Getting rich from your art career seems like only a dream. It seems like a long and difficult path to follow. And beginners always wonder how the big names in the industry got where they are today. 

BUT it’s 2023, and with the right strategies and platforms, that dream can turn into reality. 

In this comprehensive guide, let’s explore various avenues through which we’ll answer the question, how to make money from your art.

From traditional methods to using the power of the internet, we'll discuss the secrets that will help your art career boom!

Sell Your Art the Traditional Way

Selling original pieces of art can be a great way to start your art business. And the best way to do that is by exhibiting your work at local galleries, participating in art fairs, or even hosting your own exhibitions. 

All these options are excellent ways to build a presence in your community and develop a personal brand.

As they provide an excellent opportunity to sell your art. And also help you connect with art collectors and enthusiasts - who may become long-term supporters and buyers.

To amp up your sales you can follow current trends in the industry and offer art that’s currently in demand. While that’s a great way to make some quick cash, being true to your art style is also important. Your art style is what defines your work as well as your personal brand. It helps viewers identify your unique art from all pieces. Your focus should only be on your craft and its promotion.

Also make sure you price your art right while exhibiting it for sale. You should neither undervalue your art by selling it at low prices to lure customers nor ask an exceptionally high price for it. An easy way to price your art is to make sure you’re making a profit after calculating the cost of making your art as well as your time invested in it. Another way is to have a look at the works and pricing of similar artists at your level of expertise and get an idea of what they’re charging for similar works.

Sell Exclusive Prints

As an artist, it's understandable to often have a tight grip on your creations because, well, they're like a piece of your soul manifested on canvas. If you're nodding your head in agreement, you might be wondering if selling your art is really your cup of creative tea. 

But hey, fear not! There's a clever loophole to this art puzzle: Selling prints of your cherished original pieces. It's like making money as an artist without staging a heartbreaking farewell to your beloved masterpieces.

For those itching to share their art with the world while keeping their originals close, the magic trick lies in crafting top-notch art prints. Picture this: you get to keep your artistic babies and offer up duplicate versions for the world to admire and collect. It's like having your cake and eating it too, but with art.

Offer Print on Demand Services

Another hit method to make some moolah is to offer print on demand services. A LOT of artists are doing this and boosting their income. You must have seen different daily use stuff like mugs, handkerchiefs, T-shirts, scarves, table cloths, tote bags and other merchandise items printed with various kinds of artworks. There are platforms like redbubble, Printful and Printify who make it easier for artists to sell their prints by putting their designs on stuff and help them sell them. These sites allow artists to upload their artwork, while they handle everything from printing to shipping. As an artist, you earn a commission for each sale without the hassle of managing inventory. This approach is ideal for artists who want to focus on creating art while leaving the logistics to the experts.

Cash Instagram and Pinterest

In the digital age, social media has become an invaluable tool for artists to showcase and sell their work. Instagram and Pinterest are two platforms that offer unique opportunities for artists:

Instagram for Artists

Instagram's visual nature makes it an ideal platform for artists to display their creations. To effectively use Instagram to make money from your art, you need to build a strong presence by consistently sharing your artwork, engaging with your followers, and using relevant hashtags. And duh? Making viral reels! Many artists also leverage Instagram to gain commissions and sell their art directly through the platform.

Pinterest for Visual Inspiration

Pinterest is our personal favorite. With its focus on visual content, it can be a powerful tool for artists looking to drive traffic to their websites or online stores. By creating visually appealing pins featuring your art and linking them to your online shop, you can tap into the vast Pinterest community. Many users turn to Pinterest for inspiration, making it an excellent platform to showcase your work and attract potential buyers.

Become a Freelancer

As we can see, the online art space is booming and what better way to make money from art than freelancing your services. Freelancing is a versatile way for artists to leverage their skills and earn money. Several freelance online platforms, such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer, connect freelancers with clients seeking various creative services. Whether you specialize in illustration, graphic design, or digital art, these platforms provide a marketplace where you can find freelance gigs and showcase your expertise. Building a strong profile and receiving positive feedback from clients can lead to a steady flow of projects and income.

You should also work on building a personal brand with the help of various social media platforms in order to succeed at freelancing. Because it's not just a service but a business for you which can only grow if you prove yourself and make a name in the industry.

Join Artist-Friendly Online Platforms

When we talk about the booming online art space, creator-friendly platforms can not go unnoticed. Today, artists have an array of online platforms at their disposal, each with its unique approach to connecting creators with their audience and generating income. Crowdfundly, Ko-Fi, Buy Me A Coffee, and Patreon are spaces that have helped millions of artists take their artistic business to the next level.

Crowdfundly

Crowdfundly is an all-encompassing crowdfunding and subscription platform that provides artists with the tools they need to raise funds for their creative projects. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a visual artist, or a musician, Crowdfundly allows you to craft compelling campaigns, engage with potential backers, and showcase your work. It supports both one-time and recurring donations, making it an excellent choice for artists who want to secure ongoing support. Moreover, its membership option, shop feature, user-friendly interface and robust analytics empower artists to earn through multiple income streams all on one platform.

Open Shop on Etsy/Amazon

Etsy and Amazon Handmade are the two most popular platforms loved by artists and craftsmen. Etsy, in particular, has gained a reputation for being a hub of unique and handcrafted creations. By setting up your own Etsy shop and showcasing your art, you gain access to a massive community of buyers who appreciate one-of-a-kind items. On the other hand, Amazon Handmade offers artists an opportunity to reach a global audience.

Both of these are marketplaces where you can present your art and connect with buyers who value the craftsmanship and artistry behind each item. Such platforms provide an opportunity to showcase your work to a diverse and appreciative audience, all within the comforts of online marketplaces.

Offer Commissions

Offering commissions is one of the best ways to earn good money from your art. Taking commissions is not common for many artists. It takes a lot more time and effort to develop something bespoke and unique for each individual; following their brief. But because they are personalized and made for specifically one brand or person, they cost more. Therefore, commissions are a great source to boost your income as an artist, especially when you have an attractive portfolio.

License Your Art

If you want to earn good money from your art but you’re lazy, worry no more. Because here comes the lazy man’s way to earn money from your art. Licensing your artwork needs some effort in the beginning. But as soon as you’ve created some masterpieces, you can take off the burden from your shoulders and license your art to be used in all sorts of products like billboards, websites, ad creatives and much more.When considering licensing opportunities, ensure you have a clear understanding of the terms of licensing agreements, including usage rights, royalties, and any limitations. It's advisable to consult with legal professionals or art licensing experts to ensure your rights are protected and that the agreements are mutually beneficial. Don’t forget to READ the agreement thoroughly before signing, it’s always best to get it proofread by a lawyer.

Conclusion

The digital and creator economy has been nothing but a blessing for artists and creators. It has opened up many opportunities and avenues for artists to make money from art and succeed in their artistic endeavors. By exploring traditional avenues, harnessing the potential of social media, and leveraging freelancing opportunities, you can transform your artistic passion into a sustainable income stream. But one should remember that success takes time and persistence. With dedication and a strategic approach, your art can become a valuable asset to both you and your admirers. As you embark on this creative journey, remember that making money from your art is not just about financial gain; it's also about sharing your unique perspective with the world.

FAQs

How do visual artists make money?

Visual artists can make money through various channels, including selling original art, offering prints, taking commissions, freelancing, licensing their art, and utilizing social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest.

How can I make money from art commissions?

To make money from art commissions, promote your commission services through your website and social media. Clearly outline your pricing, preferred mediums, and turnaround time. Engage with potential clients and showcase your portfolio to attract commissions.

What is art licensing, and how can I benefit from it?

Art licensing involves granting permission for your artwork to be used for specific purposes, such as merchandise or advertising. Artists benefit by earning royalties and expanding their reach as their art is used in various commercial applications.