There’s a lot that artists wish they knew at the start of their careers. If only someone had told them the realities of the industry, they might have been better prepared for what was to come.
Unfortunately, many artists are uneducated about the business side of things and make many mistakes. As a result, their careers don’t take off as they hoped or expected.
From the importance of networking to the realities of the art world, this guide will give you a better understanding of what it takes to be a successful artist.
The Art World is Competitive
There are a lot of artists out there vying for attention and commissions. It can be tough to stand out from the crowd and get your work noticed.
If you’re starting as an artist, you must be aware of the competition you’ll be facing.
Don’t be afraid to network and self-promote. Get out there and meet people in the industry. Attend art fairs and gallery openings. The more people you meet, the more likely you are to find opportunities for your work.
It’s Important to Know Your Worth
To be a successful artist, it is important to know your worth. This means understanding the value of your work and setting appropriate prices for your services. It can be challenging to determine your worth, especially when starting your career.
However, there are a few things that you can keep in mind that will help you to set fair prices for your work.
- Consider the time and effort that you put into each piece of art that you create. How long did it take you to complete? How many materials did you use? These factors should be considered when setting a price for your work.
- Think about the level of experience and skill that you have as an artist. If you have been creating art for many years and have developed a strong skill set, you can charge more for your work than someone just starting.
- Consider the market value of similar artists’ work. Look at what other artists in your field are charging and compare it to your work. This will give you a good idea of what people are willing to pay for art similar to yours. Use this information to help set a fair price for your work.
Be Prepared to Hustle
As an artist, you will likely need to hustle at some point in your career. Whether finding new clients or networking to build your portfolio, being prepared to put in the extra work is essential for success.
One of artists’ biggest mistakes is assuming that they can coast by on their talent alone. While talent is important, it’s not enough to guarantee success. Artists who are willing to hustle and network are usually the ones who find the most success in the long run.
Be Patient
It takes time to build a following as an artist. You might not see results immediately, but don’t give up. Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither is a successful art career. Be patient and keep creating new pieces. Eventually, your hard work will pay off.