NatashasArtCandy.com

Oct 20, 2004

There is lots of art out there on Ebay these days. From folk, outsider, and niave art to realist, photo, and digital art.

Every artist has some subject matter and style that is unique and valuable, whether they have been educated in the finest art universities or have been teaching themselves since they were a toddler. Most of you may notice that about 80-90% of artists have seemed to catch the creative bug when they are in the vital stages of childhood development.

Like I, many have been drawing and creating since they were around 2 or 3 years old, and have had little educational influence. I have been drawing and creating nearly everyday since then, but have had little education on art except some art classes in highschool, and graphic design classes in college, which involve computers.

Now, while everyone is trying to make a living off their art (if its not their hobby or part-time job), it may be hard found whether they will be able to do it. Factors such as popularity, uniqueness, trustworthiness, quality, or even “Will this go great on my wall?” are determined by most collectors or the first time buyer.

—Many artists are ill-informed that doing something that “sells” is how you become a best selling artist. Some lose confidence in their own style and try to mimic one that is making bank on Ebay. It just doesn’t work that way. What people want is originality and individuality in your work. And it make take time before you realize that individual style and go with it.

—It is natural to study off other artists and learn from them, but it’d be best to stick to the old masters than the newbies. Unfortunately, there are backbiting snobs out there who proclaim they are completely original and unique, when you can clearly see influences of Monet, O’Keefe, Kandinsky, or Basquiat in their work.

—It can be frustrating for an artist who is just trying to find their way in the biz, when art snobs lash out and claim supremecy in the art world. I find it hard to believe a group of self-appointed art police who describe their art as being the only original and the “shiznit” on ebay and everyone else tries to copy them. I find it sad that artists like that are out for themselves and looking for the quick way to make a buck, rather than look out for the fellow artist.

I am grateful for those who have looked out for me and have taught me much about the business. I have been inspired to collaborate a book for those who are starting out, so they can too learn what I did about selling online and on Ebay. I hope that it inspires, motivates, and educates those who read it.

As living artists, we are influenced by the world around us. Textures, colors, and composition are apparent throughout all of nature. It inspires or moves us in some way to represent them in whatever style that moves us.

I hope that collectors and art fans appreciate the quality work that I do, and the effort that I put into each piece. Because I care about art, and I care about the art collector. I offer works that are not only collectable and worthy of investment, but something that will be aesthetically pleasing, and decorative for your home or office.

Filed under: Auctions, career | Tagged: art business, ebay, marketing, natasha wescoat