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This whole thread brings up an issue I heard addressed at a function of what I remember to be the "Arts and Business Council" or something with ABC as their initials. They pointed out that artists often subsidize the arts by the amount of freebies they offer without thinking.
I WILL contribute freely to charities I believe in. Usually, as Chris does, a certificate of finite value TOWARD purchase. But I am beginning to ask a cut of the take. The first time I offered to give 15% of sales back to a charity I opened a huge ball of worms. They called it a "kickback" and said it would be very sticky. I finally said I had a set price and they could write my deposit in two checks half to me and half to the charity. They got the deduction and I got enough money to make them understand they were going through with the commission. It covers cost of stretchers, nails and canvas! After only ONE taker, I stopped offering the percentage. Nobody cared!
Most of the charities I donate to, understand I am not doing it completely out of the bounty of my wealth! I explain why. I say I have found that word of mouth is my best advertising and that I can't actually deduct any of this as the tax laws are screwed up. When I get a good organizer, they work hard to get me the proper position and visibility.
I was approached to do a few rescue groups (like I said, I do equal animals and people portraits) and I am asking them to take the orders on site if I do an adoption event and PAY ME as an expense. Much like charity bazaars which sell merchandise as a not for profit. THEY can write the final product off. When the painting is done, I bill them the cost, which is half, and they reimburse me . If it is never done, they keep the donation. I don't work, I don't make money, but they could conceivably come out way ahead.
Like I said, I am ASKING. Nobody has worked out the logistics but I think it is a great plan, especially as I am doing a pretty good Christmas miniature business. It elevates it from street art and I am doing a very reasonable quantity income.
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