We live in a world that exists just as much online as it does offline. And for artists, in many cases, it can feel like artists spend more time on social media than working offline. After all, sharing your artwork to the masses across the internet is a great way to show off your talents to millions.

Whether it’s posting your artwork on Instagram or filming process videos, there are so many outlets to publish your work and build an audience. That said, many of the most successful artists grow their businesses through in-person means. Word of mouth recommendation has always been one of the most powerful forms of marketing.

Here are some strategies to build your identity as an artist away from social media and grow closer to your community as you do so.

Attend Artist Events

Nothing beats the classic strategy of working as a vendor at art markets, festivals, and other local sales events. While there is a lot of work involved, the experience of being able to share your art process and passions is a great way to develop your reputation as a qualified artist.

Twinimation Studios has been regularly vending at events local to Louisiana since 2023. In fact, it was through our earliest vending experiences that we developed the vast majority of our physical product lineup. You don’t need to have a full inventory of 50 different products. Our first events featured only our original activity books, but as of 2026 we sell keychains, standees, posters, and more! Getting a look at the ‘competition’ can inspire evolution in your own business! And one of the greatest feelings while working is seeing a repeat customer from previous events, eager to get their hands on your new crafts.

So, if you have the funds to make it work, try looking into your hometown art festivals to become an annual participant! We recommend starting small with one-day markets to test the waters and start developing your in-person sales skills. Eventually, you’ll gain the confidence to handle multi-day events like a pro!

Work with Local Businesses

While social media is a valid avenue to launch art partnerships, walking into a store and speaking to a store owner face to face is far better for building deep relationships. Whether it’s a bookstore, hobby shop, or even a cafe, many businesses are looking for original and unique works to bring new life into their space.

While this can seem intimidating, sometimes the best advice is to just take a day to visit some local businesses and ask if they’d be interested in having your work in their stores. Look into some art savvy locals wherever you live. Here in New Orleans, the French Quarter is the hub for supporting local artists, and we have successfully worked a deal where we were able to get our original activity books into a small antiques store for a limited time. Additionally, we’ve also been able to set up book signings at several bookstores within the city since our activity books were released.

Our tips: make a list of local businesses that align with your art style or audience. Take some time to visit the store in person to offer a low-pressure pitch. Introduce yourself and ask if they're open to displaying or featuring local artists. Even if they aren’t looking for anything at the time, they may just be able to point you in a better direction. Taking that first step will be what guides your strategy moving forward.

Work with Schools/Camps

This is a fun option for building your identity as a local artist and being able to inspire a new generation of creators. Many schools, summer camps, and youth programs are often looking for artists to lead workshops or mentor students. Additionally, you have a wide variety of collaboration opportunities throughout the year.

In 2022, the year after Twinimation Studios was founded, we participated in our first Summer bridge event at a local elementary school. In the following three years, we wound up working at seven different schools over the summer, providing original art themed activities for the students. We’ve prepared animation and character design activities for students as young as preschool all the way to seventh grade. We’ve also participated in a few different career fair events and retreats during the school year.

Try reaching out to local schools' art departments, after-school program coordinators. Let them know what you offer and discuss how you could fit into an already existing art program. Even community centers and libraries can run seasonal camps/art events hosting guest artists. Educational institutions are also a great resource because if your sessions are a success, teachers may sometimes spread the word of your work and recommend you to other locations. Your initial visit could lead to repeat invitations if all goes well, so make sure you put your best foot forward!

You don’t need to learn an algorithm to find success.

While you don’t need to completely abandon your online presence, it’s still profitable to build a piece of your artistic identity that isn’t reliant on social media. A piece where you don’t need to fear algorithm changes or taking a break from posting.

In our experience, the most powerful growth happens away a screen! The offline world still has room for artists who desire to show up in person, build human relationships, and invest in their local creative community.

If you’re an artist looking to grow without reliance on social media, feel free to join the Krewe Klub to share your ideas and tips!