Lisa Congdon

As an independent writer, I've read a myriad of freelance books geared toward writing. I've also read many guides for the photography business. However, this is the first book I've delved into to learn the traditional art market--the modern one.

Lisa Congdon covered all the basics: the pep talk to assure the reader that they are an artist, how to set up their business, promotions, selling, exhibitions and galleries, illustrations and licensing, and managing work flow. Perhaps most importantly, every chapter includes one or two interviews with artists from various specialties, gallery owners, and agents.

I never felt like I was reading a heavy book. The layout follows visual-friendly rules like extra white space, relevant but non-technical illustrations, and changes in fonts and colors. The combinations kept my focus and made the book's place flow freely despite being text dominant, whereas many books on freelance writing and photography can be heavily detailed without a layout that allows for quick referencing.

Ultimately, it seems that creative businesses are best conducted intelligently and intuitively--don't over think. Stick to your personal brand (your personality and preferred style), be active on social media and your blog (a popular means of gallery recruitment and regular sales), price fairly, and do what you do best.… (mere)