A Look into the Art Business and Becoming an Artist

The path toward becoming a professional artist can be as unique as each individual artist, but many of these journeys start in the same place: with their first sale of a work of art, a pivotal moment that makes the artist realize that they have true talent and could potentially earn money with that talent. However, becoming a professional artist is seldom simple or straightforward. If you want to go into the art business, you'll need to hone your craft and learn how to manage a business, including setting prices for your products and marketing your work. Art can be a rewarding career path, but it takes creative skill as well as dedication, resilience, and a continual desire to learn and grow.

Honing Your Skills and Testing Your Work

Building a successful art career begins with developing your skills, which includes taking classes, studying the works of established artists, and dedicating time to practice. Attending workshops and seeking guidance from experienced artists can provide invaluable insights. Embrace feedback and be open to change; these are crucial for growth.

Once you have worked on your skills, showcase your work at local art shows to gauge how the public reacts. Selling a piece is a clear sign that your art resonates with people. But if your work doesn't sell immediately, don't be discouraged. Take the opportunity to collect feedback and continue improving your skills.

Discovering Your Strengths and Developing a Body of Work

Finding your niche, whether it's a particular theme, medium, or style, is essential. Experiment with different approaches until you find what best suits your personality and vision. Establishing your artistic identity takes time but is a crucial step in creating a recognizable artistic profile.

Once you have found your specialty, develop a portfolio of ten to 14 pieces that best represent your work. This collection should show that you can be consistent and demonstrate your ability to create pieces in a series. A strong portfolio helps to attract potential buyers and galleries, serving as your professional showcase.

Photographing Artwork and Creating an Online Presence

In today's art world, a professional online portfolio is a necessity. Start by taking high-quality photos of your work, making sure that each image is well-lit and in focus. If photography isn't your strong suit, consider using a professional photographer for this task. Then, create a basic website featuring these images, along with your name, a brief biography, and your contact information. Make sure that the site is visually appealing and easy to use. Then, promote your site and your work using social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, which can help you connect with potential customers as well as fellow artists.

Building Your Résumé and Expanding Your Marketing Efforts

Participate in local shows and art groups, and use these experiences to start building your résumé and increasing your visibility. Write a clear, engaging artist statement that reflects your artistic philosophy, and include a photo of yourself that's professional and aligns with your style. Use this image on your website, business cards, and promotional materials. Make business cards to direct people to your website that fit with your aesthetic. And maintain a consistent pricing strategy that's based on the value of your work, including both the cost of the materials used and the time, effort, and skill you put into it.

Increasing the Quality of Venues and Groups

As your experience, skill, and reputation grow, step up to more prestigious exhibit spaces, artist groups, and events. Consider participating in national shows or holding solo exhibitions at reputable galleries. These opportunities will expose your work to a broader audience and enhance your reputation in the art world. When attending shows and events, be sure to dress professionally and bring your business cards and other marketing materials. Engage with potential customers and other artists, and be ready to discuss your work and how you create it.

Choosing Your Professional Path

Artists can choose a few different career paths, and you'll need to tailor your approach to your individual goals. Some artists may focus on exhibitions, gallery events, or commissions, while others prefer to sell their work at outdoor markets or festivals or enter their art into competitions. You could also opt to build a career teaching others to create their own art. Each path has its own benefits and challenges. If you're not sure which path to take, attend events and network with other artists to learn about their career paths. Consider the time, financial investment, and opportunities each option presents, and focus on two or three paths that best suit your artistic abilities and aspirations.

Becoming a professional artist is a journey of self-discovery, involving continuous learning, experimentation, and adapting to shifts in the art market. Success requires more than talent; it demands hard work, perseverance, and building connections within the industry. But if you surround yourself with supportive peers, seek mentors, market yourself well, and keep growing as an artist, you can find success in the art business.

A Look Into the Art Business and Becoming a Professional Artist

Honing Your Skills and Testing Your Work

Discovering Your Strengths and Developing a Body of Work

Photographing Artwork and Creating an Online Presence

Increasing the Quality of Venues and Groups

Choosing Your Professional Path

Artistry Skills: Useful Resources for Budding Professionals

Ready to Launch Your New Business?