Being an artist in 2026 can be a wild ride. A lot of artists are now entering the creative space with a primary goal to make money off of it, get big on social media, or both. There's nothing wrong with wanting those things...but is that why you are really doing this? This is a question I have asked myself recently 🖼️
I want to share a little honest perspective as a career artist. I make my living off my art, and there are days, sometimes weeks at a time that I sell absolutely nothing. I have a pretty strong social presence, but there are still times that I post things that get almost zero response. I share this because I want to help some of you with setting expectations, but also to let you know that even artists that do this for a living go through these things. It can be an emotional rollercoaster, though one I have no intention of getting off. Don't be fooled by the smoke and mirrors you see on social media though. Anyone with a phone can post whatever they want. It doesn't mean it is true and honest. Don't get lost in the comparisons either. You are on your own journey...your own ride 🧑🎨
If you're struggling with sales or numbers, it does not mean you are a failure. These are not the gauges of your value, and certainly not the only measures of success. I've actually been making a conscious choice lately to get back to my roots, making sure I'm putting the art first. I didn't get into art because I wanted to be famous or make millions off my creations. I got into art because I needed a healthy place to put the things I needed to pull out of me. As I've grown, the importance of helping others has grown for me as well. Don't lose sight of why you started making your art. If you put the art first, you really can't go wrong. Everything else is just extra. If you are true and honest to your passion, that other stuff can definitely follow in due time. Stay the course. Keep going. Never stop creating ❤️
I am a career artist with decades in the industry. I have worked with galleries, exhibited at Miami Art Week, and have work in the collections of celebrities, businesses, and private collectors around the world. I offer a ton of free support for artists, and would love for you to join me on this journey. It hasn't been easy for me, and that's why I choose to give back for those coming up alongside me and behind me 🙏