The Case For Ugly, Challenging, Unsellable Art

Many artists feel their work is too dark, too ugly or challenging to sell. As someone who has sold paintings of infamous murderers, photographs of a drag queen dressed up as Van Gogh, missing ear and all, a portrait of a man mid ugly cry, a drawing made from fake tan and a sculpture of a dying lamp post with a flickering light, Ceri politely calls bulls**t on that belief. KEY TAKEAWAYS Artists are often the worst judges of their own saleability. If you've softened, reshaped or avoided making something out of fear it won't sell, stop - you're probably wrong. Don´t 2nd guess the market. Markets shift, don´t chase the trend. You attract people by making work that feels true to you and bringing people into it, not the other way round. Pour your energy into being in alignment with the people who see you, who light up at your work. BEST MOMENTS “If your gut´s telling you not to compromise, to stick with the hard stuff, the weird stuff, the work that gnaws at you, then don't bend.” “Sometimes that impossible to sell work ends up in a Miami collection, gets a residency and boom, everyone wants one. The art market isn't run on logic or formulas. It runs on story. ” “If you're making feminist witchy art with plaster cast body parts, gold cobwebs and a death metal soundtrack, you don't need the approval of a minimalist, leaning septuagenarian collector. He's not your guy” PODCAST HOST BIO With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** The Artist Mastermind Circle: Ready to stop second-guessing and start building momentum in your art career? Applications are now open for the next Artist Mastermind Circle—a six-month coaching programme for mid-career artists who are serious about growing their confidence, income, and opportunities. Apply by September 15th 2025 at https://cerihand.com/artist-mastermind-circle/ and take the next bold step. Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected] **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/