Want to quit your day job to be an artist?
Are you considering quitting your day job and pursuing art full-time? While it can be an exciting prospect, it's essential to test your sales and have a reliable income stream before taking the plunge.
In this article, we'll explore why you need to test and get a reliable sales stream before quitting your job and provide some step-by-step recommendations to help you make the transition.
Why You Need to Test Your Sales and Have a Reliable Income Stream
Quitting your job and pursuing art full-time can be a daunting prospect, especially if you don't have a reliable income stream. Art sales can be unpredictable, and it's essential to test your sales and have a reliable income stream before quitting your job. Without a reliable income stream, you risk financial instability and may end up having to return to your day job.
Testing your sales before quitting your job allows you to get a sense of your earning potential, identify any gaps in your marketing strategy, and make adjustments before taking the plunge. Having a reliable income stream also provides a sense of stability and reduces financial stress, allowing you to focus on your art and business growth.
What does it take to become a successful full-time artist?
Well, there are a few key steps that you need to follow to make the transition smoother and easier. Let's dive into the recommendations that I have for you.
Step 1: Defining Your Unique Offer
The first step towards becoming a successful full-time artist is to define what makes your art unique and why your ideal art buyer will love it. Spend some time thinking about what sets your work apart from other artists in your market. Maybe it's your style, your use of color, or your subject matter. Once you've identified what makes your work unique, update your artist bio and make sure that your unique offer is reflected in your messaging.
Step 2: Understanding and Identifying Your Ideal Art Buyer
Understanding who your ideal art buyer is will help you tailor your marketing efforts to attract the right people. Spend some time researching your market and identifying your niche. Create a customer persona to help you visualize who your ideal art buyer is, and locate them by understanding their motivations for buying art. Don't forget to build a solid relationship with them too!
Step 3: Building Your Email List
Your email list is one of your most valuable marketing assets. Start building it early on and keep it updated regularly. Use your email list to keep your subscribers informed about your upcoming art shows, new artwork, and any other news related to your art career.
Step 4: Marketing Your Art
Marketing is an essential part of being a successful full-time artist. Focus on social media marketing, with a focus on Instagram and your own website. Participate in events, art shows, and other opportunities to showcase your art. Don't be afraid to get creative with your marketing tactics to stand out from the crowd!
Step 5: Pricing Your Art
Pricing your art correctly is crucial to making a reliable income as a full-time artist. Benchmark yourself against other artists in your market and make sure that you are accounting for all the costs of selling your art. Make sure you are able to achieve the minimum full time income you need with your art prices.
Step 6: Selling via Other Businesses
Partnering with businesses can help you expand your reach and attract new customers. However, be sure to check that their market aligns with your target audience. Don't forget about galleries as well! They can be great for exposure, but be aware of the potential traps and make sure that you're getting the most out of exhibiting through galleries.
Step 7: Develop Long Term Trusted Relationships
Building long-term relationships is key to success in any career, and being a full-time artist is no different. Take the time to develop and maintain meaningful relationships with your customers, galleries, and other businesses that you work with.
Pro Tips for a Flourishing Art Career
Finally, some pro tips to help you thrive as a full-time artist. Remember that it's not just about the business side of things. Take care of yourself emotionally and invest in a success mindset to help you stay motivated and focused on your goals. And don't forget to keep the balance between your creative and business responsibilities.
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