Don’t we all just love the idea of living a slow life? Waking up, brewing a fresh cup of coffee, walking into our studio where the first rays of sun hit just right, sitting before a blank canvas, and knowing that all you have to do that day is create. Once your art is done, it’ll quickly sell, money will flow into your bank account, you’ll ship the artwork, the collector will receive it with immense joy, granting you the highest praises for how amazing your work is, and you’ll often find yourself in a daze thinking, “How lucky I am to live this life...”
This dream-like scenario happens... to some. And when it does happen consistently as part of your career, what people often fail to mention is that it’s only a FRACTION of the reality.
This scenario is so ingrained in most artists' "dream life" that it’s the main imagery used to market art services, where the goal is to de-stress your routine so you can spend more time doing what you love—creating art. But why is there such a heavy emphasis on this dream-scenario in marketing? Because if you have an art business, most likely, your routine is anything but calm, breezy, and easy. In reality, most artists who have achieved a successful career (and by success, I mean being a full-time artist who earns a livable income) can testify that calm days spent just creating are only a portion of their routine—and that’s mostly if it’s properly planned.
In fact, the whole reason I began working as a business manager for artists is that I have personal experience as an artist and know the challenges of balancing the creative and business aspects of a career. When I mentored artists during COVID, I saw not only the real need to educate artists on how to transform their creative practice into an art business but also a significant need for hands-on business management. Being an organized, detail-oriented project manager, I realized that I wanted to step in and do it for artists.
Since then, I’ve worked with multiple artists, and over time, I’ve developed the skill of perceiving which artists are likely to succeed in selling their work and those that aren’t. I’m not saying I can predict the future, but I can identify characteristics that clearly outline whether an artist is ready to sell their art. Contrary to what you might think, it has nothing to do with technique or talent. Let me share with you the characteristics that indicate if an artist is prepared to transform their creative practice into a successful art business. These are the same questions I ask potential clients before they work with me, helping them determine if they’re ready to take on the responsibility of selling art.
You are ready to make your art FOR others
Selling art isn’t just about showcasing your work; it’s about impacting others. If you’re driven by a desire to connect with others, share your message, and bring value through your art, you’re on the right track. Art as a business is, at its core, about communication. It’s about telling a story, offering a perspective, and evoking emotions that resonate with your audience. Ask yourself: Do you create for the sole purpose of self-expression, or do you feel compelled to share that expression with others, to see how it moves, inspires, or provokes thought? If it’s the latter, then you already have the mindset needed for an art business.
Your art imparts WISDOM
Art that carries a deeper meaning, teaches a lesson, or imparts wisdom. We are at a time in social media that influencers are no longer the main attraction. You know what, or better yet, WHO took their place? Life coaches and therapists. We are at an all-time high of mental awareness and identity crises. People are eager to be helped to understand themselves and others better, because social media has provided a lot of visibility but not connection. And people are lonely. So, if your work communicates something valuable, it’s more likely to attract and retain a loyal audience. When your art goes beyond the visual and taps into universal themes such as life experiences, philosophies, or profound truths, it becomes more than just a product—it becomes a source of inspiration and insight for others. Think about the messages or themes in your work: Are they something that others might find value in, something that speaks to the human experience in a way that is both unique and universal? If your art can educate, uplift, or challenge perceptions, then it has the potential to succeed in the marketplace.
You have a sense of PURPOSE
You feel that creating art is what you’re meant to do. This sense of purpose fuels your drive, helping you navigate the challenges and rewards of the art business. Having a strong sense of purpose is like having a compass that guides you through the ups and downs of a creative career. It keeps you grounded when the business side of things gets tough, and it motivates you to keep pushing forward even when success seems elusive. Reflect on your journey: Do you see your art as more than just a hobby or a job? Is it something you feel called to do, something that you can’t imagine not doing? If your answer is yes, then you have the inner drive necessary to sustain an art business.
You’re willing to learn new SKILLS
Running an art business requires skills beyond just creating. Whether it’s marketing, networking, or managing finances, being open to learning and improving in areas where you may be inexperienced is crucial to achieving your goals. The reality of running an art business is that it involves much more than creating beautiful works of art. It involves understanding your market, building relationships, and handling the administrative tasks that keep your business running smoothly. Are you prepared to step out of your comfort zone, learn the ins and outs of running a business, and apply those skills to your creative practice? If so, you’re ready to embrace the full spectrum of what it means to be a successful artist in today’s world.
As you consider these characteristics, I encourage you to reflect deeply on your own journey. Where do you see yourself in these descriptions? Do these resonate with your experience and aspirations? How do you envision your art impacting the world, and are you ready to take on the responsibilities that come with running an art business?
These are essential questions to ask yourself as you decide whether an art business is the right path for you. The journey of transforming your creative practice into a successful art business is not without its challenges, but it is also filled with immense rewards for those who are prepared and dedicated.
So, what do you think? Are you ready to take the next step and start viewing your art as not just a passion but a viable business? Are you equipped with the mindset, purpose, and willingness to learn that it takes to succeed?
I hope you are! I don’t think selling Art is for every artist, but I’m so happy to see and support Artists that share their art with the world to make it a better place.
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