From Artist to Author

Local artists face the challenge of not only creating but also effectively promoting and making money from their work. Most of us depend on faith, social media, and would-be opportunities. Even in a major city you may feel disconnection from “the scene”, lacking a network to connect to. Maybe you see a small group of individuals receiving spotlight while greater talent is being ignored. In cases like this, it is not the time to disassociate, it’s an opportunity to elevate from an artist to an author.

Developing a deep-seated “authority” in one’s craft extends beyond mere creation; it encompasses a holistic approach involving ownership, education, superior command of the digital and experiential realms, and MOST importantly, consistency.

Understanding Authority
Before delving into how artists can establish authority in their craft, let’s unpack the term itself. “Authority” originates from the Latin word auctoritas, which refers to invention, advice, opinion, influence, or command. Interestingly, it shares its roots with the word “author,” denoting one who creates or initiates anything. This connection is pivotal, especially for artists, as it underscores their role not just as creators but as original authors of their work.

In the realm of art, being an “author” implies a profound level of engagement and ownership of one’s creations. It suggests that artists, like authors, weave personal and cultural narratives into their works, influencing and defining the culture around them. So, authority is not just about power but also about the credibility, respect, and influence one gains from peers and others. For an artist, authority encompasses the depth of their understanding, the uniqueness of their vision, and their ability to impact and inspire both peers and patrons.

Owning the Craft
The first step towards authority is through owning the entire process of one’s craft. For visual artists, this might mean taking charge of how their artwork is reproduced. Artists may rely on generic services like Staples or FedEx for reproductions, which often cater to a broad commercial audience and may not offer the specialized quality that fine art demands. However, high-quality fine arts printers, while offering superior results, can be prohibitively expensive. Here, nonprofits like OCEANORGLB bridge the gap by providing affordable, high-quality printing options, thus allowing artists to maintain high standards and control over their final products.

Immediately artists earn, save, and reinvest in their artwork. This manifests into buying their own equipment, recycling good will based off experience, and replacing outdated processes (even us, which is a good thing).

Educational Authority
Artists enhance their authority by also serving as educators and cultural promoters of their craft. For example, an artist specializing in crochet might manage two Instagram accounts: one showcasing their personal creations and another focused on educating and sharing the broader world of crochet. This not only positions them as experts but also centralizes their influence as cultural contributors, enhancing their professional visibility and funneling interest back to their products and services.

Digital Dominance
In an era where digital presence is paramount, owning your platform is a significant form of authority. Artists should aim to control their content distribution channels to avoid dilution of their audience’s attention. For instance:

• Upload to platforms like YouTube for visibility and ad revenue.
• Embed those videos to your website, directing traffic to a personalized platform where viewers can engage exclusively with the artist’s content.

This helps maintain audience focus and encourages direct interactions, such as purchasing products or viewing more content.

Authority of Experience
The authority of experience is demonstrated through creating unique, memorable events that not only showcase an artist’s work but also enhance their reputation. In locales like Long Beach, California, artists can often set up shows at no cost, focusing instead on filling the venue. By offering more than just music—such as free merchandise, food, or other amenities—artists can create a standout experience that not only draws in crowds but also cements their status as significant cultural figures.

Consistency: The Key to Sustained Authority
Consistency is the backbone of maintaining authority and presence. Regular engagement and predictable scheduling in sharing one’s craft ensure that the audience remains connected and anticipates each new piece or event. As the saying goes, “How soon we forget,” but by maintaining a steady presence, artists ensure they remain at the forefront of their audience’s minds, continuously influencing and shaping the culture.

In essence, establishing authority in the arts is about much more than talent alone. It requires a strategic blend of ownership, education, digital savvy, experiential innovation, and unwavering consistency. By embracing these pillars, artists not only enhance their own stature but also contribute profoundly to the cultural landscape. As creators turn their crafts into platforms of influence and engagement, they forge a legacy that resonates deeply with audiences and sustains their artistic endeavors. Thus, true authority is achieved through a commitment to both excellence and community, ensuring that an artist’s impact is both lasting and meaningful.