Some good advice in this video that other artists will find useful. I left my job in 2001 to paint full time, I took voluntary redundancy from my job and the redundancy money gave me enough to live on for my first year. When I left my job our two children were aged 2 and 5 and my wife didn't work due to being disabled, but that didn't deter me, I still took the plunge. Life's too short and we're only here once. The first 3 years were tough but then things gradually took off. This 2020/2021 financial year I have just cleared my first £100K from my art, in 2019 I took on my first full time studio assistant and in September 2020 I took on a 2nd full time assistant. I use my own success in art to give these young budding artists a chance to paint full time as they'd unlikely get the chance otherwise. I paint 7 days a week for roughly 14 hours a day. It takes high level of commitment but it never feels like a job. Paint, sleep, paint, sleep, it's the best. 😁
@@Destinied After finishing school I was an aerospace engineer until I was 32. Just painted in my spare time. After school I actually gained a place at art college, turned it down in the end because I was incredibly shy, quiet, hated new situations etc. Found out much later in life that I have aspergers.
Hi, How do you sell your art? do you send them to your customers?does that include framing?I am sorry I am not a painter yet, but I purchased all my tools.Can you talk about the process or places you use to sell them?
@@patriciozazzini3182 I've painted for an art publisher since 2005, so predominantly my income comes from them. They purchase all of my originals and I get monthly royalties from the prints that they sell of my work. I do some of my own small paintings to sell, but mostly it's all work for the publisher. In the early days I used to try and sell direct, then I tried gallery representation, I was in galleries in London, New York and San Francisco, but above all the publishing system has been the most successful for me.
This is criminally under-viewed. I don’t think I’ve seen such an inspirational video about the journey to make art your life. Thank you for this, Chelsea. You’ve made me feel like I’m not alone on this journey. All the best to you.
As a self-taught artist I realised my dream 2 years ago of moving to the south of France as a full-time painter. I've been painting for 11 years and it is WORK!! But I wouldn't change a thing. The more I study famous painters stories and listen to stories like yours, I realise that it's about the journey. Congratulations!
You remind me of me when I was younger. I'm 62-I've been an artist most my life. Feast or famine for most of it. 27 years as a graphic Designer in printing helped me feed my need for art supplies and paints-my true passion. I also sew, make dolls and doll houses, leather work, welding, ceramics-all of it! A true artist NEVER limits themselves. You are awesome!
That was a lovely comment. It has given me a boost. I am no artist but I like to create things. I like to have a go at anything new. But I keep telling myself I should just stick to one thing. Now I know it is alright to try other things.
@@PetroicaRodinogaster264 There are different kinds of people. Some are 'Renaissance' artists, with many ways of expressing their creativity, and some are 'single-focus' artists who push themselves to grow within one medium (and sometimes even just one style within that medium). To each their own.
You are a smart talented young woman. I waited until I retired to get back seriously with my art and am now in a gallery. I paint 3-4 days a week , I teach one day a week and am loving life. I have been accepted into OPA which was a real honor for me.
I just come across this video by accident. It gave me goosebumps and I just sob. Sitting in our living room with the sun in my face. Asking myself "now what"? You just gave me a push to the right direction. Listening to every word of advice. Your story really inspired me. Thank you so much. I'm holding my tears back while commenting. Thank you again. You helped me answer to my question to "now what". I have all the tools I needed to re start. I just needed an encouragment from someone whose been where I'm at right now. God bless you and keep you safe. Happy painting.
i am a film student at penn state. videography was something i knew i was going to use in the future, and I am. i still like the idea of being a production assistant and rising through the ranks to become a director, (which is creative work) but things have changed in a good way. i’ve gotten to direct short films for film festivals but i’ve been slowly collecting art/paint supplies for a few years. i wasn’t using them though. i bought them but that’s all. i took an art class in middle school but that wasn’t what sparked my interest in painting. it was the videography in combination with the painting. i studied painting on youtube with “draw mix paint” and others and realized how possible it was, even though i had never painted before. i started with an end goal of being an artist because it sounded cool and i wouldn’t want to kill myself at my job and reverse engineered everything. “ok i want to paint. first i should learn to draw. then learn about paints and priming. then… and then paint.” i did this so i would only learn what i had to to make the goal possible. i’m back from campus and have been buying more art and random supplies for painting, but here is the kicker. YESTERDAY, i got an email from the internship office saying they are searching for a $20 videographer/brand marketer for a local abstract painter. it wasn’t until the opportunity was laid out right in front of me that i realized this is what i wanted to do. i emailed them right back and got in touch with the artist. i sent him what was essentially a cover letter about my secret love of abstract paintings and how i would love to do videography for him. when i woke up today i had an email saying “i loved the thought you put into your email. i will probably hire you. we will be in touch.” i’ve been glowing all day. i feel like a kid again, and i’m going to be getting PAID for it. eventually i would like to make videos about my own abstract paintings, but getting in touch with a local artist who sells paintings for 15k and whose work i actually love quickly has become a dream job, mixing my passions with my talents and resume. i’m hoping to begin building my own side hustle but i can’t paint. i physically don’t have the space in my room, and freshman year (last year) i was sharing a room with someone. i looked into rentable studio spaces or student areas but found nothing. i could keep looking. next year that is changing though. i have a 20x20 room with my own bathroom and plan on making it a studio space for making paintings and recording videos. your video was amazing. glad we are on this journey together. love what you’ve done and so happy that you are full time now. let’s see how long it takes me to get to full time.
I am on the same journey at 50 years old. I was laid off from my job due to covid. My lifetime dream has always been to be a full-time artist but like you I needed security for our family so that dream went on the back burner. However, I continued to paint for much of my life and participated in and taught art workshops. When I was laid off I told myself this was my chance to see where I could take this. It's been a year and I have learning a lot about portraits and figurative painting. I think this is the direction I'm going into. I have been posting my work and have been astonished at the comments and support I've been getting but have only been asked to do a handful of commissions. I'm at a loss at what to do next. I live in a small town need to branch out. Thank you for this amazing gem of a video! I know I'll be watching it again for inspiration!!!
Me, a game artist, at the point of "gamedev was never my jam, I think simply being an -artist- was always my thing, and that's what im gonna do" went youtube and found this. Thank you. Im taking the leap and i'm planning on starting my own business next year when i have it all figured out. But the work has already begun.
I'm sharing this with someone who is not an artist but aspires to get out of an overly demanding but good job, has a mortgage, insurance, etc and is finding the transition too scary and difficult, and everything in this video can be used for any transition like that, not just to being a full-time artist, but a full-time self-employed happy person! Thanks.
I am a software engineer with a well paid job that is very demanding. I have a husband but he cant support me. I am always thinking that I wont be able to quit my job until I am 65 or that I will have to work forever. I am 43 now. I have been painting for 12 years, I have sold paintings in shows and won many awards. I have also been published. I have a studio at home and try to paint as much as I can. However, between being lost on what to paint (I decided a couple years ago to start working with oils - all my career stuff was done with pastels), getting good at working with oils, and feeling stressed out all the time because of my job being in the way I feel like I am going crazy. I have watched many of your videos, and I think I can at least copy masters work so that I can get more comfortable with the medium so I can paint what I love - the landscape. I just dont have the time to produce consistently and have a show. I used to have work in galleries, but I got ripped off by galleries not paying when they should have and that left a bad taste in mouth. Sounds like it would be good for me to first, spend time getting good with the medium (so at least I can paint what I already paint in pastels, fairly well). Then worry more about what to paint. Lastly I think the idea of making smaller paintings, get to a decent number and find a place to show them would be a great idea. If you read this, what do you think?
Chelsea, I wish I had your courage. I have been painting for a long time and have dedicated myself to painting four hours a day. I am building quite a collection of work, but have no idea how I might move forward. I am a high school principal and have a lot of responsibilities. I think if it was just me, I might take the leap. God bless.
maybe you can use your connection with the school to sell your work. I always remember our school office having various artwork and posters all over it, I'm sure some parents would notice it when they walk in and ask about it
heck girl I wish I woulda been as smart as you at your age, I'm 66 and am just enjoying the thrill of painting, I have loved to draw forever but just started to paint and just love it...very happy for you kiddo
Your work is beautiful. It's all about following your goals. I did the same thing and I picked graphic design. It resulted in a life of pain for 12 years chasing after jobs I didn't actually want. IT's a great skill, but it wasn't what I wanted. Art and illustration were what I truly wanted. It took me a long time to realize that. It also took me a lot of courage to tell everyone about my dreams. I'm still in the process of realizing them. I'm sure family and friends think I'm crazy for pursuing what I want to do, because the myth of the starving artist seems to be prolific with so many people who are not artists. It does the soul no good to deny what it wants.
@Am I definitely explore as much as you can. Visual communications can be really fun. I believe Frannerd, another youtuber and illustrator began with that or graphic designer. They are similar fields. You’ll find your way. Everyone believes art is hard, because it’s hard to make it in any field and be successful. I’m successful in graphic design, so now I can replicate that success in another field. I hope my experience can help in some way. I know you’re find it.
You actually had a plan, while I decided to just jump in like an idiot. But I guess different circumstances call for different approaches to life, thank you for sharing your story!
This is soooo beautiful. It makes me think of my cousin who painted the most beautiful still lives. I used to go visit her and would leave with a painting in my car. But once I saw the most beautiful painting I have ever seen. It was a tall painting ( not landscape form) and had white lilies in it, with pink and blue hydrangeas and white roses. She painted it for a client and I felt too embarrassed to ask her for a similar one as she worked so hard. Today I regret not asking as she is long gone and I cannot get this painting out of my head
@@ryanoconnor7957 that sounds tempting yes. But due to Covid my guest house took an immense knock, to the point where there simply are no more guests any longer, so it has become very difficult to survive financially. I am not someone who throw in the towel easily, though.
aloha Chelsea... there is no coincidence in finding this particula video. Thank you so much for sharing your journey in becoming a full time artist..thank you again :)
I studied Art and was a Woodcarver. I retired as an Art Teacher. Your work is amazing. You made a great choice going into Painting full time. Thanks for sharing.
Very inspiring, at 57 Ive almost given up on my dream of becoming a painter. Thanks for relighting my drive to do this! I work in natural earth paints so there are no studios or artists anywhere that Ive found locally who use this medium so that increases my isolation in finding support with other artists, they dont get why I use it. So, I need to do it no matter support or not.
This is so inspiring! Ive always been intrigued by the history of color and natural pigments. Id love to make my own paints one day and use them in my paintings!
@@lizcarrera6210 I use Natural EartH Paint pigments only by Leah Fanning ,they are truly the cleanest out there! It was my biggest challenge as a medically compromised person who lives fully 100% organic everything to find a medium that could fit into my lifestyle and allow me to still pursue artistic dreams. And they are actually much more archival. Same stuff the old masters used long ago that I dream of being at the level of expertise in painting!
My word! You have such a God given talent...and you were smart enough to go after it. I am 75 and I too am an artist. i never came to the degree you are at but I now am working on it...Like gramma Moses. I watched your whole video. You are so uplifting and have a beautiful spirit. I will be watching you.... Just WOW!
FANTASTIC! I'm 55, and as a young child I always loved art. But I too was fearful of pursuing it as a career. I went into another field and immediately knew it wasn't going to work. I then went to art school, but fear reared its head again, and I thought I wasn't talented enough. I relied on my back-up job for too long. After ten years, I went back to school, and I became an art historian. I have worked as a full-time professor of art history since 2006. I absolutely love what I do! Recently, I decided to push fear aside and I started painting. During college, I never took a painting class despite earning a BFA. Except for the occasional painting done just for fun, I never gave it any seriousness and the paintings sucked. Not anymore. My first painting was of a pet, and it is amazing (but needs work since it was my virgin voyage). I am now working on my second - another pet - and my department head who also teaches painting and has a great reputation as an artist in our area, has said that if I work on it, I could be quite talented. WHAT????? Self taught????? So though I am not pursuing this as a money-making venture, I am so excited to be on this journey. Fear be damned!! I'm so excited for you as we have a similar story, and I am going to check out the books you recommend. Thank you for this wonderful video!
This is my second video of yours that I am watching and by far the most inspiring art video that I have heard on this subject…going full-time. I cannot say how much you have inspired me and described so beautifully your journey. I am not young like you…62 going on 63. I got into art around 48 but it has been a bumpy journey but not altogether unsuccessful. It is difficult to find someone as transparent as you and I am glad you were able to do your heart’s desire. I don’t know where I will go with my art but I am inspired to “keep on keeping on”. It is never too late (at least in my opinion) to do something of this sort despite one’s age. While I love realism, and you paint so beautifully, I am definitely in love with Impressionism…or a “painterly” approach. I am working on this. When you mentioned that you had to make a choice over what type of art you would do if you had only one choice, this is something I have asked myself of late and I must confess that it is hard to choose as I love different mediums, not just oils. Actually oils, has been my last choice to look into, and surprisingly it seems to be that it is going up on my scale of preferences. However it is hard to choose and this is where I need to make a greater effort. Thank-you so much Chelsea for sharing this…truly inspiring. God bless.
I agree with @M M. Chelsea’s is just one story and has so many great nuggets of truth. But I think there’s room for different approaches, and I don’t think she would disagree. Perhaps you’re more suited to the creation of many smaller pieces in several styles and media.
I am a full time PhD chemistry student and I'm soooo unhappy haha. I quit painting to focus in my scientific career and now I realised it was the wrong decision. Everyday I wish I was painting instead of being in the lab and I am seriously thinking how can I do to study fine arts and change paths, but it seems so complicated. Thank you for doing this video, it really calmed me down a little
I'm in a similar boat-- graduated with a degree in biochemistry thinking I would get to make cool scientific creative decisions and discoveries, but that is just not the case. The jobs available don't even pay very well and tend toward either high-stress or mundane. I've been an artist all my life but shoved art aside to focus on my major and my career. Now all I can think about is how I can make the transition to becoming an artist full time. There is added stress because my friends and peers seem to think this is an outrageously outlandish idea...
@@LillyCat13456 I hear you. Don’t listen to them tho, people in sciences and specially in academia, I think they don’t have their priorities right, most of them overwork for little pay, and they feel proud of not having a life outside their research. I find that quite outrageous, I don’t even enjoy talking with them. I’m still doing my PhD but I’ve been trying to apply to open calls and scholarships for art; I’ve not been successful but I know it is because of the limited time I can invest on it. But you know… even if I don’t get accepted having that aim and just working for applying makes my life happier than before, when I was doing nothing. I still think I need to do something else because my degree is making me miserable, but little steps I think.
Hi Chelsea...thank You!!! 💥 i just retired after 23 years as a teaching artist/special ed teacher while raising my family. I spent the past 2 months resting.. reflecting... restoring .. and planning. your video was yet one more blessing fueling my decision to return to a life of creativity...Thank you for sharing your story and the progression of that painting! I loved it!! 🥰 stay well and keep doing what you do!🖌
Life seems to have always been in the way...I haven't done any artwork in years but It is amazing to see you fulfilling your dreams. You have become a great coach to those of us who have allowed the pressures of life to squeeze the inspiration dry. I keep watching knowing that I will also break free and fulfill my dreams even at 60. Thanks for what you are doing I feel honored!!🙂
Chelsea! Thank you. This video just sorta appeared in my choices front page. I've been struggling with how to make this leap. I did some of what you did--- I learned lots of styles, genres, in many kinds of art--- painting, illustration, writing, teaching, marketing, singing. I called it survival mode and it was like advancing ten pawns across a chess board to make something into a Queen. But I was finding it hard to transition to making consistent money. I'm a breaking point, having been unemployed for a year, after leaving a job for ethical reasons back in May of 2022. I scrambled to find work in multiple places across the US, hoping to find a job near my boyfriend who lives 6 Hours a way. But I couldn't get an interview. I finally did a wildly improbable goal: to have my own pop up show in an art gallery by Christmas, chose a date, reserved the gallery ( the director was so kind to not charge me until after the show) and on that goal, I suddenly just worked towards creating 40 paintings for the show, even though I was running out of money. I was able to do a painting a day for 40 days, and sold some of them on Facebook as I went, but was living in borrowed rooms and places that I had to move back and forth many times (I think, 8) in one year. I had a studio for a short period of time, so that helped. The show was a huge success--- and I sold many of the smaller paintings to people locally. I made enough to pay the fee on the gallery, and survive for another couple of months, but every month it was a nail-biter to see if I could make it. It made many of my friends worry. I have no savings. I recently took an art class with a Master illustrator to try and see if I could leap into that safe place. I need my own place, and that means more bills, and I know I need to make some HUGE leaps of improbable goals, but I'm uncertain which way to turn. I feel like I'm at a turning point where I either commit to a path where art/writing is a hobby, or where it is everything. I've made it for a whole year on painting and writing, BUT not without living free/housesitting, or taking small personal loans. I don't want to keep doing either of those. Your video is inspiring, but I need to create STEPS for myself--but I am running out of time. I don't know if I have time for another improbable goal. But I feel like taking SOME leap. I know I've now seen your video at the right time (though more than 3 years after you made it). I almost feel like I should keep searching for work to create some financial net for myself---but it's been a year of searching.... Anyway, I wanted to share since you invited us to share. Thank you again, Chelsea!
You certainly made the right decision. I was encouraged away from art as a career when I was young and I unfortunately listened. I continued sketching but little else. Now in my 40s I have returned to art, re-learning and finally further developing my skills. I think that you will never regret dedicating yourself to your painting.
Thank you so much. Your message really touched me -- I'm so sorry that you were discouraged from following your passion, but am so excited to hear that you're diving back in. I have a lot of friends who made that transition in their 40s, 50s and 60s -- it's never too late to dedicate yourself to the things you love. :) I hope you find the journey every bit as rewarding as I have!
Chelsea! Found your channel through Chris fornatero as I’m sure many others will. We have such similar stories and I resonate with every word of your narration. Feeling genuinely excited about your life path is so underrated. Your story of talent and entrepreneurship development is great to hear.
This is a beautiful painting and close to my style. I am at this stage in my life as a single woman. I have just made the decision to become a full time artist. It is a scary journey at first. I’ve started out in believing in myself. I am strengthening my business level and having a CPA. Thank you for these encouraging words! It’s not about how good you are as much as it is in believing in yourself as they will come. Thank you.
Just like to say that the world is now a better place now you do it for a living. I think it was the right thing to do because I am one of those who believe that we all have gifts that we should pursue. I am 72 and as a boy of thirteen managed to get some artwork into a London exabishion. I also have a gift but life does not always allow you to proceed. I am still messing with a paint brush. Love your work PJ.
This helps me so much with the daily torment of longing to be - only and always creating. The pain of supressing the beautiful images inside of me and possibly never bringing them to life, in order to focus on my day job to make ends meet is constant. The joy that flows in me but also to others when I bring these images to life tells me only one thing..there has to be a way. Thankyou for this beautiful video
I really want to get better at digital art, particularly animation. I have one of those pen tablets but I really want to get something where I can see what I'm drawing on the screen... I've been on the fence to get a more professional display tablet. I've decided now to go ahead and make the jump on getting one. Cheers!
There is so much helpful advice here and I feel like I know how to make the leap to stop working in the soul-crushing corporate world of working for others. I felt like I was "too old" (54) to go back to my original childhood dream of being an artist. I was an art student for only a few classes in college - "because business was the place to be" but I loathe the world I feel trapped in. I took a paint and sip acrylic class about 8 years ago and loved it. I've only been truly creating for the last year. I've sold a few pieces on Facebook without trying! This was so amazing to me. Yet, I still struggle to Just Do it. Your video truly is inspiring. Thank you.
Thank you for this video, I relate hugely. I am 24 and loved art from a young age. I was put off pursuing it as a career with the wiespread belief nobody made a living from art and especially not oils anymore. At first I had no idea what to pursue in school then discovered concept art and game illustration existed and like you I saw a 'safer' way to do art with coporate customers and salaries. I was working hard at pursuing it but I always loved realism and I didn't see myself as a good fit for the style of working either especially as I started to have serious health problems which reached a head and forced me to take a break from art (and life) for years. During this time however, I discovered artists who made a living from fine art and it felt like a dream come true. Now I'm slowly getting back into art and this video came across my explore. It has given me inspiration and most importantly hope that I can do what I love. Thank you :)
Thank you for sharing your story! I'm working towards going full-time myself, and your story, especially as someone doing it on their own with an established mortgage, is encouraging.
I'm so glad, Brandi! That was definitely something that made me feel a bit more isolated in the beginning. I didn't know anyone who wouldn't have health insurance or financial support from a spouse when I was contemplating that leap. Like, literally anybody. In the end though I think it helped me to be even more proactive and aggressive in my planning, and it seems to be really paying off now since I couldn't afford to rest on my laurels. :) Let me know how your journey goes, and in the mean time, I wish you the best of luck!
Very inspiring! Your art and the way you work with color values is exquisite. Thank you! I am on the same journey I think , I have just taken time of work as an accountant to be with my newborn. I’ve known for a long time that fine art is my calling and that this corporate job is just a front but I have been too afraid and concerned about what others might think that I haven’t done anything about it. It’s hard also when you know you have a family to provide for. I hope these months will be the start of something new where I begin to pursue my dream of becoming an artist.
What a touching story and a wonderful painting that is born before our eyes.. I am Raneem. I am a painter from Iraq. I am very happy because I found someone who talks about his experience and shares it with me with all this sensitivity and credibility. I thank you from the bottom of my heart because you paint. I hope my message find you Good and health, and I wish you the best always 🥰 all the love
Thanks for sharing your story! I’m going to check out all of your references and links that you’ve provided. A couple of things are holding me back from going full time. And they’re big ones. Ha! I know I need to become faster at the decision making part of planning and working out a painting. Also marketing my work sounds so difficult to do on top of everything else. I’m going to try tho!😊
Chelsea, WHAT an impressive presentation (wonderfully scripted); what a courageous exposé of your inner self; what an inspiring tale of building a future in your passion; what a generous offering of support and experience…and, oh!, what a beautiful painting of a captured human moment. Thank 🙏🏻 you!
You are an answer to a prayer for me. I am so grateful to have found this video ... and a kindred spirit. Thank you so much for sharing. My true passion is watercolor impressionism. I began after losing both my parents and having no formal training. I was in such grief I grabbed a paint set of my daughters and just started painting everything that sparked joy in my heart. After about a month I'd done so many I just gave them all away and began looking to challenge myself and to grow. I moved from subjects like snow and barns to babies and historical bridges and buildings. I explored everything except water, which I had no idea how to navigate. Then I took the plunge and learned as I went, what worked for me. I had one after another tragedies hit that took the wind out of my sales from about. 1998 to now 2 divorces, 2 long time job closures, etc. left me so wounded and spent I lost my compass north. I'm on SS and need enough income to supplement my monthly expenses maybe a few thousand. What is the best way to approach marketing yourself and paintings? I'm on the timid side when it comes to my own artwork yet very strong for others... lol. Thanks for any input.
Beautiful Story dear, I wish for you, me and every women who are strong like you every success. Brave Ladies who achieve Their own success deserve the best.
Chelsea, Thank you very much for taking your valuable time to share what you did to become a full time artist. I too would follow Carol Marine as she did her daily 6X6 paintings. I was trying to do one everyday, but found it to serious. I was painting in Germany with my friend Carrie Waller, I moved to a different state than she and her family. I loved to watch her achieve her success. She later leaned into interior design and got a fantastic job. I have always desired to be a good artist but get carried away in all of the various mediums. I look forward to following you as you are Very inspiring. Thanks again Chelsea! Terri Smith
It is not every day that we find someone with a clarity of mind worth listening to. Thank you for your insight on this matter and thank you and congratulations for the marvellous work ( following the steps of the ancients) and yet so modern.
how did u know that we lessoned so far its so important to tell this story its so useful for many of us i am 55 years old and i just started and have new studio and being Syrian wasnt easy ] because we have a civil war
well done indeed. I am 65. and I just started drawing and painting. your work looks very very good, and that's also very important. keep telling people what you do.... I for one, am amazed with what I saw. thank you.
I want to follow my dreams as well and become an artist... I am in a position which I really feel I missing something in my life and I think is this...living based on my "work in progress" skills of drawing and painting. I want to know where and how to start... thank you! God put this video in my way and I feel I wish to talk to someone like you to share more of how to start.
Beautiful Work Great Business Information for those of Us Artists who are tracking the same road. You lit up my path and the steps I'm walking. Finding my footing enables me to make clear decisions and take a leap of faith. My Vision is clear and my path is well visible. Best regards cheers
Hi Chelsea, Thank you for sharing your journey so openly and honestly. You are one of the few voices out there who lack any pretention and have given me a great deal to think about. Your painting is brilliant and you are the real deal, one of the best of the best. I know because I have been watching UA-cam art videos for over ten years and very few rise to this level. You are raising the bar!
Yay! So wonderful to see your lovely face!! This is such a special painting. It was so wonderful to hear your story in your own words. It's been an amazing journey. xoxo
Thank you so much for sharing,I am retired and have painted between raising a family and several other carriers such as horse stud,nursing,I want to get more organised thank you for your honesty and great advice.
Loved watching this and hearing your interesting and well spoken story! The painting took my breath away! I had my own custom drapery workroom business for 18 years. I just retired and am now pouring my creative juices into painting (watercolor, oil, acrylic and pastel). Even though I am retired, I have made so many paintings, I really need to sell some just so my poor kids won’t wonder what to do with all of them when I die! 😜🤪 But I agree, becoming an entrepreneur is both terrifying and exhilarating but for me it was the best thing I ever did.
Hi l been an artist my whole life hardly sold any paintings need to learn marketing so I can be a full time Artist Amazing Artist... So I can leave a legacy for my family and to the WORLD 🌍... that is my Great Desire...
Really enjoyed listening to your process to become a professional artist and the realistic expectations you had for yourself. And of course, I also thoroughly enjoyed watching your excellent skill make this beautiful painting come life. I wish you continued success and many happy hours painting!
So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable. christopher reeves
Thank you for making this video, I stumbled upon your channel the day after I dropped out of my marketing classes, I feel like I have found your channel by faith. This video is really helping me cope with my decisions in wanting to become a fine artist/studio artist.
Ditto of mikebernhardt. Totally appreciated your story and process...the painting and live-action changes. How are you doing amidst the challenges during these days?
Thank you! Things have actually been really well -- I'm so glad that I went full time doing what I love. Truly. And the pandemic has been actually really great in terms of giving me the opportunity to put together an online curriculum to help students no matter where they are, which has been absolutely amazing. :D
You are a God sent inspiration to humanity. Your work is beautiful inside and out. My special take is your emphasis on creating and maintaining community - therapy, mentors, peers, clients, students... I have done 60+ years of living painfully alone... and not achieved the quality I was hoping for.
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Thank you for sharing, Chelsea! Your art is beautiful and your story is inspiring! I'm at the verge of making the leap too - well, I made the decision in the autumn and also ended a complicated contract with my previous job where I had to buy myself free! And I haven't felt so free and excited for years! I've been at home with my two little children for almost 3 years now and this autumn-winter I have arranged one day in a week to go to the studio. I love it and I've managed to be quite productive. Now I'm waiting the kids to start preschool in September 😅 I would really love to have some support and ideas from fellow full time artists, luckily I'm in the TAA fb group, but I'm thinking of taking some courses or joining a mastermind as well :) it's scary and it's exciting!
Maria, your comment really touched me -- thank you. I'm so excited to hear that you're on the verge of taking the leap! I hear a lot of parents who are artists talk about how having kids and having to fight for that studio time helps unlock a torrent of productivity -- it sounds like it's going to be the same for you. I'd highly encourage you to join the mastermind! I really would not be here without it. :) I'm excited to keep up with you and hear how it's going!
i think the most important thing i got out of this was to have a savings dedicated to selling art. so if i can't make more back then what i spent then it might not be a good idea.
Your story is beautiful and I love your painting. I can relate to you and to many of you fans comments. I have had many struggles us artist have and even got blocked and didn’t paint for 5 whole years. Your a great inspiration and it’s artist like yourself that keep us going. I had thought I would never get to paint again and all those horrible things jump in your way that try to destroy your artist child inside you. I loved your whole story and happy to say I am back painting landscapes in oil again 8 months now. Im a fan and have tried full time and failed after 5 years back in early 2000 s. Painting serious again Creating a body of work. Lots to do and I have a full time job. Thanks I will follow . Mark M.
I turned 50 this year. I am preparing to go pro! I have a BFA from my previous life and have painted since I was in 2nd grade. This video could not have come at a better time! Everything is falling into place!
I am about to make this similar leap to start studying full time. It feels like my entire life is blowing up, and that I am having to sacrifice everything. I am incredibly nervous and scared, and don't know how I will make any of it work, but I know it is what I have to do. Thank you for sharing this, and sharing your journey. It is good to know that I am not alone
Hi. I can relate to your situation as Im going through the same. Its not easy. Maybe the secret is to makebit a smooth transition from old to new and not doing it from One day to the Next. 🙏💖🌟🍀☀️
I went full time as an author last year and watching this... it's amazing how much these two paths are alike! I might have to start making my own videos to help people out. That would be pretty awesome :)
I stumbled upon your videos just today. They're great. I am an artist, illustrator, cartoonist and graphic designer. I've been wanting to "make it" as a fine artist for years. My style is different from yours - I'm more a "magic realist" if I had to choose a category. But I'm think there's a huge nexus between what you're talking about here and what I'm trying to do. I recently shifted in my thinking - I'm talking after 30+ years - that I actually could make my livelihood from my art. I realized I never really believe I could... not down deep. That shift for me now is huge.
Doing something else, something you knew you were not passionate about... saved you and taught you how you needed to invest time and energy into learning how to get into your art world. No "art school" teaches that, they take money and push philosophies on outdated and somewhat stereotypical ideals for making a living... which never prepares a student for life as a fine artist.
I'm an artist who has made a living as a public school art teacher for more than 20 years (high school ceramics). I'm now looking to commit to my own work, that I've been honing on a part time basis or as a side line for a long time. I have so much to learn about entrepreneurship. I enjoyed this video and find inspiration in you. Thank you!
The key word is "full-time". I made this journey starting in 1983 when I got my BFA. I earned money as a medical lab technician (my backup career) and took whatever art work I could find until I could make the transition to full-time art. Not easy, but now I'm retired with a gov't pension and art is a pleasant hobby in my old age. Best of luck! Have fun.
@@crabbycreates2943 Thanks for your reply, Generally speaking, it is difficult to use art income to maintain a decent life. From your story, you can see that an artist still needs an income other than art, whether it is work income or pension.
@@artconversation Just to be clear... I worked full-time in art for 35 years and made good money before retiring in 2015. My last job was with the US Dept of Agriculture (Visual Information Specialist) where I earned my pension. That's in addition to Social Security.😄
@@crabbycreates2943 Judging from the stories of the artist friends around me, very few artists can live by selling paintings. Most of the painter friends I know have another job, such as a teacher or a civil servant. These incomes can sustain their lives, and then they can continue to paint.
@@artconversation Sure, it's ok to have a "normal" job that provides income and keep painting during free time. Please remember there are many forms of art, especially now with web-based applications, video, computer graphics and animation. That's ART too! I chose to focus on graphic design and found lucrative work in marketing; product packaging design, etc. Not as exciting as I wanted my career to be, but successful, I think. I got to do some of the technical stuff during my last 10 years of work. Still doing non-commercial 3D animation at age 72.
Some good advice in this video that other artists will find useful. I left my job in 2001 to paint full time, I took voluntary redundancy from my job and the redundancy money gave me enough to live on for my first year. When I left my job our two children were aged 2 and 5 and my wife didn't work due to being disabled, but that didn't deter me, I still took the plunge. Life's too short and we're only here once. The first 3 years were tough but then things gradually took off. This 2020/2021 financial year I have just cleared my first £100K from my art, in 2019 I took on my first full time studio assistant and in September 2020 I took on a 2nd full time assistant. I use my own success in art to give these young budding artists a chance to paint full time as they'd unlikely get the chance otherwise. I paint 7 days a week for roughly 14 hours a day. It takes high level of commitment but it never feels like a job. Paint, sleep, paint, sleep, it's the best. 😁
Thanks Paul! Congratulations for you and your family!
Thanks and all the best. Was your previous job art related?
@@Destinied After finishing school I was an aerospace engineer until I was 32. Just painted in my spare time. After school I actually gained a place at art college, turned it down in the end because I was incredibly shy, quiet, hated new situations etc. Found out much later in life that I have aspergers.
Hi, How do you sell your art? do you send them to your customers?does that include framing?I am sorry I am not a painter yet, but I purchased all my tools.Can you talk about the process or places you use to sell them?
@@patriciozazzini3182 I've painted for an art publisher since 2005, so predominantly my income comes from them. They purchase all of my originals and I get monthly royalties from the prints that they sell of my work. I do some of my own small paintings to sell, but mostly it's all work for the publisher. In the early days I used to try and sell direct, then I tried gallery representation, I was in galleries in London, New York and San Francisco, but above all the publishing system has been the most successful for me.
This is criminally under-viewed. I don’t think I’ve seen such an inspirational video about the journey to make art your life. Thank you for this, Chelsea. You’ve made me feel like I’m not alone on this journey. All the best to you.
Totally agreee! This video is a gem to wannabe artists.
Criminally underviewed. Well said!
Extremely inspirational and motivating!!!
Beautiful young lady.
I agree. Some of the narrative resonated.
As a self-taught artist I realised my dream 2 years ago of moving to the south of France as a full-time painter. I've been painting for 11 years and it is WORK!! But I wouldn't change a thing. The more I study famous painters stories and listen to stories like yours, I realise that it's about the journey. Congratulations!
How do you afford to do that?
Obvious it's work when you reach advanced level :}
I have NO idea how you guys do it. I wanna learn how to as well :(
@@patriciajames7911 I think first you should learn about color theory, later how to mix colors :)
And for everything else it's your dedication..
So we’ll said”
You remind me of me when I was younger. I'm 62-I've been an artist most my life. Feast or famine for most of it. 27 years as a graphic Designer in printing helped me feed my need for art supplies and paints-my true passion. I also sew, make dolls and doll houses, leather work, welding, ceramics-all of it! A true artist NEVER limits themselves. You are awesome!
YOU are awesome!!
That was a lovely comment. It has given me a boost. I am no artist but I like to create things. I like to have a go at anything new. But I keep telling myself I should just stick to one thing. Now I know it is alright to try other things.
@@PetroicaRodinogaster264 There are different kinds of people. Some are 'Renaissance' artists, with many ways of expressing their creativity, and some are 'single-focus' artists who push themselves to grow within one medium (and sometimes even just one style within that medium). To each their own.
Bless you in all you do, Jesus is Lord he said "I'm Coming Soon"
Love this comment
You are a smart talented young woman. I waited until I retired to get back seriously with my art and am now in a gallery. I paint 3-4 days a week , I teach one day a week and am loving life. I have been accepted into OPA which was a real honor for me.
Thank you Kathy, and congratulations on pursuing your passion and being accepted into OPA! That's so amazing!
Most major life changes require a leap of faith. No risk; no reward. I'm glad it worked out for you. You are a great artist.
I just come across this video by accident. It gave me
goosebumps and I just sob. Sitting in our living room with the sun in my face. Asking myself "now what"? You just gave me a push to the right direction. Listening to every word of advice. Your story really inspired me. Thank you so much. I'm holding my tears back while commenting. Thank you again.
You helped me answer to my question to "now what". I have all the tools I needed to re start. I just needed an encouragment from someone whose been where I'm at right now. God bless you and keep you safe. Happy painting.
👌. I have started painting after my retirement. Very interesting and time passing. Mental satisfaction after completing a work is really great.
i am a film student at penn state. videography was something i knew i was going to use in the future, and I am.
i still like the idea of being a production assistant and rising through the ranks to become a director, (which is creative work) but things have changed in a good way. i’ve gotten to direct short films for film festivals but i’ve been slowly collecting art/paint supplies for a few years. i wasn’t using them though. i bought them but that’s all. i took an art class in middle school but that wasn’t what sparked my interest in painting. it was the videography in combination with the painting. i studied painting on youtube with “draw mix paint” and others and realized how possible it was, even though i had never painted before.
i started with an end goal of being an artist because it sounded cool and i wouldn’t want to kill myself at my job and reverse engineered everything. “ok i want to paint. first i should learn to draw. then learn about paints and priming. then… and then paint.” i did this so i would only learn what i had to to make the goal possible. i’m back from campus and have been buying more art and random supplies for painting, but here is the kicker.
YESTERDAY, i got an email from the internship office saying they are searching for a $20 videographer/brand marketer for a local abstract painter. it wasn’t until the opportunity was laid out right in front of me that i realized this is what i wanted to do.
i emailed them right back and got in touch with the artist. i sent him what was essentially a cover letter about my secret love of abstract paintings and how i would love to do videography for him. when i woke up today i had an email saying “i loved the thought you put into your email. i will probably hire you. we will be in touch.” i’ve been glowing all day. i feel like a kid again, and i’m going to be getting PAID for it. eventually i would like to make videos about my own abstract paintings, but getting in touch with a local artist who sells paintings for 15k and whose work i actually love quickly has become a dream job, mixing my passions with my talents and resume.
i’m hoping to begin building my own side hustle but i can’t paint. i physically don’t have the space in my room, and freshman year (last year) i was sharing a room with someone. i looked into rentable studio spaces or student areas but found nothing. i could keep looking. next year that is changing though. i have a 20x20 room with my own bathroom and plan on making it a studio space for making paintings and recording videos.
your video was amazing. glad we are on this journey together. love what you’ve done and so happy that you are full time now. let’s see how long it takes me to get to full time.
"I had to take the path that scared me the most." How profound! Thank you very much for sharing your art and your story.
It’s never over or to last…look at Grandma Moses! Keep going !
I am on the same journey at 50 years old. I was laid off from my job due to covid. My lifetime dream has always been to be a full-time artist but like you I needed security for our family so that dream went on the back burner. However, I continued to paint for much of my life and participated in and taught art workshops. When I was laid off I told myself this was my chance to see where I could take this. It's been a year and I have learning a lot about portraits and figurative painting. I think this is the direction I'm going into. I have been posting my work and have been astonished at the comments and support I've been getting but have only been asked to do a handful of commissions. I'm at a loss at what to do next. I live in a small town need to branch out. Thank you for this amazing gem of a video! I know I'll be watching it again for inspiration!!!
Absolutely beautiful - everything about this. The painting, the story, the artist. This is incredible. Thank you for sharing this Chelsea.
Thank you so much, Mike. :D It made my day to see your name pop up, as well as your kind words. :)
One of the most honest how I became a fulltime artist I have seen, thank you.
Me, a game artist, at the point of "gamedev was never my jam, I think simply being an -artist- was always my thing, and that's what im gonna do" went youtube and found this. Thank you. Im taking the leap and i'm planning on starting my own business next year when i have it all figured out. But the work has already begun.
Thanks for sharing. I’m currently in the “pursuing my art career while working in my corporate job” phase. Very motivating. And beautiful work!
I'm sharing this with someone who is not an artist but aspires to get out of an overly demanding but good job, has a mortgage, insurance, etc and is finding the transition too scary and difficult, and everything in this video can be used for any transition like that, not just to being a full-time artist, but a full-time self-employed happy person! Thanks.
I am a software engineer with a well paid job that is very demanding. I have a husband but he cant support me. I am always thinking that I wont be able to quit my job until I am 65 or that I will have to work forever. I am 43 now. I have been painting for 12 years, I have sold paintings in shows and won many awards. I have also been published. I have a studio at home and try to paint as much as I can. However, between being lost on what to paint (I decided a couple years ago to start working with oils - all my career stuff was done with pastels), getting good at working with oils, and feeling stressed out all the time because of my job being in the way I feel like I am going crazy. I have watched many of your videos, and I think I can at least copy masters work so that I can get more comfortable with the medium so I can paint what I love - the landscape. I just dont have the time to produce consistently and have a show. I used to have work in galleries, but I got ripped off by galleries not paying when they should have and that left a bad taste in mouth. Sounds like it would be good for me to first, spend time getting good with the medium (so at least I can paint what I already paint in pastels, fairly well). Then worry more about what to paint. Lastly I think the idea of making smaller paintings, get to a decent number and find a place to show them would be a great idea. If you read this, what do you think?
Chelsea, I wish I had your courage. I have been painting for a long time and have dedicated myself to painting four hours a day. I am building quite a collection of work, but have no idea how I might move forward. I am a high school principal and have a lot of responsibilities. I think if it was just me, I might take the leap. God bless.
Given your obligations, the fact that you paint every day (for however long) is amazing.
This is so inspiring! Keep up the good work and believe in yourself!
maybe you can use your connection with the school to sell your work. I always remember our school office having various artwork and posters all over it, I'm sure some parents would notice it when they walk in and ask about it
I couldn't be more happy for you.
heck girl I wish I woulda been as smart as you at your age, I'm 66 and am just enjoying the thrill of painting, I have loved to draw forever but just started to paint and just love it...very happy for you kiddo
The painting in this video is a masterpiece.
Your work is beautiful. It's all about following your goals. I did the same thing and I picked graphic design. It resulted in a life of pain for 12 years chasing after jobs I didn't actually want. IT's a great skill, but it wasn't what I wanted. Art and illustration were what I truly wanted. It took me a long time to realize that. It also took me a lot of courage to tell everyone about my dreams. I'm still in the process of realizing them. I'm sure family and friends think I'm crazy for pursuing what I want to do, because the myth of the starving artist seems to be prolific with so many people who are not artists. It does the soul no good to deny what it wants.
@Am I definitely explore as much as you can. Visual communications can be really fun. I believe Frannerd, another youtuber and illustrator began with that or graphic designer. They are similar fields. You’ll find your way. Everyone believes art is hard, because it’s hard to make it in any field and be successful. I’m successful in graphic design, so now I can replicate that success in another field. I hope my experience can help in some way. I know you’re find it.
You are unbelievably talented snd gifted. This is awesome
You actually had a plan, while I decided to just jump in like an idiot. But I guess different circumstances call for different approaches to life, thank you for sharing your story!
So did you jump?
@@emilabraham3440 I did still trying to figure out how its going
im glad i found this one thank you for that completely worth every single second
This is soooo beautiful. It makes me think of my cousin who painted the most beautiful still lives. I used to go visit her and would leave with a painting in my car. But once I saw the most beautiful painting I have ever seen. It was a tall painting ( not landscape form) and had white lilies in it, with pink and blue hydrangeas and white roses. She painted it for a client and I felt too embarrassed to ask her for a similar one as she worked so hard. Today I regret not asking as she is long gone and I cannot get this painting out of my head
If the style is similar to Chelsea's maybe you could commission her to paint a similar one
@@ryanoconnor7957 that sounds tempting yes. But due to Covid my guest house took an immense knock, to the point where there simply are no more guests any longer, so it has become very difficult to survive financially. I am not someone who throw in the towel easily, though.
aloha Chelsea... there is no coincidence in finding this particula video. Thank you so much for sharing your journey in becoming a full time artist..thank you again :)
I studied Art and was a Woodcarver. I retired as an Art Teacher. Your work is amazing. You made a great choice going into Painting full time. Thanks for sharing.
Very inspiring, at 57 Ive almost given up on my dream of becoming a painter. Thanks for relighting my drive to do this! I work in natural earth paints so there are no studios or artists anywhere that Ive found locally who use this medium so that increases my isolation in finding support with other artists, they dont get why I use it. So, I need to do it no matter support or not.
This is so inspiring! Ive always been intrigued by the history of color and natural pigments. Id love to make my own paints one day and use them in my paintings!
@@lizcarrera6210 I use Natural EartH Paint pigments only by Leah Fanning ,they are truly the cleanest out there! It was my biggest challenge as a medically compromised person who lives fully 100% organic everything to find a medium that could fit into my lifestyle and allow me to still pursue artistic dreams. And they are actually much more archival. Same stuff the old masters used long ago that I dream of being at the level of expertise in painting!
My word! You have such a God given talent...and you were smart enough to go after it. I am 75 and I too am an artist. i never came to the degree you are at but I now am working on it...Like gramma Moses. I watched your whole video. You are so uplifting and have a beautiful spirit. I will be watching you.... Just WOW!
FANTASTIC! I'm 55, and as a young child I always loved art. But I too was fearful of pursuing it as a career. I went into another field and immediately knew it wasn't going to work. I then went to art school, but fear reared its head again, and I thought I wasn't talented enough. I relied on my back-up job for too long. After ten years, I went back to school, and I became an art historian. I have worked as a full-time professor of art history since 2006. I absolutely love what I do! Recently, I decided to push fear aside and I started painting. During college, I never took a painting class despite earning a BFA. Except for the occasional painting done just for fun, I never gave it any seriousness and the paintings sucked. Not anymore. My first painting was of a pet, and it is amazing (but needs work since it was my virgin voyage). I am now working on my second - another pet - and my department head who also teaches painting and has a great reputation as an artist in our area, has said that if I work on it, I could be quite talented. WHAT????? Self taught????? So though I am not pursuing this as a money-making venture, I am so excited to be on this journey. Fear be damned!! I'm so excited for you as we have a similar story, and I am going to check out the books you recommend. Thank you for this wonderful video!
This is my second video of yours that I am watching and by far the most inspiring art video that I have heard on this subject…going full-time. I cannot say how much you have inspired me and described so beautifully your journey. I am not young like you…62 going on 63. I got into art around 48 but it has been a bumpy journey but not altogether unsuccessful. It is difficult to find someone as transparent as you and I am glad you were able to do your heart’s desire. I don’t know where I will go with my art but I am inspired to “keep on keeping on”. It is never too late (at least in my opinion) to do something of this sort despite one’s age. While I love realism, and you paint so beautifully, I am definitely in love with Impressionism…or a “painterly” approach. I am working on this. When you mentioned that you had to make a choice over what type of art you would do if you had only one choice, this is something I have asked myself of late and I must confess that it is hard to choose as I love different mediums, not just oils. Actually oils, has been my last choice to look into, and surprisingly it seems to be that it is going up on my scale of preferences. However it is hard to choose and this is where I need to make a greater effort. Thank-you so much Chelsea for sharing this…truly inspiring. God bless.
Some people choose a single-focus, some people are happiest with a varied approach. Do what works best for you.
I agree with @M M. Chelsea’s is just one story and has so many great nuggets of truth. But I think there’s room for different approaches, and I don’t think she would disagree. Perhaps you’re more suited to the creation of many smaller pieces in several styles and media.
Beautiful painting! Thanks a lot to share your history that let me know more about mine. 🌷
I am a full time PhD chemistry student and I'm soooo unhappy haha. I quit painting to focus in my scientific career and now I realised it was the wrong decision. Everyday I wish I was painting instead of being in the lab and I am seriously thinking how can I do to study fine arts and change paths, but it seems so complicated. Thank you for doing this video, it really calmed me down a little
Do what makes you happy! I changed my major too and never regretted it
You can do small things in your free time, to take steps toward changing directions.
I'm in a similar boat-- graduated with a degree in biochemistry thinking I would get to make cool scientific creative decisions and discoveries, but that is just not the case. The jobs available don't even pay very well and tend toward either high-stress or mundane. I've been an artist all my life but shoved art aside to focus on my major and my career. Now all I can think about is how I can make the transition to becoming an artist full time. There is added stress because my friends and peers seem to think this is an outrageously outlandish idea...
@@LillyCat13456 I hear you. Don’t listen to them tho, people in sciences and specially in academia, I think they don’t have their priorities right, most of them overwork for little pay, and they feel proud of not having a life outside their research. I find that quite outrageous, I don’t even enjoy talking with them.
I’m still doing my PhD but I’ve been trying to apply to open calls and scholarships for art; I’ve not been successful but I know it is because of the limited time I can invest on it. But you know… even if I don’t get accepted having that aim and just working for applying makes my life happier than before, when I was doing nothing.
I still think I need to do something else because my degree is making me
miserable, but little steps I think.
Hi Chelsea...thank You!!! 💥 i just retired after 23 years as a teaching artist/special ed teacher while raising my family. I spent the past 2 months resting.. reflecting... restoring .. and planning. your video was yet one more blessing fueling my decision to return to a life of creativity...Thank you for sharing your story and the progression of that painting! I loved it!! 🥰 stay well and keep doing what you do!🖌
Life seems to have always been in the way...I haven't done any artwork in years but It is amazing to see you fulfilling your dreams. You have become a great coach to those of us who have allowed the pressures of life to squeeze the inspiration dry. I keep watching knowing that I will also break free and fulfill my dreams even at 60. Thanks for what you are doing I feel honored!!🙂
Chelsea! Thank you. This video just sorta appeared in my choices front page. I've been struggling with how to make this leap. I did some of what you did--- I learned lots of styles, genres, in many kinds of art--- painting, illustration, writing, teaching, marketing, singing. I called it survival mode and it was like advancing ten pawns across a chess board to make something into a Queen. But I was finding it hard to transition to making consistent money. I'm a breaking point, having been unemployed for a year, after leaving a job for ethical reasons back in May of 2022. I scrambled to find work in multiple places across the US, hoping to find a job near my boyfriend who lives 6 Hours a way. But I couldn't get an interview. I finally did a wildly improbable goal: to have my own pop up show in an art gallery by Christmas, chose a date, reserved the gallery ( the director was so kind to not charge me until after the show) and on that goal, I suddenly just worked towards creating 40 paintings for the show, even though I was running out of money. I was able to do a painting a day for 40 days, and sold some of them on Facebook as I went, but was living in borrowed rooms and places that I had to move back and forth many times (I think, 8) in one year. I had a studio for a short period of time, so that helped. The show was a huge success--- and I sold many of the smaller paintings to people locally. I made enough to pay the fee on the gallery, and survive for another couple of months, but every month it was a nail-biter to see if I could make it. It made many of my friends worry. I have no savings. I recently took an art class with a Master illustrator to try and see if I could leap into that safe place. I need my own place, and that means more bills, and I know I need to make some HUGE leaps of improbable goals, but I'm uncertain which way to turn. I feel like I'm at a turning point where I either commit to a path where art/writing is a hobby, or where it is everything. I've made it for a whole year on painting and writing, BUT not without living free/housesitting, or taking small personal loans. I don't want to keep doing either of those. Your video is inspiring, but I need to create STEPS for myself--but I am running out of time. I don't know if I have time for another improbable goal. But I feel like taking SOME leap. I know I've now seen your video at the right time (though more than 3 years after you made it). I almost feel like I should keep searching for work to create some financial net for myself---but it's been a year of searching.... Anyway, I wanted to share since you invited us to share. Thank you again, Chelsea!
You certainly made the right decision. I was encouraged away from art as a career when I was young and I unfortunately listened.
I continued sketching but little else. Now in my 40s I have returned to art, re-learning and finally further developing my skills.
I think that you will never regret dedicating yourself to your painting.
It's a beautiful piece by the way.
Thank you so much. Your message really touched me -- I'm so sorry that you were discouraged from following your passion, but am so excited to hear that you're diving back in. I have a lot of friends who made that transition in their 40s, 50s and 60s -- it's never too late to dedicate yourself to the things you love. :) I hope you find the journey every bit as rewarding as I have!
Same here. I’m building my body of work now. I’m hoping to go full-time.
Your story is so moving; you are truly brave. But also informed. I love the idea of a painting a day.
Is it me or does her work (that painting in particular) have flashes of Sargent? Beautiful stuff.
I was thinking the same thing. And Dan Gerhartz.
I was thinking the same whole time 😇 loved the Painting and the process.
You are a wonderful artist Chelsea
Thank you for this video. I hope I can start to put things in place in my life to be able to make the leap! You give me hope ☺️
Chelsea! Found your channel through Chris fornatero as I’m sure many others will. We have such similar stories and I resonate with every word of your narration. Feeling genuinely excited about your life path is so underrated. Your story of talent and entrepreneurship development is great to hear.
Me too.
This is a beautiful painting and close to my style. I am at this stage in my life as a single woman. I have just made the decision to become a full time artist. It is a scary journey at first. I’ve started out in believing in myself. I am strengthening my business level and having a CPA. Thank you for these encouraging words! It’s not about how good you are as much as it is in believing in yourself as they will come. Thank you.
Just like to say that the world is now a better place now you do it for a living. I think it was the right thing to do because I am one of those who believe that we all have gifts that we should pursue. I am 72 and as a boy of thirteen managed to get some artwork into a London exabishion. I also have a gift but life does not always allow you to proceed. I am still messing with a paint brush. Love your work PJ.
This helps me so much with the daily torment of longing to be - only and always creating. The pain of supressing the beautiful images inside of me and possibly never bringing them to life, in order to focus on my day job to make ends meet is constant. The joy that flows in me but also to others when I bring these images to life tells me only one thing..there has to be a way. Thankyou for this beautiful video
I really want to get better at digital art, particularly animation. I have one of those pen tablets but I really want to get something where I can see what I'm drawing on the screen... I've been on the fence to get a more professional display tablet. I've decided now to go ahead and make the jump on getting one. Cheers!
Yay! Have fun with it!
There is so much helpful advice here and I feel like I know how to make the leap to stop working in the soul-crushing corporate world of working for others. I felt like I was "too old" (54) to go back to my original childhood dream of being an artist. I was an art student for only a few classes in college - "because business was the place to be" but I loathe the world I feel trapped in. I took a paint and sip acrylic class about 8 years ago and loved it. I've only been truly creating for the last year. I've sold a few pieces on Facebook without trying! This was so amazing to me. Yet, I still struggle to Just Do it. Your video truly is inspiring. Thank you.
Just found you, the colours in this painting are amazing! You know how to balance saturation so well!
Thank you for this video, I relate hugely. I am 24 and loved art from a young age. I was put off pursuing it as a career with the wiespread belief nobody made a living from art and especially not oils anymore. At first I had no idea what to pursue in school then discovered concept art and game illustration existed and like you I saw a 'safer' way to do art with coporate customers and salaries. I was working hard at pursuing it but I always loved realism and I didn't see myself as a good fit for the style of working either especially as I started to have serious health problems which reached a head and forced me to take a break from art (and life) for years. During this time however, I discovered artists who made a living from fine art and it felt like a dream come true. Now I'm slowly getting back into art and this video came across my explore. It has given me inspiration and most importantly hope that I can do what I love. Thank you :)
Thank you for sharing your story! I'm working towards going full-time myself, and your story, especially as someone doing it on their own with an established mortgage, is encouraging.
I'm so glad, Brandi! That was definitely something that made me feel a bit more isolated in the beginning. I didn't know anyone who wouldn't have health insurance or financial support from a spouse when I was contemplating that leap. Like, literally anybody. In the end though I think it helped me to be even more proactive and aggressive in my planning, and it seems to be really paying off now since I couldn't afford to rest on my laurels. :) Let me know how your journey goes, and in the mean time, I wish you the best of luck!
Very inspiring! Your art and the way you work with color values is exquisite. Thank you! I am on the same journey I think , I have just taken time of work as an accountant to be with my newborn. I’ve known for a long time that fine art is my calling and that this corporate job is just a front but I have been too afraid and concerned about what others might think that I haven’t done anything about it. It’s hard also when you know you have a family to provide for. I hope these months will be the start of something new where I begin to pursue my dream of becoming an artist.
I am so jealous. My desire to be a well-known painter is not for profit I honestly just want people to see my paintings and say wow. Hopefully Someday
What a touching story and a wonderful painting that is born before our eyes.. I am Raneem. I am a painter from Iraq. I am very happy because I found someone who talks about his experience and shares it with me with all this sensitivity and credibility. I thank you from the bottom of my heart because you paint. I hope my message find you Good and health, and I wish you the best always 🥰 all the love
Beautiful painting. I adore your artistic talent and wish you to be a fulfiled and prosperous artist
You are a good artist.
Thank you much for your inspiring and thoughtful comments.
Beautiful painting! Very interesting journey! Congratulations!
Thank you so much, Diane!
Thanks for sharing your story! I’m going to check out all of your references and links that you’ve provided. A couple of things are holding me back from going full time. And they’re big ones. Ha! I know I need to become faster at the decision making part of planning and working out a painting. Also marketing my work sounds so difficult to do on top of everything else. I’m going to try tho!😊
Chelsea,
WHAT an impressive presentation (wonderfully scripted); what a courageous exposé of your inner self; what an inspiring tale of building a future in your passion; what a generous offering of support and experience…and, oh!, what a beautiful painting of a captured human moment. Thank 🙏🏻 you!
Mesmerising.
Painting and your journey.
Thanks a million for sharing it.
My dream for a long time is to paint like that! My life is all about arts! I live arts.💖💖💖Your amazing! Thank you!💖🖌🖼
I did. Inspirational, and I couldn't help but hear your joy! Thanks for sharing.....
You are talented artist. That is very nice painting!
You are an answer to a prayer for me. I am so grateful to have found this video ... and a kindred spirit. Thank you so much for sharing. My true passion is watercolor impressionism. I began after losing both my parents and having no formal training. I was in such grief I grabbed a paint set of my daughters and just started painting everything that sparked joy in my heart. After about a month I'd done so many I just gave them all away and began looking to challenge myself and to grow. I moved from subjects like snow and barns to babies and historical bridges and buildings. I explored everything except water, which I had no idea how to navigate. Then I took the plunge and learned as I went, what worked for me. I had one after another tragedies hit that took the wind out of my sales from about. 1998 to now 2 divorces, 2 long time job closures, etc. left me so wounded and spent I lost my compass north. I'm on SS and need enough income to supplement my monthly expenses maybe a few thousand. What is the best way to approach marketing yourself and paintings? I'm on the timid side when it comes to my own artwork yet very strong for others... lol. Thanks for any input.
Beautiful Story dear, I wish for you, me and every women who are strong like you every success. Brave Ladies who achieve Their own success deserve the best.
Why does it have to be woman? Can it not be 'people' or men and woman?
Chelsea,
Thank you very much for taking your valuable time to share what you did to become a full time artist.
I too would follow Carol Marine as she did her daily 6X6 paintings. I was trying to do one everyday, but found it to serious.
I was painting in Germany with my friend Carrie Waller, I moved to a different state than she and her family. I loved to watch her achieve her success. She later leaned into interior design and got a fantastic job. I have always desired to be a good artist but get carried away in all of the various mediums. I look forward to following you as you are Very inspiring.
Thanks again Chelsea! Terri Smith
Have to Quit your job when you know you are that good! Good Luck Chelsea!
😂Thank you. I really appreciate it Rackeem! :D
It is not every day that we find someone with a clarity of mind worth listening to. Thank you for your insight on this matter and thank you and congratulations for the marvellous work ( following the steps of the ancients) and yet so modern.
how did u know that we lessoned so far its so important to tell this story its so useful for many of us i am 55 years old and i just started and have new studio and being Syrian wasnt easy ] because we have a civil war
Good luck to you and congratulations on your new studio 🙏 I hope you have much satisfaction from your work!
well done indeed. I am 65. and I just started drawing and painting. your work looks very very good, and that's also very important. keep telling people what you do.... I for one, am amazed with what I saw. thank you.
I want to follow my dreams as well and become an artist... I am in a position which I really feel I missing something in my life and I think is this...living based on my "work in progress" skills of drawing and painting. I want to know where and how to start... thank you! God put this video in my way and I feel I wish to talk to someone like you to share more of how to start.
"Wherever you go, there you are." Thank you Chelsea. Thank you for being so honest. Thank you
WOW, Those are my exact concerns! What if the stress of my day job transforms into a new worse stress if I leave it for something I want more.
Beautiful Work Great Business Information for those of Us Artists who are tracking the same road. You lit up my path and the steps I'm walking. Finding my footing enables me to make clear decisions and take a leap of faith. My Vision is clear and my path is well visible.
Best regards cheers
Well done, that is somehting i'd like too. And your painting is amazing
Thank you so much Antons! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and the painting. :)
Hi Chelsea,
Thank you for sharing your journey so openly and honestly. You are one of the few voices out there who lack any pretention and have given me a great deal to think about. Your painting is brilliant and you are the real deal, one of the best of the best. I know because I have been watching UA-cam art videos for over ten years and very few rise to this level. You are raising the bar!
Yay! So wonderful to see your lovely face!! This is such a special painting. It was so wonderful to hear your story in your own words. It's been an amazing journey. xoxo
I thought of you while I begrudgingly sat down to film my face. 😂 I hope people enjoy it!
@@ChelseaLang It makes the video so much more personal! Plus everyone should have the good fortune of see your lovely face!
Thank you so much for sharing,I am retired and have painted between raising a family and several other carriers such as horse stud,nursing,I want to get more organised thank you for your honesty and great advice.
Loved watching this and hearing your interesting and well spoken story! The painting took my breath away! I had my own custom drapery workroom business for 18 years. I just retired and am now pouring my creative juices into painting (watercolor, oil, acrylic and pastel). Even though I am retired, I have made so many paintings, I really need to sell some just so my poor kids won’t wonder what to do with all of them when I die! 😜🤪 But I agree, becoming an entrepreneur is both terrifying and exhilarating but for me it was the best thing I ever did.
the painting is enchanting, you caught the moment, the colors and the magic of it all combined.
Hi l been an artist my whole life hardly sold any paintings need to learn marketing so I can be a full time Artist Amazing Artist...
So I can leave a legacy for my family and to the WORLD 🌍... that is my Great Desire...
You are truly gifted. Keep on painting and making people happy with your work.
Really enjoyed listening to your process to become a professional artist and the realistic expectations you had for yourself. And of course, I also thoroughly enjoyed watching your excellent skill make this beautiful painting come life. I wish you continued success and many happy hours painting!
You are incredibly talented, but you already know that .
It's inspiring to hear how hard you work and how humble you are. Thanks for sharing.
So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable. christopher reeves
Thank you for making this video, I stumbled upon your channel the day after I dropped out of my marketing classes, I feel like I have found your channel by faith. This video is really helping me cope with my decisions in wanting to become a fine artist/studio artist.
Ditto of mikebernhardt. Totally appreciated your story and process...the painting and live-action changes. How are you doing amidst the challenges during these days?
Thank you! Things have actually been really well -- I'm so glad that I went full time doing what I love. Truly. And the pandemic has been actually really great in terms of giving me the opportunity to put together an online curriculum to help students no matter where they are, which has been absolutely amazing. :D
You are a God sent inspiration to humanity. Your work is beautiful inside and out. My special take is your emphasis on creating and maintaining community - therapy, mentors, peers, clients, students... I have done 60+ years of living painfully alone... and not achieved the quality I was hoping for.
Thank you for sharing, Chelsea! Your art is beautiful and your story is inspiring! I'm at the verge of making the leap too - well, I made the decision in the autumn and also ended a complicated contract with my previous job where I had to buy myself free! And I haven't felt so free and excited for years! I've been at home with my two little children for almost 3 years now and this autumn-winter I have arranged one day in a week to go to the studio. I love it and I've managed to be quite productive. Now I'm waiting the kids to start preschool in September 😅 I would really love to have some support and ideas from fellow full time artists, luckily I'm in the TAA fb group, but I'm thinking of taking some courses or joining a mastermind as well :) it's scary and it's exciting!
Maria, your comment really touched me -- thank you. I'm so excited to hear that you're on the verge of taking the leap! I hear a lot of parents who are artists talk about how having kids and having to fight for that studio time helps unlock a torrent of productivity -- it sounds like it's going to be the same for you. I'd highly encourage you to join the mastermind! I really would not be here without it. :) I'm excited to keep up with you and hear how it's going!
Gosh, there is so much to think about after listening to your story and watching you paint. Its very inspirational.
i think the most important thing i got out of this was to have a savings dedicated to selling art.
so if i can't make more back then what i spent then it might not be a good idea.
Your story is beautiful and I love your painting. I can relate to you and to many of you fans comments. I have had many struggles us artist have and even got blocked and didn’t paint for 5 whole years. Your a great inspiration and it’s artist like yourself that keep us going. I had thought I would never get to paint again and all those horrible things jump in your way that try to destroy your artist child inside you. I loved your whole story and happy to say I am back painting landscapes in oil again 8 months now. Im a fan and have tried full time and failed after 5 years back in early 2000 s. Painting serious again Creating a body of work. Lots to do and I have a full time job. Thanks I will follow . Mark M.
If I could paint like that I would’ve never done any other job. Unfortunately I don’t paint like that, but love it anyway
She also did not paint like that. She worked systematically to get there.
I feel the way you do. I paint, but believe me I have an amateur's skill set at best, but I love it.
Ms. L. Churchill
I turned 50 this year. I am preparing to go pro! I have a BFA from my previous life and have painted since I was in 2nd grade. This video could not have come at a better time! Everything is falling into place!
I am about to make this similar leap to start studying full time. It feels like my entire life is blowing up, and that I am having to sacrifice everything. I am incredibly nervous and scared, and don't know how I will make any of it work, but I know it is what I have to do. Thank you for sharing this, and sharing your journey. It is good to know that I am not alone
Hi. I can relate to your situation as Im going through the same. Its not easy. Maybe the secret is to makebit a smooth transition from old to new and not doing it from One day to the Next. 🙏💖🌟🍀☀️
I went full time as an author last year and watching this... it's amazing how much these two paths are alike! I might have to start making my own videos to help people out. That would be pretty awesome :)
I haven't watched this yet but if I could paint like that I would never do anything else.
I stumbled upon your videos just today. They're great. I am an artist, illustrator, cartoonist and graphic designer. I've been wanting to "make it" as a fine artist for years. My style is different from yours - I'm more a "magic realist" if I had to choose a category. But I'm think there's a huge nexus between what you're talking about here and what I'm trying to do. I recently shifted in my thinking - I'm talking after 30+ years - that I actually could make my livelihood from my art. I realized I never really believe I could... not down deep. That shift for me now is huge.
Doing something else, something you knew you were not passionate about... saved you and taught you how you needed to invest time and energy into learning how to get into your art world. No "art school" teaches that, they take money and push philosophies on outdated and somewhat stereotypical ideals for making a living... which never prepares a student for life as a fine artist.
I'm an artist who has made a living as a public school art teacher for more than 20 years (high school ceramics). I'm now looking to commit to my own work, that I've been honing on a part time basis or as a side line for a long time. I have so much to learn about entrepreneurship. I enjoyed this video and find inspiration in you. Thank you!
How does a full-time artist earn income before he achieves commercial success? Could you please share some stories like this?
The key word is "full-time". I made this journey starting in 1983 when I got my BFA. I earned money as a medical lab technician (my backup career) and took whatever art work I could find until I could make the transition to full-time art. Not easy, but now I'm retired with a gov't pension and art is a pleasant hobby in my old age. Best of luck! Have fun.
@@crabbycreates2943 Thanks for your reply, Generally speaking, it is difficult to use art income to maintain a decent life. From your story, you can see that an artist still needs an income other than art, whether it is work income or pension.
@@artconversation Just to be clear... I worked full-time in art for 35 years and made good money before retiring in 2015. My last job was with the US Dept of Agriculture (Visual Information Specialist) where I earned my pension. That's in addition to Social Security.😄
@@crabbycreates2943 Judging from the stories of the artist friends around me, very few artists can live by selling paintings. Most of the painter friends I know have another job, such as a teacher or a civil servant. These incomes can sustain their lives, and then they can continue to paint.
@@artconversation Sure, it's ok to have a "normal" job that provides income and keep painting during free time. Please remember there are many forms of art, especially now with web-based applications, video, computer graphics and animation. That's ART too!
I chose to focus on graphic design and found lucrative work in marketing; product packaging design, etc. Not as exciting as I wanted my career to be, but successful, I think. I got to do some of the technical stuff during my last 10 years of work. Still doing non-commercial 3D animation at age 72.
Chelsea.... your videos are loaded with info ..... thank you so much