
Getting Started
Do I have to pay to join?
Nope. You can create an account and set up your portfolio at no charge.
Paid plans unlock advanced features like video/audio uploads, engagement alerts, and inclusion in curated events.
What’s the difference between this and just having my own website?
A personal site is static while VibrantCast is a living platform built for visibility, connection, and discovery. With tools for storytelling, physical art placement, and collector interaction, your work is not just displayed, it’s experienced.
What kind of file types or image sizes should I upload?
We recommend high-quality JPG or PNG files.
Ideal size: [Insert preferred resolution or file size here].
Can I use this platform even if I’m already represented by a gallery?
Absolutely. VibrantCast supports both independent artists and those who are already represented. You maintain control over your portfolio and pricing, while also benefiting from exposure, events, and collector connections.
Selling Your Work
If I sell something through VibrantCast, do you take a cut?
Not for now. Sales happen through direct inquiries. You connect with the collector and handle payment and delivery.
(When integrated checkout launches, a service fee will apply only if you choose to use it.)
Can I use my own payment method?
Yes. After an inquiry, you’re free to use any payment method you prefer, PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, etc.
Do I get notified if someone is interested in buying my work?
Yes, anytime someone sends an inquiry, you’ll get a real-time alert so you can follow up directly.
What if someone wants to see the piece in person?
They can contact you through an inquiry and request a viewing. You can arrange a studio visit or let them know where the piece is being shown, if applicable.
Portfolio & Visibility
Can I add videos or audio to my artwork?
- Short video clips (e.g., behind-the-scenes, process, close-up details)
- Audio stories (MP3 files with reflections, inspiration, or meaning behind the piece)
Can I show work that’s already sold, just to build my portfolio?
Yes, showcasing sold work is a great way to show range and past success. Just mark it as “Sold” when you upload.
Can I update or change the price of a piece after I’ve posted it?
Yes, unless the piece is currently on display in a gallery using VibrantCast. In that case, notify the gallery to coordinate pricing updates.
What is the Pulse? Is it like social media?
The Pulse is a live feed just for Chicago’s art scene.
Artists, galleries, and collectors post:
- New artwork
- Events and exhibitions
- Works in progress
- Studio updates
Think of it as Instagram, focused entirely on art.
Do I have to post often to stay visible?
Posting consistently helps your work stay visible on the Pulse and increases your chances of being discovered by collectors, galleries, and curators.
How will collectors find me on VibrantCast?
- Searching your name
- Seeing you in a gallery exhibition page
- Discovering your work in curated collections
- Following your updates on the Pulse
Can I see who liked or interacted with my work?
Yes — paid account holders get notifications when someone:
- Likes your piece
- Sends an inquiry
- Comments or engages with your profile
Artwork Locations
What is the Locations feature?
The Locations feature lets you share where each piece of your artwork is currently on display, whether that’s in a gallery, pop-up, coffee shop, or other public space. It helps collectors and art lovers discover your work in person.
How does the system know where my artwork is?
By default, every piece you upload is marked as being in your studio. If a piece is being publicly shown, you’ll need to manually update its location by selecting the venue and setting start and end dates.
How do I set a location for my artwork?
When managing an artwork, go to the status section, press on “My Studio” and choose the gallery or venue. Most galleries are already listed, but you can add one manually if needed. Be sure to enter the correct start and end dates of the show.
What happens when the end date passes?
Once the display period ends, your piece will automatically revert back to being shown as in your studio.
Why should I use the Locations feature?
Collectors often want to see artwork in person. By updating your piece’s location, it becomes searchable through our Find Art Near You tool, increasing your visibility and real-world engagement.
Can I mark a piece as in my studio myself?
Yes, although all pieces are defaulted to “My Studio,” you can manually confirm or update that at any time for accuracy.
What if I have multiple pieces in the same location?
You’ll need to update each one individually for now, but we’re working on a faster way to tag multiple artworks at once in the future.
Galleries & Exhibitions
If I’m in a gallery show, do they handle the sale or do I?
If the gallery has a VibrantCast account, they receive all inquiries for your pieces during the show.
If the gallery isn’t on the platform, you’ll get the inquiry and can direct the collector to the gallery for purchase.
Will I be considered for curated collections or shows?
Yes! As long as your work is uploaded and public, you’re automatically eligible for online collections.
For VibrantCast-powered physical events, you’ll be invited to submit when open calls are announced. Selected artists are curated by our team.
What makes someone a “Featured Artist”?
Every few weeks, our team selects a Featured Artist to be highlighted on the Discover page. If selected, you’ll be notified in advance so you can prepare or update your portfolio.
Notifications & Support
What kind of help do you offer if I get stuck?
Reach out anytime through the app email or through a quick chat , we’ll walk you through anything, whether it’s uploading, editing, or preparing for an event.
Billing & Account Management
How do I upgrade to a paid account?
You can upgrade anytime by going to your Account Settings and selecting a plan that fits your needs. Your upgraded features will be available immediately after payment is processed.
How do I cancel my subscription?
You can cancel at any time by going to your Account Settings and selecting “Cancel Subscription.” Your paid features will remain active until the end of your billing cycle.
What happens to my portfolio if I cancel?
Your account will switch to our free plan. Your portfolio will stay live, but you’ll lose access to advanced features like video/audio uploads, engagement alerts, and directory priority. No content is deleted unless you choose to remove it.
Can I switch from monthly to yearly billing (or vice versa)?
Yes, you can switch plans at any time. Changes will take effect at the start of your next billing cycle.
Do you offer refunds?
At this time, we do not offer prorated refunds. We recommend using the monthly plan if you want flexibility, or waiting until you’re ready to commit before switching to annual billing.
How do renewals work?
All VibrantCast paid plans renew automatically, either monthly or annually, depending on what you choose. You’ll be billed at the start of each new billing cycle unless you cancel your plan beforehand through your Account Settings.
Events & Copyright
Do I retain copyright to work I show through VibrantCast?
Yes. You retain full copyright to all artwork you upload. VibrantCast does not claim any ownership of your creative work.
Can VibrantCast use my artwork images for marketing?
By uploading your work, you grant us permission to use your images in non-commercial marketing related to the platform, for example, in curated collections, social media posts, or newsletters that promote your presence on VibrantCast. We’ll always credit you as the artist, and we’ll never sell or license your work.
What happens if someone copies or reposts my work?
We take that seriously. If you suspect someone is misusing your images, please contact us and we’ll review the situation immediately. We can remove infringing content and assist with takedown steps if needed.
If I show in a VibrantCast event, do I need to sign a release?
For in-person events, we may ask you to sign a short exhibitor agreement that covers image usage, liability, and sales terms for that event. We’ll always be upfront and provide the details well in advance.
Who handles permissions for music or video content I add?
Artists are responsible for ensuring that any media they upload, including audio or video, is either original or properly licensed. If you’re not sure, we recommend using royalty-free or self-created content to stay safe.