Show notes
In this special end of year solo episode, Ceri answers questions from her mastermind community members. From exhibition planning and pricing artwork to connecting with collectors and maintaining social media boundaries, she gives her expert advice from her extensive experience in the art world.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
When planning exhibitions, start with self-reflection about your goals and desired outcomes before engaging with collaborators or institutions. Consider what you want to optimise for, press coverage, commissions, or collector engagement?
Price artwork based on market research and ecosystem participation rather than production costs or time invested. Research comparable works and understand that value in art is based on perceived worth within the social system.
Building relationships with collectors requires authentic connection rather than direct pitching. Research their interests and engage naturally through shared networks and events.
When updating your website during a practice transition, focus on quality over quantity. Edit work to show your best pieces that reflect your current direction while maintaining coherency with past work.
Create psychological safety in professional relationships by showing genuine interest before making any asks. Start with appreciation and sharing relevant content before discussing your own work.
Exhibition planning needs adequate time for idea development before production. Avoid rushing into execution without proper conceptual exploration with collaborators.
Social media should be approached strategically as a tool for community building rather than passive consumption. Set specific goals for engagement and research.
Documentation and legacy planning are crucial for exhibitions - ensure high-quality photography and materials that can continue generating opportunities after the show closes.
BEST MOMENTS
"The art market is such an unusual thing because it's all based on perceived value. It's not like we're breaking down the costs, say with coffee... when it comes to art, the market really is dependent on how many people want that thing."
"The worst thing you can do as an artist is to squirrel yourself away in a cupboard and come out with an idea like, ta-da. What do you think? It's really about you having the idea to the best of your ability to a point and then opening up."
"Sometimes less is more. So I love asking myself this question: What's the simplest thing I could do that would give me the biggest return on my time invested?"
"If you want to be collected by serious collectors who are participating in that ecosystem, then I would encourage you to evaluate what else is being sold at a similar price that you think your work may be being sold at."
"Every exhibition is a publishing moment. It's not the only moment, but it's the start of another opportunity coming down the pipeline."
"Put the social back into social media, which is really about you being deliberate with what your goals are whilst you're there."
"If you want some love, you have to show the love first."
PODCAST HOST BIO
With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.
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