Since the pandemic, many galleries have closed and the art world has adjusted to new protocols. However, there are still plenty of opportunities for beginner artists to make money online and remotely.
The first step is to start sharing your work on social media. It is a great way to get noticed and build a small following. You can also use print-on-demand services like Society6 and Zazzle to create posters, prints, t-shirts, mugs etc.
Online sales
Beginner artists often find it difficult to make money from their art. They may have a good skill set, but they don’t know how to position themselves in the art market or where to find buyers. This can result in frustration for the artist, especially if they are a home-based artist. To avoid this, it is important to learn about marketing trends and how to sell your art.
One way to make money as a beginner artist is by selling prints of your artwork. This can be a great way to earn extra income, but it requires a lot of preparation. You will need to invest in a high-quality printer, special types of paper, and picture frames. You can also consider setting up an Etsy shop to sell your prints.
Another option is to sell your artwork through a print-on-demand service. This allows you to sell t-shirts, coffee mugs, and other products with your designs. This method of making money as a beginner artist can be very profitable, but it’s important to promote your work well and network with other artists.
You can also sell your art at local markets or fairs. This is a great way to meet potential buyers and get exposure. It’s also a great way to test out your skills and see how people respond to your work. You can also enter art competitions to win cash prizes and recognition for your artwork.
Merchandising
One of the most common ways beginner artists make money is through merchandising. This can include t-shirts, stickers, magnets, guitar picks, and other items that are easy to produce at low cost. While t-shirts are typically the most popular type of merch, other types offer more favorable profit margins, such as hats and hoodies. Artists can also sell their merch online through e-commerce platforms like Etsy and Instagram.
Another way beginner artists can make money is by selling their art prints. Websites like Jose Art Gallery allow artists to upload their work and create a wide range of print options, from pillows to coffee mugs. The artist can then receive royalties for each sale of their work.
Creating an art channel on YouTube can also be a good way to earn money. The channel can be a platform to share educational or entertainment content, and can draw in viewers who want to learn about the artist’s process or style. Artists can also sell ad space on their videos to generate additional income.
Many beginner artists also make money through merchandise at their gigs and shows. Creating unique t-shirts and other merch is a great way to raise awareness about your music, and can increase sales. The key is to create a product that appeals to your audience, and to be consistent in producing high-quality merchandise.
Commissions
If you are a beginner artist, you may want to consider accepting commissions from other people to earn money. This way, you will be able to focus on your craft and do what you love while still making some cash. Commissions can also help you build a strong reputation and increase your confidence in your artistic skills.
Another option is to create a digital art portfolio website and sell prints of your work online. This is a great way to make passive income and can be quite lucrative. You can even integrate your e-commerce section with a print-on-demand company such as Printful to automate the printing and shipping process.
Many international programs and local communities offer grant funding to artists. These grants are often aimed at supporting young artists or promoting culture. They are usually awarded through a competitive application process and can range from $100 to thousands of dollars.
When accepting a commission, be sure to include detailed information in your contract. This includes price, additional expenses, timeline, downpayments, rights, and delivery. This will prevent the client from claiming that you did not finish the work they requested. It is also important to communicate with the patron throughout the entire process and listen to their feedback. This will ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Exhibitions
Many artists struggle to make a living through their creations. This can be due to a lack of resources or networking skills. However, there are ways for beginner artists to earn a steady income through their art. These include online sales, commissions, and exhibitions. Each method has its pros and cons, but it is important to diversify your sources of income.
Creating an online shop is an easy way to market your artwork and connect with potential clients. It is also a great way to reach a global audience. You can use social media platforms like Instagram to promote your work and e-commerce sites like Etsy to sell your artwork.
You can also take part in trade fairs, which are called expos. These are events where companies exhibit their products and services to encourage business. They may be open to the public or just for invited business people. Taking part in an exhibition gives you the opportunity to meet customers directly, which can improve your sales.
It is important to price your art reasonably. Under-pricing your work will decrease the value of it, and could damage your career in the long run. On the other hand, charging astronomically high prices will turn away customers. A good idea is to compare the prices of other artists’ work and then choose a price point that will be competitive without underselling yourself.