For many visual artists, balancing creativity with financial stability can be a challenging feat. While pursuing your passion, it’s often necessary to find additional income sources to support your artistic endeavours. Fortunately, there are numerous side hustles that not only provide extra money but also align with your artistic skills and interests. Here are some great side hustle ideas for visual artists!
Freelance Graphic Design
Graphic design is a lucrative field that allows you to leverage your artistic talents. Many businesses need help with logos, branding, marketing materials, and web design.
- Platforms to Explore: Fiverr, Upwork, 99designs.
- Tip: Build a strong portfolio showcasing your best work to attract potential clients.
Teaching Art Classes or Workshops
Teaching can be a fulfilling way to share your skills and inspire others. You can offer classes in your local community or online. If you are working with children, you will need a working with children card (Blue card) in Australia.
- In-Person: Local community centres, schools, or art studios.
- Online: Platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, or your own YouTube channel.
- Tip: Start with beginner-friendly classes to attract a wider audience.
Selling Prints and Merchandise
Creating prints and merchandise from your original artworks can provide a steady stream of passive income. Items like prints, posters, t-shirts, and mugs can be sold online.
- Platforms to Explore: Your own website, Etsy.
- Tip: Ensure your designs are high-resolution and well-suited for various products.
Commissioned Artwork
Offering commissioned artwork allows you to create personalised pieces for clients. This can include portraits, custom paintings, or murals.
- How to Get Started: Promote your services on social media, your website, and through word of mouth.
- Tip: Set clear terms and pricing upfront to avoid misunderstandings.
Stock Photography and Illustrations
If you enjoy photography or creating digital illustrations, you can sell your work on stock photo websites. These sites allow you to earn royalties each time someone downloads your images.
- Platforms to Explore: Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, iStock.
- Tip: Research popular trends and themes to create images that sell well.
Art Licensing
Art licensing involves granting permission to companies to use your artwork on their products. This can include anything from greeting cards and calendars to apparel and home décor.
- How to Get Started: Contact licensing agents or companies directly, or list your work on licensing platforms.
- Tip: Ensure you understand the terms of any licensing agreements before signing.
Art Fairs and Markets
Participating in local art fairs and markets can be a great way to sell your work directly to customers. This also provides an opportunity to network and gain exposure. Remember that you will need the necessary insurances to participate.
- How to Find Events: Check community event listings, local galleries, and art organisations.
- Tip: Have a variety of price points available to appeal to a wider audience.
Custom Design Services
Offering custom design services for events such as weddings, parties, and corporate events can be a lucrative side hustle. This might include invitations, decorations, and signage.
- How to Promote: Use social media, local event planners, and online marketplaces.
- Tip: Showcase examples of past work to attract potential clients.
Art Therapy Sessions
If you have a background in psychology or counselling, offering art therapy sessions can be a meaningful way to use your art skills to help others.
- How to Get Certified: Look into certification programs for art therapy.
- Tip: Partner with local healthcare providers or community centres to offer your services.
Social Media Content Creation
Many businesses and influencers need help creating visually appealing content for their social media channels. This can include photography, graphic design, and video editing.
- Platforms to Explore: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube.
- Tip: Build a strong social media presence yourself to showcase your skills and attract clients.
Virtual Art Exhibitions and Sales
Hosting virtual art exhibitions allows you to reach a global audience. You can showcase and sell your work through online platforms.
- Platforms to Explore: Artsteps, Kunstmatrix, or your own website.
- Tip: Promote your virtual exhibitions through social media and email newsletters.
Book and Album Cover Design
Designing book covers and album art can be a rewarding way to use your skills. Authors and musicians often seek unique and eye-catching designs for their projects.
- How to Find Clients: Network with local writers and musicians, or join relevant online communities.
- Tip: Create a portfolio specifically showcasing your cover designs.
Patreon or Membership Platforms
Creating a Patreon account or similar membership platform allows your fans to support you directly. In return, you can offer exclusive content, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes access.
- Platforms to Explore: Patreon, Ko-fi, Buy Me a Coffee.
- Tip: Offer different membership tiers with varying levels of perks to attract a broader audience.
Collaborations with Other Artists
Collaborating with other artists on joint projects can open up new income streams and creative opportunities. This could include joint exhibitions, co-created products, or shared workshops.
- How to Find Collaborators: Attend art events, join artist groups, or connect on social media.
- Tip: Clearly define roles, responsibilities, and profit-sharing arrangements before starting a collaboration.
Freelance Writing on Art and Creativity
If you have a knack for writing, consider freelance writing for art magazines, blogs, or educational websites. You can share your expertise, experiences, and insights about art and creativity.
- Platforms to Explore: Medium, Substack, freelance job boards.
- Tip: Build a portfolio of writing samples to showcase your expertise.
Final Thoughts
Diversifying your income through side hustles not only provides financial stability but also broadens your skills and expands your professional network. By leveraging your artistic talents in various ways, you can find rewarding opportunities that complement your creative journey. Remember, the key to a successful side hustle is balancing it with your primary artistic goals, ensuring it enhances rather than hinders your main practice. Happy hustling!
