Working with Charities
Episode 47: Doing charitable work
As an artist it is very likely that, from time to time, you will be asked to do things for charity. It could be something that you do anyway, that generates funds for a charity you wish to support, or it could be an approach from a charity asking you to do something specific. Whatever the scenario if you are going to do work like this it needs to be taken just as seriously as for any other client. Both Peter and Laura have done things for charity - and for charitable reasons, in this episode they talk about their attitude to this kind of work.
WORKING WITH CHARITIES. Everyone likes that warm glow that comes with supporting a good cause and artists are in a position to do good for charity in so many ways. In this episode Laura and Peter discuss the various ways they support the charities of their choice, plus some helpful dos and don’ts that ensure the experience is a positive one for charity and artist alike.
The Useful Stuff
Don’t be coerced. People raising money for their charity are going to be passionate and forceful about their cause and quite rightly so, but you may not feel the same way about the charity in question. Unless you can get wholly behind the charity and give your best, don’t get involved. ‘It’s a good cause’ isn’t enough of a reason to engage.
Once you agree to donate, whether that’s a piece of work, your time, a commission etc. treat the work with the respect you would show a paying client and give it 100%. It’s only fair to the charity and do remember your reputation is always riding on the work you offer. Palming off substandard work or flaking out on a charity will backfire.
Set boundaries: it’s a charity’s job to push for more and they will. Be very clear about what you can offer and get it all in writing. If time is involved, set a deadline, if you are making artwork, be clear how much you can do. Be firm about saying no when boundaries are reached. Fantastic if you want to offer more, but it needs to be you making the offer, not the charity shoving you into it!
Don’t be shy about using your business head when working for a charity. Peter often gives a free painting demo at charity events and then donates a percentage of any resulting commissions to the charity. They win and he wins too. Looking out for your business at every stage will keep you in a position to support good causes.
Sadly there are scams about, even charitable requests need to be checked (listen to our episode on scams). Never say yes on the spot. Give yourself breathing time, do your due diligence and get back with your answer.
Check your charity understands working with an artist, especially when it comes to copyright and use of your images. Charities can be wholly ignorant of copyright and make honest mistakes about using artwork to raise money. Be clear about what they can and can’t do with your artwork.
The Takeaway
Treat charity work like paid work: once you are on board, give it your best effort and, like your paid work, set clear boundaries for the job!
This Podcast is sponsored by Michael Harding Colours. For more information about Michael’s colour range or to find a retailer near you, please visit www.michaelharding.co.uk
