Ideas for Bringing in Extra Cash as an Artist

The life of a working artist is gratifying in many ways, but art is not usually at the top of any list of “ways to get rich quick.” So, artists often have to come up with ways to supplement their income while still having the time and energy to pursue their passion. Sometimes they may be able to find ways to monetize their artistic endeavors. Other times they may need to branch out a bit and find alternative strategies for money-making. Here are some resources and suggestions for how to bring in some extra income as an artist without sacrificing the creative work you love, courtesy of Liane Chan.

Ways of making money off your art itself.

There may be more opportunities than you realize, for monetizing your creativity, depending on the medium and genre you work in.

• Visual artists have an array of opportunities for selling their work online, either as a physical piece or a digital product, or freelancing as graphic designers.
• Musicians can license their audio compositions to be used in videos, games, and more.
• Creative writers might want to consider looking for gigs working as ghostwriters for celebrity memoirs or in genre fiction.

Alternative ways of monetizing your creative skills.

Selling your artistic productions isn’t the only way to make a living as an artist.

• Register your business as an LLC and start an art-adjacent business, selling art or art-related tools and products.
• You may be able to make a good income teaching art, music, or writing classes.
• Some artists may find success in starting and monetizing a blog about their art and work.
• Similarly, look into the possibility of writing an instructional eBook teaching artistic techniques, art history, or art appreciation.

Side hustles that might work well for busy artists.

If you can find a side gig that is financially rewarding and doesn’t take up much of your time, it doesn’t need to be specifically arts-related, so long as you still have time for being creative.

• Look for job postings for virtual assistant positions, online.
• Pick up a driving job, if you’re looking for opportunities to get out of the house and clear your head.
• Advertise your services as an editor or proofreader.
• If you’re comfortable with tech and analytics, social media management might be a good fit for you.

If you can reach the point where you can live off your art full time, that’s wonderful. In the meantime, expanding your offerings may even help attract more business and commissions.

This article is brought to you by Liane Chan, a blog about music, art, fashion, beauty, technology, and whatever is on my mind. I enjoy online shopping and reviewing interesting and useful products. I also throw in the occasional movie or TV show review if I see one worth mentioning. For more information, please contact Liane today!