Trying to figure out how to make a living as an artist is like trying to find your way through the jungle without a map.
When you’re an artist for hire, you get to establish your own hours, decide what you want to work on, and have complete autonomy over your work. However, a solid business plan is essential to your success as an artist.
Fear not. Having trouble making it as a professional artist is a challenge that many people face, but it doesn’t have to be an insurmountable one.
Here are six reasons creatives aren’t making it, along with simple solutions for how to get back on track:
You are not gaining the skills necessary to manage an art studio.
Nobody knows what a “professional artist” actually does for a living. The word “artist” should be replaced by “marketer, social media specialist, CEO, inventory manager, accountant, and more.” You’re an entrepreneur who also happens to be a talented artist; both of these roles need your whole attention. In order to keep your creative business afloat, you’ll need to wear many hats.
You shouldn’t go into debt for an MBA, which is not what we’re suggesting. Gaining valuable business experience requires only a few hours of your time each week. Numerous excellent resources are available to creative individuals. It doesn’t matter if you like to consume material in book form, online at a blog, or through audio or video podcasts while working in the studio; everything you can pick up can help you succeed in the art business.
Don’t pretend like you’re giving it your all.
Being an artist in the workforce may be an exciting adventure. Even the most confident artists might experience doubt when sales are low. If you want to make it as a creative person, you need to conquer your fears.
Want some assistance? Consider the following excerpt from actor Jim Carrey’s internet-breaking graduating address: “So many of us chose our careers out of fear disguised as practicality.” Because we think it would be ridiculous to ask the universe for what we actually desire, we never have the guts to do so.” Carrey uses the speech to explain why his father was dismissed from his “secure” profession as an accountant rather than a career in acting. You have the option of failing at the things you don’t want to do, so you might as well try for the things you do.
You need to get your art practice in order.
As an artist, you have a lot on your plate, and keeping track of where your work is, who your clients are, how much they paid, what they liked about your work, when your gallery dates are, how you applied, etc. is only the tip of the iceberg. When there’s too much to do and not enough time, you can’t rely on Excel spreadsheets. You need a business plan if you want to make a livelihood as an artist. Keeping on top of the business side of your art business is a breeze when you use a programme like Artwork management to catalogue your artwork.
You aren’t promoting your creative work.
The art world is really competitive.
Even though learning how to market your art business might not be high on your list of interesting activities, it is essential if you want to succeed in the industry.
When you put in the time and effort to market your business, you’ll attract more clients and make more money.
You and your potential customers may get weary of social media and email, despite their usefulness. Don’t be scared to get imaginative with your advertising. Find out how to make your art marketing stand out with these seven innovative ideas and the 10 top marketing strategies.
Not setting your price correctly
One of the main factors preventing your artwork from selling is its price. Nobody can make a living as an artist if nobody buys their works.
Before you start to worry, it’s a good idea to have a look at what you should and shouldn’t do when pricing your paintings. Then, consider these three guidelines when you attempt to put a price on your creations. Do you sell your artwork at a range of prices? Potentially, it would help you reach a wider audience and close more deals.
Finally, whenever you make a sale, make sure to record it so you can track your progress and gain insight into your clientele.
So, the positives are…
All of these issues have answers!
There’s no need for the “starving artist” stereotype to hold true. All that is required is some forethought and study. With the support of an art coach or business mentor, you may turn your artistic talents into a sustainable career.
Want to learn more?
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We’re here to help you to take action just like we’ve helped thousands of other entrepreneurs, business owners, and creative professionals all around the globe.
Now is the time to let your passion SHINE.
Now is the time to Make Tomorrow Today!
To your success, Vinh Van Lam and Stuart Horrex Cofounders
ArtSHINE.com