[loukabooga]

OOPS! Spelling mistake in my title! Didn't notice till it was too late!

I was a pre-press designer for 10 years, leaving 2 1/2 years ago to have a baby.
I don't want to go back to work full time until my little lad goes to school but I'm going crazy not doing anything creative.

I am told how talented I am and have won awards in Derbyshire, so I know I'm not wasting my time, but I'm not a natural marketeer.

I try to do portraits when I can and spent quite a lot getting postcards and business cards printed.
I've done mailshots to picture framer businessess and I'm getting a steady response in reply , but I would love more advice on where else I could advertise. I have no budget to speak of, but can afford stamps to do mailshots.

I am from the UK, but would mailing to Europe and USA be worth the while? Would getting a Manager be of any use? How would I get work in magazines?

My work is displayed at loukabooga at the uk address. I tried uploading some samples for people to view so they knew what kind of work I want to advertise, but I'm having some trouble!

[MadamButterfly]

I work at a Gallery in California, so I have some knowledge. Many of the local, lesser-known artists we feature have their own websites, or feature their art on websites such as deviantART: where ART meets application! I would definitely suggest opening up an account there, as you will be able to sell copies of your artwork through their online store. If you don't want to be part of a larger domain, you should at least find a host for your pictures (photobucket.com) that way, you will have a link to send to prospective galleries.

Also, I would highly suggest matting your artwork, to give it a more "finished" look. Many artists begin by self-promoting, its only after you've established a name for yourself that you need a manager/rep (this really applies if you are dealing with galleries overseas).

I would also suggest searching online for galleries that tailor more towards visual art (ie paintings, giclees, graphite, etc.) then size them up before contacting them (if they showcase a lot of ocean-related pieces you should definitely try to contact them with pieces that are ocean-themed.)

As far as getting into magazines, I would try contacting them through their website and sending them a link to your website or domain.

Well, I hope that I've answered a few of your questions... and, should you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
-m