I've been doing art on and off for 15 years and worked in other creative industries, so I thought being a full time artist was my dream, until I became a "full time" artist during the pandemic. After 6 months, I realized that I can't handle it. I sold a few pieces last year and early this year and it was really rewarding but i have no interest in marketing myself and don't consistently make work like I thought I would. In fact, I spend just as much time painting full time as I did part time. I realized, my ideal is to have a part time job that pays the bills and to spend the rest of my time painting. It's the perfect balance for me and takes pressure off making money and making art. I also lost all my interest in hustling recently. After 10 years, it strained my health and significantly dampered my excitement for life in general. Burnout is real. Take care of yourselves first.
I think that would be wonderful for me too! Having a reliable source of income and then also having time and space to create what I love :) Thank you so much for watching and sharing your story, I think this is something a lot of people can relate to! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
This video could be titled "do you REALLY want to be a freelancer?". In any industry. I've been a freelancer translator for years and I can relate to 99% of this. I think it's not really about being full time or part time artist, it's more about how you deal with solitude and financial cushion for lower months. For me not having anyone to talk to the whole day became too depressing.
I was forced to do art full time when physical limitations kept me from being able to work my 9-5. I love being able to do art full time, but I hate the hustle, self-branding, and marketing aspects of it. It's so stressful and draining! I'm trying to figure out just what I want to do with my art so that I don't end up hating it.
So true! I think just finding ways to keep it exciting is the most important part. If people happen to love your work, that's a bonus! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I have had an astonishing experience with prayer, & praying to know God's will; so that settles a lot for me. My daily devotional gave the answer--- "artist." And when I 'double checked' 15 x's, amazingly, every single time, the answer was confirmed through daily Bible devotions. I also believe I am not 'alone' in the effort, helping me to let go, & 'trust.' A taste of local art college through community college was valuable & was a shock in comparison to my self taught effort--- but informs how to continue on my own, if necessary. I read art business books for 2 years, & still felt somewhat lost, so I loved the message of this video--- that there is no one 'path' to being an artist, & about finding or MAKING your 'niche.'
And thanks for the heads up on the idea of finding a husband :) [Actually, I also heard that in prayer; a 'team' does solve a lot. Maybe go dating for a year, & take a break from art :) ]
I just want to put this out there for anyone contemplating art full time and having a back-up career. I think you should consider the diversity you can bring to a field that is your “back up career” as an artist. For example, if you are tech savvy - data visualization may be for you! Or a passion for science (like me) - a science illustrator (hopefully one day!) I am learning many of these art adjacent jobs want a degree in technical trades. And as always Thank-you Prof Lieu for a great stream! Thanks for keeping it grounded in reality!
As someone who has worked from 4:30am to 5:30pm for a year straight out of highschool... I really want to make art my career. I recently decrease the hours from 4:30am to 1:30pm...now i have a whole 8 hours to studdy!!!!!
Woah, that is dedication!!! I don't know if I would mentally be able to handle those hours, haha. We are so happy you're here learning with us! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I can relate to Clara's time battles--- a mindset of trying to 'win' with time demands by 'sneaking' in some laundry; & then you find you lost your art work time. I replaced the 'battling time' mentality with surrendering to the fact I will someday die with a to do list, probably with a few more items added the day I die, that I may spend my whole life 'behind' & in 'overload' & never be on top & always be pulled different directions. I am replacing that type of 'race' with time, with things like 'what is the next best thing?' Or 'just take the next step,'... "One step at a time,' "One day at a time.'
This was a much needed reality check for me; I've suspected all this, but most of the "so you want to earn money as an artist?" videos on here are by people who want to sell you their webinar, so of course they say it will totally work as long as you follow their 3 steps or whatever..... and that type of message is very seductive! "If you just figure out the right way to go about it, success is guaranteed!" well, I doubt it's that simple. I do think it's possible though and I'm going to try making it work! It beats my other options, and I like a challenge :)
YES!! You got this, we believe in you! If you'd like to check out our business for artists track on our website, you might find some other helpful tips & tricks-- feel free to check it out: artprof.org/pro-development/artist-business-track/ - Mia, Art Prof Staff
Thanks for sharing this very sobering discussion. When I decided that I wanted to do art professionally, I worked on getting a flexible part job because I know chances are slim that I will be able to count on income from my art. Having freedom and flexibility requires a lot of hustle, so now I have 2 side hustles, and might add a third. 😅 I’m glad I found your channel. Keep up the awesome work!
I have experienced enough of the “full time artist” life to know, that I rather hustle and live that kind of work life, than the usual 9-5. Ofcourse, it depends. If you are really loving Your 9-5, it probably feels just as amazing as having a full time artist work life.
I think everything you do has the good part, the part you love and the part you don't like so much... So it's better than doing something you don't like at all
@@artprof the hardest part that there isn't a template for us to follow. Everyone is different and so is everyone's journey! 😊 So happy I found you on UA-cam, it's a refreshing perspective!
That's a good point! So much about being a full time artist is promotion and maintaining an image, not actually creating things :( - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I want to be an artist, not because I want to do art, but because I absolutely hate working for anyone else. I see it as a way I can possibly make a good living if I work hard.
Want to be a full time artist, but I am intimidated by it. The reason is because I want to have my own family, and I want to administer my time. I know that when I have a job, I end up leaving my art life. It has happened to me, and I just feel awful when that happens.
I've had the same happen to me, I feel like I need to block out in my schedule when I will spend time doing art, as if it were a meeting. I don't love treating art that way, but sometimes that's what it takes. -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
Full time is my goal. But I think, to make it, you have to shift your mindset. You're an entrepreneur first, then an artist. This works for me. But it might not appeal to some.
I agree-- you have to shift your mindset to understand that just making the work isn't enough. You have to fully commit to the promotional/managerial role as well! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I totally understand why you'd be upset!! It feels belittling when your work is amounted to being a "hobby", even if that is the case - Mia, Art Prof Staff
I have a bachelor degree in business. During my years at the university I started teaching my mother language to have some source of income, and I also started doing art as a hobby. So I found out those are actually the two things I want to do for life. Before going to the university I had already work experience. I don't like the corporate world, I hate job interviews, I'm not really good at working in teams, and do on. I'd be happy enough if I can become a part time artist and keep working as a part time teacher.
I also strongly dislike the corporate world, it is so stuffy and full of things artists tend to avoid... We'll see how we can wrangle a career in spite of that, haha! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I've been doing art on and off for 15 years and worked in other creative industries, so I thought being a full time artist was my dream, until I became a "full time" artist during the pandemic. After 6 months, I realized that I can't handle it. I sold a few pieces last year and early this year and it was really rewarding but i have no interest in marketing myself and don't consistently make work like I thought I would.
In fact, I spend just as much time painting full time as I did part time.
I realized, my ideal is to have a part time job that pays the bills and to spend the rest of my time painting. It's the perfect balance for me and takes pressure off making money and making art.
I also lost all my interest in hustling recently. After 10 years, it strained my health and significantly dampered my excitement for life in general. Burnout is real. Take care of yourselves first.
I think that would be wonderful for me too! Having a reliable source of income and then also having time and space to create what I love :) Thank you so much for watching and sharing your story, I think this is something a lot of people can relate to! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
“There are many ways to be an artist.” This is the best advise I’ve ever heard. 🙏💕
It's true! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
This video could be titled "do you REALLY want to be a freelancer?". In any industry. I've been a freelancer translator for years and I can relate to 99% of this. I think it's not really about being full time or part time artist, it's more about how you deal with solitude and financial cushion for lower months. For me not having anyone to talk to the whole day became too depressing.
That is a REALLY good point. Nobody talks about the solitude of being an artist, really. Thank you so much for sharing :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I started painting this year and this channel is a BLESSING.
I was forced to do art full time when physical limitations kept me from being able to work my 9-5. I love being able to do art full time, but I hate the hustle, self-branding, and marketing aspects of it. It's so stressful and draining! I'm trying to figure out just what I want to do with my art so that I don't end up hating it.
So true! I think just finding ways to keep it exciting is the most important part. If people happen to love your work, that's a bonus! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I have had an astonishing experience with prayer, & praying to know God's will; so that settles a lot for me. My daily devotional gave the answer--- "artist." And when I 'double checked' 15 x's, amazingly, every single time, the answer was confirmed through daily Bible devotions. I also believe I am not 'alone' in the effort, helping me to let go, & 'trust.' A taste of local art college through community college was valuable & was a shock in comparison to my self taught effort--- but informs how to continue on my own, if necessary. I read art business books for 2 years, & still felt somewhat lost, so I loved the message of this video--- that there is no one 'path' to being an artist, & about finding or MAKING your 'niche.'
And thanks for the heads up on the idea of finding a husband :) [Actually, I also heard that in prayer; a 'team' does solve a lot. Maybe go dating for a year, & take a break from art :) ]
I'm going to remember this post when it's time to stop doing some art for dating... YES I have time to not do art for YOU
Watch our video on Being Your Own Boss as an Artist: ua-cam.com/video/v-A_ugrrolM/v-deo.html
I just want to put this out there for anyone contemplating art full time and having a back-up career. I think you should consider the diversity you can bring to a field that is your “back up career” as an artist. For example, if you are tech savvy - data visualization may be for you! Or a passion for science (like me) - a science illustrator (hopefully one day!) I am learning many of these art adjacent jobs want a degree in technical trades.
And as always Thank-you Prof Lieu for a great stream! Thanks for keeping it grounded in reality!
That's a great point, so many other fields incorporate art in some way! Creativity can be found everywhere :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
As someone who has worked from 4:30am to 5:30pm for a year straight out of highschool... I really want to make art my career. I recently decrease the hours from 4:30am to 1:30pm...now i have a whole 8 hours to studdy!!!!!
Woah, that is dedication!!! I don't know if I would mentally be able to handle those hours, haha. We are so happy you're here learning with us! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I can relate to Clara's time battles--- a mindset of trying to 'win' with time demands by 'sneaking' in some laundry; & then you find you lost your art work time. I replaced the 'battling time' mentality with surrendering to the fact I will someday die with a to do list, probably with a few more items added the day I die, that I may spend my whole life 'behind' & in 'overload' & never be on top & always be pulled different directions. I am replacing that type of 'race' with time, with things like 'what is the next best thing?' Or 'just take the next step,'... "One step at a time,' "One day at a time.'
Time management never ends, an ongoing challenge! -Prof Lieu
This was a much needed reality check for me; I've suspected all this, but most of the "so you want to earn money as an artist?" videos on here are by people who want to sell you their webinar, so of course they say it will totally work as long as you follow their 3 steps or whatever..... and that type of message is very seductive! "If you just figure out the right way to go about it, success is guaranteed!" well, I doubt it's that simple. I do think it's possible though and I'm going to try making it work! It beats my other options, and I like a challenge :)
YES!! You got this, we believe in you! If you'd like to check out our business for artists track on our website, you might find some other helpful tips & tricks-- feel free to check it out: artprof.org/pro-development/artist-business-track/ - Mia, Art Prof Staff
The stream was excellent as a podcast. It was exactly 2 miles. Haha. But seriously, many good points to consider.
That's great to hear, I love podcasts and listening to Art Prof is sometimes just as good as watching it! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Thanks for sharing this very sobering discussion. When I decided that I wanted to do art professionally, I worked on getting a flexible part job because I know chances are slim that I will be able to count on income from my art. Having freedom and flexibility requires a lot of hustle, so now I have 2 side hustles, and might add a third. 😅
I’m glad I found your channel. Keep up the awesome work!
That's so awesome! I think side hustles are just part of the job, hahaha - Mia, Art Prof Staff
I have experienced enough of the “full time artist” life to know, that I rather hustle and live that kind of work life, than the usual 9-5.
Ofcourse, it depends. If you are really loving Your 9-5, it probably feels just as amazing as having a full time artist work life.
I think everything you do has the good part, the part you love and the part you don't like so much... So it's better than doing something you don't like at all
Very good point!! - Mia, Art Prof Staff
I like the business side and art side a lot. At this time I feel more comfortable with the business as I find my art style and the time to create.
That's so awesome! Lots of people are the other way around, so it's great that you're developing both skills at once - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
@@artprof the hardest part that there isn't a template for us to follow. Everyone is different and so is everyone's journey! 😊 So happy I found you on UA-cam, it's a refreshing perspective!
I find it stressful and too time consuming. I want to create not spend my time selling myself and my work.
That's a good point! So much about being a full time artist is promotion and maintaining an image, not actually creating things :( - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I want to be an artist, not because I want to do art, but because I absolutely hate working for anyone else. I see it as a way I can possibly make a good living if I work hard.
I RELATE! I think I became an artist because there was just no other option for me, haha. It was the only thing I enjoyed. - Mia, Art Prof Staff
Want to be a full time artist, but I am intimidated by it. The reason is because I want to have my own family, and I want to administer my time. I know that when I have a job, I end up leaving my art life. It has happened to me, and I just feel awful when that happens.
I've had the same happen to me, I feel like I need to block out in my schedule when I will spend time doing art, as if it were a meeting. I don't love treating art that way, but sometimes that's what it takes. -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
Really helping
Full time is my goal. But I think, to make it, you have to shift your mindset. You're an entrepreneur first, then an artist. This works for me. But it might not appeal to some.
I agree-- you have to shift your mindset to understand that just making the work isn't enough. You have to fully commit to the promotional/managerial role as well! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I am curious on how this works, thanks! :)
You're welcome :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I hate and avoid hustling!
Amen! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
A friend recently called me a 'hobby artist' and I felt offended even though it's true.
I totally understand why you'd be upset!! It feels belittling when your work is amounted to being a "hobby", even if that is the case - Mia, Art Prof Staff
I have a bachelor degree in business. During my years at the university I started teaching my mother language to have some source of income, and I also started doing art as a hobby. So I found out those are actually the two things I want to do for life. Before going to the university I had already work experience. I don't like the corporate world, I hate job interviews, I'm not really good at working in teams, and do on.
I'd be happy enough if I can become a part time artist and keep working as a part time teacher.
I also strongly dislike the corporate world, it is so stuffy and full of things artists tend to avoid... We'll see how we can wrangle a career in spite of that, haha! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Streamed 36 seconds ago... I missed it😢
SO CLOSE! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff