Branding A Local Art Group
The other day I was talking to a very nice lady who runs an art gallery and has for about 30 years. When I stopped in, she said that; “I’ve been waiting for you for 30 years to stop by, where you been?” I’m sure she says that to everyone, and yet, maybe it isn’t my fault for not going in sooner, maybe her branding and marketing was incomplete. She offers many services there such as framing, art supplies, and has all sorts of nifty gifts and art for sale in her gallery. Most of those who display their work are also customers. She has built a nice little eco-environment of customers and sellers.Still, she does so many things, you can’t really peg exactly what she does. It appears that she will do whatever you need if you are an artist in good standing, and if you will avail your best art to her gallery, and get everything framed there as well. That’s great, but is she a picture framing company, a gift shop, and our gallery, or does she specialize in art supplies? Have you noticed very big box stores that sell art supplies, also sell art, but you can tell that is not their primary business. Have you noticed how careful they are when they are branding their stores? It matters very much doesn’t it?Recently, I went to a talk with a university professor which was held in an art gallery. The art gallery had aligned itself with a local artist group with over 200 members. They only put the finest pieces in the gallery and a sell that art down at the Marina. The educational venue was to bring future artists, club members, and the local college professor in charge of the art department into one room. There were also art enthusiasts, those who purchase art, customers of the gallery for instance.In this case they were doing a little branding weren’t they? The place to go for all of your art needs, which would include art education, networking, and access to the local art community, namely all the artists. Not only is this brilliant marketing, but it is excellent branding. They often have seminars, talks, get-togethers, and networking meetings there. It keeps the gallery in business, continually drives referrals, and it is a brilliant piece of local branding. If you own an art gallery, or run a local art group, you should consider the synergies of getting together and creating a community-like brand. Please consider all this and think on it.
Quick Steps to Restore Your Antique Furniture
Antique furniture can make for a great addition to your home. The timeless beauty, intricate detailing and exquisite craftsmanship of antique furniture is impossible to replicate in mass-produced contemporary furniture. If you want to recreate the old world charm back in your living space, then antique furniture is the way to go. However, buying antique furniture will mean undertaking a lot of restoration work. Before buying antique furniture, you should first educate yourself about the basic cleaning and repair work associated with it. Compiled in this article are basic steps that will help you restore your furniture back to its former glory.Step 1 – First, brush away layers of dust using a soft bristled brush. Make sure to clean the dust that gets accumulated in crevices of the furniture. Once the furniture is clean, you will be able to get a clear look to determine the amount of work that requires to be done.Step 2 – Fill a bucket with lukewarm water and add a mild cleaning detergent. Use a rag or a clean towel to give your furniture a thorough wipe. Avoid using abrasive cleaning solutions that can scrape the paint off the furniture. Mild dishwashing solution or cleaning agent specifically made for wooden furniture would be the best option. Apply the solution in small sections and promptly wipe it away with a clean dry cloth.Step 3 – Rinse the soapy residue off the furniture with a quick wash, then dry the furniture with a clean soft cloth. Allow the furniture to dry naturally for a few hours before proceeding with the next step of restoration.Step 4 – Examine the structural soundness of the furniture and accordingly conduct minor repairs. From gluing loose legs, replacing hardware to fixing dents, most of the minor repairs can be done at home. While, replacing knobs, handles or casters make sure the pieces you select match the exact styling and designs of your furniture. Pull any loose joints together and secure them with screws; make sure the framework of the furniture is sturdy like before. For any major repair work, it is best to seek assistance of a professional.Step 5 – Using a small brush or cotton wad, apply thin layer of wax all over the furniture. Use a wax that contains beeswax or carnauba. Allow the wax to dry for couple of hours before buffing them with soft cloth or wool pad.Step 6 – Apply light pressure while buffing the floor. Buffing works like furniture polish and brings out the natural shine of the furniture. Keep rubbing the surface in circular motion, until you get the desired gloss.Step 7 – While restoring antique furniture, remember that certain parts tend to be very delicate and fragile. The less you work on antique furniture the better it would be. Avoid using oil based stains to polish or clean your furniture, as the oxide present in them can eventually cause your furniture to turn black.Steps 8 – To preserve the natural beauty of your furniture, apply primer. Apply a thin coat of primer; carefully follow the instruction given on the label. Work section by section; avoid wiping the surface to prevent streaks. Allow the primer to dry naturally for 24 hours before applying the second coat.Never embark on a furniture restoration procedure without proper safety gear in place.