Open Studio

Tammy Nielsen · 08-05-2002, 09:48 AM

I'd like to know if anyone in the Forum has had and would share more experiences of having an Open Studio? I just acquired a home that has an ideal room and porch with wonderful natural lighting. The problem being I live in a very small community (5,000 plus). I'm trying to decide whether to do individual invitations with a piece in the paper of my visit to Philly this year and a picture of myself with Daniel Greene or just advertise in the paper.

We used to have a gallery here in the area and we were lucky to get 3 people in to visit each day we were open. Which makes me lean towards individual invitations so at least people will know where my studio is. Any thoughts or experiences anyone?

Thanks,
Tammy

Alicia Kornick · 08-05-2002, 08:58 PM

Tammy,

In this day and age, I would not open my home to just anyone and everyone. I think I would send invitations rather than just put it in the paper. I would lean towards the cautious side.

Rochelle Brown · 08-08-2002, 01:47 PM

When searching for fundraising possibilities, I came across a thing that some artists do, which is invite several specially selected aquaintances, friends and family members to your studio where a few finished works may be hanging, serve wine and snacks, describe your particular technique and style, have printed information on hand, if appropriate, ask for financial help. It may be nice to do this repeatedly with a different group on a monthly basis.

Just a thought.

Tammy Nielsen · 08-08-2002, 04:48 PM

Thanks Rochelle, Because our community is so small that might be a great idea , just keep the ball rolling and allow them to see a new painting or work of art each month.

Gina Rath · 08-08-2002, 08:51 PM

I received The Artist's Magazine today and there is an article in the business section (pg. 67) about selling your artwork in your own backyard. The North Carolina artist, Connie Logan, has an Open House Studio Tour where patrons are invited into the homes and studios of local artists. She has also organized an Art in the Garden Tour for the students she teaches, at various gardens of some of the students.

Your community may be too small for this but I thought it was an interesting idea.

Tammy Nielsen · 08-08-2002, 08:59 PM

Thanks Gina, I'll check it out. Tammy

Patt Legg · 08-10-2002, 04:07 AM

Hi Tammy,

I am in about the same position as you are, in a tiny area. Until about 8-10 years ago, our closest town wasn't a lot larger and for art related business there was none at all. I kept checking out places to rent and I could not afford them on a full-time basis. As of 3 years ago I built (personally with hammer and nails, myself + hubby) my own 20' x 20' studio. Well, I kind of outgrew it and just renovated an old oak building (from farm days), and now have a 24' x 24' working studio, where I teach oils and do my own work. I now use my older studio for my gallery only.

I know what you are up against and I am still working very hard to reach areas outside of this one. More than likely I would think of as many friends, relatives and past clients that I had and send invitations. If that number is substantial then it may work fine. This too will spread the word out there with others. Personally, I am not worried too much about putting ads here in our local paper. It is very rural and I am just not that kind of personality to fret too much, but I will add that if the place is actually within my home, I would more than likely keep the showing small and quaint.

I agree with Gina and did indeed read the article in The Artist's Magazine and an Open House Studio Tour or the Garden Tour might be better.

We are small here, but I suppose I try to think big anyway. I just finished my studio and hope to have sort of an Open House or Meet the Artist gathering soon. I know several people to invite, and my daughter is a singer in a local blues band and will share the experience with me free of charge, add some wine and cheese, light music background and voila! It will be fun, and a few more will realize that I am a serious artist and will see my work. Usually from functions such as this, whether I sell or not, I often get a commission or two. Plus it is a fun time.

Good luck to you.

Tammy Nielsen · 08-10-2002, 09:47 AM

Thanks, Patt.

My studio is connected to my house by one door (and I can lock it); it used to be a rental so it's basically separate. And in our small town everyone knows everyone else, so I don't worry too much about people. And I live in an area that the local religion, LDS, has a family night every Monday. I thought about doing a demo each week and advertising it as a Monday family night. Another question for everyone: what about a donations box?

Thanks,
Tammy