I seem to have to remind students and clients how important their network is, and that they need to make a point of seeking collaborations.

I use the term collaboration broadly to refer to working with other people to advance your goals as an artist. Any. Other. People.

Seeking collaborative relationships is some of the highest level thinking I’ve witnessed in the thousands of artists I’ve encountered over the past 2 decades.. Artists who collaborate simply have more ambitious goals.

I’ll give you four quick examples from The Art Biz.

In episode 27, Jill Powers talked about how she collaborated with volunteers, chefs, scientists, venues, and more for a single exhibition.

In episode 86, Jerry McLaughlin and Rebecca Crowell discuss how they collaborate on a learning platform for artists.

In episode 126, Willie Cole reveals how he collaborates with top brands.

In episode 153, Danielle SeeWalker discusses a long-running photo and film documentary with a fellow artist.

All very different collaborations designed to help the artists fulfill their creative visions.

I know it can sometimes be frustrating working with other people, but the potential reward is too promising to overlook. As curator Melissa Messina said in episode 136, your network is everything.

Not only will you be happier when you collaborate, you will also stretch your business muscles and expand your audience when you bring more people in on what you’re doing.

That brings me to my next idea for how to be happier about running your art business.