How to make money as an artist: 35 business ideas

Making a living as an artist is more achievable than you might think. With a bit of creativity and determination, you can transform your artistic skills into a thriving business. The truth is, it’s easier today than ever before. Artists no longer have to rely on traditional galleries or high-paying clients to make a living. You can now showcase your work to a global audience, teach others your techniques, and develop multiple income streams — all online.

It doesn’t matter whether you paint, illustrate, sculpt, or create digital art — countless opportunities are waiting for you. To help you get started, in this post we’re exploring a variety of practical and innovative ways to make money as an artist and sell art online.

1. Sell original artwork and prints: Setting up an online store to sell your own artwork and art prints is a great way to start. Platforms like WooCommerce make it easy to manage sales, inventory, and customer interactions effectively.
2. Use print on demand services: Print on demand services allow you to sell customized merchandise without the need to manage inventory. Platforms like Printful and Printify work well with WooCommerce, enabling you to sell products from your own site.
3. Sell digital downloads: Offering high-resolution images and digital versions of your art online can help you reach a global audience without the need for physical inventory or shipping. WooCommerce supports various file types, making it easy to offer digital art prints and eBooks.
4. License stock photography and art: Licensing your artwork and photography through stock platforms like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock can provide additional income. Upload your work to these platforms to earn royalties each time your images are downloaded.
5. Sell NFTs and blockchain art: Selling non-fungible tokens (NFTs) is a trendy way to sell unique digital pieces on the blockchain. Platforms like OpenSea, Rarible, and Foundation provide the tools you need to create, list, and sell digital art as NFTs.
6. Teach online art classes: If you have a flair for teaching, consider creating and selling online art classes. Platforms like Sensei LMS integrate with WooCommerce, allowing you to manage course sales and provide a smooth learning experience for your students.
7. Host webinars and workshops: Hosting live webinars and workshops can help you connect with your audience in real-time and provide valuable content and personalized interaction. Use platforms like Zoom or WebinarJam to host your events and sell event tickets using extensions like Events Manager.
8. Create art tutorials on YouTube: Monetize a YouTube channel by creating art tutorials and lessons for other artists. You can generate income through YouTube’s ad revenue program, sponsored content, channel memberships, Super Chat donations, and affiliate marketing.
9. Art camps and in-person workshops: Organize local art camps and in-person workshops to engage with your community and earn income at the same time. Promote your events through your website, social media, and local advertising.
10. Sell your work on freelance platforms: Diversify your income by selling your artwork and art services on freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Build a profile showcasing your portfolio and set competitive rates to attract clients.
11. Offer commissioned art: Accept commissions for personalized pieces to work directly with clients who appreciate your style. Promote your commission services through your website, social media, and online art communities.
12. Sell custom pet portraits: Create custom pet portraits to tap into a market of pet owners who love personalized artwork of their animals. Promote your services through your website and social media platforms to attract potential clients.
13. Collaborate with brands: Partner with brands to create unique content and promotional materials. Highlight your past projects and demonstrate how your style can complement a brand’s image to attract collaborations.
14. License art to be used on products: License your artwork to be used on products like T-shirts, mugs, and home decor items. Platforms like Zazzle and Society6 make it easy to upload your designs and have them printed on a variety of products to sell.
15. Provide book and magazine illustrations: Offer your services as an illustrator for books, magazines, and comic books. Build a strong portfolio showcasing your work and reach out to publishers and editors to secure illustration projects.
16. Participate in art fairs: Sell your work at local art fairs to reach new audiences and generate income. Prepare your inventory, pricing, and booth display to showcase your pieces directly to potential buyers and art enthusiasts.
17. Set up gallery exhibitions: Collaborate with galleries to showcase and sell your work in person. Work with gallery owners and curators to plan exhibitions, select pieces, and set prices to boost your visibility and increase sales.
18. Host pop-up art events: Host or participate in pop-up art events to showcase and sell your art to a diverse audience. Promote your event through your website, social media, and local advertising to attract attendees.
19. Set up a crowdfunding campaign: Launch a crowdfunding campaign on platforms like Kickstarter to fund large art projects. Create a compelling campaign page with high-quality images, videos, and engaging descriptions to attract potential backers.
20. Accept donations: Set up a donation system on your website to accept tips and support from fans and patrons. Use an extension like Donation for WooCommerce to accept donations or tips directly on your store.
21. Sell art membership and subscription services: Monetize your work by offering membership and subscription services for exclusive content. Use WooCommerce Memberships Plugin and WooCommerce Subscriptions to set up different membership levels and charge customers on a recurring basis.
22. Monetize social media: Build a presence on visually-oriented platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest to showcase your artwork and engage with your audience. Use features like shoppable posts, collaborations, and live sessions to generate income from your social media presence.
23. Create an art blog: Start an art blog on your website to share industry insights, tutorials, and stories about your artistic journey. Monetize your blog through ad revenue programs, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing.
24. Sell handmade items: Sell handmade arts and crafts on your website or platforms like Etsy to reach a global audience. Use WooCommerce to set up your online store and list your products attractively to enhance their appeal.
25. Create public art or murals: Collaborate with local organizations to create public art and murals for community spaces. Research calls for artists and public art opportunities in your area to showcase your work and contribute to public spaces.
26. Rent out your art studio: Rent out your art studio to other artists and creative professionals when you’re not using the space. List your studio on platforms like Peerspace or Splacer to attract renters and generate additional income.
27. Enter art contests and competitions: Participate in art contests and competitions to gain recognition, build your portfolio, and potentially win cash prizes. Research upcoming art contests and competitions that align with your style and medium to submit your work.
28. Apply for grants and residencies: Apply for grants and residencies to receive financial support and dedicated time to focus on your projects. Research opportunities at organizations like Artist Grant, Res Artis, and NYFA to find grants and residencies that align with your artistic goals.
29. Write and sell art books: Publish art books featuring your artwork, techniques, or expertise to establish yourself as an expert. Use platforms like Blurb, Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, or IngramSpark to publish and distribute your book.
30. Develop an art app: Create an art app to provide a personalized experience for your fans and customers. Partner with a developer or use app-building platforms like Appy Pie, BuildFire, or Shoutem to create your app and showcase your artwork.
31. Offer art therapy sessions: Get certified as an art therapist and offer art therapy sessions to improve mental health and emotional well-being. Create a dedicated space for your sessions and offer one-on-one sessions, group therapy, workshops, and online courses.
32. Design products for others: Use your art skills to design products for companies and clients. Create patterns for wallpapers, fabrics, home decor items, or collaborate with interior designers, home decor companies, and textile manufacturers to pitch your designs.
33. Illustrate for websites and apps: Provide illustrations for websites, apps, and digital products to enhance user experience and user interface design. Build a strong portfolio showcasing your digital illustrations and offer your services on platforms like Dribbble and Behance.
34. Offer custom art for interiors: Partner with interior designers to provide custom art for clients and enhance the aesthetics of homes, offices, and commercial spaces. Establish relationships with interior designers to create personalized pieces that align with their design vision.
35. Sell art or craft kits: Create and sell art or craft kits that include all the necessary materials and instructions to complete a project. Offer customizable kits and list your products on platforms like WooCommerce to reach a wider audience.

    Using WooCommerce as a resourceful way to make money as an artist, you can sell art online, manage all aspects of your sales process, and turn your artistic passion into a sustainable and profitable business. Diversifying your income streams and exploring various opportunities can help you build a successful career as an artist.