“You Should Not Sell While Young!”

Me opening my first collective exhibit of ARGUS

Quite the shocking phrase isn’t it ? And you should have seen my face when an internationally recognized Curator told me that while we were unwrapping new works for an upcoming show.

All I did was just telling him that I just sold out my first series of prints, a series called “Floral Tigers”.

I mean it was kinda corny, ornamental Tigers that could sell as a decorative poster with the tiny difference that I signed and numbered them before as a limited edition and therefore they sold much higher than a poster. But it was my first series of prints so I was proud anyways.

The curator , let’s call him Peter even though that wasn’t his real Name looked at me and said: „ and I know exactly where this is going, You’re successful now with your Tigers. You won’t paint anything else will you? Because of that high. Because of the way these cats sell."

I respected Peter a lot, I still do. His work in Curation is inspiring and he knew a lot of relevant contemporary artists so he must know what he was talking about doesnt he?

"Dendro Tiger" , part of the Floral tigers series

I said nothing, because I did not know what to say and because I did not wanna give him more foundation to pull me apart. I knew part of him was right, part of him knew that I definetly hoped that these prints would be successful. I mean which artist doesnt?

But I was also enraged. Enraged, that this middle aged man really thought that I would be impressed by one well running sale, one blink of success. And that would make me never change my formula again, because I once sold 30 prints.

"I would not let an artist sell this young. Not even exhibit. Artists are supposed to work for ten years before they see the public eye.", he said while we were unwrapping a giant wave painting of artist Ansgar Skiba. Yea that was pretty shocking. Ten years post graduation? No serious shows or sales? Does this guy even know we live in a society where it is important to get food on the table?

Thing is, you could try to continue that series, you could try selling out tigers because they went well once, I know that.

But buyers, people will always know when you paint something out of your soul versus you paint it to appeal, or out of money.

And if you think a 20 something art student forgets that than you are wrong. I have witnessed many student colleagues being successful with their art and still trying new things to their hearts content. Being recognized for one body of work gives you the confidence to try out new things. And where it gets really interesting is actually when artists are not succesful with a line. Will they continue their search in this project because they believe in themselves? Or was it really just what Peter predicted? A financial mask? I see Peters points and I see his concerns. But we cant leave young emerging artists out of this equation. What happens when you never exhibit, never get in contact with galleries or shows or other artists? Sounds pretty lonely and deserted to me I wont even lie.

And while I understand his point of freedom of creation without being influenced by the art market to unfold ones truest artistic spirit I am standig strong on the fact that young people need to exhibit, to collect experience alone.

In conclusion, it is essential for young artists to actively seek opportunities to exhibit their work and gain a deeper understanding of the art market. Engaging with the market not only helps them navigate the complexities of pricing and promotion but also allows them to connect with audiences and potential buyers. While there will always be those who conform to trends and become what some may call "consume slaves," it is equally important to recognize that many artists will remain steadfast in their authenticity and will further develop themselves. These individuals understand their worth and are committed to staying true to their vision, regardless of market pressures. By balancing the need to promote their art with a dedication to their unique voice, young artists can carve out their own space in the art world, ensuring that they not only survive but thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.