How to Be a Successful Artist

Successful artists work at their art on a regular basis

Success may mean wealth or fame or simply recognition in your field. Becoming successful doesn't happen without planning, preparation and a passion to create regardless of the roadblocks in the way. Being a successful artist is about talent, creativity, attitude and willingness to work hard to create your own breaks.

Instructions

1. Write down a plan. While you don't need to plan your whole life, if you want to become a successful artist, you need to to set goals and consider ways to meet those goals. Add in specific steps you should take to reach your goal.

2. Create artwork. Success doesn't come without putting in a lot of work and effort. If you wish to be a successful painter, you need to paint -- regularly and constantly. If you wish to be known as a sculptor, you need to sculpt. Talking about success won't help you as much as learning your craft. Constant practice may not make you perfect, but it will take you a long way to knowing how to create the art in which you wish success.

3. Educate yourself. Listen to artists and read books. Immerse yourself in the works of other artists, including classic artists from the past and successful contemporary artists. Take classes in your particular art interest. Expand by learning about other art expressions. Get a degree in art, specializing in your area of interest. Check at a community college about art classes. Check out state colleges and universities for art programs. Ask artist friends for recommendations to art programs. As you gain knowledge, teach others. Sharing your knowledge helps you deepen your appreciation for and knowledge of your growing area of expertise.

4. Hang out with other artists, especially those who share your particular art interests. Know the four parts of critiquing art. These are describing what's in the artwork, analyzing how the elements work together, seeking to interpret the artist's message and -- using your best judgment -- summarizing what you think about the work. Use this method to evaluate your work and those of other artists. Learn to accept and provide input and suggestions for improvement. Other artists challenge you to work at your art and to continue to improve.

5. Find a mentor. Mentors provide one-on-one input. They are a valuable source for learning the business of being successful and for receiving personal assistance in learning how to produce your best work. A mentor is invaluable for an artist who wishes to succeed.

6. Show your work. Hiding your efforts under your bed will not assist you in your efforts to become a successful artist. Reveal your art to family and friends with a show in your own home. Talk to your church or local library about either a full showing or displaying some of your artwork. Check with the local colleges, Chamber of Commerce and media calendars for art events scheduled in your city. Contact for showing guidelines. Showing your work, especially to those who may not appreciate it, helps you develop that thicker skin you'll need to be successful as an artist. You need to meet your critics, not slink away. Showing your work helps you analyze your own work for both faults and merits.

7. Do your best work. A sloppy attitude of "I'll just work when I feel like it," leads to mediocre art. When you don't do your personal best, it shows and hinders your growth as an artist. To be a successful artist you must always do your best.

8. Don't give up. Becoming an artist isn't easy. Becoming successful with your art is even more difficult. If you have a vision for your art and a passion to create, don't give up. Keep growing, learning, showing and producing until your work is recognized.

References

• Chicago Artists Resource: Ten Habits of Successful Artists
• New York Foundation for the Arts: Ten Principles of Successful Artists
• Incredible Art Department: Art Criticism

Resources

• Art Schools: Art and Design Schools