 

Their special issue published in July 2020 gave insights into UNESCO’s efforts to ensure culture has a central role in public policies for sustainable development. 

The issue described in detail what steps many countries from Asia to Africa to Europe to America have taken to promote arts and culture during Covid-19 crisis as well as their plans for their continued efforts beyond this pandemic. 

Norway

In Norway, the Minister of Culture announced NOK 100 million (USD 10,6 million) to ensure that writers can continue their artistic work.

Italy

Italy started a system of vouchers for reimbursement or replacement of cinema, museum, theatre and concert tickets already sold. 

Kenya

In Kenya, the government created a fund of KES200 million (US$1.9m) per month to give artists a minimum wage.

Conclusion  

On one side we see that there is a noticeable bloom in demand for artwork online, and there are several platforms like RtistiQ that are helping artists to get closer to buyers, while on the other side, many countries have started initiatives to help further growth in the art sector. 

For those who are looking to become full-time artists, these are good signs that the contemporary world recognizes importance of art in relieving stress, combating depression, and supporting financial growth of an economy. We need art now more than ever and countries across the world should continue promoting art post-Covid-19 for a sustainable culture and society. Friedrich Nietzsche, a German philosopher, and cultural critic rightly said, “art exists so that reality does not destroy us”. 

Author: Manisha Bhati

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SIMILAR ARTICLES

All About Graffiti Art and Art Brut

All About Graffiti Art and Art Brut

In the urban landscape, vibrant forms of artistic expression emerge, challenging conventional notions of art and engaging with communities in unconventional ways. Two distinctive art forms that have garnered attention for their rawness and unfiltered creativity are graffiti art and Art Brut. Some of the most notorious names of contemporary art come from the world of graffiti. And while formal training and historic institutions still hold a massive presence in the art world, we are seeing more and more outsiders storm the gates and break through to become major names. That’s why we put together this guide to understand the types of graffiti art and art brut better. With this new knowledge, you’ll be able to better appreciate this diverse and dynamic realm of creative expression. What is Graffiti Art? Graffiti is a kind of art brut. It is any drawing or writing made on a surface, typically in public view. Graffiti itself is about as old as humanity. But beginning in the 1980s, graffiti began to be shown in fine art institutions, like galleries and museums. With the inclusion of many major graffiti artists into the formal art world, the lines have become more and more blurred. Graffiti art now refers to a thriving genre of art that uses the styles and techniques of street graffiti, but with finished products that are meant for more traditional art spaces. Some of the most well known artists of the last fifty years are graffiti artists, including the late Jean-Michel Basquiat. What’s the difference between graffiti and street art? The terms "graffiti" and "street art" are often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct characteristics that set them apart: Graffiti artists, like the famous Banksy, create and present their art in public spaces. Frequently, their art is not sanctioned by the owners of the property that the art is painted on. For this reason, graffiti art typically are revolutionary or otherwise transgressive themes. While graffiti can be seen as a subset of street art, the key difference lies in the legality and intent behind the creations. Graffiti is often associated with unauthorized markings and can be viewed as an act of rebellion or vandalism, whereas street art is generally more accepted and embraced by communities as a form of public art. However, it's worth noting that the line between graffiti and street art can be blurred, and there are artists who bridge both realms, incorporating elements of graffiti within their street art pieces. Ultimately, both graffiti and street art play vital roles in shaping the visual landscape of cities, sparking conversations, and challenging societal norms through artistic expression in public spaces. If you are still confused, see this helpful guide: Graffiti art is often associated with illicit, unauthorized markings made on public spaces using various tools like spray paint, markers, or etching tools. Historically, graffiti has been associated with acts of vandalism and considered a form of public defacement. Street art, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of artistic expressions in public spaces. Street artists often create their works with the permission of property owners or as part of organized initiatives to beautify urban environments. Street art is typically more intricate, visually elaborate, and conceptually driven compared to traditional graffiti. How Graffiti Art Started Graffiti art began as street art, and people often use the words graffiti and street art interchangeably. But a few New York City gallerists in the 1980s saw graffiti as a blooming world of creative expression. And soon, they were exhibiting the work of graffiti artists. A particular hotbed was the East Village in Manhattan. Fun Gallery and Now Gallery helped lead the way in presenting graffiti art in a new light. By placing the work by these outsider artists in the context of a gallery, audiences began to appreciate the art on a deeper level. Artists like Keith Haring, Crash, Lady Pink, and Jean-Michel Basquiat became major names in the art world. They inspired new generations of graffiti artists to pursue the style — as street art, gallery exhibits, or both. Today, major corporations have hired graffiti artists to promote products . Major auction houses sell graffiti art. And you can buy graffiti art at countless galleries around the world. Famous Graffiti Paintings Curious to see some great graffiti art? We’ve put together a few of the most impressive and noteworthy examples. Untitled Skull (1982) by Jean-Michel Basquiat Copyright Jean-Michel Basquiat This painting is legendary not only as part of Basquiat’s skull series, but also because of the major headlines it made in 2017. It was that year that Sotheby’s New York sold it for a staggering $110.5 million dollars, blowing past its $57 million estimate. Ignorance = Fear (1989) by Keith Haring Copyright Keith Haring Foundation This work epitomized Haring’s use of art as a tool to raise political consciousness. As a gay activist, the AIDS epidemic was central to much of Haring’s work in the 1980s. This painting united his powerful pop and graffiti hybrid style to deliver an important message. The Breakdown Comes (1983) by Lady Pink Copyright Lady Pink This masterpiece of graffiti art by Lady Pink reveals the deep anxieties of the middle class in 1980s New York City as an empowering fantasy of the downtrodden in the same time and place. The vitality and playfulness of the artwork helps the complex themes go down enjoyably. Graffiti art is such an exciting realm of the art world. Now a few generations into its acceptance into the establishment, it still continues to push boundaries and grab our attention. Now that you know a little more about it, you can shop graffiti art from this fascinating genre that RtistiQ has put together for you to explore. What is Art Brut? Art brut is a term coined by French artist Jean Dubuffet in the 1940s, literally meaning raw art. Dubuffet used the term to describe the realm of artwork made outside of the formal and academic art world. Sometimes called outsider art, artbrut contains a broad spectrum of work. The term is often used with a bias toward Western art circles. For instance, artists in hunter gatherer tribes might be highly trained and create pieces inside a well codified tradition, but their work might still be considered art brut to some critics—so a reader has to consider who is using the term and how. Art Brut artists typically have no formal artistic training and often face societal marginalization or live with mental health challenges. Their works are characterized by their authenticity, unconventionality, and a lack of adherence to traditional artistic norms. Art Brut encompasses a wide range of styles and techniques. Artists often work with unconventional materials and mediums, using found objects, discarded materials, or natural elements. Their creations are deeply personal and reflect their individual experiences, inner worlds, and unique perspectives. Art Brut has provided a platform for artists who have been marginalized or overlooked by the art establishment. Figures such as Adolf Wölfli, Henry Darger, and Martín Ramírez have gained recognition posthumously for their extraordinary bodies of work. Art Brut challenges the boundaries of what is considered "art" and questions the prevailing criteria for artistic validation. Famous Art Brut Paintings Many Art Brut artists remain relatively unknown, with their works often discovered posthumously. However, there are a few notable Art Brut paintings that have gained recognition and influenced the art world. Here are a few examples: Adolf Wölfli's crazy controversial Art: Adolf Wölfli, a Swiss artist and psychiatric patient, produced an extensive body of work during his confinement. His intricate and highly detailed drawings depict fantastical landscapes, intricate patterns, and narratives from his own imaginary world. Prisoner Drawings is a series of densely packed compositions that reveal Wölfli's creative vision and psychological complexity. "Götter [gods]" by August Walla: August Walla, an Austrian artist with schizophrenia, created a range of powerful and expressive artworks. "Mystery Train" by Martín Ramírez: Martín Ramírez, a Mexican-American artist, created intricate drawings while institutionalized in psychiatric hospitals. His works often feature repetitive lines and motifs, including trains, figures, and animals. Conclusion: Graffiti art and Art Brut are two distinct forms of artistic expression that have captivated audiences with their rawness, authenticity, and unconventional approaches. Graffiti art, born from underground subcultures, challenges social norms and transforms the urban landscape into a vibrant visual tapestry. Art Brut, created by self-taught artists, provides a platform for marginalized voices and challenges established artistic conventions. Together, these art forms exemplify the power of artistic expression to transcend boundaries, spark dialogue, and redefine the notion of what art can be in our complex and diverse world. Check out the Graffiti and Art Brut Collection on RtistiQ to explore some of magnificent works in recent times.

Art Redefined: The Digital Era with Olyvia Kwok-Decani

Art Redefined: The Digital Era with Olyvia Kwok-Decani

In a rapidly changing world, the art industry has been profoundly impacted by the digital age and the emergence of millennials as a driving force in shaping its landscape. Olyvia Kwok-Decani, an esteemed expert in the field, provides valuable insights into the pivotal role millennials play in the evolution of art, particularly their influence on art consumption, creation, and the integration of technology. New era in the art market: As we delve into 2023, a significant shift has occurred, with millennials surpassing previous generations in art spending, marking a new era in the art market. The Art Basel-UBS report highlights this trend, revealing that millennials have exceeded boomers in their investment in artwork, leading to a notable increase in sales. Olyvia emphasizes this shift, stating, "Millennials spend four times as much as boomers and double the spending of Gen X." The digital age This has had a transformative shift. Growing up immersed in technology, millennials have wholeheartedly embraced digital art and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) with great enthusiasm. Digital platforms have become fundamental for showcasing and acquiring artwork, fostering a strong sense of community among artists and art enthusiasts alike. Recognizing the significance of these platforms, Olyvia emphasizes, "Social media has emerged as a powerful marketing tool for artists and galleries to engage with the millennial audience, who predominantly consume art digitally." Influence of millennials Artists are adapting their practices to cater to this tech-savvy generation. The integration of digital tools and experiences has become paramount, enabling artists to provide immersive and interactive encounters for their audience. The boundaries between technology and art have blurred, giving rise to innovative forms of expression and exploration. Olyvia notes “that this shift has opened up new avenues for artists to connect with a broader audience and forge stronger bonds within the art community.” Art consumption: Millennials' interest in art extends beyond mere consumption; they are actively leaving their mark as artists. A wave of talented millennial artists has emerged, bringing forth fresh perspectives and themes that captivate the contemporary art scene. Notable names such as Sadie Burnette, Sam Falls, and Lu Yang have garnered recognition for their distinctive approaches, leaving a lasting impact. Millennials prioritize experiences and emotional connections when engaging with art, seeking works that provoke thought and challenge traditional norms. Consequently, politically themed artwork has experienced a surge, as artists utilize their craft to voice opinions and address pressing social issues. Digital engagement Millennials' impact on the art world transcends aesthetics and digital engagement. Olyvia underscores the fact that millennials view art as “enjoyable assets and increasingly consider it a viable financial investment”. Art has become a popular avenue for wealth accumulation among this generation, offering an alternative to conventional investment options. Motivated by financial gains and a desire to support artists, millennials have fuelled the growth of the art market, actively participating in and contributing to the art ecosystem. In conclusion The advent of the digital era has brought about a transformative shift in the art world, with millennials leading the charge. Their profound affinity for technology, quest for meaningful experiences, and financial motivations have redefined the art landscape. From embracing digital platforms to spearheading the creation of immersive art experiences, millennials are reshaping the future of art consumption and creation. As Olyvia Kwok-Decani aptly summarizes, "The millennial influence can be seen in the way art consumption has moved to digital platforms and the innovative approaches artists are taking to engage their audience." With millennials at the forefront, the art world continues to evolve along an exciting trajectory. About The Author Olyvia Kwok Decani Olyvia Kwok Decani has been collecting and investing in art for over 15 years. After graduating from Queen Mary’s University in 2002 with a degree in BSc Statistics, Olyvia opened her first gallery in St. James’s London. With years of experience, alongside in-depth knowledge of the market and an extensive global network, Olyvia continues to be one of the most prestigious and successful individuals in the industry.

Exploring Art Medium: A Fusion of Category and Material in Art Creation

Exploring Art Medium: A Fusion of Category and Material in Art Creation

Art is a vast and diverse realm that encompasses a wide range of creative expressions. Within this realm, the concept of "Art Medium" holds a crucial role, serving as the bridge between artistic intent and tangible creation. The medium that an artist chooses to work with can have a significant impact on the style and meaning of the artwork. For example, a painting made with oil paints will have a different look and feel than a painting made with watercolors. In the context of Art attribution "Art Medium" has been used interchangeably to refer both the category of artwork and the materials used to bring forth an artist's vision. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of art medium, exploring its dual significance in the world of art. Art Medium as a Category of Art In its first sense, an art medium represents the various categories or disciplines within the field of art. Each medium possesses distinct characteristics, techniques, and artistic approaches. Let's explore some of the prominent art mediums: Painting: Painting is a traditional and widely recognized medium that employs pigments on surfaces such as canvas, paper, or wood. It encompasses various styles like oil painting, watercolor, acrylics, and mixed media, each offering unique visual qualities and expressive possibilities. Painting, Pop Horizon by Barron Holand Sculpture: Sculpture involves shaping and manipulating materials such as stone, wood, metal, clay, or even found objects. Artists create three-dimensional forms that can range from classical figurative representations to abstract and conceptual installations. Sculpture, S-04 BIG FOOT by Aleks Rosenberg Drawing: Drawing is a fundamental art medium that employs pencils, pens, charcoal, or other tools to create two-dimensional representations. It encompasses techniques like sketching, shading, and hatching, allowing artists to convey ideas, explore compositions, and develop their artistic skills. Drawing, Dancer in Red by NK Hong Photography: Photography born from the marriage of science and art, captures moments through the lens of a camera. It employs light-sensitive materials and digital technologies to immortalize scenes, people, and emotions, providing a unique perspective on the world. Photography, La grève Je T'aime by Gudzovsky Printmaking: Printmaking encompasses various techniques such as etching, lithography, screen printing, and relief printing. Artists create multiple copies of their artworks, each possessing its own subtle variations, by transferring images onto paper or other surfaces. Ceramics: Ceramics involves working with clay, shaping it into objects, and firing them in kilns to achieve hardness and permanence. This ancient medium encompasses functional pottery, decorative vessels, sculptures, and intricate porcelain works. Textiles: Textile art employs fabrics, threads, and fibers to create tactile and visually engaging works. It includes techniques like weaving, embroidery, quilting, and textile installations, exploring themes of culture, identity, and materiality. Installation and Performance Art:: These mediums go beyond traditional forms, embracing immersive experiences and the participation of the audience. Artists use various materials, space, sound, and movement to create site-specific installations or enact performances that challenge the boundaries of art. Digital NFT: Very recently Digital NFT is being regarded as an art medium, and more importantly revolutionising Digital Art representation. Utilizing blockchain technology, NFTs represent unique digital assets, such as artwork, music, or videos, providing a secure and verifiable link between the digital file and ownership rights. Art Medium as Material Used in Art Creation In the alternate context, an art medium refers to the specific materials and tools employed by artists to bring their artistic visions to life. The choice of medium significantly influences the aesthetic outcome and the creative process itself. Artists often use it to describe how they created their artwork, which gives a sense of how it needs to be viewed as well. For e.g. Oil paintings ( referenced as "Oil on Canvas") are best observed from a distance to get a more clearer understanding and the depth of the Art. Again depending on the Category of work there are different materials used to fulfill the Artistic vision of the creator. Here are some examples of art mediums in the context of Material Used Paints: Artists use various types of paints, including oil paints, watercolors, acrylics, and gouache, each with its own characteristics and techniques. These pigments, when combined with binders, allow artists to manipulate color, texture, and opacity on different surfaces. A combination of the paint type and the support used form the Medium used for the artwork, for e.g. Oil on Canvas, Gouache on paper, Acrylic on Linen etc... Drawing Tools: Pencils, pens, charcoal, markers, and pastels are all examples of drawing tools that artists employ. These tools vary in hardness, texture, and line quality, enabling artists to create intricate details or bold, expressive strokes. Sculpting Materials: Sculptors utilize a plethora of materials such as stone, wood, metal, clay, plastic, and even unconventional materials like ice or food. Each material offers its unique qualities, texture, and potential for manipulation. Cameras and Photographic Equipment: With the advent of photography, cameras and photographic equipment became vital art mediums. Film cameras, digital cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and photo-editing software all contribute to the creation of photographic art. Printmaking Supplies: Printmaking relies on materials like printing plates, inks, brayers, and printing presses. These tools facilitate the transfer of images from the plate to the chosen substrate, resulting in distinct prints with their own visual characteristics. Clay and Kilns: Ceramics artists employ different types of clay, glazes, and firing techniques to shape and fire their creations. The firing process in kilns transforms the raw materials into durable and visually captivating ceramic pieces. Fabrics and Threads: Textile artists utilize a wide range of fabrics, threads, dyes, and surface design techniques to create intricate tapestries, clothing, quilts, or fiber-based sculptures. The choice of fabric and the application of techniques contribute to the overall visual and tactile impact of the artwork. The Importance of Art Medium The medium that an artist chooses to work with can have a significant impact on the style and meaning of the artwork. For example, a painting made with oil paints will have a different look and feel than a painting made with watercolors. The medium can also affect the way that the viewer interacts with the artwork, an example being, a sculpture that is made from metal will feel different to the touch than a sculpture that is made from wood. The art medium is of utmost importance in the representation of art as it influences the aesthetics, technical possibilities, symbolic significance, and cultural context of an artwork. It allows artists to express their vision, engage viewers, and communicate their intended messages effectively. The careful consideration and deliberate selection of the art medium contribute to the overall artistic expression and impact of the artwork.Different art mediums have evolved throughout history and across cultures, reflecting the societal and historical context in which they originated. The selection of a particular medium can evoke associations and references to specific art movements, traditions, or periods. The Future of Art Mediums The art world is constantly evolving, and new art mediums are being developed all the time. For example, digital art is becoming increasingly popular, as artists use computers and other digital tools to create their work. It is impossible to predict what the future holds for art mediums. However, it is likely that new art mediums will continue to be developed, and that artists will continue to experiment with different materials and techniques. It's important to note that the future of art mediums will be shaped by the creativity and experimentation of artists themselves, as they continue to push boundaries, embrace new technologies, and explore innovative approaches to art-making. The possibilities are vast, and the future of art mediums for visual artists holds exciting potential for artistic expression and engagement with audiences. Digital, Augmented and Virtual Realities, Mixed Media, Eco-Friendly Materials, BioArt and Living Materials, all are being explored, included and evolved for Artists to continously push the boundaries of their creative abilities to produce thought provoking artworks. Conclusion In the realm of art, the term "art medium" embraces a dual meaning. It encompasses both the categorization of art forms and the materials employed by artists. The category of art medium reflects the different disciplines and techniques artists employ to create their work, while the material aspect highlights the tangible tools and substances used to manifest their creative visions. Artists' choices of medium significantly influence the visual, tactile, and conceptual qualities of their artworks. Furthermore, contemporary artists often push the boundaries of traditional mediums by exploring hybrid forms and incorporating new technologies. Understanding the significance of art medium enhances our appreciation for the diverse expressions and the innovative approaches artists employ in their creative endeavors.

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How to Write an Art Description that Makes or Breaks your Sales

ARTIST GUIDE

How to Write an Art Description that Makes or Breaks your Sales

Don't Give Away Too Much Information. The best way to write an art description is to use words that will intrigue potential buyers. Use adjectives to describe the subject matter, and avoid using technical terms. If you're selling a painting, try to keep the description short and sweet. You don't need to go into detail about the materials used or the techniques employed by the artist. Instead, focus on describing the piece's style and mood. Use accessible language and avoid using over-sophisticated concepts or art professionals' specific jargon. Be cautious not to fall into the opposite extreme and create a basic description, “art for dummies” style. After all, the art enthusiasts and collectors are a highly educated public. Take advantage of free marketing tools. Most of art collectors research and buy art online in the post-pandemic world. Using search engine marketing is possibly one of the most effective marketing tools. Begin drafting your art description by listing keywords and phrases relevant to your art and that people might use when searching for art. Spread them across your entire text and make sure your final description makes sense. Do not go overboard and abuse this tool. Do not repeat the keyword more than twice in the entire text. Exceeding this limit could cause the text to be flagged for keyword-stuffing and could affect Google rankings. Keep it brief. At Rtistiq, we recommend your art descriptions to be between 200-500 characters. In an ever-accelerating world, like the one we live in, the attention span is surprisingly short. We all look for relevant information in the shortest amount of time. You can always follow the example of the world-renown art museums that are reinventing their exhibition labels, for example, they offer a potential interpretation and historical context for abstract artists and their body of work. Many institutions are now considering a more socially and culturally diverse audience that is likely to return if not bored, overwhelmed, or confused. Do not write a description for the sake of writing one. Avoid repeating your bio or the information related to physical aspects such as size, orientation or packaging and delivery. This information is collected separately. During the upload process, you will be asked to fill in all this information one by one. Engage with your audience. Your story and your art are unique, make yourself heard. Art collectors are looking not only to expand their art collection but also to get insights or access to the untold story of an attractive piece of art. This is a great opportunity to communicate directly to your audience without being mediated by a curator. It might sound scary, but we encourage you to take the plunge and tell the story in your own words, it will make you stand out from the rest of the original artwork for sale online. Highlighting specific details in your art, special techniques, or placing a particular work in a larger context of your career will make your art description enticing. To answer your question “where to start?”, we’ve put together a set of questions that could serve as a guideline for an engaging and relevant artwork description: ● What inspired you to create this artwork? ● What is the message you want to convey in this particular artwork? ● What meaning do you attach to it? ● How does this artwork fit in with the rest of your artistic portfolio? ● What kind of techniques did you use? ● Has this artwork been part of an exhibition or referred to in a publication? And finally, leave a little room for mystery. Don’t give it all, let your audience want for more. RtistiQ artmarketplace offers you the opportunity to showcase your art in a way that suits your vision. You can always take advantage of the rest of the tools to organize your portfolio under series so that all visitors can enjoy and appreciate your creation, and ultimately be the decisive argument that converts a “like” into “I have to have it”.

How to Photograph Your Art With Your Mobile?

ARTIST GUIDE

How to Photograph Your Art With Your Mobile?

With a rapid transition from brick-to-mortar galleries to digital art marketplaces, many artists face almost every day the challenge of digitizing their art. The art buyers are now online, on social media platforms, and on specialized curated art platforms. To help artists bring their art into the digital realm, in the best possible way, we’ve put together a guide on how to photograph your artworks by using a device that is already in your pocket, your mobile phone. Since many art buyers are not able to experience your art in person, they rely solely on images provided by the artist. Taking good pictures of your works of art will enable the buyer to appreciate your art and make their purchase decisions. At RtistiQ, we accept images up to 30MB (we recommend up to 10MB for faster response) and at least 1920x1080 pixels, JPEG/JPG/PNG files for any potential buyer to have a detailed view of the Artwork. A Full HD has an image pixel count that equates to only 2MP and for a 4K display, it bumps to 8MP. Just about every phone that isn't a pure budget handset is likely to shoot 8MP - iPhone 6 & above / Samsung Galaxy S2 & above. So you are usually set with the Mobile Phone's rear camera to take acceptable-resolution images. Below are some of the photographing tips when using your mobile phone: Choose the right lighting Lighting is one of the most important aspects of photographing your artwork. It affects everything from exposure to color balance. So, before you take a picture, make sure you understand how light works. Take advantage of natural light. Use natural light/daylight, most smartphones handle natural light much better than artificial light. Make sure you position them in front of a window or other source of bright light. Shoot with the sun behind you. If you're shooting indoors, use natural light as much as possible. This will give you the most flattering lighting. If you're outside, avoid direct light onto the artworks. Adjust your position to avoid casting a shadow by not stand between the light source and the Artwork. Manging color gradients If you notice color gradients in your pictures (the part of the artwork closest to the light source might be lighter than the rest), use a simple piece of white paper to bounce off the light on the darker part of your artwork. You might need a second pair of hands for this operation. Positioning your Mobile Phone for best results Hold your phone parallel to your artwork to avoid distortion. Be extra careful with the framing. Move your phone slowly until the sides of your canvas are parallel with the edge of the screen. Leave as little as possible space around your canvas, this will help achieve the best resolution. Hold the phone still. If you plan to upload many artworks it might be worth purchasing a tripod. Tap the best part of the Image When you get the best image on the screen, just tap it, this will help with exposure and the sharpness of your image. Avoid Zooming in too much for better Resolution Move yourself closer to the Artwork rather than zooming in too much using your mobile phones. Most phones support digital zooming only, which reduces the image resolution and will not give the best results. Basic Editing using your phone Almost all smartphones support basic editing of the pictures taken, which should enough without spending on image editing softwares. If the image is not straight, you can slightly rotate it or crop the edges, if required. Job done! You are now ready to upload your art. External Links Additional link references for you to get further details on your Camera and other tips from Pro Photographers, which we found to be interesting. Phone Camera Resolution 10 Tips From the Pro Photographers Contact US You may reach our curatorial team by writing to curators@rtistiq.com or visit our Contact Us page to drop us a message. For additoonal support articles on registration and other queries visit our Help Center for Artists. To register as an artist on the platform please follow the link for registration on Rtistiq now!

How to increase your art sales during the holiday season

ARTIST GUIDE

How to increase your art sales during the holiday season

An interview with artists Aude Rech and Lynne Godina It is that time of the year again when we can let ourselves look forward to the coming year and hope for a new beginning, despite the past year being so outlandish. RtistiQ wishes you happy holidays. The art market trends are constantly in flux with the current pandemic. As businesses try to return to normalcy after a tough year, demand for art is bound to increase, though the reason could also be the fact that people have become hopeful with the arrival of vaccines in the market. As more art lovers look to buy art online, RtistiQ interviewed two of the prominent artists featured on our website to ask them what they would do to increase sales during the holiday season. Introduction to the Artists: Aude Rech was born in an artistic family with an art gallery owner mother and a well-known ceramist father. She believes she is lucky to have art in her genes. She studied at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Nice and at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-arts de Paris where her teachers and mentors were Debré, Alechinsky and Cueco. Aude has been working as a virtual artist for the past 40 years, and she currently works from a studio in the south of France. She has been exhibiting her work in Paris, Berlin, San Francisco and New York and her work is featured in a few private collections. Aude believes her art is a personal journey in terra incognita, full of surprises and discoveries. In her words – “I feel like a director casting a play that I rewrite every day. Art is the only thing that elevates me, giving me the feeling of being positively alive. I depict the world, my world, the forces at play in most live forms. For me it is all a question of energy balance and colors!” Lynne Godina Maybe a new er name in the art scene, but within 2 years, she has had her first solo exhibition and has been a part of three group exhibitions. Her solo exhibition featured over 60 original pieces and she also has to her credit, 50 pieces in private and corporate collections around Australia. Lynne got a breakthrough in international art sale when she sold her art to a private collection in Milan, Italy late 2019. Lynne likes to use a lot of texture and heavy collection of paints in her paintings. She primarily uses stretched canvas, although she has also dabbled in glass framed works. Additionally, she has started using hardboard bases. See below the interview with our featured artists Aude and Lynne. Interview: Read on to find the detailed responses of Aude and Lynne for our questions surrounding their art styles, their motivation, their career paths, challenges and their experience with our platform. You will also find some motivation and some good advice in their responses. Q - How has the art market scenario changed over the past decade? Aude – Over the past decade, the art market has evolved strongly due to the implementation of numerous online platforms dedicated to sell and promote art.Social media have been playing a major role in the exchange of information regarding all matters related to art. Networking, promoting, selling, exhibiting has been so mucheasier than it used to be. Having a worldwide vision of the art world in real-time is now possible. Lynne - The online gallery presence has surged in the past decade. Globally there are hundreds of online sites and platforms to promote your art. Some are better and more professional than others and have been around for a longer time, others are smaller boutique galleries that focus on a closer relationship with the individual artist. There is something for every level of artist to be able to display and promote their art. As you get a higher profile, galleries will come to you, but at the start being part of just one gallery can be very exciting and proactive in getting your works out there. Obviously Covid-19 has had a huge impact on exhibitions and bricks and mortar galleries. Depending on where in the world you live, lockdowns and restrictions vary. Here in Australia we are now very lucky to be able to go out and have large groups again and the galleries and venues are reopening, so I am looking forward to exhibiting and having people come to visit my studio/gallery again in 2021. Q - What are some of the challenges that you faced in your art career? How did you overcome them? Aude - One of the biggest challenges that I have faced in my art career is to be in touch with my personal creativity and to be aware at the same time of my surroundings in time and space, keeping in perspective of where we stand in the history of Art. To create is to give someone the ability to see a piece of the world through someone else’s mind at a certain time and place. You are becoming a witness to our society. In order to feel connected, you need to be able to feel the energy that surrounds you and to harvest it. This is a challenge, practicing self-awareness helps achieve this state of mind. Lynne – The major challenge is to get your art seen. That takes a lot of hours and persistence, it is a fulltime job. I have always said the painting and creating the art is the easy part, it’s the backend that takes time and commitment. I am not very good with social media, but I have to push myself to be consistent with uploading and continually showing what is happening with my art, sales, commissioned works and within my studio. Q - How do you think technology has helped to boost art sales? Aude – In my own experience and especially during this Covid period I have been able to use a virtual environment to showcase my work therefore I have generated some sales. At the moment the use of technology helps me to identify potential art galleries, curators, or art collectors with whom I can start conversations with no time or space barrier. It is quite incredible to be able to reach art connoisseurs worldwide in that manner. Lynne – Everything has gotten faster and sleeker in the last decade. Computers are now so much quicker and more reliable to upload and be part of the web to search and keep in contact with the world. When I first started uploading my art I bought a very expensive Nikon camera with all the best lenses to capture professional shots, now I use my iphone. The cameras within the phones have just been getting better and better with each new version and it is so simple to edit and then connect to the computer and upload. Q - Which feature of RtistiQ do you find the most interesting? And why? Aude – The RtistiQ features I enjoy the most are the blockchain certification, the digital certificate, secure transaction, and shipment methods. The reason why I do enjoy those features is that they gave the potential collector a sense of being secure and it shows a very professional environment. As an artist to know that I can trace my art after it being sold is amazing. It offers many new possibilities, keeping track of its sales record, its location, and ownership. Having these pieces of information can help an artist generating broader interest in his work. As well I came to enjoy the sense of community and the ease of building an online portfolio. I can not wait for the platform to shape up with more artists and to see what we could organize together. Lynne – Since joining the RtistiQ website I have enjoyed finding so many interesting artists from every corner of the world. To be able to go into their galleries and see the amazing quality and diversity of art is something that gives me great pleasure and boundless inspiration. Q - How is RtistiQ different from other sites that you have used? Aude - I have had a better experience with RtistiQ, I found it more engaging I like its design and its simplicity and professionalism. Lynne – Because RtistiQ is a fledgling gallery the one on one interaction with me as an artist is refreshing and new. I feel that the team are really interested and willing to promote my art and find out what and who I am as an artist. Q - What are the prospects the holiday season brings in for art sales? Aude – It is difficult to say, but more potential buyers are going to browse the net in the research of a unique gift. The seasonal aspect is interesting and can generate great opportunities to have someone discover your work, start collecting or simply to enjoy offering a very original, interesting, meaningful gift. Lynne – Traditionally the lead up to Christmas is fairly slow as people are more concerned with celebrations with their families, friends and work colleagues. Money is being spent on gifts, but a piece of art is a very personal purchase and normally people wouldn’t look at making a large decision like that as a surprise. Things get busy in the New Year when people have been given money to ‘buy themselves something they want’ and think about that artwork or sculpture they have been eyeing all year. Q - Could you give an insight into the marketing strategies you use during this season? Aude – I will not use a specific marketing strategy during the holiday season, but I will definitely communicate more and will bring people to the site so that they can discover my newest work and enjoy the RtistiQ key features. Lynne – I have a sale on my website for the first two weeks to see in the New Year. Also, I offer a gift certificate on my site to give to loved ones to prompt them to buy a piece from my gallery. I make sure to keep painting and upload as many new artworks as I can to keep a high presence on all the sites. Q -Your advice to budding artists to promote their artwork this gifting season. Aude - As an artist, I would advise anyone to help potential collectors, either by having a set of work that is financially accessible to be offered as a gift or being an incentive to start maybe a new relationship with collecting a new artist. Lynne - The main thing is to upload, upload, upload. To the online galleries and platforms, you are on, to your own websites if you have them and of course, as much content on social media as you can physically do every day. My aim is to upload at least twice a day, even if it’s giving earlier pieces another upload to refresh people's memory and get them looking at the newer creations. ******** Aude and Lynne are impressed with RtistIQ’s way of working and the diverse art collection. If you are an art enthusiast, browse through our online art gallery to find something you like. Explore all arts for sale which are perfect as a gift for yourself or your loved ones to mark the beginning of a better year. If you are an artist, contact us to showcase your art on our website and use our unique features to reach a larger audience. RtistiQ wishes you all A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year ! Author: Manisha Bhati

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