2 answers
Kearsten
Student
San Leandro, California
1
Question
Asked
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How can I make a livable profit off of my art?
I can’t imagine having art as just a hobby, I want a career focused on my artwork and creative side.
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2 answers
Emma Verde
Physical Therapist
171
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Hi Kearsten,
You can absolutely make a living out of your art!
Do you have Netflix? If so, check out Get Smart With Money. Its a show about managing money and they talk to and help real people. One of the people is an artist who works as a bartender for money but she is basically in this loop where she is living paycheck to paycheck, isn't able to save, and therefore isn't able to get herself to a place financially where she could even try to make art her career. In the show, they talk about how to utilize resources such as Etsy to make art scalable - ex. draw a print once, and then sell it digitally to hundreds of people vs. drawing hundreds of prints to sell. One takes much less time yet turns the same (if not more) of a profit. The show goes a lot more in depth with how to do stuff like this.
I think the "starving artist" image is one of the past. With the advent of the internet and platforms to connect you to customers, you can absolutely make a living from art. You just have to have kind of a business brain or if you don't, learn about how to make your art a business OR partner with someone/hire someone to do this for you. Hope this helps!
You can absolutely make a living out of your art!
Do you have Netflix? If so, check out Get Smart With Money. Its a show about managing money and they talk to and help real people. One of the people is an artist who works as a bartender for money but she is basically in this loop where she is living paycheck to paycheck, isn't able to save, and therefore isn't able to get herself to a place financially where she could even try to make art her career. In the show, they talk about how to utilize resources such as Etsy to make art scalable - ex. draw a print once, and then sell it digitally to hundreds of people vs. drawing hundreds of prints to sell. One takes much less time yet turns the same (if not more) of a profit. The show goes a lot more in depth with how to do stuff like this.
I think the "starving artist" image is one of the past. With the advent of the internet and platforms to connect you to customers, you can absolutely make a living from art. You just have to have kind of a business brain or if you don't, learn about how to make your art a business OR partner with someone/hire someone to do this for you. Hope this helps!
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Transitioning from creating art as a hobby to making a sustainable income from your artwork can be both challenging and rewarding. Here are steps and strategies to help you turn your passion for art into a career:
1. **Build a Strong Portfolio:**
- Develop a diverse and impressive portfolio that showcases your skills, style, and versatility. Quality matters, so take your time to create your best work.
2. **Define Your Niche:**
- Identify your artistic niche or specialization. Whether it's painting, digital art, illustration, or sculpture, specializing can help you stand out in a competitive market.
3. **Market Research:**
- Study the art market to understand trends, pricing, and the demand for your type of art. Identify your target audience and their preferences.
4. **Online Presence:**
- Create an online portfolio website or use platforms like Instagram, Etsy, or Behance to showcase and sell your artwork. Consistently update your online presence with new pieces.
5. **Engage with Your Audience:**
- Interact with your followers and potential customers on social media. Share your artistic process, behind-the-scenes content, and stories about your work.
6. **Pricing Strategy:**
- Determine a fair and competitive pricing strategy for your artwork. Consider factors like materials, time invested, and market demand. Start with reasonable prices and adjust as your reputation grows.
7. **Art Shows and Exhibitions:**
- Participate in local art shows, galleries, and exhibitions to gain exposure and connect with art enthusiasts. Networking within the art community can open doors.
8. **Sell Prints and Merchandise:**
- Explore selling prints, merchandise (like posters, T-shirts, or mugs), or digital downloads of your art. These can provide additional revenue streams.
9. **Licensing and Commissions:**
- Consider licensing your artwork for use in products, advertisements, or publications. You can also take commissions for custom pieces.
10. **Art Fairs and Markets:**
- Attend art fairs, craft markets, and conventions to sell your art in person. These events allow you to engage with potential buyers directly.
11. **Art Education and Workshops:**
- Share your expertise by offering art classes, workshops, or tutorials. Teaching can be both financially rewarding and creatively fulfilling.
12. **Consistency and Persistence:**
- Building a sustainable art career takes time and dedication. Be prepared for setbacks and stay persistent in your pursuit.
13. **Legal and Financial Considerations:**
- Understand the legal aspects of art sales, including copyright and tax obligations. Consider consulting with a lawyer or accountant if needed.
14. **Diversify Income Sources:**
- Relying solely on art sales can be unpredictable. Diversify your income sources by exploring teaching, art-related services, or part-time work in your field.
15. **Invest in Self-Promotion:**
- Allocate time and resources to self-promotion. Marketing and promoting your work are essential aspects of a successful art career.
Remember that a career in art often involves periods of uncertainty, but passion, persistence, and a business-minded approach can help you make a livable income from your artwork. Continuously hone your skills, adapt to market changes, and stay true to your artistic vision. With dedication and creativity, you can turn your passion into a fulfilling and sustainable career.
1. **Build a Strong Portfolio:**
- Develop a diverse and impressive portfolio that showcases your skills, style, and versatility. Quality matters, so take your time to create your best work.
2. **Define Your Niche:**
- Identify your artistic niche or specialization. Whether it's painting, digital art, illustration, or sculpture, specializing can help you stand out in a competitive market.
3. **Market Research:**
- Study the art market to understand trends, pricing, and the demand for your type of art. Identify your target audience and their preferences.
4. **Online Presence:**
- Create an online portfolio website or use platforms like Instagram, Etsy, or Behance to showcase and sell your artwork. Consistently update your online presence with new pieces.
5. **Engage with Your Audience:**
- Interact with your followers and potential customers on social media. Share your artistic process, behind-the-scenes content, and stories about your work.
6. **Pricing Strategy:**
- Determine a fair and competitive pricing strategy for your artwork. Consider factors like materials, time invested, and market demand. Start with reasonable prices and adjust as your reputation grows.
7. **Art Shows and Exhibitions:**
- Participate in local art shows, galleries, and exhibitions to gain exposure and connect with art enthusiasts. Networking within the art community can open doors.
8. **Sell Prints and Merchandise:**
- Explore selling prints, merchandise (like posters, T-shirts, or mugs), or digital downloads of your art. These can provide additional revenue streams.
9. **Licensing and Commissions:**
- Consider licensing your artwork for use in products, advertisements, or publications. You can also take commissions for custom pieces.
10. **Art Fairs and Markets:**
- Attend art fairs, craft markets, and conventions to sell your art in person. These events allow you to engage with potential buyers directly.
11. **Art Education and Workshops:**
- Share your expertise by offering art classes, workshops, or tutorials. Teaching can be both financially rewarding and creatively fulfilling.
12. **Consistency and Persistence:**
- Building a sustainable art career takes time and dedication. Be prepared for setbacks and stay persistent in your pursuit.
13. **Legal and Financial Considerations:**
- Understand the legal aspects of art sales, including copyright and tax obligations. Consider consulting with a lawyer or accountant if needed.
14. **Diversify Income Sources:**
- Relying solely on art sales can be unpredictable. Diversify your income sources by exploring teaching, art-related services, or part-time work in your field.
15. **Invest in Self-Promotion:**
- Allocate time and resources to self-promotion. Marketing and promoting your work are essential aspects of a successful art career.
Remember that a career in art often involves periods of uncertainty, but passion, persistence, and a business-minded approach can help you make a livable income from your artwork. Continuously hone your skills, adapt to market changes, and stay true to your artistic vision. With dedication and creativity, you can turn your passion into a fulfilling and sustainable career.