How to End an Email as an Artist
Most artists spend time on the body of an email and rush the ending. The ending is where you tell the reader what to do next, and it’s where many opportunities get lost. Here’s how to close your emails clearly and professionally.
Tips for Closing an Artist Email
- Be polite and professional. The reader can’t hear your tone, so friendly, plain language helps.
- Be concise. Many people read hundreds of emails a day, so get to the point.
- Ask for one specific thing. Instead of “I’d love to hear from you,” write “Would you be open to a 15-minute call next week to discuss my upcoming exhibition?”
- End on a positive note, such as “I look forward to hearing from you.”
- Proofread every email, especially names, dates, and prices. Spell check won’t catch a wrong name.
Sign Offs to Use Carefully
- Cheers and Thx: fine with people you know well, but too casual for a first email
- Warmly: great for collectors or curators you already have a relationship with
- Love: save it for friends and family
- Respectfully: best for formal letters
- A blessed day: leave out of professional emails, since it assumes shared beliefs
- Your name only, or no name at all: always include your name, then your signature
Follow-Up Emails and Referral Requests
- Mention the original email in your closing, for example “Following up on my note from May 12 about the spring exhibition.”
- Ask for one introduction or one referral. “Do you know one curator who might be a fit for this series?” is easier to answer than “If you know anyone who would like my work.”
Share Links Instead of Attachments
- Include a link to your website or online catalog so the reader can look at more work.
- Skip large PDFs. Big files can get blocked or sent to spam. If you must attach one, keep it small and mention it in the email.
How to Build Your Email Signature
Many people check email on their phones, so set up your signature on every device. Include:
- Your name
- Your title, such as “Sculptor” or “Painter”
- Your phone number
- Your website or portfolio link
- One primary social link, so readers don’t have to choose
Optional additions:
- Your podcast link: Art Biz Talk
- A link to available works on Artsy, Uprise Art, or 1stDibs
- A recent press mention with a link
- Your newsletter name and sign up link
Leave out photos and logos. Many email programs let people turn off images, and they can send your email to spam. You want it to land in the inbox.
Your Next Step
Open your email settings today and add a signature as a template to every device you use. Then send yourself a test email to see how it looks on your phone.
