065: The Art of Making Money with Art - It Starts in the Mind
Welcome to Week 65 of the Draw or Die newsletter for visual storytellers of all kinds. And hello to all the new subscribers this week. A reminder to all, there are 64 other weeks in the archive if you’re looking for more encouragement and awesome things.
Today, let's chat about one of the most elusive aspects of the artist's life:
Making money (or NOT) with your art.
I hear this question frequently,
"What's the secret to monetizing my art?"
Here's my answer, as unglamorous as it may seem:
There's no secret.
But there are mindset changes that can help.
One word of warning: I know so many artists who were only about the money.
they got their wish.
Their art became a job.
Then they started to hate the job (their art).
It’s like a self fulfilling prophecy of DOOM.
The Art of Confidence
Here's the reality: Making money with your art starts with a shift in mindset.
As artists, we often find ourselves battling with self-doubt, thinking that our work isn't good enough or that no one will want to buy it. But here's the thing: confidence or lack thereof resonates. Desperation drives away potential buyers, while confidence attracts.
What you need is not some secret formula but to believe in your art and skills.
Here are some tips to get you started:
Reframe Your Thoughts: Whenever negative thoughts creep in, counter them with positive affirmations. Instead of "No one will buy my art," tell yourself, "My art has value, and there are people who will appreciate it." or “They’re out there, they just haven’t found me yet!”
Value Your Work: Remember, you're not just selling a product; you're selling countless hours of trials, errors, and breakthroughs. Recognize the value of your journey and your growth. Keep building!
Set Realistic Goals: Nothing shatters confidence faster than unreachable goals. Set small, attainable targets that you can meet and celebrate. This helps build your confidence over time.
I mean, even with the Draw or Die brand, I have a small goal of hitting 50 members in our daily drawing club. I’m at 39 right now. 50 seems pretty reachable! (join?)
Monetize Your Skills: Look Beyond the Obvious
Let's talk money, shall we? As artists, we often get trapped in a traditional mindset, thinking the only way to make money is by selling our art directly. However, there are several other ways to monetize your skills. You just need to keep an open mind and explore.
Let me give you a quick personal example.
You know that SCRIBBLE CHALLENGE thing I do online? A VERY FUN EXERCISE. Never in a million years would I have thought I to do it as a service, But I was recently asked what I would charge to come and do it live at a local arts festival.
I thought, How hard could that be to setup?
It’s one of the most basic skills artists do…AND I can do it really fast. Plus, I love to see the joy and smiles on people’s faces when they do one. I know what my hourly rates are for things, so I simply said $150 an hour and I got booked for two 5 hour shifts at a local Arts Festival. $1500 bucks for Scribbling. No kidding.
Now, do I want to become the Live Scribble Challenge guy? Not really…. but I am on a mission to get out of debt, and honestly it’s a lot of fun to stand around and draw peoples scribbles. AND I get the added benefit that the exercise in and of itself strengthens my own art. Win win!
I’m not telling you what to do, It’s just an example. The idea that there may be something right under your nose you could monetize, if you really want it.
But be careful HOW you wish for..
The universe will answer.
🎵 Don’t stop believin’…
I'll leave you with this thought: Don't let the fear of not making money stop you from creating. Embrace your passion, believe in your skills, and remember that every stroke of your brush, every line of your pencil, brings you one step closer to mastering your craft. That’s the most important thing.
Draw or Die!
🔥This Week’s Drawing CHALLENGE!
This week’s drawing prompt is…
”Money isn’t everything.”
Draw the first thing that comes to mind! And be sure to tag #drawordieclub on the platform of your choice so we can all find each other (we’re mostly on instagram) Maybe we’ll feature your art in future livestreams and content!
✏️☠️♣️Join our DAILY DRAWING CLUB!!!
Help support the club with five bucks a month and get some nice perks including a quarterly sticker, daily prompts and more. We’re up to 39 members. (my goal is to hit 50! Help me reach it! ) CHECK IT OUT HERE!
Stay encouraged out there, and draw every day!!!
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