I make my living as a full-time vocational artist, speaker, author and leader of an artist mentoring group. Because of that dynamic, I get asked one question a lot in almost every situation I find myself. It goes something like this: "I'm a (fill in the blank) artist and I want to start selling my work (or start making money, start thriving, etc) but I just can't seem to choose a direction. I like everything. What should I do?" This question and ones like it encapsulate the dilemma in which many emerging artists find themselves; that is how to go from the proverbial here to there. How do I move from being a hobbyist to a more serious part-time or full-time artist. It's a big frustration for many that keeps them up at night, causes confusion and even anxiety about their purpose in life. However, it doesn't have to be that way. I want to compare and contrast the way hobbyists approach their art practice vs the way professional artists approach theirs. This is not to say that all hobbyists are immature or that all professionals have 'made it'... However, in my experience in working with artists and from my own journey, these attributes are true for many. Hopefully this comparison will give you some insight into where you are now and how to start moving in the direction you want... to be a thriving artist!
Now, let's delve into the importance of approaching selling art as a business rather than just showing art. If selling your art does not matter to you, there's no shame in that. God can still use your life and work to bring joy, fulfillment and impact. If you have a meaningful hobby, and perhaps this discussion doesn't resonate with you, that's fine. However, it is worth noting that I have yet to meet an artist who does not feel a sense of joy, validation, and inspiration every time they sell their art. Nor have I yet to meet an artist who doesn't dream on some level of their passion for art becoming a pathway to financial freedom, abundant fulfillment and greater impact. Most of the time, it's selling your work and creating a business as a thriving artist that becomes the vehicle for that to happen.
To Show Your Art or Sell Your Art? That is the Question. To truly thrive as an artist, it is crucial to understand that your art is not just a creative expression but also a product that needs to find its way into the marketplace. Just like any business, professional artists recognize the importance of working both in the business (their art) and on the business (the back-end aspects such as marketing, bookkeeping, sales, logistics, etc). By approaching selling art as a business, artists create a solid foundation for their artistic endeavors. They understand that their art is not merely to be shown but also to be sold. When the intention shifts from merely showcasing to actively seeking sales, it opens up opportunities for growth, recognition, and financial stability. So, as you contemplate your own artistic journey, take a moment to ask yourself: How am I approaching selling my art? Am I treating it as a hobby, or am I embracing it as a business? Remember, your art has the potential to thrive in the marketplace, and by adopting a business mindset, you pave the way for success. Explore the systems, tools, and strategies that will propel your art into the hands of those who appreciate and value it. You have the power to become a thriving artist, both in your artistic practice and in the business of art. Find out more about my Created To Thrive Artist Mentoring Program where I'm helping artists of almost every creative medium learn to thrive creatively, spiritually and financially. Last Updated 02/04/2024
5 Comments
Beth McCash
3/1/2017 10:22:41 am
This is really helpful, Matt! Plain and clear, I can see where I stand in each category. Now I can focus more on the weak areas while being encouraged by the growth I've already had in others. Thank you!
Reply
3/18/2017 09:01:49 pm
Great article! Clear and (in my experience) accurate differentiation between hobbyists and pros. Sometimes all we need is a clear picture so we can see how to step from one to the other. Thankful to be moving forward and loving the process!
Reply
Lydia C
3/20/2017 11:15:53 am
This is excellent! I'm a mom about to launch my youngest to college. I'm transitioning from hobby to semi-pro, I think. My husband and I run a community theater group. But Holy Spirit is prompting both Rich and me saying, "You need to paint." I've already been asked to speak about my paintings to our best art guild in the area and a member subsequently paid my first year fee to have me join the group. But I have A LOT of work to do. This article really helps. Thanks.
Reply
Matt
7/15/2024 10:29:09 am
Thanks Shannon!
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
Categories
All
AuthorMatt Tommey is an artist, author and mentor who is passionate about empowering artists to thrive spiritually, artistically and in business. |