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Welcome! I’m Carolyn Edlund, the founder of Artsy Shark. My mission is to inspire every artist to build a better art business.
I’m passionate about working with artists and creative entrepreneurs. You’ll find plenty of resources and assistance here.
Business Articles
This website contains hundreds of articles on the business of art. Each week, we bring you marketing and sales tips, inspiration, out-of-the-box ideas and opportunities to grow as a creative entrepreneur. Our focus is on publishing information that is useful and actionable for readers, whether you are just getting started or have years of experience. All of our business articles are completely free of charge, and available 24/7. If you’d like to receive our twice-monthly Updates & Opportunities emails recapping recent articles + artist opportunities, please Subscribe here.
Artist Features
Artsy Shark features and promotes artists by publishing individual portfolio articles four times per week. Since 2010, more than 2,000 artists have been featured. Interested artists may apply through a competitive Call for Artists submission process that happens several times per year. Submissions cannot be accepted at other times. Learn more here.
Business Consulting for Artists
I’ve worked with hundreds of artists and entrepreneurs on personalized strategies and planning. Each consultation session can help you understand your options, create a business vision, setArts and reach goals for your art business, and deal with challenges. Hourly one-on-one consultations may be scheduled. I also work with clients on a longer-term basis, through 60-day or 6-month consultation packages. Personalized sessions take place by phone or video call. Learn more here.
Art Website and Social Media Marketing Assistance
Artsy Shark provides referrals for professional website development, and social media management. Learn more here and contact us with your inquiry about getting the assistance you need.
Artist Statement Writing Services
Artsy Shark partners with writer Adam Eisenstat to offer this service. He has an exceptional reputation for creating professionally written artist statements that share your artistic vision and inspiration effectively. The process begins with a 15-minute free consultation to make sure that this service is right for you. Get started here.
Online Courses
Artsy Shark offers a number of comprehensive e-courses on the business of art. These are self-paced, and include videos, templates, case studies, self-evaluations and bonus materials. Find them here.
My Background
With a degree in Art, I launched a business in 1981 and spent twenty years running a successful production ceramic jewelry studio. My collection was sold extensively in the wholesale marketplace. Over the years, my staff and I created and shipped handmade products to more than 1,000 retail store accounts. We also exhibited at hundreds of art fairs and festivals, selling directly to the public.
In 2001, I closed my studio and accepted a position as an outside sales rep for a major art publisher. I called on independent stores and chain retailers in the Mid-Atlantic region, earning “rep of the year” status. I represented art, paper, card and gift lines and grew my territory into a top performer.
During those years, I learned how to design a saleable collection, price it profitably, market, prospect, close sales, and build a solid book of business as well as strong relationships and a large network.
I knew that I had a lot of knowledge and experience to share with artists and makers who also wanted to become entrepreneurs. In 2009, ArtsyShark.com was founded. Over the years, this site has published hundreds of articles on art marketing and business strategies. I also work one-on-one with artists and creatives, providing private business consulting services. It’s been a privilege to work with a long list of clients, including individual artists, galleries, non-profits and other businesses.
Have a question or want to learn more? Reach me at [email protected]