Discover innovative strategies for artists to generate consistent income, from hosting workshops to selling custom merchandise and landing art commissions, without relying solely on traditional galleries.
The biggest challenge many artists face today isn’t just creating compelling art, but finding sustainable ways to turn their passion into a consistent income stream. For many, selling artwork directly isn’t enough to sustain a living. However, in today’s evolving art landscape, there are plenty of avenues to earn money, from art workshops to pop-up events. Below are 20 innovative ways artists can make money, often without heavy upfront investment.
1. Teach Art Workshops
Teaching others your craft is a fantastic way to establish a reliable source of income. Heather Bradbury, a talented Melbourne-based artist, has built her career around conducting engaging art workshops. Specializing in abstract painting and mixed media, Heather offers sessions that cater to all skill levels, charging between AUD 50 to AUD 150 per participant. By running two workshops a week, with 10-15 attendees each, she can generate a substantial income, potentially earning up to AUD 2,250 per class. Heather’s approach not only allows her to share her passion for art but also creates a thriving community of aspiring artists eager to learn and express their creativity. Her story exemplifies how teaching art can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding.
Image credit to: What’s on this month with Heather’s Paint and Create
2. Create and Sell Hand-Painted Merchandise
Custom, hand-painted clothing and accessories are in high demand. Australian artist Vexta successfully sells hand-painted jackets and streetwear, often fetching upwards of $500 per item. Artists can create unique pieces, sell 5-10 jackets monthly, and easily earn an additional $5,000.
3. Display Art in Restaurants and Cafés
Restaurants, cafés, and bars are often eager to showcase local artists. Louise Belcourt, a New York-based artist, frequently displays her abstract art in restaurants, selling pieces for $2,000 to $10,000, while still retaining a significant portion after commissions.
4. Host Flash Galleries and Pop-Up Events
Artists can collaborate with local venues or councils to host short-term, immersive art events. This model is exemplified by street artist JR, whose flash galleries generate considerable revenue and media attention. Smaller artists can organize pop-up events and earn $5,000 to $15,000 in one day.
5. Submit Art Proposals for Commissions
Public and private art commissions can be lucrative. Rone, a Melbourne-based muralist, secures large-scale commissions, often earning six-figure sums. Even smaller, local projects can provide $5,000 to $50,000 per commission.
6. Sell Art Online on Marketplaces
Platforms like Etsy, Saatchi Art, and Artfinder allow artists to reach global audiences. Artists can upload prints or original works and sell them directly to buyers, creating a steady revenue stream.
7. Print-On-Demand Merchandise
Services like Printful or Redbubble allow artists to design merchandise like mugs, t-shirts, and bags, which are printed on-demand and shipped to customers. Artists can earn passive income while only focusing on their designs.
8. Crowdfunding for Art Projects
Sites like Patreon allow artists to secure recurring donations from fans and followers. Artists can offer exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, or even early access to artworks in exchange for monthly support.
9. License Your Artwork
Artists can license their designs for products such as wallpaper, fabric, or home décor. This is an excellent way to earn royalties from artwork without the need for physical sales. Jessica Swift, a pattern designer, licenses her artwork to various companies, earning a percentage on every product sold.
10. Create NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens)
Digital art has exploded with the advent of NFTs. Artists like Beeple have made millions selling NFTs of their work. While not every NFT will fetch astronomical prices, artists can sell digital works and earn recurring income through royalties every time the NFT is resold.
11. Offer Art Consulting Services
Many businesses, especially in the corporate sector, seek advice on choosing the right artwork for their spaces. Offering art consultation services is a way for artists to monetize their expertise and taste.
12. Sell Limited-Edition Prints
Artists can create limited-edition prints of their most popular works and sell them at a lower price point than the original. Each print can be numbered and signed, giving them an exclusive feel that collectors love.
13. Collaborate with Brands
Many companies seek artists for special projects, including product design, advertising, or packaging. Kaws, a world-renowned artist, has collaborated with brands like Uniqlo, generating millions through limited-edition product releases.
14. Create Art Courses on Udemy or Skillshare
Platforms like Udemy and Skillshare offer artists the chance to create and sell online courses. Once a course is uploaded, it can generate passive income as students enroll in it over time.
15. Start a YouTube Art Channel
Artists can generate income from YouTube by creating instructional videos, time-lapse painting sessions, or art critiques. With ads, sponsorships, and Patreon support, artists can earn anywhere from $500 to $5,000 a month depending on their viewership.
16. Offer Private Art Commissions
Many art lovers and collectors seek custom artwork for their homes or businesses. Offering private commissions allows artists to work directly with clients and charge higher prices for bespoke pieces.
17. Join Art Fairs
Participating in art fairs is a great way to sell directly to collectors. While there are entry fees, the potential sales volume often outweighs the investment. For example, artists at The Other Art Fair have reported sales ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 per event.
18. Partner with Interior Designers
Interior designers are always on the lookout for unique art pieces to complement their projects. Partnering with designers can provide artists with steady sales and long-term relationships with clients.
19. Create Subscription Boxes for Art
Artists can create monthly or quarterly subscription boxes where customers receive curated art prints, exclusive merchandise, or even small original artworks. This creates a steady and predictable income stream.
20. Rent Art to Corporate Offices
Many businesses rent art for their office spaces rather than purchasing it outright. This is an excellent way for artists to generate recurring income while their art remains available for other projects or exhibitions.
By thinking outside the traditional gallery model and tapping into diverse revenue streams, artists can build recurring income and thrive in today’s competitive art market.
By joining The Big Art Shop community, you’ll gain access to invaluable advice from successful local artists while building a professional profile to showcase your work. Whether you’re an emerging artist or seasoned professional, The Big Art Shop is FREE to join and open to everyone. Register today to take advantage of our competitive pricing and zero commission on artwork sold. Start expanding your art business with a supportive community that helps you thrive in today’s market. Sign up now and turn your creativity into a sustainable income!
