Sharing information in the art world, part 2

I’ve been meaning to get back to this topic and since I’ve had several requests for information on my suppliers, I thought a post would be relevant.

In Part 1, I discussed why artists are afraid to share information with their peers. I’m sure that all artists aren’t hoarding information, but some certainly are. I’m one of them. I guard knowledge with my life. It’s sort of a dirty little secret in the world of making a living (or trying to) from your art work. Everyone is trying to get ahead and knowledge is always the thing that puts you ahead of someone else. What you know and how much you know is important.

So, on to the meat of this post…

I can’t even count how many times I’ve been asked, “So, where do you get those ring blanks?” The question doesn’t annoy me when it comes from someone that I’ve “known” for a while… like another artist from one of the mosaic groups that I belong to. I expect it. Heck, I’ve asked other artists for their supply sources and many have been kind enough to answer. It aggravates me when I get random emails asking me to reveal my suppliers. I’ve had 3 over the last 2 weeks while I was in Orlando! Here’s a hint…try searching for “ring blanks”. Google is the crystal ball of the internet.

Everyone is looking for the same thing. The best prices, the low-down on where to get that trendy new product that everyone is using on Etsy. I think the thing that bothers me the most is that I know how hard it was to find the information that I have. It took me months to compile a good supplier list. I managed to luck out and discover some interesting things just by spending ALOT of time looking. I’m not too keen to supply information to anyone who is looking for the easy way out. Now I know why so many other artists weren’t ready to hand over anything to me!

I think it’s fair to say that the same holds true for techniques. Sure, there are alot of books out there that give you the blow by blow on how to do something. Alot of successful artists are publishing their techniques and there is no shortage of information on how to create a mosaic or how to install a kitchen backsplash. The real information is hidden in the individual artist’s unique style. How that artist puts all of their inspiration and talent into a piece of art. That can’t be taught.

While I wasn’t looking, my mosaic shoe hit the Front Page of Etsy. (Isn’t that always the way?) I missed the big event but several people convoed me and one even sent me a screen shot. (Thanks Kelly!) I received a bunch of “that shoe is awesome!” messages and one that said “Can you tell me what you seal your shoes with to keep everything from coming off?” Hmmm. I may need to hold back on the response to that one but the answer is pretty simple!

So, I guess I’m just really trying to say that techniques and suppliers are two more things that can be closely guarded in the art world. I don’t mind sharing information, sources and gallery contacts…with the right person…but for the most part I’ve learned that knowledge is power and you need power to be a success in this business. Some information is easier to give away and some will remain closely guarded.