Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. — Helen Keller

After 35 years of helping artists market their work, I’ve developed a profound realization that has reshaped my understanding of success. While marketing and social media strategies matter, they pale compared to something far more powerful: meaningful partnerships.

A Lifetime of Witnessing What Works

When I began in the art business in 1988, selling advertising in Decor magazine and booth space at Expo shows, the internet was still a decade away. From close range, I observed artists struggle and succeed at every level—my network spanned solo creators to giant publishers with hundreds of contracted artists.

One pattern emerged with crystal clarity: those who tried to do everything alone faced the steepest climb.

My dedication to helping artists has been unwavering. Since launching Art Marketing News Weekly in 2005, producing my first workshop at the Sedona Art Center in 2003, and publishing eight art business books, I’ve sought the most impactful ways to help artists thrive. However, I realized the advice I offered needed to go further than revising marketing tips. Artists needed tools that apply to all ages and stages of their careers—methods that go beyond the abundance of conventional advice.

Ramped-Up Awareness and Commitment

I’ve become increasingly determined to teach life skills that positively influence artists’ work and lives. Partnerships are at the heart of this mission because they are attainable, formidable assets for all artists. As they grow and prosper, partnerships create abundant, otherwise unattainable opportunities.

This journey taught me a truth I am compelled to share: partnerships are the secret ingredient that transforms promising careers into extraordinary ones—the exact inflection point where I can make the most lasting impact.

Why Partnerships Matter More Than Ever

As we approach 2025, our world feels fundamentally different. We’ve weathered a pandemic, witnessed societal upheavals, rode out a divisive presidential election, and faced global uncertainties that have forced us to reflect deeply on what truly matters.

For artists—who often walk a solitary path—this reflection has revealed something crucial: connection isn’t just a nicety; it’s essential for survival and growth.

Look around at every artist you admire. Behind their success, you’ll find partnerships that made it possible. I’ve spent a lifetime watching immensely talented artists struggle—not because of their art or creativity, but because they lacked support.

If you’re fortunate enough to have a skilled spouse or close ally in your corner, you already understand this truth. If not, learning to build partnerships isn’t just important—it’s transformative.

The Virtuous Circle of Partnerships

Partnerships create a ripple effect that amplifies everything they touch. They’re the root of virtuous circles—cycles of mutual benefit where success builds on itself.

When you collaborate, you’re not just splitting tasks or sharing resources; you’re creating opportunities for growth, inspiration, and innovation that wouldn’t exist otherwise. Partnerships spark ideas, open doors, and provide support systems that carry you through challenges.

They elevate your work and connect you with people who inspire you to do more, be better, and dream bigger. That’s why I’m so passionate about this mission—I firmly believe helping artists recognize and embrace partnerships is the most lasting and impactful contribution I can make.

The Magic of Starting Small

Many of the most consequential partnerships I’ve witnessed began with a simple conversation:

• A shared booth at an art fair.
• A brainstorming session over coffee.
• A one-time collaboration that blossomed into something lasting.

A congratulatory call when I learned of his first book publishing sparked my 15-year partnership with Jason Horejs of Xanadu Gallery. It started modestly, yet it’s led to workshops, videos, and countless opportunities we could never have imagined alone. It has also created a friendship and bond we both treasure. 

Seek to start small and stay open-minded.

Here’s a practical question you can use to invite someone into a brainstorming session:
“I’ve been thinking about new ways to market my art and want to brainstorm some fresh ideas. I’d love for you to join me—I think we could benefit from it. What do you think?”

This simple invitation could lead to ideas and opportunities neither of you anticipated. Partnerships often grow organically from these beginnings, so don’t underestimate their potential.

And remember: You are worthy of partnerships that elevate your career and fulfill your creative vision.

Introducing The Art Partnership Playbook

I want you to know this isn’t just another marketing course—there are plenty of those. What you’ll learn from me fills the gap left by others. The foundation of success lies in partnerships, which amplify every other marketing tool and strategy you use.

Partners open new paths to prosperity.

The Art Partnership Playbook represents everything I’ve learned about building powerful connections, distilled into practical guidance that can transform your artistic journey.

You’ll discover how to:

• Identify and create partnership opportunities that align with your unique vision.
• Transform casual connections into meaningful collaborations.
• Build relationships that amplify your creative voice.
• Create support systems that sustain your artistic journey.
• Recognize and manage issues that can derail partnerships.

Building on Past Lessons: A Mission of Focused Inspiration

In my recent two-part series:

• The Power of Collaboration: How Partnerships Are Shaping the Future of the Art Market—Part One
• The Real Truth About Opportunity and Art Partnerships, Part Two

I explored how partnerships can open new creative horizons, build resilience, and create opportunities that solo efforts cannot. The Art Partnership Playbook is a realistic strategy to implement these ideals.

In those posts, I explored the ripple effects of collaboration and how partnerships foster personal and professional growth. Reflecting further, I deepened my understanding that for artists, the true value of partnerships lies in their ability to align with a deeper calling: to express, create, and connect. It’s not just about better marketing methods—it’s about building relationships that support and amplify the creative journey.

After that realization, my concentration changed. I now focus on artist-friendly life skills training rather than traditional and digital marketing. This path led to the Art Partnership Playbook, a course that helps you find, cultivate, and succeed in partnerships that can change your career and life. It’s about personal growth and artistic fulfillment, not just business success.

My Why: The Purpose Driving This Mission

At this stage in my career, my purpose is to help artists build meaningful connections. I’ve seen firsthand how partnerships can transform careers and lives.

Connections make the difference—whether it’s a collaborative show that opens new markets, a mentor who provides crucial guidance, or a business partner who manages the details while creativity flourishes.

If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I had that kind of support,” this course will show you how to take the steps, whether tiny or mighty, to build it.

Why This Matters Now

I believe raising awareness for partnerships and providing accessible, insightful, and motivating information is the best way I can help the most artists. This project is personal.

The Art Partnership Playbook is more than a course; it’s a legacy project. It represents everything I’ve learned about empowering artists to build meaningful connections that amplify their art and lives.

You don’t need to wait for a perfect partner to appear by chance. Partnerships don’t have to be grand, lifelong commitments. They can start small—with a single conversation, a shared project, or a mutual goal.

It’s about opening your mind to possibilities, taking action, and building something remarkable together.

A Special Invitation

For Art Marketing News readers only:

• Special Black Friday price: $67 (regularly $79).
• Lifetime access to all course materials.
• BONUS: Join before December 4 to receive an invitation to a 90-minute Q&A session in January, where we’ll explore how to turn these insights into action.

Final Thoughts

My purpose at this stage in my career is crystal clear: to help artists build meaningful connections. Enlightening, encouraging, and enabling artists to become aware of and build partnerships is the most lasting and impactful contribution I can make to our community.

It’s a virtuous circle—your success becomes my legacy, and these connections and collaborations become yours. This course isn’t about quick fixes or trendy marketing tactics. It’s about building the foundation to transform your artistic journey, whether sharing a booth at a local art fair or creating a lasting creative alliance that reshapes your career.

No more waiting. Every day you spend alone may be spent making meaningful connections. Partnerships are the art world’s force multipliers, producing mutually beneficial cycles that can boost your career and life.

Discover the magic of artistic collaboration in 2025. Together, we can create virtuous cycles with lasting results.

[Join The Art Partnership Playbook Now]

Testimonial for the Art Partnership Playbook

I’ve known Barney Davey for years, and his deep understanding of the art business has always impressed me. We’ve partnered on many projects, always with excellent results. The Art Partnership Playbook perfectly demonstrates his ability to deliver clear, actionable insights tailored to artists’ needs.

This course goes beyond theory, offering practical strategies to build meaningful connections that elevate your art and career. Barney’s focus on collaboration as a pathway to success is inspiring and empowering, giving artists the tools to thrive in an ever-evolving art world.

If you’re ready to embrace the power of partnerships, the Art Partnership Playbook is invaluable. Barney’s expertise shines, making this a must-have for artists looking to grow creatively and professionally. ー Jason Horejs

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