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How Do Artists Make Money?

How do you make money as an artist? Many people who aren’t artists wonder this, and many seasoned artists wonder the same thing! Of course artists know that to make money, you must sell work. But there other methods of making money that you may not be aware of. Here are the top 10 ways that artists can make money. Each has a short description and a link to an article full of expert advice. Use this quick reference guide to help you make it as a career artist.

Commercial Galleries

Commercial galleries typically sell artists’ works at a commission. The typical commission that galleries take is somewhere between 40% and 50% of the sale of the work. This is determined by the contract. Whether you submit your work for sale by consignment or enter into an ongoing relationship with a gallery, the parameters should all be written down in a contract. We have put together two guides for you.

One is: Are Commercial Galleries Essential to Artists Careers?.

The other is: How to Get Gallery Representation

These essential articles will help you navigate the commercial gallery system.

Nonprofit Galleries

Nonprofit galleries typically show work that is young, edgier, and cutting edge. Depending on the gallery, they will take a commission – usually not more than 30%. Nonprofit galleries typically do not “represent” artists or enter into contractual relationships with them.

READ: 411 on non-profit galleries near you