| Be
a Star Host or Hostess |
March 6, 2006
A couple of weeks ago, I
attended an opening with the works of
Regina Benson,
Jocelyn Chilvers,
Michelle Lundquist, and
Angie Nordstrum. The artists were all
wearing nametags they had had made. (The plastic kind with the pin
on the back. Not the stick-on, handmade kind.) The nametags had
their full names with "Artist" next to it. There was no question
about whose work was hanging in that gallery. Even more importantly,
they greeted each guest that entered the space. Everyone felt
welcomed.
Whether you're showing
art in a gallery space or at your own open studio, here are ten
ways to be a star host or hostess.
1. Inform your
guests ahead of time about directions and parking.
2. Wear a nametag
and greet people. If you're the only artist, ask your
closest friends or family to help you with this task. You never
know when you'll find yourself in a situation in which a
well-meaning guest is monopolizing your time. You don't want the
other guests to feel ignored or unappreciated.
3. Introduce your
guests to other guests, particularly when they arrive alone.
4. Remember names as
much as possible. When you meet someone, repeat his name out
loud: "It's so nice to meet you, David." Then repeat the name
silently to yourself several times.
5. Make sure there
are enough refreshments to last the evening and that people
know if they aren't allowed to eat and drink in the gallery.
6. See that the
bathrooms are clean and comfortable. I realize you might not
think this is your job, but who else cares more about your
guests than you do?
7. Have a coat check
or coat rack.
8. Clear out spaces
and bring in extra seating if needed. People, especially
older people, are much more likely to stay longer if they can
rest and regroup. Museum studies have shown that learning
increases if "pit stops" are included. That¹s why you see lots
of nice seating in museums these days.
9. Encourage
responsible drinking and have non-alcoholic beverages for
designated drivers.
10. Have a table for
business cards, brochures, postcards, and other handouts. If
appropriate, put together a notebook of information about your
work.
Oh, yes, there is one
more. To find out what the 11th one is, visit the
Art Biz Blog:
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KNOW THIS
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It's your art. You're in
the spotlight. |
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THINK ABOUT THIS
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Many, many people are
intimidated by art and art venues. It's your responsibility to make
them feel comfortable. |
| DO THIS
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Practice being a star host or hostess.
Attend events to see how other artists do it. Attend
events to see what other artists are doing wrong and how you
might improve. |
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THE ARTIST'S MARKETING
PLAN
Begins today,
March 6
Are you struggling with staying on track? Are you finding it difficult
to build a reputation and sell your art? You might just need a plan to
help you focus. Take a look: Info & Enrollment
CHOOSING THE RIGHT CAREER
PATH
Begins Monday, March 20
If you're confused about which direction to take your art career,
this might just be the perfect class for you. Success doesn't look the
same for every artist. You have to know what's right for you.
Details
"Self-Promotion Essentials" comes to Mobile, Alabama,
on Thursday, April 6 and Jackson, Michigan, on Saturday, April 29. For
contacts and more info, see the links in the tan box at
ArtBizWorkshops.com
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THIS WEEK:
►A
terrific marketing presentation
►Enlarge font size for
web viewing
►Work
in multiple mediums
Find out more:
Art Biz
Blog
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Individual Consultations Writing and Editing
Ongoing Support Marketing Plans Classes
Paving Your Career Path Setting Up
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