When I first started sharing my artwork online, I felt awkward. I’d put my heart into creating a pattern, but the idea of posting it for the world to see? That felt vulnerable. Would anyone even care? Would it feel like I was just shouting into the void?
But little by little, I began to notice something. When I talked about why I made a design—the moment of inspiration behind it, the flowers I couldn’t stop sketching, or even the challenges along the way—people responded. They weren’t just liking the artwork; they were connecting with the story. That’s when it clicked for me: marketing my artwork didn’t mean becoming someone I wasn’t. It just meant inviting people into my process.
Why Social Media Matters for Artists
Social media gives you direct access to an audience that spans beyond your local community. It’s not just about showing finished pieces—it’s about showing the heart and process behind them. When you share the messy middle of a painting, the spark of inspiration behind a pattern, or the story of why you chose a certain color palette, you invite people into your world.
Your ideal customers, collectors, or art directors want to feel that connection. That’s what transforms your work from “a piece of art” into their piece of art.
Choosing the Right Platforms
Not every platform will be right for you, and that’s okay. Ask yourself: Where do I enjoy showing up, and where does my audience like to spend time?
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Instagram is still a visual playground for artists, perfect for showcasing finished works, process reels, and curated grids.
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Pinterest acts like a visual search engine, helping you reach people who are actively looking for art, patterns, or products.
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TikTok thrives on storytelling and behind-the-scenes snippets, allowing you to show personality in quick, authentic ways.
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LinkedIn is often overlooked by artists, but it can be a powerful space to connect with art directors and licensing partners.
Pick one or two platforms to focus on—quality and consistency matter more than being everywhere at once.
Building Your Online Presence Beyond Social Media
While social platforms are powerful, don’t forget the importance of an online home you own: your website and your email list.
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Your website should act as a portfolio, shop, and brand introduction all in one. This is where you’re in control—no algorithms to chase.
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Your email list becomes your most valuable marketing tool. Social media followers come and go, but your list is yours forever. Regular emails—whether monthly updates, launches, or behind-the-scenes notes—build trust and keep your audience engaged.
Think of your social media as the invitation and your website/email list as the gathering place.
Tips to Make Marketing Feel Natural
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Share stories, not just products. Talk about what inspires you, your process, and even your struggles—it makes your art more relatable.
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Batch create content. Set aside time to photograph your work, write captions, or schedule posts so you’re not scrambling daily.
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Engage, don’t just post. Reply to comments, cheer others on, and build community. Connection goes both ways.
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Remember: done is better than perfect. Consistency beats perfection every single time.
Final Thoughts
Marketing your artwork doesn’t mean changing who you are—it means letting more people see who you already are. When you share your process, your passion, and your presence online, you’re not just building visibility, you’re building relationships.
So take that next small step—post the work-in-progress on your desk, write a caption about what it means to you, or send out an email to your list. Your art deserves to be seen, and the world is waiting for it!
- Deanna Marie