7 Free & Easy Ways Artists Can Market Themselves (That Actually Work)

As someone who works closely with artists; photographing their work, building websites, and helping them get noticed, I’ve seen firsthand how a few simple marketing habits can make a big difference. Whether you’re preparing for Art-Attack, the Saint Paul Art Crawl, or just looking to grow your audience online, here are seven practical, free ways to promote your art and attract more fans and collectors.

Be Yourself. Why is that such sage advice?

It’s not just about being a good person or staying relaxed; it means letting people see the real you. When you pretend to be someone you’re not, the audience that would truly connect with you won’t see you. And those who are drawn to the version you’re pretending to be? They’ll lose interest once things stop aligning.

The same goes for how your artwork is photographed. If an image has the wrong color balance, contrast, or saturation, it distorts what people see and someone who would’ve loved your original work might pass it by. Worse, someone attracted to the altered version may feel let down when they see the piece in person.

That’s why accuracy matters. When I photograph your art, my goal is to create images that reflect your actual work, not my interpretation of it.

1. Complete Your Listing on the Art-A-Whirl or Art Crawl Directory

This is your best free marketing opportunity. These events are already being promoted to people who plan to attend, in other words, potential collectors.

Surprisingly, many artists still leave their listings blank or image-free. That’s a huge missed chance. A strong image not only helps sell your work, it helps people remember and find you again. Think of how often someone forgets your name but remembers your style; the event directory is where they’ll go looking. Make sure they can find you.

2. Share Your Artwork Photos on Instagram

Instagram remains one of the most artist-rich platforms. It’s built around visuals and tends to have a more relaxed, supportive vibe than other social media.

Use relevant hashtags to connect with your niche. Here are a few to try:
#instapainting #artwork #instaart #makearteveryday #contemporaryfineart #lifeofanartist #landscapeartist #createeveryday #abstractpainting #markmaking

Start with 5 to 12 hashtags per post. Once you find ones that resonate with your style, save them in a notes app so you can reuse them easily.

3. Share Your Artwork on Your Facebook Profile

Images shared directly to your personal Facebook profile tend to get better visibility than posts on a business Page. You can also include a link to your website, Facebook will automatically generate a thumbnail preview.

Write a short caption to give the post a personal touch. Share what inspired the piece or what it means to you. People connect with stories, not just pictures.

4. Share the Same Post on Your Facebook Page (Later)

Wait a day or so, then post the same artwork on your Facebook Page. This helps avoid having your posts compete with each other in the algorithm.

Pro tip: When someone likes your artwork on your personal profile, you can invite them to like your Page too. Pages also let you run boosted posts and targeted ads; helpful tools when promoting upcoming shows or online sales.

5. Share Your Artwork on Pinterest

Pinterest is more about visibility than direct sales, but it’s powerful. Think of it as a visual search engine where users are actively looking for inspiration and ideas.

Create a board dedicated to your artwork. Be sure each image links back to your website or shop. That way, even if your image gets shared thousands of times, it still leads people back to you.

6. Create a Google Business Profile

Put your studio on the map; literally.

A free Google Business Profile lets you list your studio on Google Maps, along with your hours, photos, contact info, and website. This makes it easier for people to find you, and helps improve your visibility in local search results.

Once you enter your information, Google will mail you a postcard with a code to verify your location. It takes just a few minutes to set up and it’s absolutely worth it.

7. Start an Email Newsletter: Your Most Valuable Marketing Tool

Social media comes and goes, but email endures. A newsletter gives you a direct line to people who’ve already said “yes” to you; no algorithms involved.

Use a free platform like Mailchimp or Substack to manage your list. Add a signup form to your website, and collect emails at art shows and open studios.

Send updates a few times a year: new work, upcoming events, process shots, or just a look into your studio life. Keep it honest and short. Don’t chase perfection, you just be yourself.

* Peony by Dyan Padgett