Publishing in the arts

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career has been working with galleries and museums around the world in expanding the sales networks for their publications. In partnership with such renowned institutions as the Royal Academy, British Museum, Royal Collection, National Gallery of Australia and the Museum of Modern Art in New York, we endeavoured to create the most effective sales and distribution strategy for each business, in order to create a higher profile – and, of course, greater sales traction – for their publications in the major markets worldwide.

A significant number of arts institutions are seeking similar market growth for their own publications. In many cases, sales and distribution arrangements in the wider book trade may already be in place. Where this is not yet the case, I would be pleased to offer advice based partly on my own experience in this field, and partly on my knowledge of the market for art books as a whole.

Similarly, a number of galleries and museums are just setting out on this path, and are starting to devise their own publishing programmes. These may include not only exhibition catalogues, guides, and showcases of their collections, but also, perhaps, other strands such as stationery and gift lines. Again, if you are moving fully into publishing for the first time, do let me know if you are seeking guidance in this area. If you would like to discuss your overall strategy, markets, trade channels, competition, pricing, design, formats, or any other topic where you feel I could help, I would welcome the chance to discuss these issues with you.