As an artist, you are probably used to hearing that you need to get a “real job” like everyone else. However, the truth is that making money from your art can be done. These days being an artist is a thriving niche in the online space. And believe me when I say there are plenty of ways of turning your creative passion into a career – and all it takes is some creativity and motivation! In this article you are going to read about 8 Creative Art Business Ideas for Artists to Pursue.
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1. Painting
Many artists have found success selling paintings, and for good reason: it’s a great way to express your creativity and make some money in the process. You can paint anything you want, so if you’re looking for something new, consider painting abstract art, watercolor landscapes, etc.
If you want to take up painting as a business opportunity but lack the necessary equipment or space at home, consider renting studio space on an hourly basis at a local community college or university. This will allow you access to all kinds of paints and materials without having to purchase them yourself!
Basic tools needed for painters
2. Become an art consultant
If you are an artist who is looking for a way to be creative and still earn money, becoming an art consultant might be the perfect career for you.
Art consultants work with clients to help them buy or sell high-quality art pieces. They also advise clients on how to improve their collections, acting as a go-between artists and collectors.
Art consultants must have extensive knowledge of the art world and its trends. They should have excellent communication skills so they can effectively communicate with clients and artists alike. They must also have good organizational skills so they can manage all of their projects at once without getting overwhelmed by them.
In order to become an art consultant, it’s important that you do some research into what makes up this field before deciding on whether or not it’s right for you!
3. Paint murals for businesses
Mural painting is such a big trend, which is why it’s one of many great art business ideas to pursue. Mural painting is an art form that has been around for thousands of years, but it has recently become more popular as artists have begun to use murals as a way to express their own style and create something unique. Many businesses are starting to hire artists who specialize in mural painting because they want their business or building to stand out from others. If you enjoy creating art and learning new things, then this could be the perfect opportunity for you to pursue!
4. Book illustration
Book illustration is one of the best options for art business ideas for artists.
There is money to be made in illustration because the demand for illustrators is growing every day. You can make a lot of money if you have the skills to create amazing illustrations that depict scenes from children’s stories such as Winnie The Pooh or Alice in Wonderland, graphic novels such as Batman comics or The Walking Dead, or even comic books like Captain America.
You can sell your artwork online through websites like Fiverr and Upwork where many other artists are selling their products too.
Also, if you can illustrate magazine covers and newspaper articles on a regular basis then that would also be an added benefit since it will give more people access to your work and allow them to appreciate what you do as an artist.
5. Become an art teacher
Art teachers are some of the most respected individuals in the world. They have a way of enriching others’ lives through their love of art, and they inspire others to find their inner creativity. As a matter of fact, many students who take classes with art teachers find themselves inspired enough to become artists themselves! Of course, there are other ways you can make use of your artistic skills while teaching as well:
- You could work at a school as an art teacher or professor (some schools require teachers to specialize in certain subjects).
- Or you could teach at a private studio instead—this can be very rewarding because it allows you greater flexibility than working in a school.
6. Cake decorator
Fun fact, I have a love for cake decorating so I had to make this a part of my list of art business ideas. Cake decorating is an edible form of art and I have seen so many talented bakers sculpt cakes into animals, people, and more! If you’re an artist that loves to bake, then you can combine those talents and turn them into a business. You can set up a booth at local events where people will pay for your beautiful creations, sell them online, or even open a food truck. But be mindful that you need to check and meet the requirements of your state laws. In fact, I encourage anyone wanting to start a business to read Things You Must Do Before Launching a Business: 8 Top Tips You Need to Know
Basic tools needed for cake decorators
7. Graphic designer
If you’re an artist, being a graphic designer is a great business idea for you to pursue. The internet is full of small businesses that need help with their web and print design needs. You don’t need to be an expert in this field, but if you know how to use basic Photoshop and Illustrator tools, then there’s no reason why you shouldn’t give this a try.
You could even start your own online design service providing basic services such as logos or banners at low prices. If your goal is just to earn some money on the side while doing something that interests you, then graphic designing might just be perfect for you!
8. Setup an art gallery or showcase
If you’re a visual artist looking for a way to make money, consider setting up an art gallery or showcasing your work in other ways.
You can set up a small gallery at home or in your studio and invite people over for an evening of viewing and socializing. Or you could rent space from community centers and local venues where you can showcase your artwork on display.
Selling artwork at local events is another great option for artists who are just starting their business endeavors. Check out the website Eventbrite for opportunities to sell art at community events like street festivals, fairs, and outdoor markets.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed reading 8 Creative Art Business Ideas for Artists to Pursue. I hope this article inspires artists looking for new ways to make money from their art. In the end, it truly depends on you as an artist to determine what is best for your career. I have outlined a few art business ideas above that could work, but not all of them are going to be ideal for everyone out there. Instead, think about what makes sense for you, your personality, and your goals (both short-term and long-term). Once you figure that out, take action and make it happen.
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