Art, Inc.

1. Embrace Your Identity and Mindset as a Thriving Artist

One thing I know for sure is that to be a successful artist, you must start with the simplest proclamation: I am an artist.

Overcome self-doubt. The first step to success is believing in yourself as a legitimate artist. Many artists struggle with insecurity, questioning their talent or worthiness. Recognize that these feelings are normal and don't let them paralyze you. Embrace your identity as an artist, regardless of formal training or experience.

Shift to a thriving mindset. Replace the "starving artist myth" with a "thriving artist's mindset." This means believing in the possibility of making a living from your art, actively promoting your work, and thinking in terms of abundance, not scarcity. Challenge negative thoughts and surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your dreams.

Find your voice. Developing your unique artistic voice is crucial for building confidence and attracting the right audience. Experiment with different styles, techniques, and subject matter until you find what resonates with you. Don't be afraid to take risks and push through difficulties.

2. Diversify Income Streams and Follow Your Values

It may sound corny, but the best advice I got when I began my art career was “Follow your heart.”

Explore multiple avenues. Don't rely solely on one source of income. Diversify your art business by exploring different streams, such as selling original works, prints, commissions, illustration, and licensing. This creates stability and keeps your work interesting.

Align with your values. Choose income streams that align with your values and core aesthetic. Don't pursue opportunities solely for profit if they don't feel authentic. This will lead to burnout and dissatisfaction. Consider the advice from Nikki McClure, who brings her values into her art and business, using her work to communicate the things she cares about—the power of love and hope, beauty in the everyday, care for the environment, and the potential to change the world for the better.

Start small and transition gradually. If you're still working a day job, start with one or two income streams and gradually transition as your art business grows. Don't overwhelm yourself by trying to do too much at once. Be patient and allow yourself time to experiment and find what works best for you.

3. Set Clear Goals and Articulate Your Values

You can define your own benchmarks for success.

Create a vision map. Develop a vision for your art career in the next three to five years. Dream big and write down your goals, such as gallery representation, a lucrative online shop, or illustrating a children's book. Pin this map in your workspace to stay connected to your aspirations.

Articulate your values. Identify your core values as an artist. What is important to you in terms of your work, clients, and impact? Examples include working with ethical companies, creating affordable art, or donating a percentage of sales to charity.

Set intermediate goals and actionable tasks. Break down your vision into smaller, achievable goals. For each goal, develop short-term tasks that you can complete in a few hours. This creates momentum and a sense of accomplishment. Rebecca Rebouché's story is a testament to carving your own path and not waiting around for your career to take off.

4. Brand Your Business and Organize Finances

From the beginning it is important to manage your art as a business—and not a hobby—even if you are working elsewhere full- or part-time.

Integrate your aesthetic into your brand. Develop a logo, website, and marketing materials that reflect your core aesthetic. Maintain a consistent look and feel to create a recognizable brand. Consider how you communicate and conduct business, as this is also part of your brand.

Set up the nuts and bolts. Determine the legal structure for your business (sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC). Obtain necessary licenses and permits, such as a business license and seller's permit. Secure health insurance and open a dedicated business bank account.

Manage your finances. Track your income and expenses using spreadsheets or accounting software. Save money for taxes and unexpected expenses. Consider working with an accountant or bookkeeper to manage your finances effectively.

5. Promote Your Work Authentically and Strategically

Promoting your work can be just as creative and fulfilling as making your artwork.

Create a strong website. Your website is often the first impression potential clients and customers will have of your work. Make sure it's easy to navigate, has a clean design, and includes a bio, contact information, and a shop (if applicable).

Utilize social media. Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram to share your work, connect with fans, and build community. Be responsive, stay positive, and share some of yourself.

Don't forget print materials. Artist postcards and business cards are still valuable for networking and promoting your work in person. Carry them with you and hand them out whenever you meet someone who might be interested.

6. Master the Art of Selling: Prints, Originals, and Commissions

There is nothing like the feeling of selling your artwork to a passionate buyer.

Sell print reproductions. Offer digital print reproductions of your original art to reach a wider audience at a lower price point. Understand digital printing terms and plan your prints strategically.

Price your work effectively. Research comparable artists and price your work competitively. Offer art at a variety of price points to cater to different buyers. Consider raising your prices as your demand increases.

Take commissions. If you enjoy working with clients and creating custom art, offer commissions. Establish clear policies and communicate effectively with your clients throughout the process.

7. Navigate Exhibitions and Galleries with Savvy

Exhibiting your art is one of the most exciting and important aspects of your career.

Enter juried shows. Juried shows are a great way to build your résumé and gain exposure, especially as an emerging artist. Research the show and its jurors before applying.

Create your own exhibition. Don't wait for a gallery to come calling. Organize your own solo or group show in a café, restaurant, or other venue. This gives you control over the theme, artists, and promotion.

Pursue gallery representation strategically. If you aspire to gallery representation, build your résumé, sales record, and press mentions. Network with gallery owners and attend openings. Prepare a strong portfolio and artist statement.

8. Understand the Worlds of Illustration and Licensing

Illustration is both an art form and a practical way to make an income.

Explore illustration markets. Illustration is commercial art created for a client. Explore different markets, such as book illustration, editorial illustration, advertising illustration, and retail product illustration.

Master the illustration process. Learn how to work with art directors, create sketches, and deliver final artwork on deadline. Negotiate your fees and understand illustration contracts.

Consider art licensing. Licensing involves selling the rights to a company to use your art on their products. This can be a passive income stream. Create collections of themed artwork and contact companies that align with your style.

9. Manage Your Workload and Downtime Effectively

Downtime is creative time.

Make the most of downtime. Use slow periods to build your portfolio, volunteer in the arts community, and work on marketing. Stay engaged and proactive, even when work is slow.

Learn to say no. As your career progresses, you'll need to learn to say no to projects that don't align with your goals or values. Don't overcommit yourself and risk burnout.

Hire help when needed. Consider hiring an assistant or outsourcing tasks like bookkeeping or shipping to free up your time for creating art.

10. Cultivate a Supportive Community and Never Stop Learning

The larger the audience for my work has become, the more I feel called to make work that is aligned with my values.

Surround yourself with support. Connect with other artists who support your aspirations and believe in your dreams. Build a community of friends and collaborators.

Never stop learning. Attend workshops, take classes, and read books to expand your skills and knowledge. Stay curious and open to new ideas.

Achieve balance. Slow down, take breaks, and prioritize your well-being. Remember that your health and happiness are essential for a sustainable and fulfilling art career.

Last updated: March 23, 2025