You have drawing capabilities. You’re retired now and wondering if you can establish yourself as an artist.
Being a successful artist depends on your talents, abilities, and skills, but let’s be honest: making money from your artistic abilities depends on how whatever you create sales. How can you get your beautiful paintings, pottery, or whatever you create in front of an audience of people who love what you do and are willing to support it?
But is Becoming an Independent Artist a Good Business to Start Now?
Here are a few considerations: Even with the digital explosion with AI and other concerns, there will always be space for independent creators. The market demands it! There is a growing appreciation for unique, custom-made, and personalized art. With digital platforms and social media, artists have more avenues to showcase and sell their work.
But what can you do with your drawing abilities? That depends on the kind of artist you’re working to become.
Custom Artwork Business:
You can create personalized artwork for clients, including portraits, landscapes, or abstract pieces based on customer requests.
Illustration Services:
You can offer illustration services for books, magazines, websites, and advertising materials. Specializing in areas like children’s books or scientific illustration can be lucrative.
You can specialize in book covers.
Art Workshops and Classes:
You can conduct art workshops or classes, either in person or online. This can include teaching specific techniques, styles, or even digital art.
Graphic Design:
You can provide graphics for businesses, including logo design, branding materials, and web design.
Greeting Card Design:
You can design and sell custom greeting cards through your website or platforms like Etsy.
Print-on-Demand Products:
Surely, you’ve heard about the explosion of print-on-demand services. You can Sell artwork on products like t-shirts, mugs, and posters through print-on-demand services.
Freelance Storyboarding:
You can offer storyboarding services for film, television, or advertising projects.
Art Therapy:
You can combine artistic skills with therapeutic training to provide art therapy services, especially beneficial for seniors or children.
Digital Art and Animation:
You can venture into digital art and animation, creating content for games, apps, or digital media.
Art Consultant or Curator:
You can be a consultant or curator for galleries, museums, or private collectors.
Is Becoming an Independent Artist a Good Business to Start Now?
Yes, if you’re willing to accept and meet the challenges involved. Still, the art market is naturally competitive—but you can say that about many “second career” options you’ll consider, so don’t let this deter you. Success often depends on an artist’s ability to market themselves, maintain a solid online presence, and adapt to changing trends.
Focusing on building a network of clients and connections is crucial. The kind of network you’ll need to create depends on your art niche. If you want to sell portraits, attend gallery shows in your community and elsewhere. Cast a wide net and find shows in other parts of your city, state, or even nationally. Participate in art online communities. Most of all, collaborating with “artsy” people who can help. Who are these people? Museum directors, curators, and “gallerygoers,” and others who love your work.
In conclusion, for individuals over 50 with drawing and artistic skills, starting a business can be a fulfilling and viable option, provided they are willing to engage with the digital marketplace, actively market their work, and continuously develop skills to stay relevant in an energetic market.
Just be aware: On one hand, you might find it hard to break into the art field and consistently make money. On the other hand, once you find fans who love and support your work, your fans will follow you and buy from you repeatedly. The key is finding a niche that aligns with your skills and passions and approaching your business with a creative and entrepreneurial mindset.
Are you someone who is an artist/entrepreneur? I want your feedback on how you’re using your skills. Let me hear from you.
