Tips for Artists going Full-Time
Recently, someone asked me for some pointers for someone looking to let their art support them full-time. I was momentarily stumped by this because… well, often I forget that I am now an artist with no other source of income other than what I make on commissions and art classes. I think the reality of my childhood dream coming true just hasn’t sunk in yet, but my friend’s question did make me pause and ponder…
“How is it that I’ve been able to do this??” “What rhythms have I found that have created harmony in my work/life balance??” “What habits and routines do I need to break in order to better manage my time??”
I figured I’d write a few notes on this to help both myself and other artists going full-time.
Maintain an inviting studio space
This is probably my number one piece of advice as it is really going to make or break your ability to maximize creative energy. Obviously, being an artist means things get a bit messy, especially when there are many projects happening at once. But, when I “clock out” of my studio, I tidy up the supplies, clean the materials and reset for the next day. This concept dates back thousands of years as the ancient practice of Feng Shui teaches that a clutter-free space allows positive energy to flow smoothly and creates harmony, health and happiness. Before I begin working in the studio again, I go a few extra steps to make sure that on top of having a clean and clutter free space, I also have a space that is cozy, inspiring and beautiful. I rearrange and water the plants in the studio, diffuse my favorite oils or light a non-toxic candle, play some upbeat music and make a warm beverage to sip on while i get back into the creative flow for the day. If it weren’t for my space being as inviting as I make it, I would feel very overwhelmed and might not ever want to make art in there at all.
Find the BALANCE of how much of your creations are for other people vs for your own expression and inspiration.
You’re probably aware of the common idea that turning your passion into an occupation can take the joy out of it, especially in art or music. It has taken me a couple of years to realize that the cure to this is in finding my own sweet spot of personal creations and creations per others’ request. If I am solely making art for commission, then I begin to feel like a machine instead of an artist. If I never made time to play with new concepts, I would very quickly become bored of painting. So, in between commission work, I have to prioritize spending some days painting for fun, experimentation and expression. When I allow myself to find a flow in this freedom regularly, I am perpetually inclined to pick up my paintbrush and far less likely to get burned out.
Dedicate time to marketing
The reality of having your own business/trade means that you need to advertise what you do (not just a little bit either). Dedicate time in your work week into taking photos/videos of your art, editing the content, posting on social media pages, updating your website, responding to emails etc etc.. I happen to enjoy this aspect of my art business because it just feels like a different medium to create with. I enjoy editing videos for instagram and engaging with an online audience. If this is something that you don’t particularly love to do, then maybe consider getting someone to help you with that side of it. But whether its yourself doing the marketing or someone you hire, it has to be done because the more you post the more people will reach out to you regarding commissions and events. I have been cultivating and growing my social media pages for a couple of years now, and the work pays off; now, instead of reaching out to business inquiring about collabs or art pop-ups, I have businesses reaching out to me for these things. All I have to do is continue posting about the events I do and pieces I create.
Take a break and move your body
It is very easy for us artists to get lost in the flow of creating. This flow state is very good and productive, but we have to know when to step away and take a break. It is likely that if you are an artist, you probably spend many hours on in hovering over a project, shoulders hunched over and neck craning down. After en extended period of this gremlin-like position, our bodies demand movement and gentle stretches to get those muscles and joints working in different ways. The eyes also grow weak when staring at something up close for so long and crave sunlight and a change of scenery. Learn to listen to your body. Learn when to put the brushes down and go outside for a work out, yoga or dance flow, or just a walk in nature for some fresh air. Keeping your blood circulating throughout your body is crucial for all people, not just artists. But, sitting in a studio or at a desk all day especially requires us to be more diligent about making time for movement.
For now, I think this is all I am going to put out there. I am sure I will think of some more pointers for ya’ll soooo stay tuned for a “part 2” on this topic.
Thanks for tuning in.
x
Caroline