Selling artwork for medical expenses - professional or desperate?

Question

I am an artist (painter) who has a full time job and health/dental insurance. I recently had an exhibit and sold a few paintings. Though I work as a web content copywriter, and I do occasionally sell some work, I have just found out that I must undergo very expensive dental work, of which my insurance will only cover about 20% of the cost. This will leave me with a bill of around $4,125.00. The work has to be done, I've avoided it for too long.

I was thinking about how I can afford to pay for this. It occured to me that I have many drawings, prints and small paintings that I could sell for very reasonable prices ($30-50), and I've considered sending out a group e mail to friends and associates in the hope that some may be interested in purchasing, or perhaps sending along to friends for purchasing.

I wanted some advice about 1) if this is professional or 2) would it seem like a desperate move? Also, 3) what are other ways to more successfully fund these health costs? Thanks

Answer 1

I don't think it's desperate, or unprofessional...how about just necessary.
I wouldn't price your pieces to sell, however... as you're undermining yourself for current and future pieces.

Time to have another one man show?

Answer 2

I wouldn't approach friends and associates directly, as it will put them in an awkward position. Try selling them on e-bay. A friend of mine, also an artist, has just gone to Thailand to have dental work done. A friend of his did it and was quite happy with the results. He worked the numbers and figured he could get the dental work done, pay for at least a month's vacation and still save money.

Answer 3

1) if this is professional ?

A: NO

2) would it seem like a desperate move?

A: YES

3) what are other ways to more successfully fund these health costs?

A: sell more insurance or throw an ART Party and sell off you work for $100 each

Answer 4

Desperate, yes. Unprofessional, no. Artist sell thier art under many circumstances, to put food on the table or pay their bills. However, i'd do it a little different. I would e-mail them an invitation to a private showing ( your place or someone elses).