6 Creative Ways to Make Money as an Artist Outside of Selling Original Work

In today’s art world, there are countless opportunities for artists to make a living without solely relying on selling original pieces. Whether you’re looking to diversify your income or make art more accessible to a broader audience, here are six creative ways to generate revenue as an artist.

 

1. Giclée Prints

 

Giclée prints are high-quality reproductions of original artwork, allowing you to sell multiple copies at a more affordable price point. The term giclée (pronounced zhee-clay) comes from the French word for “spray,” referencing the inkjet printing process. This technique captures the nuances and textures of the original piece, making it nearly indistinguishable from the original. You can even create these at home with a high-resolution printer, which makes this a budget-friendly option for artists looking to expand their offerings.

 

Why It Works:

 

• Lower price point makes art accessible to a wider audience.

• Ability to sell multiples without having to create new work.

 

2. Licensing Your Artwork

 

Licensing is an excellent way to get your artwork on a variety of products without having to produce them yourself. Platforms like iCanvas and other art marketplaces allow you to submit your portfolio for potential use on mass-produced items like wall art, home decor, and more. Licensing is typically handled through royalties, so you’ll earn a percentage every time your design is used or sold.

 

Why It Works:

 

• Provides passive income as your art is distributed on a larger scale.

• Gives your work more visibility in different markets.

 

3. Art Merchandise

 

With a little design experience, you can transform your art into a variety of products—from stickers and apparel to home decor and even fabrics. Platforms like Printful.com make the design and production process easy; you simply upload your artwork, choose products, and they handle the rest, from printing to shipping. Art merchandise offers versatility and gives fans a unique way to engage with your work.

 

Why It Works:

 

• Low upfront cost, as many platforms operate on a print-on-demand basis.

• Broadens your art’s reach and provides fans with tangible items to enjoy.

 

4. Group Sessions

 

Hosting group sessions, such as paint classes, can be a fun and interactive way to bring like-minded individuals together. As a certified art therapy practitioner, I can also hold group art therapy sessions, which not only creates a sense of community but also offers therapeutic benefits. Group sessions can be held in person or virtually, making them accessible to a wider audience.

 

Why It Works:

 

• Provides a steady income stream and builds community.

• Allows you to use your certification and share the therapeutic aspects of art.

 

5. Individual Lessons

 

One-on-one sessions can be tailored to suit each student’s needs, allowing for a more personalized experience. For artists certified in art therapy, this could mean private sessions that focus on the therapeutic aspects of creativity. By offering private lessons, you can build a dedicated client base and establish yourself as an expert in your field.

 

Why It Works:

 

• Personalized sessions can often command a higher fee.

• Opportunity to build long-term relationships with clients or students.

 

6. Speaking Engagements

 

Whether it’s a podcast, webinar, or conference, speaking engagements allow you to share your journey and insights as an artist. Many platforms pay a presentation fee, so you can earn an income while expanding your reach and building your brand. These engagements can lead to other opportunities, like collaborations or further teaching gigs.

 

Why It Works:

 

• Expands your audience and establishes your authority as an artist.

• Offers a new revenue stream beyond creating and selling art.

 

Being a successful artist today means being adaptable and open to multiple income streams. By diversifying how you share your art, you can build a sustainable career that goes beyond selling original works. These six methods provide ways to reach new audiences, build your brand, and most importantly, keep creating what you love.