How to Make Money as an Artist: A Guide

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Whether you’re just starting to sell your art or ready to go full-time, don’t miss these tips on pricing, sales, marketing, and living as a professional artist.

Getty Images | Klaus Vedfelt | DigitalVision

How to make money as an artist? It’s never been a simple question. While making art full-time is a dream for many, most of us need other income sources, especially early in a career. Each artist’s solution will be a little different.

Fortunately, it’s never been easier to find resources, support, and ideas as you search for answers that work for you. When you break it down, the big money question — how can I make money as an artist? — is made up of smaller questions. How do I price my art? Do I need a gallery? How do I handle taxes and expenses? Where can I find buyers? What would it really look like to be a professional artist?

To help with these questions and more, we’ve selected key articles in three areas: money and pricing, to get you started selling your art; marketing, to help you find and communicate to your audience and buyers; and finally, making that step to being a full-time artist. Read on! And remember, It takes some personal exploration to chart a path, but it’s worth it.

Money and Pricing

The rules of supply and demand don’t always operate in art — you’re not making widgets, after all. These experts will help you think about the value of your work to you and others, and about managing practical concerns like inventory and taxes.

Marketing Your Art

What to Know Before You Start to Sell Your Art | Artists Network — Getty Images | Arno Images | Cultura

Some artists shy away from marketing themselves and their work, but it’s an essential skill. Think of it as communication and sharing — things you do every day, with grace and integrity. Our pro tips will help.

The Professional Artist Life

How to Become a Full-Time Artist and Pay Your Bills | Artists Network — Getty Images | Tom Werner | DigitalVision

What’s it really like to be a full-time artist? And how is ‘artist’ defined in legal and financial areas? We take a look at the nuts and bolts, the dream and reality of making the leap, with helpful guidance from a few who’ve done it.