Start your complementary happiness journey!
The image you see here is from an ad for Duke brand of cigarettes issued circa 1887. What do you take away from it first?
The artist twisted in a gymnast's pose? Does your artistic journey also feel well-represented in this image?
You are a phenomenal artist. You have done the work, the training and you already have the natural talent. But, if your vision in life is to turn your art into any sort of a money-making avenue, you need to be a brand too, because, people cannot buy what they do not know about. Easy-peasy?
But, why do we use the word ‘brand’ and don’t simply say market or promote yourself?
Life in the 21st century is crowded, period. Our schedules, our to-dos, our minds and our socials- they are all cluttered. The experience is similar at the other end for your stakeholder and consumer too. Just putting the word out and being present ONLY will not give you the traction or the longevity.
What will? Your brand.
When you have a brand, people don’t just ‘know’ about you but they build a ‘community’ with and around you. And a brand does not have to be a collective or an organisation; every single one of us is a brand. You play to your strengths and you highlight the most unique and exciting aspects of yourself and your craft, without having to compromise on your values or your offering. It helps you be chosen and not just be visible. It helps you create a tribe and not just occasional ticket sales.
Why is it already not a thing?
It is, with a few who have taken the time to understand their craft and their selves. But largely, everyone is just trying to be out there and start making money, no? Money is making the world go ‘round and if you are an upcoming artist especially, money is of utmost importance even to just continue floating your craft. And, there is no better way to do this by laying the right foundations. We are conditioned to not think of ourselves as anything larger than life - a ‘star’, a ‘brand’. No, no - that is reserved for the big leagues only. What if it is not? Let us tell you, it is not.