https://linktr.ee/businessof_art

Frank’s Links

http://serranofineart.com/

https://www.facebook.com/frank.serrano.18

https://www.instagram.com/serranoartist/

Summary

Frank Serrano is a full-time artist with over 30 years of experience. Starting young, he studied business and initially owned a screen printing business, allowing him to pursue fine art part-time. Eventually, he transitioned to fine art full-time, joining art organizations and painting landscapes and seascapes, leading to his first gallery representation. Frank emphasized the importance of good work, confidence, inventory when approaching galleries, and marketing through social media.

The conversation explores the shift in the art industry due to social media and online galleries. Frank shares his experience transitioning from traditional galleries to selling through his website and social media. He discusses the benefits and challenges of using social media for marketing and selling art, including posting high-quality work and engaging with potential buyers.

Frank emphasizes the significance of plein air painting and the value of painting from life to develop artistic skills and capture nuances of color and atmosphere. He discusses his journey, including teaching, writing books, networking with other artists, and continually learning and improving.

Frank shares his approach to painting, using a limited palette and focusing on values. He provides tips for plein air painting, such as staying compact and being prepared. He discusses the essentials of plein air painting, emphasizing simplicity and preparation, and the importance of capturing the scene quickly due to fleeting light.

Frank talks about finding where Maynard Dixon painted and the challenges of plein air painting. He discusses the role of studies in his studio work for color and value reference and emphasizes craftsmanship and brushwork. He shares experiences of learning from artists like Richard Schmidt and Clyde Aspevig, and advice from his father and a collector about staying humble, putting work out there, and continuing to paint.

Takeaways

Frank Serrano has been a full-time artist for over 30 years.

He transitioned from screen printing to pursuing fine art full-time.

The importance of good work, confidence, and enough inventory when approaching galleries.

Social media is significant for marketing oneself in today's art market.

Social media has changed the dynamic of marketing and selling artwork, allowing artists to reach a wider audience and sell directly.

Posting high-quality work and engaging with potential buyers on social media can lead to sales and opportunities.

Plein air painting allows artists to capture the nuances of color and atmosphere from life.

Developing a strong reputation in the art industry requires careful financial planning and strategic decision-making.

Teaching workshops can provide additional income and opportunities for artists.

Networking and continuous learning are important for growth.

A limited palette simplifies color mixing and creates color harmonies.

Values are crucial for successful painting.

Staying compact with the right equipment is helpful for plein air painting.

Preparing paints and materials before heading out saves time and allows for more effective work.

Plein air studies can be used as references for color and value in studio work.

Learning from other artists can greatly influence one's work.

Meeting and connecting with other artists provide opportunities for growth and learning.

Staying humble, putting work out there, and continuing to paint are important for artistic growth and success.

Keywords

Frank Serrano, full-time artist, artist journey, screen printing, fine art, landscape painting, seascape, gallery representation, art marketing, social media, art industry, online galleries, selling art, art gallery, plein air, oil painting, painting atmosphere, teaching art, writing books, networking, continuous learning, painting approach, limited palette