When I first started selling my art, I had a lot of questions. Where should I sell? Would anyone even want to buy my work? And, truthfully, how do you put yourself out there without feeling like an imposter?
Over time, I found answers—and some surprises. In this post, I’ll share my journey and give you practical tips for getting started with your own art sales.
From First Sale to Finding My Path
My art journey began much like yours might be now, with a mix of excitement and nerves. I sold my first pieces directly to individuals. At the time, I had a shop on my own website, which allowed me to control everything—from how my work was displayed to how I communicated with buyers.
Many of my friends were using Etsy, and I could see the appeal. It’s easy to set up, reaches a wide audience, and takes care of many logistics. If I were just starting out now, I’d definitely consider it. However, running your own shop, whether on Etsy or your website, does require some effort. You’ll need to photograph your work, write descriptions, and manage orders.
As my career evolved, I realised that selling individual pieces wasn’t sustainable for me. These days, I sell original paintings to collectors, both online and from my studio. I’ve also moved away from selling prints and commissions to individuals, as these weren’t the right fit for my goals. But if you’re new to selling, this is a fantastic place to start.
How I Started Selling My Art and What You Can Learn From It
It’s important to remember that you can start selling your art at any age or stage of your creative journey. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have been creating for years, there’s no “perfect” time to begin. I’ve taught people in their 50s, 60s, and beyond who’ve successfully sold their first pieces after just a few months of exploring their creativity. The beauty of art is that it resonates with people regardless of your experience. Your unique perspective and style have value, and there will always be someone out there who connects with your work.
That said, one crucial point to keep in mind when selling art is that your work needs to be original. It’s a mistake many new artists make—they may copy the style or ideas of others, either unintentionally or because they’re unsure of their own voice. While it’s fine to draw inspiration from other artists, your work should always reflect your own creativity and vision. Not only is copying unethical, but it also diminishes the uniqueness of your art, which is what buyers are truly looking for. Focus on developing your style, and trust that your originality will shine through.
Start Small and Local
When you’re just beginning, selling locally is a wonderful way to build confidence. Look for opportunities like:
Local shops and galleries: Many small businesses are happy to stock work by local artists.
Art and craft markets: These are great for connecting with your community and getting immediate feedback on your work.
Social media: Share your art on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. Your audience might surprise you with their interest.
The key is to start small and grow from there. Your first sales won’t make you a living overnight, but they’ll give you a confidence boost—and might even cover your art supplies!
Commission Work and Corporate Events
Another income stream for me has been commissions. I’ve illustrated children’s books, created artworks for organisations, and even designed pieces for websites. At one point, I also did personal commissions like pet portraits, but I’ve since stepped away from these to focus on larger projects.
A significant part of my income now comes from teaching. I offer online courses and workshops for beginners, which is incredibly rewarding. I also host in-person classes in Cambridge and corporate events in London. Corporate workshops, in particular, provide a nice boost to my income and are always a delightful change of pace.
Presentation Matters
Whether you’re selling originals, prints, or digital art, presentation is crucial. Here are some quick tips:
Use quality materials: Invest in good paper and paints. If you’re selling prints, ensure they’re professionally done.
Take great photos: Natural light works wonders. Show your art in context—perhaps framed or styled on a wall.
Consider mock-ups: These can help buyers visualise your work in their space. Just be sure to balance them with photos of your actual pieces.
Fake Confidence Until It’s Real
Starting out can be daunting. It’s easy to second-guess your work or wonder if it’s good enough. Here’s the truth: your art doesn’t need to be perfect to sell. You’ll always be your own worst critic.
One of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to “fake it till you make it.” Even if you’re feeling unsure, present your work with confidence. The more you do, the more that confidence will grow naturally.
Final Thoughts
Selling your art is a journey. It starts with creating the work and sharing it with the world, whether that’s through local markets, social media, or online shops. Each sale is a step forward, not just financially but in building your confidence as an artist.
Remember, it’s not about immediate perfection or success. It’s about showing up, sharing your art, and learning as you go. I hope my story gives you a little inspiration and some practical tips to get started on your own path.
Happy creating—and selling!
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