How Your Grassroots Artist Group or Society Can Be Finanically Sustainable
A common theme I hear from members is just how important it is to be part of a local grassroots art group that meets regularly.
The creative benefits of belonging to art societies and groups make a real difference to the art practice of artists. Especially because of the skills sharing as well as being amongst those who share your passion for art.
Yet many of the art societies and groups are grassroots, artist led and need to be able to cover costs such as rent, insurance, utilities, marketing and government and guild costs to name a few.
7 Methods Grassroots Artist Groups Can Fundraise
As with all enterprises, having multiple income streams makes the real difference, leading to a sustainable future.
Grassroots artist groups often rely on creative and resourceful ways to fundraise. Here are seven effective methods they can use:
1. Crowdfunding Campaigns:
Platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or GoFundMe allow artists to create campaigns to raise funds for specific projects. Supporters can contribute various amounts in exchange for rewards or exclusive content.
For an art group the content rewards for supporters could be digital prints of art works created by the group members. Digital rewards can be much easier to manager rather than having to post out physical product across the country or even internationally. This is especially true with the constant price increases by Australia Post. Keep life simple and have rewards that work for both you and your supporters.
2. Art Sales:
Organise art exhibitions or online galleries to sell the group’s artwork. Consider hosting a silent auction or setting up an online store where supporters can purchase prints, paintings, or other artistic creations.
This is one of the main ways art groups and societies tend to generate an income sharing in a sales commission set up. While commissions in the US etc tend to be around the 50% mark, generally, within, Australia the commission range is 20 – 35% plus GST (if registered for GST). The sales commission is then used to fund the group’s needs.
Exhibitions can be held often through out the year, just look at how the Art Society of Tasmania regularly holds exhibitions. It is the starting that makes all the difference.
Art exhibitions can generate immediate income through entry fees and sales commissions. The key is in the marketing and promoting of the event. Art Trails Tasmania members can promote their events here with us and across our socials and newsletters.
3. Benefit Concerts or Shows:
Host live events featuring your group’s talents. These events can include music performances, art exhibitions, art retreats and trails, theatre productions, or any form of artistic expression.
Charge an entrance fee and/or seek sponsors.
Have a think of which local businesses you can team up with to collaborate, what about a local pub or cafe? Often local libraries are interested in bringing the community together in their space.
These events can be run anywhere from once a year to every month and generate instant income when done well.
4. Membership or Subscription Models:
Create a membership program where supporters pay a regular fee to access exclusive content, early releases, or other perks.
Patreon is a popular platform for this approach and with a clever and focused marketing strategy this can work very effectively over time as you build your audience and followers.
This approach requires consistency, with a three to five year approach, but once set up properly, it can bring in a steady income for the group.
5. Art Workshops and Classes:
Offer art workshops or classes to the community. These sessions can provide valuable education and generate income for the group. Consider in-person or online workshops, depending on your reach.
This could be an ideal opportunity to collaborate with a local business such as a cafe or gallery that has space for groups and, potentially, to display works.
Collaborating with a local creative business, especially in a regional town or city, can be a fabulous way to support each other.
Plus, when you collaborate with another enterprise, you can support each other with promotions across Facebook, Instagram, event news stories, the media and connect with more than just each others’ audiences.
Make sure you have a vanity username for your Facebook page, click here for how to set it up. (This is important to do.)
6. Merchandise Sales:
Design and sell merchandise related to your group’s art, such as t-shirts, posters, or branded products. This can be particularly effective at live events or through an online store. This could also be done via print on demand platforms like RedBubble.
The group could also sell merchandise at local or annual markets and fairs. This is a great way to also promote what the group is doing, upcoming events and how to join.
The Inspiring Poatina Tree Art Gallery Winter Art Exhibition and Writers Festival
Get along to the Poatina Tree Art Gallery for the Evelyn Antonysen exhibition ‘Synthesis’ & the Winter Writers Festival celebrating writing & art and warm up your winter with creative inspiration!
7. Grant Applications and Sponsorships:
Look for grants, fellowships, or sponsorships from local and national arts organisations, foundations, your local council, and businesses that support the arts and crafts.
Be sure to thoroughly research the eligibility criteria and application processes.
It also helps to go in and have a friendly get to know you chat with the local businesses and Council Community Officers to build and nurture relationships.
The best way to make sponsorships work is to always keep in mind that it is a two way relationship and that appreciative acknowledgement goes a long way, especially if you want a long term relationship.
If you want to burn bridges and have to constantly be putting in the effort for applying for funds then treat supporters with disrespect.
Many local governments run community courses on how to apply for a grant. This will tell you exactly how to apply for a grant with that council.
Join our growing members community today to share your Artist Profile story.
Successful Fundraising for Grassroots Artist Groups and Societies
Remember that successful fundraising often requires a combination of these methods.
It’s essential to have a clear fundraising plan, set realistic goals, and effectively communicate your group’s mission and artistic vision to potential supporters.
Building a strong online presence through social media and a dedicated website can also help in reaching a wider audience and generating more support for your grassroots artist group.
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Belinda is doing a great job creating a professional looking artist hub online. Check out the profile I posted recently to see how well she does them. To all my artist friends let’s help make this THE go to place to discover local artists.
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