How Not To Be a Starving Artist

If you're going to sell no matter what the venue, you need a website. People expect to be able to view your work at their leisure. Perhaps a painting on your site has given them an idea for a commission. They expect to be able to contact you via email no matter what the time of day.

Websites, especially good sites, require time and effort. As an artist, you have many options. There are several good sites that will provide hosting and some basic page builders. AbsoluteArt.com and ArtWanted.com are such sites. There is good traffic on both. ArtWanted has a print program that has possiblities. It does cost. This could be a good option for artists doing shows, looking for an affordable way to have prints available.

For me, I'm a bit more hands on. I like computers. I like the challenge of creating my own site. I like the freedom it gives me. While I do have basic knowledge of HTML, I opted to purchase a template for my basic layout. PixelMill.net gave me the just the look I wanted. They carry a plethora of themes and templates for every price range, from basic to flashy with all the bells and whistles. They also have royalty free images for some added character for your site.

I took this route because when I began selling, my ideas about art and selling were evolving. I wanted the freedom to update my site as I evolved in my field. Of course, the next thing to do after creating your website is to market it. Business cards are an easy and effective way to do so. I use VistaPrint for mine. The price are reasonable from "free" (you pay shipping) with the VistaPrint logo on the back to more elaborate designs. My advice: skip the free ones and go for your own design. Once you have them, use them. Remember seeing those goldfish bowls at restaurants or hotels asking for your business card for a chance at a free meal? Leave your card. Out for dinner? Include a card with the credit card receipt with your generous tip.

Sure it's hard sometimes. Some days you won't want to paint. Or maybe you're too shy to market. Don't let that get in the way of your dream.

Move in the direction of your dreams. You can succeed. The mind is a wonderful thing. If you envision your dreams, your mind will gravitate toward them, leading you to your success.

Trust yourself. Have trust in your work, your message, your success. Three years from now you could be saying how you wished you had tried. Or you can be saying how three years ago that was when I first began my art career. You decide. Keep dreaming or succeeding?