Lifestyle of an artist
When there's no job description for a full-time artist, you make your own.
There is a lot more I could include here: scheduling art shows, hours of repetitive sewing tasks, the joy of getting new ideas for a painting, practicing drawing skills, shopping for supplies, handling repairs on my brick-and-mortar storefront, website updates, reading business books, resisting new "opportunities" that will distract me, and dealing with customers and suppliers alike.
Trust me, I love it all.
Even the challenging parts.
And I would never trade being an artist for any other career. ever!!!
Would you do it?
#artistlife #artistlifestyle #fulltimeartist #fulltimeartists #artcareer
Being a full-time artist encompasses much more than just the act of painting or creating art. It requires juggling a variety of roles that range from artist to business manager, marketer, and event organizer. Beyond the creative process, an artist’s daily life often involves tasks such as scheduling art shows and exhibitions, attending and working at festivals and expos, and curating a cohesive body of work for galleries and customers. The logistics of running a brick-and-mortar storefront or an online presence are substantial. Artists handle website updates, list and price their work, manage inventory, and ship orders. They must stay on top of taxes, legal requirements, permits, bookkeeping, and grant applications, despite frequent rejections from galleries or residencies. This business side demands persistence and resilience. Creative growth is integral to an artist’s lifestyle as well. Learning new mediums, practicing drawing skills, and designing products diversify their craft. Networking by hanging out with fellow creatives, collaborating on projects, and sharing journey documentation on social media strengthen community bonds and visibility. Artistic life is also filled with moments of joy—from sudden inspiration for new paintings to the satisfaction derived from completing intricate tasks like sewing or installing large works. Late nights fueled by coffee, asking for help on complex projects, and attending to repairs reflect the dedication needed to sustain this career. Many artists also embrace the performative aspects of their work routine, such as wearing costumes at events, hosting workshops, and making videos for social media. These activities help promote their brand and engage audiences. Ultimately, the lifestyle of a full-time artist is a dynamic blend of creativity, hard work, business management, and community involvement. It requires passion and a willingness to navigate challenges without losing sight of artistic fulfillment, illustrating why many artists would never trade their career for another path.
