Today we are pumped to have a guest post by Photographer, Surface and Graphic Designer Khristian A. Howell. Khristian recently published her first eBook, Confessions of a First Timer sharing her insights and tips while documenting the ups and downs of doing your first trade show. I came across Khristian through a guest post she did on Crafting An MBA about her experience at Surtex, an annual event geared toward selling and licensing original art and design. I highly recommend you pop over to Crafting An MBA and read her article there then return to the following article for Part Deux! Without further ado, here's Khristian...
This year I did it! I finally did my first trade show and I gotta tell you it feels great! Now that I have one under my belt and the experience is so fresh in my mind, I am thrilled to tell you a few things I've learned. You know, all the things I wish someone had told me. Don't get me wrong I enlisted plenty advise from many well seasoned artist in the licensing realm - and that's great. However, there is just nothing like someone telling you about the first time. The intensity of all those first time emotions start to fade a bit over the years. Two key points of success for me were really doing my research and finding my edge.
1. Do Your Market Research
Of course you will do loads of research before choosing which show is appropriate for you. After you decide on a show, it is really important to dig a bit deeper. Really investigate the range of attendees who come to the show. I am certain you have a list of clients that you really are hoping to meet and work with (the dream clients, we all have them). Of course check out their websites, but don't stop there. Understand their product, and where they retail. Go 'visit" the products in the stores. This will give you a good idea of how this group likes to position themselves in the market. You can also check out the competitors too. Can you see an opportunity here? Is there a look that is lacking?
It is also important to understand the way manufactures use art on their products. Is there an allover print, and a coordinating twin print? Is there only and icon without any repeat patterns. Then ask yourself does my type of art fit into what this manufacturer needs for their products? Remember art licensing is all about creating art for products. It is to your advantage to really understand the way art is used on the products you are interested in.
2. Find Your Edge
What makes your catalog special? What is your stand out trait? Now this does not mean that you need to pigeon hole yourself into one particular category. However, it does help to have a clear look about your artwork. For example, my strength is building interesting collections. This works well for me because it lends nicely to working with fabric and stationary. Two categories I love. What is your edge? Are you a master at fun characters? Do you do great landscapes? Are you quirky, traditional, a watercolor artist? I think it is important to be versatile, but to also make a clear statement about who you are, and what you offer. Don't try to be everything to everyone.
Here’s a lil’ excerpt from Confessions of a First Timer…
Don’t be intimidated; be inspired. We all have a unique point of view, and there is room for everyone. Now, don’t get me wrong - this does not mean we can just be artists who live on another planet. We have to remember the business side of things always. This is the bottom line. If company A’s pencil holders are always done in plastic with some sort of print, perhaps your woven textile would not be a good fit. Research the market. Understand what is happening. Understand the customer base and think about how you can help push it forward.
Also, Khristian is doing a FREE giveaway to help people get started just for signing up on her mailing list, swing by and check it out! Thank you, Khristian!
Just a friendly reminder to enter Meylah's July Contest: What's Your Passion? Name Your Price! for a chance to get your own personalized site at your price...entries will be accepted up until July 31, 2010.
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