Tips for Artists Who Want to Start a Lucrative Side Gig
Whether a painter, a writer, a filmmaker, or a costume designer, you’re likely aware of the importance of seeking the financial stability that enables you to live the life you want while also putting aside time for your creative outlet. Check out the following three ideas from Lo’Ammi for getting started in a side gig as an artist that can be worth your time and effort.
Identify Your Areas of Marketable Talent
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, fine artists often make less than $50,000 annually; authors make about $67,000—with little or even negative growth potential. You may have to build a freelance business that centers on your marketable skills to make money as a creative person.
Side Hustle Nation suggests identifying areas of talent that hold freelance potential. For example, if you are a creative writer, consider contacting local businesses and offering to write (or rewrite) their marketing copy. If you are an illustrator, try your hand at freelance work, or see if your illustrating prowess can translate into an attractive photography portfolio.
Tackle the Legalities
Your freelance gig can evolve into more than a way to make money on the side. By registering your business as an LLC or sole proprietorship and getting an Employer Identification Number or a tax ID number from the IRS, you will be able to file annual or quarterly taxes more quickly. Your business will also stand out as its own entity, which can lend legitimacy and separate it from your personal name to preserve your creative work.
Define Your Name and Logo
Obviously, you need to determine a business name and logo too. If you are strapped for cash, you can utilize free online tools to make this an easier task. If you want to make a custom logo, find an online logo maker that provides a library of templates, fonts and images so you can quickly design the perfect emblem. The same holds true for finding a name. If you are having trouble coming up with something catchy, give an online name generator a try to see what comes up. Also be sure to also see if the same domain is available.
Make Accounting and Invoicing a Priority
The sooner you adopt best accounting practices, the better off you will be. So, immediately have a plan for keeping track of all your financial records and a system in place to ensure prompt payment. Your best bet is to use an online invoicing tool that simplifies the process. You can try using a free invoice template to do the job quickly and affordably. An invoice generator allows you to choose from pre-made templates to create customized invoices that include text, photos, and your logo. Look for an invoice generator that also allows you to download your invoice in your preferred format, such as PDF.
The ideal accounting platform will be chock full of features such as automatic invoicing, income and expense monitoring, tax document organization and a host of other options - this is easy to maintain as a solopreneur.
Sell Your Art
Finally, if you are a visual artist or someone who works with a physical (or digital) medium, you may opt to start a small business by selling the art itself or even take commissions. It is possible to sell art on social media or other marketplaces, such as Etsy or eBay. If this is your goal, focus on building a strong identity for your art’s brand and forging relationships with your customers—even if you never meet them in person.
Teaching or tutoring art is another option for those who wish to create in-person or online courses on platforms such as Udemy or Coursera. If you have a higher degree in your subject, you may also reach out to college campuses or investigate online adjunct opportunities.
While starting a side gig may not have been your first choice—after all, what artist doesn’t want to be recognized purely for his or her creative work?—it can represent a way to make money that gives you the finances and flexibility to continue building your creative career. Remember to come up with an eye-catching logo, integrate your accounting system with online invoicing, talk to others, make connections, and give your information to everyone you work with along the way. These opportunities may additionally open the door to your creative work gaining recognition.
Art fashion magazine Lo’Ammi puts creativity at the forefront, serving as a voice for all creators, whether designers, artists or writers. Read more informative articles today!