Building Your Brand as an Emerging Artist: Practical Steps to Take Right Now

As an emerging artist, you’re probably juggling a lot—creating, learning, connecting, and trying to get your work out there. It can feel like an uphill battle, but here’s the good news: building your brand doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s about creating a strong, authentic identity that speaks to people, both within the art world and beyond. Here are some strategies to help you build your brand and grow your presence as an artist.

Find Your Voice and Own It

Your artistic identity is your fingerprint in the art world. It’s how you express your thoughts, your emotions, and your worldview. Take some time to reflect on the themes that resonate with you. What are the recurring ideas, materials, or moods in your work? Your artistic voice is about more than what you make; it’s about how you want to make others feel. The clearer you are about what drives you, the easier it will be to communicate that to your audience.

Get Online and Make it Yours

Being present online is a must these days, but it’s not just about having an Instagram account. Think about how you can create a space that feels uniquely yours. A simple, well-organized website can serve as your digital home—a place where people can easily find your portfolio, an artist statement, and more information about your work. Social media platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn are excellent tools for connecting with a wider audience, but consistency matters. Make sure your online presence reflects who you are and the work you’re creating.

Pro Tip: Share more than just finished pieces. Give followers a peek behind the scenes—whether it’s a work-in-progress, your studio space, or a glimpse of your daily life as an artist. People love feeling like they’re on the journey with you.

Make Meaningful Connections

You can’t build a career in isolation. The art world thrives on collaboration, networking, and community. Reach out to other artists, curators, and people whose work you admire. Attend local shows, participate in online artist groups, and build connections that can open doors. Networking isn’t just about asking for favors—it’s about giving and supporting others, which can lead to organic and fulfilling opportunities down the line.

Consider collaborations or joint projects that allow you to connect with like-minded creators. You never know where a conversation might lead, whether it’s a joint exhibition or a group show invitation.

Be Strategic with Your Submissions

Submitting your work to galleries or competitions is part of the process, but it's important to be strategic about it. Instead of sending your work everywhere, take a thoughtful approach. Research opportunities that align with your artistic goals, and tailor your submissions to fit the specific requirements and ethos of each opportunity.

And remember, it’s not about getting in everywhere—it’s about getting in where it makes sense. Quality over quantity is key.

Pro Tip: Before hitting send, take the time to personalize your submission. Reach out to the curators or event organizers with a brief introduction and a few words about why your work would be a good fit. It can make all the difference.

Understand Pricing and Selling Your Work

Pricing your work can be tricky, especially if you’re just starting out. Start by considering the cost of materials, the time you spend creating, and the current market. Don’t undervalue yourself, but also be realistic about where you are in your career. As your profile grows, you can start adjusting your pricing accordingly.

There are plenty of online platforms where you can sell your art, but don’t forget about local opportunities too. Art fairs, pop-up shows, and local galleries are great places to get your work in front of potential buyers.

Pro Tip: Offer limited editions, prints, or smaller works for those who might not be able to purchase your large-scale pieces. It gives them a way to support you without breaking the bank.

Get Comfortable with the Business Side

Being an artist means managing your own career. It’s important to understand the business side of things—contracts, taxes, and copyright laws are all part of the picture. Take time to educate yourself on the basics of running your art business. If numbers aren’t your thing, consider hiring an accountant or financial advisor who can help keep everything on track.

The more you understand the business side, the more empowered you’ll be to focus on your art.

Craft Your Narrative—And Stick to It

As an artist, your narrative is just as important as your work. How you present yourself—your story, your values, your creative journey—forms the basis of your brand. Be intentional about how you share your story. Your artist statement, website bio, and social media profiles should all communicate a consistent narrative that ties everything together.

Pro Tip: Don’t overthink it—just be honest. Talk about what inspires you, what excites you about your craft, and how your art reflects your experiences and values.

Building a brand as an emerging artist doesn’t happen overnight, but with a little patience, persistence, and a solid plan, you’ll start to see the results. It’s about being true to yourself, being strategic with your time and efforts, and finding ways to connect with your audience. Stay grounded in your artistic vision while also being open to learning and adapting. The art world is wide open, and by taking these practical steps, you’ll be setting yourself up for long-term success.