Money is a Form of Energy

“As artists, we are often regarded as people who have problems paying the rent, and our belief in this myth only adds to its truth. It may actually be the case for many artists, but this does not have to be you. Money, as it turns out, is merely a form of energy that comes to us because we have created some kind of value for others. So the questions around money and wealth must invariably revolve around how we are creating value, and how we value ourselves, the creators.” – from The Infinite Artist book

We All (most of us) Need an Income — So How Do Artists Make a Living?

Making a living as an artist is a concern most creatives have had at one point, or have, or will have in the future. Because unless we’re independently wealthy, at some point we all need an income – and despite all of our deeply held, often negative beliefs around money and art, haven’t we all considered how great it would be to earn a living doing something we completely love to do? And yet most budding artists don’t have an answer for the question, ‘How do artists make a living, really?’

As a creative workshop teacher and creative coach, there are many topics I like to focus on, such as marketing, how to get art patrons, how to sell your art online, and all the other things you need to learn for making money as an artist. But those are cursory – things that we learn along the way, but don’t really need to think about too much. Because at the core of it all, what matters is two things: 1. Our dedication to our passion, and 2. Our attitude around money and wealth – and our deepest beliefs that support that attitude. Once we get these parts down, the rest will come much more easily.

The Energy We Put into Our Work

In Chapter 13, The Infinite Artist book discusses the energy we put into our work, and how that energy can come back to us in the form of money. Mainly, this is the energy of emotion – how we make people feel with our art. One of the biggest misunderstandings many young artists have about making a living as an artist is that they think because their work is technically good that it should sell, and that the better it appears from a technical standpoint, the higher they should mark up the price. Not so.

Sure, professional looking art can often sell for a higher price. But in fact, most people buy art for other reasons. And one of the main reasons people buy art is because the piece, or the song, or the dance makes them feel something deeper or more profound than they were able to feel without it.

From the Depths…

Maybe this has become obvious to you – making a living as an artist usually has little to do with so-called ‘technique’ (meaning an established, conventional system of creation) – though presentation is ALWAYS important, along with a personal grasp, or familiarity, of a medium. From the author’s point of view, success with selling art has everything to do with the ease in which we are able to express something, and the depth to which we are able to go to bring the ineffable essence of our heartfelt experience into form.

The Importance of Your Personal Story in Selling Your Art and Making a Living as an Artist

One very essential part of making a living as an artist – with any kind of art – is that people know you. They like know your story, they like to know that their friends know about you, and they also like to know that people have bought from you. This is not about some kind of social ladder climbing game – it is just they way people function: familiarity and social comfort will always grease the wheels of any kind of sales, whether it be art sales or anything else. And it is a fundamental driving factor in how galleries think about and price art.

The Most Important ingredient of Successfully Selling Your Art

Easily the most important ingredient of being successful at selling your art and making a living as an artist is, by far, your physical and mental health. This might seem obvious – to be successful at anything we of course need to be at our best. This means not taking for granted our mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. We must take time to exercise, eat the right foods for our bodies, having positive thoughts, and dealing with negative emotions in a healthy way when they come up.
The fact of the matter is, when we live harmoniously, our intentions will manifest much faster and much easier for us. If you are healthy artist and you believe in yourself and your vision, there will be nothing to stop you at making a living as an artist.

Ways to Pay the Bills While Pursuing Your Art Dreams

Expanding upon these insights, it’s essential to explore diverse strategies that answer the question: how do artists make a living while staying true to their creative passions when they’re not yet successful? The journey to financial sustainability in the arts often requires a multifaceted approach, combining traditional methods with innovative avenues:

1. Selling Original Artwork

The most direct method for artists to earn income is by selling their original pieces. This can be achieved through personal websites, online marketplaces, galleries, and art fairs. Establishing a strong online presence allows artists to reach a global audience, while local events foster community engagement and direct sales.

2. Offering Art Prints and Merchandise

To make art more accessible and affordable, artists can reproduce their work as prints or on merchandise like apparel, home decor, and stationery. Utilizing print-on-demand services minimizes upfront costs and inventory management, enabling artists to focus on creativity. This approach not only diversifies income but also broadens the artist’s reach.

3. Teaching and Workshops

Sharing expertise through teaching can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding. Artists can offer classes in various formats:

• In-Person Classes: Hosting workshops at local community centers, schools, or studios.

• Online Courses: Creating digital tutorials or courses accessible to a wider audience.

• Private Lessons: Providing one-on-one instruction tailored to individual needs.

Teaching not only generates income but also enhances the artist’s profile and network.

4. Art Licensing

Licensing artwork involves granting permission for others to use your creations on products, publications, or media in exchange for royalties or a licensing fee. This passive income stream allows artists to earn from existing work without relinquishing ownership rights. Collaborations with brands or publishers can significantly boost an artist’s visibility and revenue.

5. Commissioned Work

Creating custom pieces tailored to a client’s specifications can be lucrative. Commissions may come from individuals, businesses, or organizations seeking unique art for personal enjoyment, branding, or events. Clear communication and contracts are vital to ensure mutual satisfaction and protect the artist’s interests.

6. Crowdfunding and Patronage

Platforms like Patreon or Kickstarter enable artists to secure financial support directly from fans and patrons. By offering exclusive content, early access, or personalized rewards, artists can build a community of supporters who provide recurring income. This model fosters a closer artist-audience relationship and financial stability.

7. Residencies and Grants

Artistic residencies offer time, space, and resources for artists to focus on their work, often providing stipends or covering expenses. Similarly, grants from arts organizations, foundations, or government programs can fund specific projects or professional development. Researching and applying for these opportunities can alleviate financial pressures and open new creative avenues.

8. Collaborations and Partnerships

Partnering with other artists, brands, or businesses can lead to mutually beneficial projects. Collaborations might include joint exhibitions, product lines, or cross-promotional events. These partnerships can expand an artist’s audience and create additional revenue streams.

9. Art Fairs and Markets

Participating in art fairs, markets, or pop-up events provides direct access to potential buyers and collectors. These venues allow artists to showcase their work, receive immediate feedback, and build personal connections with their audience. Success in these settings often depends on presentation, engagement, and understanding the target market.

10. Digital Content Creation

In the digital age, artists can leverage various online platforms to share their creative process, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes content. Monetizing through ad revenue, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or personal blogs can supplement income and increase exposure.

11. Offering Art-Related Services

Artists can utilize their skills in related fields such as graphic design, illustration, or art therapy. Providing services like logo design, book illustrations, or therapeutic art sessions can diversify income while staying connected to creative passions.

12. Networking and Community Engagement

Building relationships within the art community and related industries can lead to opportunities and collaborations. Attending events, joining artist groups, and engaging in online forums can expand an artist’s network, leading to potential sales, partnerships, or commissions.

Understanding how do artists make a living involves recognizing that multiple income streams often provide the most stability. By combining direct sales, services, teaching, and digital platforms, artists can create a sustainable and fulfilling career. Embracing both traditional methods and modern innovations allows artists to navigate the evolving landscape of the art world successfully.

The path to making a living as an artist is multifaceted and requires adaptability, resilience, and a proactive approach. By exploring various avenues and remaining open to new opportunities, artists can find the right balance that aligns with their creative goals and financial needs.