In response to my recent article about incorporating trending colors into your artwork, I got a wave of feedback. Many of you resonated with the idea of aligning your art with market trends to boost sales, but others raised concerns. Some felt that considering color trends was akin to “selling out”—a move that prioritizes money over genuine creativity. I understand where you're coming from, but let’s dig deeper.
The Reality of Being a Working Artist If you’re serious about selling your art, then you’re not just a creator—you’re also a business owner. And like any business owner, understanding your market is essential. This doesn’t mean you’re abandoning your creative vision or compromising your authenticity. It means you’re making smart, strategic choices that make your work more appealing to the people who might buy it. I’m not suggesting that you mindlessly follow every trend that comes along. Instead, think of market trends as a way to inform and refine your creative process. They’re a tool, not a rule. Incorporating trending colors or styles doesn’t mean you’re pandering to the masses; it means you’re thoughtful about the environment your art will live in. When your work resonates with both you *and* the market, you create a win-win situation where your art sells, and you can keep doing what you love. Is It a Hobby or a Business? Here’s a tough truth: if you’re creating without paying attention to what people want, you’re running a hobby, not a business. There’s nothing wrong with that—but if your goal is to make a living from your art, you have to be strategic. Creating purely from passion is a beautiful thing, but if it doesn’t sell, you’re likely to face frustration, burnout, and the financial struggle of trying to sustain a creative career. By understanding market trends, you’re not letting the market dictate your art. You’re letting it guide you, helping you make informed decisions that align your vision with what buyers are looking for. That’s not selling out—that’s smart, intentional artistry. The Bottom Line If you want to keep your art a hobby, then by all means, create whatever you like without any regard for trends. But if you want to thrive as a professional artist, then it’s time to see the market as an ally, not an enemy. It’s time to craft your art in a way that not only fulfills your creative passion but also resonates with the people who will buy it. Remember, the market doesn’t control your creativity; it *informs* it. And when you learn to listen and respond, you open yourself up to new opportunities, consistent sales, and, most importantly, the freedom to keep creating.. Need help with this nuanced transition to becoming a working, profitable artist? Then become a part of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program. Our results speak for themselves and we'd love to help you, too!
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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. |