How to make a living from art even if you don't have support?

Is it the obligation of the government, gallery owners, politicians, ministries, or businesspeople to support us? It's time to abandon the idea that others should save us. If we receive help, it's welcome, but the reality is that art is a business, and gallery owners tend to play it safe: renowned artists. Politicians, for their part, often seek out artworks and murals to show off without properly valuing the artist's work; they either don't pay them or sell them the idea that they are meant to be projected.

With this perspective in mind, what can we do to live from our passion?

1. Cultivate Your Artistic Identity: Discover and develop your unique style. Experiment with different mediums and themes to stand out in a sea of creativity.

2. Build an Impactful Online Presence: In today's digital world, having a professional website and a strong social media presence is crucial to connecting with potential buyers and colleagues.

3. Participate in Arts Communities and Events: Immerse yourself in local and global communities to receive constructive feedback and seek opportunities for collaboration.

4. Enter contests and awards: Show that your talent is recognized.

5. Take on commissions and satisfy clients while developing your personal style. It's easier to make money by meeting market demands at first and then solidifying your artistic style later.

6. Build a Strong Personal Brand: Differentiate yourself by developing a brand that reflects your identity and resonates with your audience.

7. Cultivate a Growth and Resilience Mindset: Learn from failure, adapt your approach, and move forward with determination and passion.

8. Be persistent but adaptable: Change your strategy if something isn't working and go with the flow.

9. Always put your best foot forward: dress well and invest in your image as much as possible. The way others perceive you is how they'll judge you and your work.

10. Contribute to your community with your talent: run workshops for underprivileged children, organize cultural events, or donate murals to your community. Showcasing your talent by helping others is a great way to stand out.

If you want to be considered, it's logical that you first demonstrate your commitment to your career. Gallery owners won't bet on someone who lacks perseverance, who doesn't work hard or strive to improve their technique. Therefore, the secret to making a living from art is to first stand out and differentiate yourself from other artists who aren't committed or established, which will make many want to support you. You have to demonstrate that you have the dedication, the passion, and the focus to succeed in art. It's logical that gallery owners and art dealers want to recoup their investment in the short and long term. They're not just looking to see if an artist has talent, but also their dedication to the visual arts and how they maintain their constant improvement over time.

“Stand out so that people will support you, don’t wait for people to support you so that you can stand out.”

If you follow these steps and embark on your path, sooner or later you'll attract attention and create opportunities that will change your life. The path of art can be challenging but rewarding. Every step you take brings you closer to turning your passion into a meaningful career in this exciting world. Be authentic, perseverant, and pursue your ideas. Don't let others tell you that "you can't make a living from art" or that such a career isn't valued. Dare to dream, to create, and to make your mark in the art world!

Elvin Tolentino