The Art of Balancing Art and Business

Today let’s talk about art, that beautiful expression of the soul. But here’s the thing, being an artist isn’t just about creating beautiful paintings or sculpting moving pieces. There’s a whole other side to this coin – the business side.

You see, art exists in this magical space where your gift (your unique talent) meets the market. You pour your heart and soul into a piece, but for it to truly thrive, it needs to find someone who appreciates it enough to pay for it.

This can be a tricky tightrope walk.

On one hand, there’s the lingering feeling of, “How can I sell something so personal and emotional?” On the other hand, there’s the reality that art is a profession, and like any profession, it needs to be sustainable.

So, the key takeaway here is this: art has two sides. There’s the gift, the pure expression of your creativity, and then there’s the business, the act of presenting your work to the world and making a living.

And to be honest both sides are equally important.
Educating the viewers and the artists

The ideal scenario is where both artists and viewers understand this concept. Viewers need to appreciate that art isn’t just a pretty picture on a wall; it’s a product of an artist’s dedication, skill, and time. It deserves to be valued financially.

On the artist’s side, we need to move away from the myth of the “starving artist” waiting for a big break. We need to be proactive in understanding the market, learning how to present our work, and confidently promoting ourselves.

Why aren’t women artists embracing the business side?

Now, let’s talk about a specific challenge: women in art. We see plenty of incredibly talented women creating amazing art, but many struggle to turn their passion into a full-time career. Why?

Here are a few theories:

Perfectionism paralysis: Perhaps we naturally tend to wait until everything feels absolutely perfect before putting our work out there. But remember, perfection is subjective. The key is to be confident in your work and keep creating.
Fear of self-promotion: Maybe there’s a hesitation to “sell” ourselves. But promoting your art isn’t about bragging; it’s about sharing your gift with the world and connecting with potential patrons.
Lack of business knowledge: Let’s face it, art schools don’t typically teach you the nuts and bolts of running a business. So, there needs to be more knowledge about marketing strategies, pricing your work, and understanding the art market.

Breaking free from the comfort zone

So, what’s the solution? Here are a few tips to get you started:

Accept the hustle: Being a successful artist requires hustle. You need to be visible, get your work out there, and actively connect with potential buyers. Participating in art shows, online galleries, and social media promotion are all crucial.
Develop a business plan: Don’t be afraid of the “B” word! Create a simple plan that outlines your goals, target audience, marketing strategies, and financial projections. This will help you stay focused and make informed decisions.
Find your tribe: Connect with other artists, especially women who are successfully exploring the art world. Learn from their experiences, share resources, and build a supportive community.

My own artistic journey

Let me be upfront – the business side of art is a challenge, even for me. It doesn’t come naturally. But I’m committed to making this work.

Here are some things I’m doing:

Diversifying my income streams: While original artwork is my core, I’m exploring additional income streams. This could include integrative art workshops that combine creativity with self-discovery, or even taking on commissioned pieces.

Building an online presence: I’m actively using social media platforms like Instagram to showcase my work, connect with collectors, and share my artistic journey.

Continuous learning: I’m constantly seeking out resources to improve my business acumen and explore new ways to connect with others through art. This includes providing integrative workshops for corporates and podcasts with fellow artists.

Health Coaching Through Art: I use art as a tool to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery and emotional well-being.

The takeaway: it’s all about balance

Being a successful artist requires a balance. You need to nurture your creative spirit while also developing the business skills necessary to thrive in the art market. This journey won’t be easy, but it can be incredibly rewarding. Embrace the challenge, learn from others.

Do you stuggle with balancing the creative and business aspects of your art practice? Which side comes more naturally to you?