When I first started as a creator, I had one big fear: What if making money with my art ruins it for me? You’ve heard the stories—burned-out artists who hate what they do because it's become all about the paycheck. I didn’t want that to be me, and I bet you don’t either.
Here’s the kicker: It doesn’t have to be that way.
The problem is how most creators approach it. They make money using their art instead of doing it. Let me explain the difference.
Using Your Art vs. Doing Your Art
- Using Your Art: This is what freelancers or commission-based creators do. They get paid to deliver specific work. A client wants a logo? They create it. A customer wants a painting? They paint it. The catch? You’re tied to someone else’s vision, timeline, and expectations. The joy of creation gets replaced by deadlines, edits, and the constant pressure to hustle for the next gig.
- Doing Your Art: This is what happens when you build a personal brand. Instead of selling specific pieces, people buy into you—your personality, your style, your perspective. It doesn’t matter if you release a painting, a book, or a T-shirt; they want it because it came from you.
Think about the difference between a freelancer designing a logo for $500 and an influencer selling a $50 print of their art to 100 fans. One is tied to a specific task; the other is free to create what they love.
Why Building a Brand Changes Everything
When people trust and love you, not just your art, the whole game shifts. They’re not buying a product—they’re buying into a story, an experience, a connection. That’s why successful creators don’t just build businesses; they build brands.
Here’s an example: Banksy doesn’t sell art. Banksy sells Banksy. People aren’t just buying the spray paint on a wall; they’re buying into the mystery, the rebellion, the cultural statement.
How to Start Building Your Brand
- Be Real: Share your process, your thoughts, your mistakes. People connect with authenticity, not perfection.
- Tell Your Story: Why do you create? What do you care about? Let people in on your “why.”
- Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments, ask questions, and make your fans feel like part of your journey.
- Diversify Your Offerings: Try prints, merch, digital products, workshops—whatever feels like you.
- Stay Consistent: Show up regularly so people remember you.
The Key Takeaway
People don’t just love art—they love artists. The moment you stop focusing on just selling what you make and start letting people fall in love with who you are, everything changes. You’re no longer just an artist; you’re a brand, and that’s where the magic (and money) happens.
