When you paint outside, spectators will stop, admire your work, and ask questions. Some artists find this annoying, because making art takes focus. Other artist see this as an opportunity. Either way, you will have to deal with spectators.

Here is a framework to change this annoyance into opportunity.

Mindset

Understand, it’s going to happen. If you paint in public, someone will talk to you. Most people will say something like “Wow! Great work! Beautiful! Have fun!” Then move on. You should be flattered! This is validation for you as an artist. Painting outside is awesome and worth praise.

Common Questions

Others spectators will stop and talk for a few moments. Br ready for their questions. Here’s what they will ask. Have answers ready, so you can politely respond without too much time or thought.

  • Are you an artist?

  • How long does this take you?

  • Can you paint me in your picture?

  • Do you sell you paintings? How much?

  • Do you do commissions?

Be Kind

Humans are social. We respond well to kindness. Thank spectators for their nice words. Don’t be a jerk. Don’t act annoyed. Most often, your small acknowledgment is all it takes to end the interaction: “Thanks for stopping saying hello!”

Be Sales Ready

Sometimes spectators may ask who you are. Give them your card. Have a QR code ready to scan that links to your website. Tell them to follow you on social media. You don’t need to hard sell your wet painting. Just be ready.

Admirer to Collector

These admirers could become collectors. Especially if you took a few moments to have a kind exchange. People buy art from people they know. In places they live. People like art that has a story. For example: “This painting was from that nice guy who always paints by the river. I saw him on my walk.” Be that guy!

Still don’t want to deal with spectators?

It’s ok. Sometimes we all just want to paint uninterrupted. Find more remote locations. Paint in off-peak hours. But remember, someone may still find you, and say hello.

This all comes back to mindset. Appreciate the flattery and opportunity. Be kind.