Former Museum Manager JoAnne Sharman Transforms Art Sales Approach

JoAnne Sharman, a former manager at the Corning Museum of Glass, has successfully transitioned into a full-time artist, leveraging her extensive sales experience to boost her art career. At the recent Keuka Arts Festival in Penn Yan, New York, Sharman showcased her unique diptych painting, designed to evoke the sensation of looking down into the sea. When a potential buyer expressed hesitation, Sharman confidently encouraged her not to miss out. “Don’t let it be the painting you almost bought,” she advised. The woman ultimately purchased the artwork for her office, illustrating Sharman’s effective sales techniques.

Sharman, who retired in December 2024 at the age of 60, is not one to slow down. She dedicates long hours to her studio in Auburn, New York, where she creates fluid art through pouring acrylic techniques. With over 35 years in high-end commission sales across various sectors including jewelry and interior design, Sharman understands the importance of combining artistic skill with sales acumen. “There’s as much sales skill needed as art skills,” she remarked, emphasizing her approach of building rapport and addressing customer concerns.

### From Manager to Artist

Her rich background at the Corning Museum of Glass has instilled in her a profound appreciation for glass art, which she describes as “fluid” and akin to “working with honey.” This fluidity inspired her to explore pouring acrylic paintings, allowing colors to move freely on canvas. “I love the spontaneity of it,” Sharman said, highlighting her creative process where the paint often dictates the direction of her work.

Terri Wise, a close friend, noted that Sharman’s retirement has allowed her to thrive as an artist. Wise remembers Sharman’s creative spirit from the 1990s, when she would refurbish old furniture found at flea markets. “The universe heard her calling, so it gave it back to her so she could be an artist,” Wise commented, reflecting on Sharman’s journey.

Sharman has also brought her flair for creating engaging experiences to her art shows. She once transformed a jewelry store into a wedding venue to attract customers during the holiday season. Recently, she planned to incorporate a bubble machine at her art shows in Florida to complement her bubble-themed paintings. Though initial sales were disappointing due to the size of her works, she adapted her strategy and found greater success on the West Coast.

### Engaging Customers Through Connection

Steve Donigan, Sharman’s boyfriend, assists with logistics during her art shows. He observed how her on-site painting captivates audiences, prompting them to ask questions and engage in discussions about placing her artwork in their homes. “I think she builds relationships with people that way,” he noted. Sharman has adopted innovative sales strategies, such as a flexible return policy, to help potential buyers feel more comfortable making a purchase.

“I’ll even bring it to you. See how it looks in the room. And if you don’t like it, bring it back to me tomorrow,” she offers to customers who hesitate. This approach reflects her commitment to making art accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Sharman is keenly aware of the challenges faced by artists today. She believes that many struggle financially and that a lack of basic sales skills often hampers their success. “There is a profound gap between people attending the art shows and those buying the art,” she explained. While she can convince people to purchase her work, she acknowledges that fostering a genuine love for art is a different challenge.

When a piece sells, Sharman experiences a sense of validation. “When you know your work has a home that someone has bought and will enjoy themselves, it’s just a cool feeling,” she said, reinforcing the emotional connection that art can create.

For more information on JoAnne Sharman and her artwork, visit her studio’s website, Lady Loo Art, at ladylooart.com/about.