Discover 77 ways to make money as an artist! From selling original artwork to teaching online classes, find the best methods to turn your creativity into cash. Start today!
Being an artist is amazing! You get to create beautiful things and share them with the world. But did you know you can also make money from your art? Here are 77 ways to turn your creativity into cash. Let’s jump in!
Table of Ways to Make Money as an Artist
| Method | Platform/Service | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sell Original Artwork | Etsy, Online Store | Direct sales of your original pieces. |
| Create Prints | Print-on-Demand Services | Make prints of your art. |
| Commissioned Work | Custom Art | Create custom pieces for clients. |
| Teach Art | Online Classes, YouTube | Share your skills and teach others. |
| License Your Art | Products like Calendars, Notebooks | Earn from licensing your art. |
| Illustrate Books | Children’s Books, Comics | Work as an illustrator. |
| Sell Stock Art | Stock Image Websites | Upload and sell your art as stock images. |
| Create NFTs | Digital Art Platforms | Sell your digital art as NFTs. |
| Sell on Instagram | Use social media to sell your art. | |
| Enter Art Competitions | Local and Online Competitions | Gain recognition and win prizes. |
1. Sell Original Artwork
One of the most direct ways to make money as an artist is by selling your original pieces. You can do this through local galleries, art fairs, or online platforms like Etsy and your own website. Each piece is unique and can command higher prices than prints or digital downloads.
2. Create Prints
Not everyone can afford original art, but they might love a print. By making high-quality prints of your work, you can sell them at a lower price point. Use print-on-demand services like Printful or Giclée to produce these prints without the need for large upfront investments.
3. Sell on Etsy
Etsy is a fantastic platform for artists. It allows you to reach a global audience looking for handmade and unique items. You can sell everything from original artwork to prints, digital downloads, and even art supplies.
4. Open an Online Store
Having your own online store gives you control over your brand and sales. Platforms like Shopify, BigCommerce, and WooCommerce make it easy to set up a professional online store. You can sell originals, prints, and merchandise directly to your audience.
5. Use Print-on-Demand Services
Print-on-demand services like Society6, Redbubble, and Teespring allow you to upload your designs and sell them on various products. You don’t need to worry about inventory or shipping, as these services handle everything for you.
6. Commissioned Work
Commissioned work involves creating custom pieces for clients. This can range from portraits to murals and bespoke designs. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork can connect you with clients, or you can offer commissions directly through your website or social media.
7. Sell Digital Downloads
Digital downloads are an excellent way to monetize your art without dealing with physical products. You can sell high-resolution files of your artwork for customers to print at home. Etsy, Gumroad, and your website are good platforms for this.
8. Offer Art Classes
Teaching others how to create art can be a fulfilling and profitable endeavor. You can offer in-person classes, workshops, or online courses through platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, or even your own website.
9. Start a YouTube Channel
Share your art process, tutorials, and tips on YouTube. By building a following, you can monetize your channel through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with other artists and art lovers.
10. Write an Art Blog
Writing about your art, sharing tips, and documenting your journey can attract readers to your blog. Monetize your blog through ad revenue, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. Platforms like WordPress and Blogger make it easy to get started.
11. Sell at Art Fairs
Art fairs and markets are excellent venues to showcase and sell your work. They allow you to connect with potential buyers and receive direct feedback on your art. Look for local events and festivals to participate in.
12. Partner with Local Businesses
Many local cafes, restaurants, and shops are open to displaying and selling artwork. Approach these businesses with a proposal to feature your art on their walls. It’s a win-win: you get exposure, and they get unique decor.
13. Create a Patreon
Patreon allows artists to receive ongoing support from fans in exchange for exclusive content. Offer behind-the-scenes looks, early access to new work, or private art lessons as rewards for your patrons.
14. License Your Art
Licensing your art means allowing others to use your designs on their products. This can include everything from stationery to apparel. Companies like ArtLicensing.com can help you find licensing opportunities.
15. Design for Clothing
Your art can become wearable by designing for clothing. Use print-on-demand services or partner with fashion brands to create unique apparel. Selling your designs on platforms like Threadless and Teespring is also an option.
16. Illustrate Books
Illustrating books, especially children’s books, can be a lucrative opportunity. Work with authors or publishers to bring stories to life with your artwork. Websites like Reedsy can connect you with authors looking for illustrators.
17. Sell Stock Art
Upload your artwork to stock image websites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock. Every time someone downloads your art, you earn a royalty. This can be a great source of passive income.
18. Create NFTs
Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are a new way to sell digital art. By minting your artwork as NFTs, you can sell them on platforms like OpenSea, Rarible, and Foundation. Each NFT is unique, making it a collectible item.
19. Sell on Instagram
Instagram is a powerful tool for artists. Use it to showcase your work, engage with followers, and sell your art. You can link to your online store or use Instagram’s shopping features to sell directly through the app.
20. Enter Art Competitions
Art competitions can provide recognition, exposure, and monetary prizes. Look for local, national, and international competitions to enter. Websites like CallForEntry.org list opportunities for artists.
21. Create Murals
Painting murals for businesses, schools, and public spaces can be a rewarding way to make money. Murals can attract significant fees, and they provide excellent exposure for your work.
22. Offer Face Painting
Provide face painting services at events, parties, and festivals. It’s a fun way to use your artistic skills and can be particularly popular at children’s events.
23. Sell Art Supplies
If you have a unique approach to creating art, consider selling the supplies you use. This can include custom brushes, paints, or even DIY art kits. Platforms like Etsy can help you reach a niche audience.
24. Make Art Prints
Produce high-quality prints of your artwork using professional printers. These prints can be sold at a lower price than originals, making them accessible to a broader audience. Partner with local print shops or use online services.
25. Create a Kickstarter
Crowdfunding can be an effective way to fund art projects. Use platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo to raise money for a specific project, offering rewards to backers in exchange for their support.
26. Teach Art Online
Offer online art classes and workshops through platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, or your own website. You can reach a global audience and share your expertise with aspiring artists.
27. Create a Portfolio Website
Having a professional portfolio website showcases your work and makes it easier for clients and buyers to find you. Use platforms like Squarespace, Wix, or WordPress to build your site.
28. Sell Art Books
Compile your artwork into a book and sell it online or at art fairs. This can include a collection of your work, a how-to guide, or a themed art book. Use self-publishing platforms like Blurb or Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing.
29. Start a Podcast
Talk about art, interview other artists, and share your insights on a podcast. Monetize your podcast through sponsorships, ads, and listener support on platforms like Patreon.
30. Offer Design Services
Use your artistic skills to offer graphic design services. This can include logo design, branding, and marketing materials. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork can help you find clients.
31. Create Greeting Cards
Design and sell greeting cards featuring your artwork. This can be done through online platforms, local shops, or craft fairs. Print-on-demand services like Zazzle can also help you reach a wider audience.
32. Sell Art at Auctions
Auction off your artwork online or at local events. Websites like eBay and Invaluable offer platforms for selling art through auctions.
33. Make Art for Video Games
Create art and designs for video games. This can include character design, background art, and game assets. Platforms like ArtStation can help you find opportunities in the gaming industry.
34. Create Art Tutorials
Make and sell tutorials on how to create art. These can be in the form of e-books, videos, or online courses. Platforms like Gumroad and Udemy make it easy to sell your tutorials.
35. Sell Art Kits
Create and sell kits with everything needed to make a piece of art. This can include supplies, instructions, and templates. Market your kits through online platforms and craft fairs.
36. Offer Private Lessons
Teach art one-on-one in private lessons. This can be done in person or online through video calls. Advertise your services on social media and local community boards.
37. Design for Websites
Create website designs and graphics for clients. This can include logos, banners, and custom illustrations. Use platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and 99designs to find clients.
38. Make Animated Videos
Create and sell animated videos. This can include explainer videos, promotional animations, and educational content. Use platforms like YouTube and Vimeo to showcase your work.
39. Create Art for Movies
Work as a concept artist for movies and TV shows. This involves creating artwork to help visualize characters, settings, and scenes. Websites like ConceptArt.org can help you find opportunities in the entertainment industry.
40. Offer Editing Services
Edit photos and videos for clients. This can include retouching, color correction, and special effects. Use platforms like Fiverr and Upwork to find clients.
41. Design Tattoos
Create custom tattoo designs for clients. Work with tattoo artists to bring your designs to life. Advertise your services on social media and through local tattoo shops.
42. Create Art for Merchandise
Design artwork for merchandise like mugs, phone cases, and posters. Use platforms like Redbubble, Zazzle, and Teespring to sell your designs on various products. This allows you to reach a wider audience and make money from your art.
43. Participate in Art Fairs and Markets
Set up a booth at local art fairs and markets to sell your work. These events provide a great opportunity to meet potential buyers and network with other artists. Look for events in your area and apply to participate.
44. Create Art for Corporate Clients
Offer your artistic skills to corporate clients for office decor, promotional materials, and branding. Reach out to local businesses and pitch your services, or use platforms like LinkedIn to find opportunities.
45. Sell Art on Consignment
Work with local galleries and shops to sell your art on consignment. This means you provide the artwork, and they sell it for you in exchange for a commission. This can help you reach new customers and increase sales.
46. Offer Freelance Illustration Services
Provide freelance illustration services for books, magazines, websites, and more. Use platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Behance to showcase your portfolio and find clients.
47. Create Art for Social Media
Design custom graphics and illustrations for social media content. Offer your services to influencers, businesses, and social media managers. Use your own social media accounts to promote your work.
48. Start an Art Subscription Box
Create a subscription box service where subscribers receive art supplies, prints, or small pieces of original artwork each month. Use platforms like Cratejoy to manage your subscription service.
49. Offer Art Therapy Sessions
Use your art skills to provide art therapy sessions. This can be a fulfilling way to help others while making money. You can offer these services in person or online through video calls.
50. Sell Limited Edition Prints
Create and sell limited edition prints of your artwork. Limited editions can create a sense of exclusivity and urgency, encouraging buyers to purchase before they sell out.
51. Create Art for Events
Design custom art for events like weddings, parties, and corporate functions. This can include invitations, decorations, and signage. Promote your services through event planning websites and social media.
52. Offer Custom Pet Portraits
Create custom portraits of people’s pets. Pet owners love unique artwork of their furry friends, and custom portraits can be a big hit. Advertise your services on social media and pet-related websites.
53. Design Album Covers
Create album cover art for musicians and bands. This can include digital and physical covers, as well as promotional materials. Use platforms like Fiverr and Upwork to find clients.
54. Sell Art at Festivals
Participate in local and national festivals to sell your artwork. These events can attract large crowds and provide great exposure for your work. Apply to participate in art festivals and craft fairs.
55. Create Art for Packaging
Design packaging art for products. This can include everything from food and beverage labels to cosmetics and tech products. Reach out to local businesses or use platforms like 99designs to find opportunities.
56. Offer Live Painting Services
Provide live painting services at events like weddings, parties, and corporate functions. Live painting can be a unique form of entertainment and create lasting memories for guests.
57. Sell Art on Pinterest
Use Pinterest to showcase and sell your artwork. Create visually appealing pins that link back to your online store or portfolio. Pinterest can drive traffic and sales to your site.
58. Offer Art Restoration Services
Use your skills to restore and repair damaged artwork. This can be a specialized service that appeals to art collectors and antique shops. Promote your services through local galleries and online forums.
59. Create Custom Maps
Design custom maps for clients. This can include everything from wedding maps to fantasy world maps for authors and game designers. Advertise your services on social media and through niche websites.
60. Offer Art Licensing Services
License your artwork for use on products like calendars, planners, and journals. Work with companies that produce these items or use platforms like ArtLicensing.com to find opportunities.
61. Create Public Art
Apply for public art commissions to create sculptures, murals, and installations for public spaces. These projects can be highly visible and provide significant income. Look for calls for artists from local government and arts organizations.
62. Sell Art on Facebook
Use Facebook to sell your artwork. Create a Facebook Shop or use Facebook Marketplace to reach potential buyers. Promote your work through posts and ads to increase visibility.
63. Offer Digital Art Services
Create digital art for clients. This can include everything from website graphics to custom avatars. Use platforms like Fiverr and Upwork to find clients looking for digital art services.
64. Create Art for Apps and Games
Design art for mobile apps and games. This can include character design, background art, and UI elements. Use platforms like ArtStation to showcase your portfolio and find opportunities.
65. Offer Calligraphy Services
Provide calligraphy services for events, invitations, and custom pieces. Calligraphy can add a personal touch to any project and can be a sought-after skill for weddings and special events.
66. Sell Art at Pop-Up Shops
Set up a pop-up shop to sell your artwork. Pop-up shops can attract attention and create a sense of urgency for buyers. Look for opportunities to collaborate with local businesses or set up your own event.
67. Create Art for Licensing
License your art for use on a variety of products. This can include everything from home decor to stationery. Work with licensing agents or use platforms like ArtLicensing.com to find opportunities.
68. Offer Online Art Lessons
Teach art lessons online through platforms like Zoom or Skype. Offer one-on-one lessons or group classes. Promote your services through social media and your website.
69. Create Custom Wallpaper Designs
Design custom wallpaper for clients. This can include both digital and physical wallpaper. Reach out to interior designers and home decor stores to offer your services.
70. Sell Art on TikTok
Use TikTok to showcase and sell your artwork. Create engaging videos that highlight your process and finished pieces. Link to your online store or portfolio in your profile to drive sales.
71. Offer Portrait Services
Create custom portraits for clients. This can include everything from family portraits to individual character studies. Advertise your services on social media and through local community boards.
72. Create Art for Educational Materials
Design artwork for educational materials like textbooks, worksheets, and online courses. Reach out to publishers and educational companies to offer your services.
73. Offer Art Consulting
Provide art consulting services to clients looking to decorate their homes or offices. Help them select and arrange artwork to create a cohesive look. Promote your services through social media and local business networks.
74. Sell Art at Galleries
Work with galleries to sell your artwork. Galleries can provide exposure and help you reach a wider audience. Approach local galleries with a portfolio of your work and inquire about representation.
75. Create Custom Stickers
Design and sell custom stickers featuring your artwork. Use print-on-demand services like Sticker Mule to produce and ship your stickers. Sell them through your online store or platforms like Etsy.
76. Offer Art Appraisal Services
Use your expertise to provide art appraisal services. This can be a specialized service for art collectors and insurance companies. Promote your services through local galleries and online forums.
77. Create Art for Nonprofits
Partner with nonprofits to create art for their campaigns and events. This can include everything from posters to promotional materials. Offer your services at a discounted rate or as a donation to support their cause.
Table: Platforms for Selling Art Online
| Platform | Type of Sales | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Etsy | Original art, prints | Handmade and unique items |
| Society6 | Print-on-demand | Various merchandise |
| Redbubble | Print-on-demand | Apparel and home decor |
| Shopify | Online store | Full control over branding |
| Patreon | Subscription support | Exclusive content for patrons |
| Fiverr | Freelance services | Commissioned work |
| Upwork | Freelance services | Design and illustration jobs |
| ArtStation | Portfolio, job listings | Digital art and concept art |
