How Shelli Beermann Helps Artists Build Successful Art Careers: Expert Advice from an Art Advisor

In this episode of The Art Coaching Club podcast, host Hayley Price sits down with Shelli Beermann, an experienced fine art advisor, artist manager, and appraiser, to discuss her journey in the art world and how she helps artists manage the business side of their careers. Shelli shares valuable insights into the services she provides through her company, Beermann Art Advisory, and offers practical advice on how artists can grow and thrive in the competitive art industry. Whether you’re an emerging artist or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with actionable tips and expert guidance.

Shelli Beermann’s Journey: From Gallery Intern to Art Advisor

Shelli Beermann’s passion for the art world began early. While still in high school, she secured an internship at a local gallery, sparking her lifelong interest in fine art. She later pursued a degree in finance, marketing, and art history, followed by a master’s degree in art business from Sotheby’s Institute of Art. Over the years, Shelli gained experience in various roles within the art industry, including artist management, gallery operations, and art insurance.

In 2020, Shelli founded Beermann Art Advisory, a company dedicated to helping artists navigate the often complex business side of their careers. Her diverse background in both business and art gives her a unique perspective on how to support artists, blending her love for art with her expertise in strategic planning and management.

Beermann Art Advisory: Supporting Artists with Consultations and Management Services

At Beermann Art Advisory, Shelli offers two key services for artists: consultations and full artist management.

1. Artist Consultations: These one-on-one coaching sessions are tailored to address specific challenges artists face. Whether it’s pricing artwork, expanding gallery relationships, or organizing marketing efforts, Shelli provides personalized advice and actionable steps to help artists overcome obstacles and seize new opportunities.

2. Artist Management: For artists who want more comprehensive support, Shelli offers a full artist management service. This includes handling daily business operations such as invoicing, client communication, marketing strategy, and long-term planning. By taking care of these tasks, Shelli frees up her clients to focus on their creative work, while she ensures the business side of their careers is managed efficiently and professionally.

Navigating Changes in an Artist’s Career: Flexibility and Open Communication

The art world is constantly evolving, and artists often face significant changes throughout their careers. Whether an artist is pivoting to a new medium, refining their artistic style, or balancing their practice with personal responsibilities like parenting, Shelli emphasizes the importance of adaptability.

She works closely with her clients to support them through these transitions, helping them navigate new challenges while maintaining the creative freedom they need to thrive. Her approach is built on open communication and flexibility, ensuring that artists can grow their careers without sacrificing their personal well-being or creative vision.

Shelli Beermann’s Expert Advice for Artists

For artists looking to take control of their business and grow their careers, Shelli offers three key pieces of advice:

1. Set Up a Comprehensive Database System: From the beginning of their careers, artists should establish a reliable system to manage their inventory, pricing, and sales information. Having a well-organized database not only streamlines business operations but also provides clarity when managing commissions, gallery relationships, and sales tracking.

2. Increase Exposure and Build Networks: Shelli encourages artists to make a concerted effort to expand their visibility. This can be achieved through in-person events, email outreach, and a strong social media presence. Consistent networking with galleries, collectors, and other artists helps build valuable relationships that can lead to future opportunities.

3. Focus on Building Deep Connections: While marketing and sales are important, Shelli stresses the value of forming meaningful connections with collectors and galleries. These relationships are often more fruitful in the long run than simply focusing on transactions. Artists should aim to build personal connections with those who support their work, as these relationships can lead to long-term success.

Growing a Business: The Importance of Building Meaningful Relationships

As Shelli continues to scale her business, she focuses on working with a smaller number of clients to build deeper, more meaningful relationships. This personalized approach allows her to dedicate time and energy to understanding each artist’s unique needs and goals.

For artists, Shelli advises a similar strategy: focusing on quality over quantity. Rather than trying to appeal to everyone, artists should prioritize finding the right clients, collectors, and galleries that align with their vision and values. This approach not only fosters trust but also creates a stronger foundation for long-term growth and success.

Final Thoughts: Learn from Shelli Beermann’s Expertise

Shelli Beermann’s work as an art advisor and manager is a testament to the importance of business acumen in the art world. By focusing on building strong relationships, maintaining organized business operations, and supporting artists through changes and challenges, Shelli helps her clients thrive in their careers.

To learn more about how Shelli Beermann can help you grow your art career, visit Beermann Art Advisory or follow her on Instagram at @beermannartadvisory.