Never Rush: A Guide to Avoiding Scams for Artists

Never Rush: A Guide to Avoiding Scams for Artists

Being an artist is about more than creating and exhibiting artwork. We constantly face not only the struggles of creation but also various temptations, traps, and scams. On my blog, I’ve created a category called 'Art Scam' where I regularly share examples of scams targeting artists, as well as tips on how to stay safe. Whenever I receive suspicious emails or messages, I make it a point to document and publish them because I know how much this kind of information can help others—especially emerging artists.

For those just beginning their careers, it’s easy to fall into traps out of admiration for the unknown world of art and the desire for recognition. I’ve had my share of close calls, but I was saved by blog posts from others who had similar experiences. Because of this, I now do my best to share these warnings whenever possible. So, if someone posts a scam message on my site, let it be known: it’s basically a public admission that they’re a scammer.

There are of course many genuine galleries and organizations that truly respect and support artists and their creative work. But there are also those who see artists as nothing more than financial opportunities. One term for this kind of entity is a "vanity gallery"—a gallery that charges artists high fees to exhibit without providing meaningful support or promotion. 

​One effective way to avoid scams is by using local galleries. Local galleries provide a safe environment for direct communication with artists and buyers. Additionally, the artworks displayed in galleries are often verified, making them trustworthy. By engaging with local galleries, you can protect yourself from online scams and strengthen your connection with the local community. In-person visits and face-to-face communication are effective ways to reduce the risk of falling victim to fraudulent activities.

To avoid falling into these traps, the most important rule is: never rush. Trust your instincts, stay true to your purpose, and keep moving forward. I no longer rely on outside approval or support. Instead, I focus on creating more artwork and writing more content. I believe that only I can truly help myself. If someone reaches out to support you, and it aligns with your values, that is a sign that they are genuinely committed to art.

There are many manipulative business models targeting artists. For example, some companies offer to include your artwork in books with titles like "World’s Best Artist," charging hundreds or even thousands of dollars for a single page. If you fall into that trap, you may regret it later—because as time goes by, your career and your work form a record of your artistic journey. You may look back and feel embarrassed that your work was part of such a commercialized platform.

Art is also a profession, and financial challenges are real. I understand that this perspective might seem overly idealistic. But I sincerely hope that every artist who reads this is blessed with true fortune—the kind of recognition that comes from the power of your work, not from desperate decisions.

So take your time. Even if the road is slow and frustrating, even if you’re not yet being recognized—remember that each step is part of your journey and history. Avoid shortcuts, and choose growth over instant validation. True opportunities will find their way to those who create with honesty and consistency.
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Let us keep going, steadily and with heart. Integrity comes before money. Let your art speak for itself.

​How artists can protect themselves from scams: learn to spot vanity galleries, stay grounded, and never rush decisions. Wisdom from an artist’s journey.

Here are five ways for artists to prevent scams involving "special offers," "urgent" requests, and similar tactics:
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1. Verify the Sender
   Always check the sender’s email address when you receive messages with phrases like "special offer" or "urgent." If the sender is from an unfamiliar or suspicious domain, it’s likely a scam. Be cautious of emails that seem too good to be true.
2. Review Offer Details Carefully
   Scams often present offers that are too good to be true, with tight deadlines or overly attractive conditions. If the offer feels rushed or too urgent, take the time to review the details carefully. Compare it with similar offers and be cautious if something seems out of place.
3. Request Third-Party Review
   If you receive a suspicious offer, ask a trusted colleague, gallery, or even use a tool like ChatGPT to help review the details. Getting a second opinion can provide clarity and help identify any red flags that you might have missed. Using trusted resources for guidance can prevent you from falling victim to scams.
4. Request a Formal Contract
   Always ask for a formal contract for any transaction or offer. A scam typically avoids putting things in writing. Contracts should clearly outline the terms, payment details, deadlines, and responsibilities, offering you legal protection.
5. Be Wary of Urgency
   Scams often create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to make quick decisions. Phrases like "respond immediately" or "limited time offer" are common in scams. Don’t feel rushed—take your time to evaluate the situation and avoid making hasty decisions.