Who and where are you?
Who am I? Where am I? Such big existential questions… Okay, I’m laughing now. My name is Benjamin Williamson and I am a full-time artist. My painting name is BenWill and my business is BenWill Studio, which is located outside of Portland, Oregon.
How were you introduced to Facebook?
Facebook came up to me at a party and I introduced myself. Well, actually, I’ve had a presence on Facebook for about four years now. Last year, I created a fan page as a way to stay more directly connected with collectors.
Any tips for other artists starting a Facebook Page?
Like most things, one should just get the important bits of information up front – and then jump in. Artists should never be afraid to put themselves out there by developing ways to get their work out to the public. It’s a good idea to have new works to regularly introduce on Facebook and to create an online dialogue. If an artist already has a Facebook profile, it’s best to send requests to friends to add to the fan page. The more fans, the better the conversations.
What’s your favorite Facebook Page feature?
I think the ability to share images and links are probably the most important Facebook features for an artist. Let’s face it, sharing pictures of my paintings and letting collectors know how to find my work makes Facebook a good way to promote. But, the ability to engage in discussions about art and about my work with hundreds of people is fantastic.
What’s coming next from your studio?
I paint every day, so there is always something new coming from my studio. I don’t think my art is about standing still or resting on any successes. So, it’s important for me, as an artist, to always focus on expanding my work. At present, I’m working on some very large pieces, as I really like to extend myself on big canvases. As Picasso said, “It’s always necessary to seek for perfection. Obviously, for us, this word no longer has the same meaning. To me, it means: from one canvas to the next, always go further, further… “
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