Ask an Artist: How do I start selling my art online?
Updated: 5 days ago
Ask an Artist: How Did You Start Selling Your First Pieces of Art and How Can I Sell My Own?
One of the most common questions I receive from aspiring artists is:
How do I start selling my art online?
I totally understand the origin of this question. When you begin your artistic journey, selling your work can feel intimidating. But trust me, it's absolutely possible. You don't need a large following or a fancy website to get started.
Let me share how I made my first sales and offer advice to help you do the same.
My First Art Sales: From Instagram to Commissions
When I first started sharing my artwork online, I didn’t have a big plan to sell it. I simply wanted to connect with others and showcase my art. I began posting regularly on Instagram, sharing pieces I had created and snippets of my creative process.
What surprised me was how quickly things began to happen. After sharing a few pieces, I received direct messages from people interested in commissions. That’s how I secured my first paid work! They liked my art and wanted something unique made just for them.
Here’s the key: You don’t need to overthink it. Just share your art. By putting it out there, you’ll be amazed at how many people resonate with your work and reach out for commissions.
The Power of Personal Connections
While social media was crucial, I also sold my art through personal connections. At a networking event, I spoke with someone who admired my work. They asked if I would illustrate their book. That opportunity led to my first big commission, a project I cherish greatly.
It’s essential to remember that in-person connections matter just as much as online ones. Whether you’re chatting in a coffee shop, at a networking event, or even at the grocery store, you never know when a casual conversation could lead to a commission.
Free Channels to Share Your Art
Many free channels let you share your artwork—Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and TikTok. You don’t need a huge following to start selling your art; you just need to dive in. The more you share, the more people will see your work. This increases your chances of connecting with those who will love it.
Feeling nervous about sharing your art is completely normal. Start small. You can block friends and family from seeing your posts if that makes you feel more comfortable. Just take that first step. Remember: the more you share, the more opportunities you'll have to sell your work.
Overcoming Fear of Rejection
Many artists fear rejection. It’s a natural feeling. You might worry that others won’t appreciate your work. However, remember that art is subjective. Not everyone will connect with every piece, and that’s okay.
Focus on your passion for creating. When you share your joy with the world, you'll attract those who appreciate your style. Every artist faces rejection at some point. Use it as a learning experience to improve and refine your craft.
Engaging with Your Audience
Once you start sharing your art, it’s vital to engage with your audience. Respond to comments on your posts and acknowledge the support from your fans. This helps foster a community around your art.
Consider hosting live sessions or Q&As where you can share more about your process. Building a relationship with your audience can lead to more commissions and sales. The more they know you, the more likely they are to connect with your work.
Promoting Your Art
Promotion can seem challenging, especially for new artists. However, it’s a crucial part of selling your art. Share behind-the-scenes content and create stories about your work. This provides insight into your process, making your art even more relatable.
Explore collaborations with other artists. This can introduce your work to new audiences. You can also participate in art fairs or local markets to showcase your pieces in person. This way, you reach a different segment of potential customers.
The Key Takeaway
So, how do you start selling your art? The answer is simple: just begin. Share your work both online and in person. Don’t stress about what others think. The right people will find you, and soon enough, you’ll receive messages for commissions, just like I did.
Don’t wait for the “perfect moment” to start selling. Start now, share what you love, and explore where it takes you.
I wrote another blog post a while ago where I list many online marketplaces and resources to help you along the way:
How do I start selling my art online?
Embrace your creativity! Remember, everyone starts somewhere. With perseverance and passion, you will find your unique path in the art world.
