Let’s get right to it. A media kit is a collection of a written and visual press material that is specific to a brand or organization.
A media kit includes a description of the work, contact information, media summaries, and a few high-quality images to illustrate the work.
We’ve found that having a consistent, well-crafted, and professional media kit is of utmost importance.
You can never be too cautious when it comes to protecting your clients and the brand you represent.
As a visual artist, we understand the importance of making yourself readily available to the media. Our days of flying into a studio after a long night out and waking up at 11 AM are long gone.
Today, the press just wants the real you – and your work.
The media loves an artist. You don’t have to rely on too many talking points if you’re charming and charming they will be. Just be yourself.
I’ve created a fairly comprehensive list below to highlight what I consider a media kit to be. It’s written in detail, so it might be helpful to find an image that’s similar to the one you created.
It’s also very much a work in progress. I would love to hear your input on how to make yours better!
Two important things to note:
• Original Art Work: The best kind of art work is great to have because they’re so original. Don’t be afraid to use your own images, especially if you’re selling a direct commission. The buyer will appreciate the sentiment and will want to support you for this.
• Prints and Posters: Where it comes to selling art, a good print (or poster) never goes out of style. Think about it – everyone knows that prints are timeless. You can use it for portfolios, promotions, or gift giving. Some prints come in a variety of sizes, styles, and price points. There are some great deals out there in this realm.
• Social Media Information: Whether it’s Facebook or Instagram, people who like your work will want to see more. They’ll want to interact with you. Having a few photos with your work is also a good idea.
• Web/Email Address: I know that some galleries will be wary of this, but it’s helpful for promoting future shows or signing up for an email newsletter. Be sure to use a professional one with your name, address, and phone number.
• Media and Publicity Contact Information: If you’re hoping to sell prints of your art, you’ll need a way to get it out into the public. A press release will work great. Sometimes artists, especially those who are self-taught, like to keep this information to themselves, but the public does expect a response from you.
• Pricing: You can use this information in a press release, along with an image, but you should also send a press release and images to print publications along with a pricing sheet. It’s a good way to show that you’re not charging an arm and a leg for a piece.
• Photos: I’ll be the first to tell you that good photos sell. It’s essential that your images be representative of your work. Make sure that you include a portrait, landscape, abstract, close-up, or product shot. Be sure to include a professional image of your work along with any press clippings.
• Cardstock or Stationary: If you’re using a sales piece as your marketing piece, you’ll want to include a cardstock.
• Logo and Name: Remember, a logo is like the face of your brand. You want to have a memorable logo that you can replicate. Include this somewhere in your media kit as a “Go to” place to reference. It’s important to have this on your business cards.
• Write-Up: This is the writer’s craft. If you’re using an email or a press release as your go-to source for communication, be sure to send an attached version. Also, be sure to keep it brief and to the point. Avoid long paragraphs.
I’ve already talked about this, but it bears repeating.
An effective media kit has an information page that includes a URL to your website, Instagram, and contact information. If you’re selling a direct commission, you’ll want to include a phone number and email address.
For those who sell artwork to collectors, you’ll want to include both your email and number along with your gallery contact information.
Whether it’s an artist’s life or not, getting media coverage can really help you in the long run.
A single media coverage piece will be a good way to start. If you don’t get lucky with a single article, you can always keep pushing. And to the artist who isn’t selling art, you can still learn from those who are.
Most people aren’t media-hungry, but those who are, are. So keep writing your pitches. This helps to make you look better and gives you more credibility.
