Sunday, September 07, 2008

Building Relationships

There are times that I experience frustration that sales here at home in Ocala are somewhat lukewarm. After all, this is the self-proclaimed "Horse Capital of the World". Fact is, while there are many wealthy, gorgeous horse farms here, the well-heeled owners just don't shop in Smalltown.

So I shrug off the pity jacket and focus on the wonderful business relationships I've developed that are of crucial importance. These connections take time to form and are strengthened through trust and reliability. My primo gallery, The Paddock Room Galleries here in Ocala is one essential association. The University of Florida Equine Veterinary Hospital is a new and promising one. Countless individuals also fall under this relationship subject.

The Florida Breeders' and Owners' Association is a significant affiliation for me. They appreciate my good will contributions to the racing industry and in return, generously support me with invaluable publicity by using my artwork like this:

thoroughbred artThis invitation is sent out to the FTBOA members (over 2,000 nationwide) to attend the annual Membership Cocktail Party on October 5th during the festivities of Ocala Week.

Michael is busy curating a terrific exhibit of top equine artists from across the country to be installed in the FTBOA gallery. A portion of the sales will benefit the Florida Thoroughbred Charities. My artwork, again, on the invitation:

equine art
More info on the exhibit to come.

Business is not just doing deals; business is having great products, doing great engineering, and providing tremendous service to customers. Finally, business is a cobweb of human relationships. - H. Ross Perot

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Stunning use of your artwork. Perots' quote rings true about the cobwebs of networks.

Your work is an exemplary ambassador of excellence.

When you're good, consistent and exposed, it's an equation that proves out.

Wow- those thunderous hooves just charge out at you.

Marian Fortunati said...

I guess they know that quality work will bring in their customers... Hopefully it also brings clients to YOU.
Is your name anywhere on those beautiful posters / cards so an interested art collector could find you... or perhaps everyone already knows you, eh?
Alyson Stanfield's blog was just talking about being prudent with your give aways. It's not relevant with me but with you it certainly is... Is there a quid pro quo on those?

Your work is absolutely stunning... People with money are probably not feeling the pinch as much as the rest of us and they are among those that like horse and collect art... so hopefully you're doing okay.
Be well.

Carlynne Hershberger, CPSA said...

These invites look fabulous Sharon!

Sharon Crute said...

Bonnie: you are the queen wordsmith. That's why I love your blog and aspire to ever express my thoughts as perfectly.

Marian: I didn't receive a "by line" to the chagrin of the power that is. I don't mind lending my work for promotional material as I believe the benefits far outweigh any paltry monetary gain. As long as I get credit (which I didn't).

Carlynne: Thanks for the compliment and thanks for visiting!

Linda Blondheim said...

Sharon,
Fabulous posters. I really don't market that much at home. It seems we must get away from home to be respected as artists. I sell better just about everywhere other than G'ville/Ocala/Lake City.

It's sad to say that I sell more in Virginia, Texas and California than North Florida.
Love,
Linda

Sharon Crute said...

Linda, for me it's New York and Kentucky. Odd, isn't it? And I'm living and working in the "Horse Capital of the World".

And you! Creating all those beautiful Florida landscapes to be sold elsewhere...go figure.