A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Time, Work and Creativity
Let’s talk about the why behind the price tag.
If you've ever looked at a price on a piece of art and raised an eyebrow, you’re not alone. But as someone who creates every piece with care, creativity and more than a little elbow grease, I thought it was time to pull back the curtain on what actually goes into the cost of a finished artwork.
Spoiler: it’s not just about the materials. It’s about sooooo much more.
It starts long before the frame
For me, the process begins months before a piece is ready to hang. Whether it's planning for a big show or creating a one-off commission, the first stage is always the same for my kaleidoscope pieces: inspiration-gathering and nature-wandering.
My work is built from the ground up - literally. I head out into the world and find feathers, pods, flowers and other bits and bobs. I photograph them in their natural habitat, always leaving them untouched. (Take only photos, leave only footprints, right?).
Then it’s actually creating the piece, refining it, printing it, framing, it and prepping it for sale. And running a business to make it all happen, which includes a tonne of admin.
So… why does art cost what it does?
Let’s zoom out for a second (get it? Photographer joke?). The price of an artwork isn’t just about the materials or how long it took to make - it also reflects the ongoing costs and effort of being a working artist. Here’s a little breakdown of what’s factored into those price tags:
Years of learning and refining: Most artists spend years (if not decades) honing their craft. Whether it’s through formal education or relentless self-teaching, that investment of time, money and creative energy shows up in every piece. And student loans are no joke!
Professional development: We’re always learning - attending workshops, upgrading tools, trialling new techniques and improving processes. Staying creative and inspired isn’t just natural - it takes real work.
Material costs: Quality art materials aren’t cheap. From archival paper and specialist framing, to sculpting tools and gilding supplies - choosing high-end materials ensures your piece stands the test of time.
Running a small business: There's also the cost of doing business - websites, photography gear, studio space, insurance, packaging, shipping, admin (woooo), transaction fees… not the most glamorous part of the art world, but 100% necessary.
Marketing and promotion: Being an artist today means also being a marketer, social media manager, content creator, copywriter and sometimes even a courier. Reaching new audiences takes time and often investment in ads, printing promotional material, and applying for shows.
Art show prep: Exhibiting at an art show is like preparing for a mini pop-up shop. There's the cost of your stand, display materials, printing, packaging, signage, setups - not to mention the emotional labour of being ‘on’ all weekend. But the payoff? Getting to meet you in person and see your eyes light up when something resonates. Ooooo! The best feeling.
Why it matters
When you buy art, you're not just buying a thing to hang on your wall. You’re investing in someone’s vision, time, energy and years of creative development.
And if you choose one of my pieces, you’re choosing:
Locally made: Crafted with care right here in Aotearoa.
Ethically produced: Small-batch, slow-made, low-waste.
Personal: A real person (hi!) made this with their hands and heart - not a factory.
So the next time you see the price of a handcrafted artwork, know this - you’re getting so much more than just the print. You’re taking home a piece of someone’s story, shaped by thousands of hours of work and care. You’re supporting local, sustainable creativity. And you're bringing a little more meaning into your space.
And honestly? That’s priceless, I reckon.
