![]() In our journey as creators, the quest for sustainable income from our art is often at the forefront of our minds. We pour our hearts and souls into our work, hoping not just for recognition but for financial stability that allows us to continue our passion without compromise. The key to this sought-after stability? Consistent cash flow. The Kingdom Principle: Faithful with Little, Ruler Over Much In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 25, Jesus shares a profound principle that can be beautifully applied to our artistic endeavors: "Faithful with Little, Ruler Over Much." This parable encourages us to manage what we have with diligence and wisdom, promising that our faithfulness in small things will lead to entrusted greater responsibilities—or in our case, opportunities and resources. How does this translate to art and income? It starts with recognizing that every sale, every commission, and every small success is a stepping stone to greater achievements. Our responsibility is to manage these 'small' beginnings with care, intention, and strategic planning, setting the stage for larger successes. The Artist Cashflow Wheel: A Foundation for Growth Enter the Artist Cashflow Wheel, a concept designed to guide artists through the essentials of building a sustainable income. This wheel comprises five key components: Picture, People, Products, Promotions, and Plan. Together, they form a holistic approach to developing a thriving art business.
One common pitfall artists face is placing all their hopes on a single income source, such as retail original art sales directly to clients. While this can be lucrative, it's also unpredictable and can lead to financial instability. Instead, I encourage you to think in terms of building a product ecosystem or product suite. This approach involves creating a range of products and services that cater to different segments of your audience and different price points. For example, alongside your original pieces, you could offer:
Starting Small, Dreaming Big Remember, it's okay to start small. Every great journey begins with a single step. Your first print sale, your initial workshop, your debut merchandise item—these are the 'little' things you're faithful to. Over time, as you manage these well, you'll see growth and expansion in ways you might not have imagined. The Invitation to Growth I invite you to embrace the Artist Cashflow Wheel and the principle of "Faithful with Little, Ruler Over Much." Let these guide you in building a sustainable, thriving art business. It's not just about making art; it's about making a difference, impacting lives, and securing your future. Your art has the power to change the world, one piece at a time. Start with what you have, nurture it, and watch as it grows into something beyond your wildest dreams. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Take that step today, and let's create not just art, but a legacy. If this journey of building sustainable income through your art feels daunting, know that you don't have to walk it alone. Inside the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program, you'll find a community of like-minded artists and personalized guidance tailored to your unique journey. I invite you to explore how this program can support and accelerate your growth. Visit http://www.matttommeymentoring.com/artmentor to learn more and take the first step towards not just surviving, but thriving in your art career. Together, let's turn your artistic dreams into your everyday reality.
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AuthorMatt Tommey is an artist, author and mentor who is passionate about empowering artists to thrive spiritually, artistically and in business. |