Support Local Creatives: 5 Practical Ways for Art Enthusiasts

Published on 21 July 2023 6 min read

Buy art directly from local artists
Attend local art shows and auctions
Enroll in art classes and workshops
Donate to local art organizations
Promote local artists on social media

When you're an art aficionado, there's something truly magical about discovering a talented local artist. Their fresh perspectives and unique styles can add a new dimension to your art collection while supporting local creatives. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your artistic journey, here are some practical ways you can immerse yourself in the local art scene and support your local artistic community.

Buy Art Directly from Local Artists

One of the most direct ways of supporting local creatives is by buying their art. This not only helps them financially, but also gives them the confidence and validation to continue creating. Here's how you can go about it:

Find Local Artists

Start by exploring your local community. Attend art fairs, visit local galleries, or even check out coffee shops and restaurants that sometimes display local art. You'll be amazed at the talent hidden in your very own neighborhood.

Understand Their Art

Once you've identified local artists you like, take the time to understand their art. What does it represent? What materials do they use? This will help you appreciate their work and form a deeper connection with it. Plus, it's always a great conversation starter when you show off your collection!

Buy What You Love

Never buy art just because you think it will appreciate in value. Instead, buy what you love. That way, even if the value doesn't increase, you still have a piece of art that you cherish and that's worth more than any price tag.

Commission Custom Pieces

If there's a local artist whose style really resonates with you, consider commissioning a custom piece. This is a great way to get something truly unique while directly supporting the artist's craft.

So, next time you're considering adding to your art collection, think local. The direct support you provide to local artists not only enriches your city's cultural fabric, but also contributes to a flourishing creative community. Remember, every art purchase is a step towards supporting local creatives.

Attend Local Art Shows and Auctions

Another fantastic way to engage in supporting local creatives is by attending art shows and auctions in your community. These events provide a platform for artists to showcase their work and for art lovers like you to discover new talent. Let's dive into how you can navigate these events:

Keep an Eye on Event Calendars

Local newspapers, community bulletins, and social media are treasure troves for event listings. Make it a habit to check these resources regularly. You can even mark your calendar for recurring events, like annual art festivals or monthly art walks.

Participate Actively

Don't just be a bystander at these events. Engage with the artists, ask questions about their work, or share your thoughts. This interaction can be incredibly rewarding for both you and the artist. It's a chance for you to learn more about the creative process, and for the artists to receive direct feedback.

Consider Bidding at Auctions

Local art auctions can be a goldmine for unique art pieces. Plus, your bids directly contribute to supporting local creatives. Don't be intimidated if it's your first time. Auctions can be thrilling—you might even catch the bidding bug!

Invite Friends Along

Art is meant to be shared. Why not bring along a few friends to these events? It's a fun way to spend time together, and you'll be introducing more people to the local art scene. The more, the merrier!

By attending local art shows and auctions, you're not just supporting local creatives—you're becoming part of a vibrant, artistic community. Enjoy the experience, spread the word, and don't forget to have fun along the way!

Enroll in Art Classes and Workshops

Enrolling in art classes and workshops is an engaging way to continue supporting local creatives. It allows you to learn new skills while contributing directly to the livelihood of local artists and art educators. So, how can you get started?

Find a Workshop That Interests You

You don't have to be a Picasso or a Van Gogh to take an art class. There's something for everyone, from beginner's painting to advanced sculpture. Look for classes that interest you and align with your skill level. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the process while supporting local creatives.

Invite Friends or Family to Join

Art classes can be a great bonding experience. Inviting friends or family members can make the class more enjoyable, and you'll be introducing them to the world of supporting local creatives. Plus, group enrollments might even come with a discount!

Practice What You Learn

After learning a new technique or style, practice it at home. You'll be surprised at how much you can improve with a little bit of practice. Plus, it shows your support for the artist or educator who taught you the skill.

Don't hide your art! Share your creations with friends, family, or on social media. It's a great way to spark conversations about art and inspire others to start supporting local creatives.

Enrolling in art classes and workshops not only supports local creatives but also allows you to explore your artistic side. It's a win-win situation. So, why not give it a try?

Donate to Local Art Organizations

Another impactful way of supporting local creatives is by donating to local art organizations. These organizations play a pivotal role in fostering creativity and providing artists with resources they need to thrive. But how can you get involved, and what can you do to help?

Identify the Right Organizations

Start by researching local art organizations in your area. Look for nonprofits with missions that resonate with you. These could include community art centers, galleries, theater groups, or even local mural projects. Remember, every donation counts when it comes to supporting local creatives.

Donate Money or Supplies

Donations don't always have to be monetary. If you have art supplies gathering dust at home, why not donate them? Many local art organizations are often in need of materials and would welcome your contributions.

Consider Recurring Donations

One-time donations are great, but if you’re able, consider setting up a recurring donation. This can provide local art organizations with a steady stream of support, enabling them to plan better and support more local creatives in the long run.

Spread the Word

After making a donation, spread the word about the organization and its mission. Encourage your friends, family, and social media followers to donate as well. The more people know about these organizations, the more support they can gain.

By donating to local art organizations, you're investing in the future of your community's arts scene. It's an act of generosity that can help keep the arts alive and thriving, while supporting local creatives.

One of the most powerful tools you have at your disposal for supporting local creatives is your social media presence. With just a few clicks, you can showcase local talent to your network and beyond. But how can you use social media to promote local artists effectively?

Follow and Engage with Local Artists

Start by following local artists on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Engage with their posts by liking, commenting, and sharing their work. Your active participation helps boost their visibility and reach.

Sharing an artist's work on your social media is a free and effective way to promote them. Make sure to tag the artist and use relevant hashtags. This not only credits the artist but also increases the chances of the post being seen by a wider audience.

Highlight Artists in Stories or Posts

Consider dedicating a post or a story to a local artist you admire. Write a few words about why you appreciate their work or how it has impacted you. This personal touch can make your post more engaging and relatable.

If you have a substantial following, use your influence to recommend local artists. You might even consider starting a weekly or monthly feature where you spotlight different creatives. This can become a platform for supporting local talent and inspiring others to do the same.

By promoting local artists on social media, you're helping to amplify their voices and broaden their reach. It's a small act that can make a big difference in supporting local creatives.

If you're passionate about supporting local creatives and want to learn more about how you can contribute to their success, consider attending the 'Crowdfunding for Independent Artists 101' workshop by Sameera Maruvada. This workshop will teach you the ins and outs of crowdfunding and how it can be an effective way for art enthusiasts to support their favorite independent artists.