We’ve long romanticized the vision of the starving artist—going without in pursuit of your passion is practically a staple of the creative lifestyle. However, at the end of the day, most of us would prefer to make our art without actually starving. Bradgood.net shares some tips for establishing a solid side hustle while also finding ways to make your main work profitable. 

Finding Your Hustle 

It can take a while to make real money off of your art; here are some ideas for the meantime:

• Focus on trying to find a side hustle that still uses your skills so you can build your resume and practice at once. 

• Keep track of your projects and use them to create an online portfolio you can show to future clients. 

• Once you’ve started making a profit, form an LLC through an online formation service to gain tax advantages. 

 Create a Following

A strong online presence can be extremely powerful for artists: 

• Use sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to publicize your work and gain fans. 

• Create a logo people will remember using online tools and logo generators.

• Taking commissions through sites like Patreon can bring in extra cash. 

• You should also use websites to build connections with agents, curators, and other artists, who may be able to support your career. 

• Work with Bradgood.net to design a brand experience customers will remember.

Supporting Your Work

There are many ways to sell your work when you’re just starting off: 

• Online shops like Etsy let customers find you virtually. 

• Pitch your art to local cafes and restaurants—they may be willing to feature it for a portion of profits. 

• Craft fairs and art shows are another great way to get your work out in the public eye. 

In the beginning, making money with your art can be frustrating and thoroughly unromantic. However, the hustle is worth it. The right moves can have you making money while pushing your career forward. We hope these resources help you meet your financial and artistic goals.