Earlier this year, I had to let this painting go to a new home.
It’s bitter-sweet when you sell a painting. Especially when it’s a personal favorite.
On one hand, you sold a painting! No easy task as I’m sure you’re aware. On the other hand, it’s hard to let a painting go after all the effort, time, and emotion you put into it. Only we know the true cost of our work and that cost usually far exceeds any monetary value we are able to fetch for it.
When you sell a painting, it’s important to remind yourself that it’s not lost. You are just sharing it with others. And there’s great value in doing this, not only for yourself as an artist in terms of exposure, but also for others. Think of all the people who might see your work on someone’s wall and feel a touch of joy and inspiration. (See my previous email: The True Value of an Artwork.)
You will also have photos to remember your work by. Just make sure you take a high-quality photo and record the key details before you let a painting go to another home. Most phones come with a decent camera these days. Wait for an overcast day and photograph your painting outdoors. This should produce good and reliable photos.
Hope this email gives you some comfort if you sell one of your favorite paintings.
If you want more painting tips, check out 21 Easy Ways to Improve Your Paintings.
Happy painting!
Dan Scott
drawpaintacademy.com
PS. In my next email, I’ll share with you a copy of my painting archive spreadsheet. You might wish to copy it.
