Sell single subject or multiple subjects?

[Doug Hoppes]

Hi,

I have a question for everybody. I've finally discovered what medium/topic (oil and interpretive landscapes) that I like painting. People seem to like them and are purchasing my paintings.

The question is: Is it recommended to sell only those types of paintings or sell multiple different subjects/styles?

My main paintings are on canvas, but I also have smaller, realistic-style paintings that are studies. Would you sell the smaller paintings of a different topic? Would this hinder chances of getting collectors?

Examples of both styles are:

Interpretive landscapes:http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=139315&id=139120096678

Still life studies: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=142490&id=139120096678

Dougie

[Greg Long]

Whichever suits you best Doug.
Personally I think if you pursue the interpretive landscapes you will be happier. But by all means sell the studies also at a lower price. Do you do plien air, or other landscape studies prior to the interpretive ones? These would/could be sold as studies quite easily.

[kasunart]

No way don't limit your subject matter. I sell way more work by having a huge variety of subjects. I do suggest keeping to the same medium, and style (which you have done).

[JoeKaz]

There's nothing wrong with painting a variety of subject matter. Many great artists paint landscapes, portraits and still lifes. As Stephen already said, keep your style consistent - that's what identifies a painting as yours - the style, not the subject matter.

[cjorgensen]

I read something recently about this on another post. Same thing: the artist had two different styles. Someone recommended to market them under "series". For example, your "interpretive landscape" series, and your "still life" series. I don't think one is "more valuable", so the other should be priced less. Both are very good. I think you should price each series independently of each other.

(I think pricing is different when someone are selling their quick color studies as opposed to their grand, finished studio landscapes. Then of course, the color studies are a lessor value. But your two styles have nothing to do with each other.)

[Doug Hoppes]

Thanks for all of the comments. Pretty much, my wife said the same thing. I think that, at my next craft show, I'm going to try out the market and see how the still life's do.