Promotion Guide for Artists

Welcome to the Kingston Art Tour! Whether this is your first time participating or you’re a returning artist, this mini-guide will help you make the most of the event.

The goal? More visibility, stronger community engagement, and yes – more sales.

Marketing doesn’t need to be overwhelming. This guide breaks it down into simple, doable steps – both online and offline.

Let’s turn your creativity into connection.

📅 Section 1: Before the Tour

A little prep goes a long way.

💻 Simple Online Promotion

• Make sure your photos, description, and links are current.

• Update your profile on kingstonarttour.com.

• Post once a week on Facebook/Instagram:

  • Share a photo of your work.

  • Use hashtag #KingstonArtTour2025 and tag official pages.

  • Example caption: “Can’t wait to show my latest pieces during the Kingston Art Tour this October!”

• Join or create a Facebook Event.

  • Invite friends and family.

  • Share updates: location on tour map, booth sneak peeks.

🗺️ Easy Offline Promotion

• Put up posters/postcards in:

  • Local cafés, libraries, art supply stores, community centres, independent shops.

• Ask local businesses to share postcards.

• Give postcards to friends, family, and customers.

• Mention the tour in casual conversation.

🖨️ Print Materials to Prepare

• Business cards or mini cards with:

  • Name & contact info

  • Website or social media

  • Photo of your work

• Price list (printed or QR code linking to it)

• Guestbook or clipboard to collect visitor names and emails

🖼️ Section 2: During the Tour

This is showtime—create a memorable experience!

🙋‍♂️ Engaging Visitors

• Greet every guest with a smile.

• Short intro: “Hi, I’m [Your Name] and I make [your art form]. Let me know if you have any questions!”

• Be available without hovering.

📝 Collecting Contact Info

• Provide a sign-up sheet or guestbook.

• Offer incentive: “Sign up to hear about new pieces or upcoming shows.”

• Ask visitors: “Would you like to stay in touch?”

🖼️ Display Tips

• Use vertical displays for visual interest.

• Keep your space tidy and well-lit.

• Use clear price tags and descriptions.

• Offer brochures, postcards, or handouts.

📬 Section 3: After the Tour

The event ends, but your marketing doesn’t.

💌 Simple Follow-Up Actions

• Send a thank-you email to those who signed up.

  • Include:

    • Photos from the event

    • Link to your gallery or contact info

    • Short thank-you note

💵 Turning Interest into Sales

• Offer a promo: “10% off if you order before [Date].”

• Mention unsold pieces still available.

• Remind visitors about commission opportunities.

💡 Staying Top of Mind

• Keep posting on social media once a month.

  • Share work-in-progress, behind-the-scenes, or upcoming shows.

• Stay connected—today’s visitor is tomorrow’s buyer.

📁 Resources & Templates

📱 Sample Social Media Captions

1. Countdown Post
   “Here’s a piece I’m working on for the Kingston Art Tour. Can’t wait to share the full collection October 4–5! #ArtInTheMaking #KingstonArtTour2025 #SupportCanadianArtists”

2. Work-in-Progress Teaser
   “Setting up for this weekend’s Kingston Art Tour! Drop by [Your Street Name/Studio Name] and say hi! #KingstonEvents #YGKWeekend #ArtistStudioTour”

3. Behind-the-Scenes Setup
   “Today’s the day! Visit me and dozens of local creators for the Kingston Art Tour. I’m open 10am–5pm both days! #FreeEvent #KingstonArtTour2025 #LocalArtMatters”

4. Day-of Reminder
   “Just 3 weeks away! I’m excited to be part of the Kingston Art Tour on October 4–5. Come see my work at [Your Address]. #KingstonArtTour2025 #SupportLocalArt”

📧 Email Follow-Up Template

Subject: Thank You for Visiting During the Kingston Art Tour!

Hi [First Name],

Thank you so much for stopping by my studio during the Kingston Art Tour! It was a pleasure meeting you and sharing my work with you.

If you’d like to stay in touch or inquire about custom pieces, feel free to reply or follow me online: [Website/Social link]

A few pieces are still available, and I’m offering 10% off any piece before [Date].

Thanks again for supporting local art. Hope to see you again soon!

Warmly,
[Your Name]
[Phone | Email | Website | Socials]

📝 Printable Guestbook Sign-Up Sheet

Kingston Art Tour — Visitor Sign-Up Sheet
Stay in touch! Enter your name and email to receive updates, new artwork announcements, and future show invites.