How to Make a Career of a Painting Hobby

There are many ways to make a career from your painting hobby if you are a talented artist. Whether you prefer painting fruit in a bowl or like to splatter a can of paint against a canvas, someone will be interested in your work. Here are some ways you can turn your love of painting into a career.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Create paintings from photographs. Many people would like to have paintings of something important to a loved one, or even themselves.

2. Sell your art on auction sites such as Ebay.

3. Open a gallery, or market your paintings on consignment through existing galleries.

4. Paint directly onto greeting cards so that people receive a "one of a kind" greeting that will never be duplicated.

5. Work for an art museum.

6. Tutor other people who are interested in taking up painting as a hobby.

7. Teach art classes if you have a degree. Contact local schools to become a substitute teacher for grade school art classes.

8. Get a graduate degree and work in art therapy, which is designed to help emotionally ill people recover through artistic self-expression.

9. Work as an illustrator of books, magazines, cartoons or advertisements.

10. Start a Web site that gives people advice on painting.

11. Research and write e-books about famous painters and painting styles.

12. Become an artist-in-residence, where you receive free rent, a small salary and a studio which is open to the public so they can watch and speak to an artist.

13. Get a local cable station to allow you to teach painting on television.

Tips & Warnings

• Art is a very personal experience, for both the artist and the buyer. Don't be afraid to express yourself.

• You probably won't get rich selling art. Diversify and become as well-rounded as possible, utilizing your talent in different art careers.