Sending a newsletter, Studio Snack

I was thinking about the things a good artist newsletter should include.

In my mind it should include the exhibitions where you will be showing, the studio parties or invitations, the commission work you offer,gallery shows, specials like browse bin work or a special theme, and so forth.

It should also include your travels and adventures and a bit about your personal life which you might wish to share, such as stories about your dog or cat, your studio projects or home improvement. Many people are interested in artists' lives and interested in travel or other adventures and hobbies like gardening.

I like to include a nice recipe card that has been illustrated, or a cute illustration on the envelope to catch the eye and curiosity of the reader. It's ok to list openings and shows, but spice up your letter with something fun or amusing as well, and you will keep your reader's attention. Sometime I will include wild flower seeds I have gathered, or bird seed for their feeders.

Keep in mind that readers will be far more interested in direct news about your paintings and specific information on how to purchase or inquire about commissions, studio visits, or holiday specials than they will be in a list of gallery exhibitions. Frankly, it's mostly artists who care about exhibits, not patrons. I say this because my patrons know how to find my work and how to purchase it, because I am in frequent communication with them. They don't give a hoot about art shows. There are exceptions, but notice the percentage of artists to patrons at show openings at art centers. There are almost always many more artists than patrons who go to these things.

The main focus of your newsletter should be about your new work and how patrons can see it, either by studio visits,web sites or direct methods. I always talk about how easy it is to see my new work online, or by visiting the studio and I give them directions to my studio from all the major cities in the area. I encourage studio visits but never mention sales directly, preferring to invite friends as guests for coffee and companionship. I don't want them to feel any kind of pressure, but instead encouraged to enjoy visiting my studio as often as possible and bringing their friends.

I go to this extra trouble about three times a year. I will do color image potcards more frequently, which cost less postage to send but are not quite as homey as the newsletters. I usually save my newsletter for my patrons who are loyal and who buy paintings from me at least occasionally. I save the regular mailing list for post cards.

I also send out an Internet version to friends via email.


Today's recipe:

Studio Snack

Saltine crackers in rows on a sheet pan

Cover with shredded cheese mixed with a bit of thyme,oregano,basil,garlic powder,chopped parsley, finely chopped ham (1/4 cup)

Bake in the oven until bubbly on top and serve on a tray with wine or lemonade to drink.