How to Make Money as an Artist

More and more people turn to art as a full-time job, because juggling a daily job along with an art career is strenuous. Whether painting, sculpting, photography, digital art, or design, artistic jobs require self-marketing and determination. And, we have to admit, it’s not easy to be both an artist and a business person. The main question many emerging artists face is how to make money as an artist. 

Fortunately, we live in a digital world, and you can benefit from easy ways to exhibit your work, opportunities for reaching people from all over the world, and supporting communities to provide feedback. But relying on digital marketplaces isn’t the only way to make money with your art. Here are five tips to help you conquer the art market and sell your artworks.

Tip #1 – Create an Online Portfolio

Start by creating an online portfolio on a dedicated platform such as VERO or Behance. These platforms accommodate all sorts of art and facilitate communication and sales. Art communities are great for gathering feedback and connecting with people with similar interests. They’re also the best places to look for clients who appreciate art and are ready to invest in high-quality artworks.

Tip #2 – Sell Original Art and Prints

Even if we’re used to selling original pieces, you can also sell high-quality fine art prints. For photographers and painters, prints offer an amazing opportunity to increase income and sell their works worldwide. Choose to sell your artworks in limited series to keep a higher price and increased value.

Tip #3 – Teach

Teaching is not just a way to make money but also a way to share your passion with others. It also helps you grow as an artist. You can organize workshops, create online courses, or publish tutorials and tips on your website. Teaching helps build an audience and reach important people in the field.

Tip #4 – Contact Galleries and Marketplaces

Don’t wait to be noticed by galleries and art sellers. Take the initiative and contact them yourself. You can find plenty of online and offline galleries and marketplaces ready to invest in young artists. They’re also experts in art marketing and can help you improve your presentation skills.

Tip #5 – Be Versatile

Modern art has many faces, and you need to use all of them. Be versatile and extend your art to jewelry, clothes, or decorative objects. You can print your artworks on different materials, create designs for magazines or commercial spaces, or illustrate books. There’s no limit in art and imagination.

Open as many channels as possible to reach a targeted audience that’s interested in art. Selling art is not an easy job, but with some creativity and imagination, you can find your path and make it work.

Article written by Monica Radulescu
Feature art by Jamaal Peterman