The first date

I recently started dating again. I joined a couple of those online dating services. I created an interesting profile and posted a bunch of photos.

I've received quite a few responses. They seem to fall into three general categories:

First are the ones who just look at the pretty pictures. These guys don't even bother to try to understand anything about me.

Second are the ones who look at the photos and read the information, but don't really understand who I am or what I am looking for.

Lastly, there are those few who get me. Or at least they make an attempt to do so.

It's the last group that I spend the most time developing a relationship with. From this group comes either a potential mate. Or, in the case of your art, a potential collector.

Dealing with a new customer is much like a first date. There is that feeling of awkwardness. There is that feeling of being unsure of what to say. And, there is that feeling of wondering whether or not they will like your art.

Finding a customer who is willing to buy your work is much easier than trying to find a mate. At least with a customer, you don't have to wonder if they snore.

Easier or not, the dance is the same. Give a little, get a little. If the fit is right, they will buy.