The Artist Marketing Funnel: Client Loyalty

The collector experience doesn’t end once they purchase your art, that is when it truly begins.

*Disclaimer* These tips are just suggestions that we have deemed relevant to selling art and enhancing your business. We understand that all businesses are different and their process to make sales will differ from business to business. The following are just guidelines and should be used at your own discretion. It is ultimately up to you to determine what is best for your business.

Stage 4: Client Loyalty

This is the final and by far the most fun stage of the marketing funnel.

Now is the perfect opportunity to express gratitude for your clients' business and cultivate a long-lasting relationship with them. At the core of our philosophy in the art industry is the belief that owning fine art is not just a transaction, but an invitation to join an exclusive community of collectors. The key to setting yourself apart from other artists is to make sure that the experience of owning your art is fulfilling and meaningful.

As we have emphasized before, your loyal customers are your most valuable asset. They have demonstrated their appreciation for your art and have the resources to continue to support your work. Strengthening their loyalty is crucial to your success as an artist. Here are some effective ways to build and maintain a strong connection with your clients, and ensure that they remain passionate advocates of your art for years to come.

Here are 6 ways to build and strengthen client loyalty:

  1. Personalized Communication

  • Personalized communication: Take the time to get to know your clients, understand their tastes and preferences, and tailor your communication to their interests. Send them personalized emails, cards or messages to show that you appreciate their support.

  • Personalized consultations - Artists can offer personalized consultations with collectors to help them curate their art collections or select pieces that complement their existing collections.

2. Gifts

Here are 5 ideas options for your clients:

  • Dazzle Gift baskets - Send a custom gift basket filled with high quality products that your client will love.

  • Tickets - Is your client a fan of hockey? Loves comedy? A fan of ballet? Buy your client a ticket for them and a date to their next favourite show. This is a wonderful way to show interest in your clients hobbies give them an experience they’ll enjoy.

  • Art-related merchandise - Artists can create and offer merchandise such as t-shirts, tote bags, or mugs that feature their artwork. Merchandise promotes your brand while creating a sense of belonging to those who buy it. We work with our members to create custom products tailored for their brand. Email albiartteam@gmail.com if you wish to be represented in our online store!

  • Personalized art print - Create a special print or limited edition of one of your pieces and sign it with a personalized note for your collector.

  • Art calendar - Design a calendar featuring your artwork to showcase your work year-round.

Gifts are an amazing way to show client appreciation and build a strong relationship with your collectors. To view discounted gifts you can give your clients, view your member discount page.

3. Exclusive Previews

  • Exclusive previews: Offer your loyal clients the first chance to see and purchase your new artwork. Consider hosting an exclusive preview event or sending them a private link to your online gallery before it is released to the public.

  • Share behind-the-scenes content: Give your collectors a behind-the-scenes look at your creative process, including works-in-progress, sketches, and studio visits. This helps to create a personal connection between you and your collectors, and gives them a deeper understanding and appreciation for your art.

  • Art workshops or classes - Artists can offer workshops or classes for collectors to learn more about their craft or create their own art.

4. Incentives

  • Special incentives: Reward your loyal customers with special incentives such as discounts, free shipping or complimentary artwork. This will not only make them feel appreciated, but also encourage them to continue collecting your work.

5. Feedback

  • Follow-up and feedback: After a purchase, make sure to follow up with your clients to ensure they are satisfied with their purchase. Ask for their feedback and suggestions for future artwork. This shows that you value their opinion and are committed to providing the best possible customer experience.

6. Community Engagement

  • Community engagement: Build a sense of community and belonging around your artwork by creating opportunities for your clients to connect with each other. Consider hosting events, online forums or social media groups where collectors can share their love for your art and connect with each other.