The International Art Materials Association (NAMTA) recently released their third edition of the Artists and Art Materials Study in 2015. This survey covers both the United States and Canadian arts markets and includes the results of authoritative surveys of more than 6,000 active artists and specialty art materials retailers. It serves as a summary of market size and trends.

The goals of this study are to ensure a robust future for art, help art materials makers and retailers serve artists even better, and ensure these mostly family-owned businesses are around to serve artists for years to come. The study is independently produced by Hart Business Research for NAMTA.

Among many important pieces of data readers will learn:

•  If artists have deserted painting and drawing for digital art?

•  Is artist spending up or down . . . and where?

•  How do you inspire baby boomers to start creating art again?

•  How important are Pinterest and Facebook to artists?

•  What should art retailers post on social media?

•  Has the market share of art material stores increased?

•  What store features are most important to artists?

“This study is the only one of its kind of the art business and the results provide an array of data on the needs, desires, trends and thoughts of artist across the U.S. and Canada,” said Reggie Hall, NAMTA’s Executive Director.  “The survey will be important in helping companies that sell to artists or do business in the art industry to better shape their strategies.”

The results are free to NAMTA members, art nonprofit organizations and educational institutions. The study is available to non-members for $300.

NAMTA is a partner of Americans for the Arts' Arts Action Fund.