I cannot tell you how many fantastic art opportunities I have turned down because after reading the fine print I found out these great offers were contingent on my making a purchase. Pay attention to the fast road to success claims when a fee is attached. When the market is slow, and economy is stuttering, more and more incredible propositions will come your way. Bad deals and a bad economy seem to go hand in hand, people are struggling and some will try anything to make a buck. If they can separate you from your hard earned money they win, you loose.
Paying for mailing lists, no matter what kind, are a total waste of money. Avoid this fabulous pitch like the plague. If I receive a mailing from someone that I don’t know it is thrown in the trash, and that goes for both the US mail and Email. Your best source for contacts are those that you make on your own.
Over and over, through the years, I’ve been offered a chance to show my work with the caveat; pay a compensation. Some claim to be very prestigious and promise to introduce your work to major collectors and increase your exposure. Think about it. If they already have your money why should they spend time trying to sell your stuff?
There are as many schemes out there to part you from your money as there are people to participate. Just proceed with caution and use your head. When you are approached to be included in a publication of select artists, or a website of elite artists for a price, check it out. Find out if others have received any benefit from this opportunity. Don’t be afraid to call and talk to references. Today, with the internet, it is much easier to check out offers or verify the history of a show, museum, event, etc. Search online using the words “scam” or “fraud” in connection with the person or company making the proposal. It is amazing what this type of search will reveal.
Gail Niebrugge, Artist and business person
