Hello, frens!
This is probably my longest newsletter ever, but from the requests and comments on my tweets, I figured this topic was worth it.
I've spoken with some fellow collectors who have kindly shared their insights with me, so these are based on research and not only my personal views.
As the NFT space grows, it's important to understand how to approach collectors without coming off as pushy or disrespectful. I've compiled some valuable insights on how to navigate this space and build meaningful relationships.
I can be quite strict when it comes to DMs from artists. If someone tries to promote their work in a pushy or intrusive manner, I won't hesitate to unfollow them. However, as someone who both creates and collects art, I understand the value of networking. There are much better ways to get noticed than spamming people.
Occasionally, I will create threads where people can share their work with me. While I don't do this often, it's a good opportunity for artists to showcase their talent without being overbearing. On the other hand, I find the "please review my portfolio" approach to be insincere and irritating. It just feels fake AF. And don't even get me started on posting your art on someone else's tweet to piggyback on their shine. That's a greedy move, my friend.
I urge artists to avoid supporting engagement farming, but there are certain threads out there that can help collectors discover new artists. If you have a mutual friend who can introduce you to a potential buyer, that's a great way to make a connection.
Keep in mind that many collectors view art as an investment, so presenting yourself as a professional with a long-term commitment to the NFT space is essential. But hey, we're not all the same - some come from a crypto background, while others are traditional art lovers like myself. I appreciate good quality and the person behind the art, and I'm always looking for ways to support artists. While I occasionally sell pieces on secondary, I mostly buy art to support artists I admire.
Nik, a prominent collector, suggests that you approach a collector with respect and understanding. A collector is a human being, not a wallet, and their time is precious, so it's important to respect it. When engaging with a collector, provide meaningful responses and add value to the conversation. You can also elevate the community by hosting or speaking in spaces, providing tips or guidance, answering questions, and sharing resources. Most importantly, create a personal brand and be genuine when approaching collectors. (read Nik's observations in full here)
Leslie, another collector and dear friend, highlights the importance of building a genuine connection. Start by interacting with a collector's posts; her GM tweets are a great start to getting noticed by her. Don't just DM a collector to shill your art; building a personal relationship is important before asking for anything. Also, don't be fake when trying to friend a collector. They can usually tell, and it won't lead to much interaction.
Hyper, on the other hand, prefers to collect at his leisure and dislikes people who shill hard or get in his face. Ashtar appreciates politeness but prefers that people get to the point quickly. SeaSickMutant emphasizes the importance of friendly conversation and not being pushy. Nifty highlights the importance of forging a friendship with a collector and being respectful, fun, and engaging in tweets. PopPunk suggests that sharing other people's work that fits a collector's interest is a good icebreaker.
Lastly, Unchained Ninja emphasizes the importance of participating in curated events, sharing WIP videos, and having a virtual gallery.
In conclusion, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to engaging with NFT collectors. It's essential to be respectful, add value, and build genuine connections. Take the time to get to know the collector before making any requests or pushing your art. By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to building a solid relationship with NFT collectors.
Here is a compiled list of the most important inputs:
Remember that a collector is a human being, not just a wallet. Respect their time and preferences.
Shill where you are invited - it's okay to promote your art but be mindful of when and where you do it. Avoid being pushy or overly sales oriented. Collector threads are still a good way to be noticed, as well as Discord channels assigned for art share.
Avoid sending DMs or tagging them on posts just to promote your art unless they tell you to do so. Get to know them first by engaging meaningfully in their posts or providing value to the community.
Create a strong personal brand by posting more about your art and what inspires you. Focus on building relationships rather than just making a sale.
Some collectors prefer to be approached politely but directly. Others prefer to build a friendship first.
Don't be fake when trying to befriend a collector. They can usually tell if you're just trying to promote your art.
Collectors may take some time to observe an artist's tweets before deciding to collect their work. So, make sure your tweets are respectful, engaging, and not just about sales.
Sharing other people's work that you think would interest the collector can be a good icebreaker.
Participate in curated events, such as FND Worlds and group exhibitions.
Present your art collection in virtual galleries.
Remember that each collector is unique, and there is no universal approach. So, take the time to understand their preferences and build a genuine relationship with them. Collectors are looking for artists who are not only talented but also passionate and genuine. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to building lasting relationships with collectors and taking your art career to new heights.
Thank you all collectors that took the time to reply to my request.
I appreciate each of you very much!
Artist Spotlight - Daisa TJ
Please introduce yourself.
A lens-based artist that feels the need to express myself through visual compositions.
What's your Twitter handle?
What is your medium and style?
Lens-based, Photography + magic!
How long have you been an artist?
That is a hard one. I worked illustrating and taught kids in a drawing school, but working with cameras, for 10 years now.
What inspired you to become an artist?
Words were never my strong side, my parents always knew the importance of expression, and art was always my way of expressing or even communicating. I am dyslexic, and before I learned how to read, I would draw the meanings of the words beside them so I could remember and relate them.
When did you start on NFTs?
It was March 2021, or really mint April 2021.
How is your creative process?
My personal projects come from therapy, or the lack of it lately (haha). Basically, to express feelings that I cannot through words, back in Brazil I would create some metaphors to explain to my therapist what was going on inside, and from that I would see in my mind a piece. So my artistic work is very personal, and most often than not, sad.
Did NFTs change the way you create?
It liberated me to the 'dark side', in the sense that with the NFTs I could break free from Instagram's lighthearted pieces and explore expressing my dark times as dark art as well. And seeing different art, talking to artists, and people with the same core as me was also liberating and inspiring.
What is the piece you are most proud of? Add a link.
Usually, I would say "Hold your breath", but in fact, "Misconceived" is my deepest piece to this day, from the time, the collection it is in, and the back story.
https: foundation.app @DaisaTJ/misplaced/10
Do you have a drop coming that you want people to know more about?
I have a few pieces in a 'CiaroScuro' Style, one is already minted, and the other pieces will be waiting for the right moment.
Who are the people that inspire you on web3?
So many people! The Brazuca AAA, for sure, my first NFT FAM, with Andrea, Odyssey, Laser dew, Voja, and also the Goddesses with Ana. So many people.
Who is your dream collab?
That is a good question, to which I don't know the answer.
If you could travel in time, where/when would you like to visit and why?
I would not go back only once, and knowing myself, I would live in the past trying to fix everything because I know better now. But because I know better now, I also know going back is not for me.
Thank you for reading.
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Colorful Regards,
Fer Caggiano
There are currently no sponsors to my newsletters. You can support me by collecting my art or the artists I curate.
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