I participated in my first exhibition and was pleased with it as a comfortable introduction into showing my work. I’d felt really anxious about the show and spent a good deal of time last week considering how to present my work without overdoing it. The turnout was quieter than the organizers expected for a few reasons: it wasn’t the full Buurtlicht program thanks to covid derailing things, and covid is likely making people less anxious or able to go out. The weather was also truly terrible last night. That said, I was sort of glad it was slow. It worked for me as a warmup to know what to expect and be better prepared for the next time.
I decided to focus on my small collection of silver pieces but didn’t intend to sell anything. It was nice to talk to people about my work, which I did almost exclusively, and surprisingly competently, in Dutch. Several people asked about prices too, which felt good. I had thought about pricing for my goods in spite of my plan not to sell anything, and while I believe I offered fair prices considering the material cost and my time, they’re not inexpensive, and I made that decision conscientiously. If I decide to make a full-fledged go of selling my own jewelry, I’m going to focus on a higher-end market, since my experience in retail has shown me how difficult it is to compete for lower or mid-range items. I can’t capitalize on a market that uses industrial processes as an individual artisan, but I believe my work is interesting enough that it will cater to people who are more collecting-minded and know the difference between a handmade item and manufactured goods; in short, not the low end.
My friend who invited me to join the show makes a living from her work, and she’s found a way to make affordable pieces and has positioned herself in the mid-tier. We talked today about the various markets in Amsterdam, and how she operates. It was really good to hear about how she manages her business: spending a few months making her collection and then selling and teaching in other parts of the year, and also how she sets up her practice to be efficient at the bench. My way of working is a little different, but I could use some of her techniques applied to my style. Maybe it’s viable. Something to think about. Also, she suggested finding a good gallery or two that suit my style to sell my goods. I’d considered museums, but she said that’s to be avoided because they take a huge cut (like 80%). In any case, I want to focus on the art first, business later, but this is all good to keep in mind.
In news of retail, friends from James Avery told me today that the heart ring I designed is going gangbusters since it launched a few weeks ago. I’m really proud to hear that. I knew it would be a good style, but it’s doing even better than expected. I should buy one for myself (maybe some of my younger family members would also appreciate one).
I also started a new silver necklace project last week. I think I’ll finish it next week since I’m only at the Buurtwerkplaats on Mondays while the class is in session on Fridays. It’ll be cute, very wearable, and it’s a heart: so perfect for Valentine’s Day.