How to Build Your Marketing Alter Ego as an Artist: And Sell Your Art Confidently Without Oversharing
How to Build Your Marketing Alter Ego as an Artist: And Sell Your Art Confidently Without Oversharing
I remember there was a time when every time I was promoting my art and trying to build my brand, I felt really cringe.
Hot Takes:
You are not your marketing
Craft your caricature
Befriend your alter-ego
I remember there was a time when every time I was promoting my art and trying to build my brand, I felt really cringe. And the idea of being authentic and personable online made me overthink every little thing I shared.
But then I discovered something that changed everything.. your marketing isn’t you. It’s simply a tool - a way to package your art in a bold, amplified form that speaks directly to your audience without making you feel like you’re baring your soul.
In this post, I’m sharing an exercise that helped me and can help you create your “marketing alter ego”. This persona isn’t meant to be a fake version of you. It’s a fun, strategic version that takes the pressure off and lets you sell your art confidently on Instagram, in emails, and anywhere else.
Step 1: Recognise That Your Marketing Is Not You
Before diving into the exercise, take a deep breath and remind yourself..
I know creating your art can be deeply personal, but marketing it doesn’t have to be.
Your marketing isn’t an extension of your entire self - instead, it’s a curated representation of your art, designed to connect with your audience without exposing every personal detail. Embrace the idea of a “marketing self”.. a slightly exaggerated, super fun version of you that lets you stay authentic while keeping your personal life separate from your brand.
Step 2: Craft Your Marketing Caricature
Now, let’s create your marketing alter ego. This is a step-by-step exercise to help you build a persona that’s super fun that allows you to have fun with your marketing, be bold with your message and connect with your audience without fear.
Define Their Personality
Think about adjectives that capture a fun, amplified version of yourself.
Are you “cheeky and confident”?
Maybe “empathetic and approachable”?
Or even “the queen of witty one-liners”?
Write down a few words that represent the vibe you want your marketing persona to have.
Choose a Tone of Voice
Decide how your alter-ego speaks.
Should they be a “bubbly best friend” who’s full of energy?
A “sassy mentor” who’s direct and to the point?
Or a “big sister” who’s there to guide you with love and wisdom?
Jot down a tone or even a short phrase that captures this voice.
Visualise Their Vibe
Picture what your marketing self would wear.
Smock and sneakers?
A blazer and bunny slippers?
Colours and bright lipstick?
Important note: This visualisation isn’t about changing who you are - it’s about creating a memorable image that helps you step excitedly into this role.
Step 3: Write a Quick Bio for Your Alter-Ego
Using your notes from Step 2, let’s write a quick intro for your new marketing hype gal. Here’s an example to get you started:
"My marketing self is confident and witty, with a touch of chaos. She says what she means, makes people laugh, and isn’t afraid to sell hard. She’s basically me, but if I drank more coffee and had my life 10% more together."
Feel free to tweak it until it feels right. This bio is your little reminder of the persona you can channel when it’s time to share your work.
Step 4: Put It Into Practice
When you write your next email or Instagram caption, channel your caricature. They’re a professional hype machine, so write like they would!
Human you says: “Hey, no pressure, but here’s something I’m offering if you’re interested.”
Marketing you says: “Don’t sleep on this—here’s why this offer is exactly what you need right now.”
EXAMPLE: “My caricature is 'Georgia the Cheerleader Artist' —big, loud, and full of confidence.
Human Georgia wouldn’t say: ‘Sign up RIGHT NOW because spots are limited!’ but Marketing Georgia does it with no shame because that’s her job.
The Wrap-Up
Just remember, this isn’t about pretending to be someone else - it’s about carving out a space between your personal self and your business persona. By creating that marketing buffer, you can sell confidently, grow fearlessly, and show up online without second guessing every move.
At Secret Artist’s Business, we believe that your art is your passion, and your marketing is just the tool that lets it shine. Use this exercise to build a persona that feels empowering, and watch how your brand grows as you market confidently and without the cringe.
