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How to Start an Art Business – An Easy Guide for Aspiring Artists
![art business business plan Avatar for Isabella Meyer](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/gravatars/isabella-meyer.png)
Are you ready to turn your passion for art into a thriving business? Embarking on the journey of starting an art business is like stepping into a colorful canvas of possibilities. From crafting captivating pieces to navigating the art market’s intricate brushstrokes, this adventure promises a blend of creativity, strategy, and a dash of entrepreneurial spirit. Get ready to unleash your artistic vision and dive into the exciting world of building your own art empire!
Table of Contents
- 1 Key Takeaways
- 2.1 Clarifying Your Mission and Business Goals
- 2.2 Establishing Your Brand and What It Stands For
- 2.3 Conducting Market Research
- 2.4 Analyzing Competition
- 2.5 Creating Your Financial Plan
- 3.1 Registering Your Business
- 3.2 Understanding Taxes and Finances
- 3.3 Setting Up Operations
- 4.1 Building an Online Presence
- 4.2 Developing Pricing and Sales Tactics
- 4.3 Building a Loyal Customer Base
- 4.4 Expanding Your Market Reach
- 4.5 Staying Informed and Adapting to Change
- 5.1 Curating Your Product Line
- 5.2 Nurturing Customer Relationships
- 5.3 Operational Efficiency and Growth
- 6.1 What Strategies Can I Use to Start an Art Business from Home With Limited Resources?
- 6.2 How Much Initial Investment Is Typically Required to Launch an Art Business?
- 6.3 What Are Some Viable Avenues for a Beginner to Sell Art and Start an Art Business?
Key Takeaways
- Crafting a clear business plan is essential for direction and growth.
- Legal and logistical preparations underpin a stable art business framework.
- Effective marketing and relationship-building are pivotal for long-term success.
Developing Your Art Business Plan
Starting an art business is a venture that requires careful planning and dedication. This process begins with a comprehensive understanding of your target market and the development of a unique artistic identity. By analyzing the art industry’s trends and consumer behavior, aspiring entrepreneurs can tailor their strategies to carve out a niche for themselves. A good business plan is not only a roadmap for guiding your business to growth but is also essential for navigating through the complexities of the art market.
![art business business plan Marketing an Art Business](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Marketing-an-Art-Business.jpg)
Operating a successful art business also involves handling the logistical aspects, such as legal requirements, licenses, and the effective management of inventory and finances. The artistic aspect of the venture must be complemented with strong marketing and sales strategies. Pricing artworks strategically and promoting them effectively to build a loyal collector base are key elements to making the business thrive. Consistency in quality and service, alongside networking and word-of-mouth marketing, plays a crucial role in establishing a successful art career.
Clarifying Your Mission and Business Goals
An art business plan should start with a clear mission statement that defines the purpose and direction of the business. The mission should encompass not only the artistic vision but also the business objectives.
Business goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART), setting a clear trajectory for growth and profitability.
Establishing Your Brand and What It Stands For
Building a brand identity involves more than just a memorable logo; it’s about cultivating a unique selling proposition that sets the art business apart. This requires a deep understanding of the target market and how the business’s art addresses their needs and preferences. Branding extends to every aspect of the business, from the art itself to customer service and marketing materials.
![art business business plan How to Establish an Art Brand](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/How-to-Establish-an-Art-Brand.jpg)
Conducting Market Research
Comprehensive market research is fundamental in identifying the target market and understanding market trends. This research should consist of analyzing data on potential customers, their purchasing habits, and preferences related to art. Data collection methods can range from surveys and interviews to studying industry reports.
This information is pivotal in guiding business decisions and marketing strategies.
Analyzing Competition
An art business must understand the landscape of its competition to succeed. This involves identifying direct and indirect competitors and critiquing their strengths and weaknesses. A competitive analysis should reveal gaps in the market that the business can exploit and inform the development of competitive strategies.
![art business business plan Analysing Competition](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Analysing-Competition.jpg)
Creating Your Financial Plan
Lastly, a thorough financial plan is critical. This includes startup costs, ongoing expenses, pricing strategies, and revenue projections. The financial plan should outline required funding sources, strategies for maintaining cash flow, and long-term plans for financial sustainability and profitability.
It should also include a break-even analysis to determine when the business will likely become profitable.
Legalities and Logistics
Navigating the formalities of starting an art business is crucial. Artists must ensure that their venture is legally sound and operationally efficient by addressing business registration, tax obligations, and operational setup.
![art business business plan Develop an Art Business Plan](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Develop-an-Art-Business-Plan.jpg)
Registering Your Business
For any artist turning their passion into a business venture, choosing a business structure is the first step. The choice between a sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC), or a corporation influences liability, taxes, and compliance requirements. They should then register the chosen entity with the secretary of state. Most businesses will require a business license, which varies depending on location and industry. Art businesses may also need specific licenses and permits to operate legally.
When considering the structure for your art business, several options can suit your needs.
A sole proprietorship is the simplest to establish, although it exposes the owner to personal liability. Opting for an LLC provides liability protection but involves a bit more complexity in setup. On the other hand, forming a corporation is ideal for larger enterprises with shareholders, offering distinct advantages in terms of structure and governance. Choose the structure that aligns best with your business goals and growth plans.
To kickstart your art business officially, follow these key steps in the registration process. Begin by checking the availability of your chosen business name to ensure uniqueness and compliance. Next, file the necessary registration documents with the secretary of state, laying the legal foundation for your enterprise. Don’t forget to secure any required licenses and permits, ensuring that your business operates smoothly within legal frameworks. With these steps completed, you’re ready to embark on your artistic journey with a solid legal footing.
Understanding Taxes and Finances
Art businesses must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, which is essential for tax purposes, especially if the business hires employees. Understanding the distinction between personal expenses and business expenses is vital for tax reporting and deductions. Artists should separate finances by opening a business bank account, ensuring transparency and simplifying accounting. Staying informed about tax obligations, including income, self-employment, and sales tax, ensures compliance and financial health.
![art business business plan Legalities of an Art Business](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Legalities-of-an-Art-Business.jpg)
Setting Up Operations
Operational logistics involve organizing the backend of an art business to create a smooth workflow. Ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations is part of this process. An art entrepreneur must establish clear operational protocols for production, inventory management, shipping, and receiving. Depending on the scale of the business, this might require setting up a studio or workshop space that complies with local zoning laws and safety standards.
To ensure smooth operations for your art business, follow this essential checklist.
First, establish a dedicated studio or workspace where your creativity can flourish. Next, focus on producing and managing your inventory efficiently to meet demand and optimize resources. Finally, set up effective shipping and receiving protocols to ensure timely delivery and customer satisfaction. With these key elements in place, your art business can thrive with organized and streamlined operations. By addressing these legalities and logistics, artists lay a solid foundation for their art business, positioning themselves for success in the competitive market.
Marketing and Sales Strategies
Marketing and sales strategies are crucial for turning artistic talent into a profitable venture. A robust approach involves establishing a strong online presence, developing effective pricing and sales tactics, cultivating a loyal customer base, and expanding market reach while being adaptable to change.
![art business business plan How to Advertise Your Art](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/How-to-Advertise-Your-Art.jpg)
Building an Online Presence
Artists must leverage online platforms to showcase and sell their work. A professional website, preferably built with a reliable website builder like Wix, should elegantly display the artist’s portfolio. Integrating an online store and utilizing social media platforms for promotion are key.
Regular blogging and sending out newsletters can help in keeping the audience engaged.
Developing Pricing and Sales Tactics
Determining the right price for artwork involves a calculated pricing strategy that considers costs, market value, and target customers. Artwork must be priced competitively yet ensure a fair profit. Sales can be augmented through various sales channels including Etsy, personal websites, and local art fairs.
![art business business plan Logistics of an Art Business](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Logistics-of-an-Art-Business.jpg)
Building a Loyal Customer Base
To nurture a loyal customer base, artists should focus on branding and customer experience. Engaging with customers through social media, appreciating their purchases, and providing excellent after-sales support can foster loyalty.
Referral programs and exclusive offers for repeat buyers are effective tactics.
Expanding Your Market Reach
Expansion of market reach might involve exploring new sales channels or tapping into different demographics. Participation in local art fairs and exploring wholesale options are examples. Paid advertisements and collaborations with influencers can also increase visibility.
![art business business plan Setting up an Art Business](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Setting-up-an-Art-Business.jpg)
Staying Informed and Adapting to Change
The art market is dynamic, and successful artists stay informed about industry trends. They adjust their marketing strategy according to the latest marketing tools and customer preferences.
This might involve updating pricing, trying new promotional techniques, or exploring fresh marketing channels.
Managing Your Art Business
Successful art business management hinges on curating an exceptional product line, developing robust customer relationships, and implementing operational efficiencies for sustained growth.
![art business business plan Managing an Art Business](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Managing-an-Art-Business.jpg)
Curating Your Product Line
An artist’s portfolio is the backbone of their art business. To ensure a strong product line, they must assess the quality and diversity of their artwork. It is essential to have a mix of original art, art prints, paintings, sculptures, and even greeting cards to cater to a wider audience. Inventory management is crucial, and keeping track of stock levels helps in preventing oversupply or stockouts.
Maintaining a high standard of quality across all products reinforces the art brand’s reputation.
Nurturing Customer Relationships
Customer service should never be an afterthought in an art business. A loyal customer base is built through excellent service, responsive communication, and reliable shipping practices. Tailoring services such as art classes or consultations can enhance the value offered to clients. Further, an art business should have a recognizable logo and a clear positioning strategy that serves as its unique selling proposition, aiding in cultivating a strong, trustworthy relationship with customers.
![art business business plan Develop Art Business Relationships](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Develop-Art-Business-Relationships.jpg)
Operational Efficiency and Growth
Scaling an art business involves not just creative talent, but also operational savvy. Integrating systems for better handling of orders, shipping, and inventory can streamline the business and allow for more time to be spent on producing art. Exploring art business ideas like online marketplaces, partnerships, and social media can provide avenues for expansion. An art brand should be agile, constantly evaluating its growth strategies to adapt to the ever-evolving market.
As you wrap up your artistic odyssey into the realm of entrepreneurship, remember that starting an art business is not just about selling artworks—it’s about cultivating a brand, connecting with your audience, and continuously evolving as an artist. Embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth, stay true to your creative vision, and let your passion for art fuel your journey towards success. With a palette of perseverance and a canvas of innovation, your art business can flourish, leaving a lasting impression on the vibrant tapestry of the art world. Cheers to your artistic endeavors and may your business thrive like a masterpiece on display!
Frequently Asked Questions
What strategies can i use to start an art business from home with limited resources.
One can start an art business from home by crafting a clear business plan that outlines the artistic identity, target market, and financial goals. Leveraging free or low-cost online marketing tools like social media can also be a strategic way to reach potential customers without a significant upfront investment.
How Much Initial Investment Is Typically Required to Launch an Art Business?
The initial investment for launching an art business varies. It can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on factors such as studio space, materials, marketing, and necessary equipment. Artists should prepare a budget to anticipate these costs and manage their resources effectively.
What Are Some Viable Avenues for a Beginner to Sell Art and Start an Art Business?
Beginners can explore selling their art through online marketplaces, social media platforms, local art fairs, and community events. Creating a professional website can also provide a centralized platform for showcasing and selling their work. Networking with other artists and connecting with galleries interested in emerging talent are additional avenues to consider.
![art business business plan isabella meyer](https://artincontext.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/isabella-meyer.png)
Isabella studied at the University of Cape Town in South Africa and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English Literature & Language and Psychology. Throughout her undergraduate years, she took Art History as an additional subject and absolutely loved it. Building on from her art history knowledge that began in high school, art has always been a particular area of fascination for her. From learning about artworks previously unknown to her, or sharpening her existing understanding of specific works, the ability to continue learning within this interesting sphere excites her greatly.
Her focal points of interest in art history encompass profiling specific artists and art movements, as it is these areas where she is able to really dig deep into the rich narrative of the art world. Additionally, she particularly enjoys exploring the different artistic styles of the 20 th century, as well as the important impact that female artists have had on the development of art history.
Learn more about Isabella Meyer and the Art in Context Team .
Cite this Article
Isabella, Meyer, “How to Start an Art Business – An Easy Guide for Aspiring Artists.” Art in Context. April 4, 2024. URL: https://artincontext.org/how-to-start-an-art-business/
Meyer, I. (2024, 4 April). How to Start an Art Business – An Easy Guide for Aspiring Artists. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/how-to-start-an-art-business/
Meyer, Isabella. “How to Start an Art Business – An Easy Guide for Aspiring Artists.” Art in Context , April 4, 2024. https://artincontext.org/how-to-start-an-art-business/ .
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BUSINESS STRATEGIES
How to start an art business in 8 steps
- Maddy Osman
![art business business plan How to start an art business](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/a77aa0_638c38b96f0847018a4a3f62f4216af4~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_46,h_30,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/a77aa0_638c38b96f0847018a4a3f62f4216af4~mv2.png)
Whether you’re a professional artist or a craft enthusiast—starting an art business can be a fun and profitable venture. You get to do what you love while showcasing your skill to the world and earning revenue from it.
Art business owners in the U.S. make around $69,553 per year on average. However, you need good strategy and planning to run a successful art business.
In this guide, we’ll discuss how to start a business focused around your art, along with tips and best practices to help you build your creative venture in 2024.
What is an art business?
An art business is a creative business venture that sells art-based products and services for a profit. It may also be considered a type of service business . Some examples of art businesses are:
Artwork sales and exhibitions
Artwork commissions
Art classes and tutorials
Hosting events and building exclusive communities for artists
![art business business plan how to start an art business](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/41e17b_82e7b94eb7244aa990afb988877e429e~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_49,h_27,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/41e17b_82e7b94eb7244aa990afb988877e429e~mv2.png)
Why start an art business?
Straits Research expects the global art market to hit $889.86 billion by 2032 . People spend considerably on art. In 2022, 34% of respondents in a survey spent between $1,000 to $5,000 purchasing art and collectibles.
These figures probably sound exciting if you’re a part-time or full-time artist or want to start a homegrown small business.
However, starting an art business isn’t just about profits. Many art business owners started their companies to do what they love while working a flexible schedule, which works great for new moms, students and others in a time crunch.
Types of art businesses to start
Art businesses come in many types. Broadly, they generally fall into one of these categories.
Art lessons
If you’re an experienced artist or have a knack for teaching, teaching art classes can be a great idea. You can be a private art tutor or host in-person group classes for kids or adults. Fun painting events like hosting wine and paint sessions for adults are also popular.
Online lessons are a great way to monetize your creative knowledge. You can pre-record video tutorials, teach live classes or hold occasional masterclasses. The Wix Video Maker is a useful tool to create polished art lesson videos that you can share on your website and social media platforms.
Selling paintings
Selling paintings, or any other artwork, is one of the most common ways to start an art business. Exhibitions, auctions, art galleries, online artist marketplaces like Etsy or your own ecommerce website are common ways to sell finished artworks.
![art business business plan how to start an art business - sell, ecommerce](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/185337_3c3d6c2bef684a0e983aa7d42173a2f5~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_74,h_49,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/185337_3c3d6c2bef684a0e983aa7d42173a2f5~mv2.png)
Another option is to consider working on a commission basis and creating customized art pieces.
You can use a landing page builder with your terms, conditions and contact details to quickly be ready to accept commission-based art orders. Promoting your availability on your social media accounts is a great way to get the word out. Wix has a large library of website templates that simplify creating an online store and listing your art products.
![art business business plan how to start a art business - website templates](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/41e17b_73e4f52c51a742f3b0288eb9db1042cd~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_46,h_32,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/41e17b_73e4f52c51a742f3b0288eb9db1042cd~mv2.png)
Comics and animations
Comics aren’t just for kids. Animated films, shorts and comics are wildly popular with children and adults. The global comic book market is huge and estimated to be worth $15,214 million in 2024.
The internet makes it easier for indie artists to compete, with profit-sharing comic collectives, individual websites, subscription tipping platforms like Patreon and social media all providing great ways to get your art seen.
![art business business plan how to start an art business, animations and comics](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/41e17b_6da612ba44ab4226801fa5f8e3840e38~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_49,h_28,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/41e17b_6da612ba44ab4226801fa5f8e3840e38~mv2.png)
Art supplies store
If you’re searching for how to start an art business , but aren’t that confident in your art skills, an art supplies store is a great option. With an art supplies store, you can target a wide range of audiences, including professional artists, hobbyists and budding painters.
NFT exchanges
Non-fungible token (NFT) exchanges are a rather new but growing type of art business. These are digital art assets that you can sell through blockchain platforms. In March 2024, NFT art CryptoPunk #3100 sold for a whopping $16 million.
However, creating and selling NFT art comes with its own risks due to fluctuations in cryptocurrency values and scams. You need to tread carefully if you want to sell NFT art.
How to start an art business in 6 steps
Create a business plan
Select a business structure
Acquire relevant permits and licenses
Obtain business financing or capital
Set up accounting and bookkeeping services
Source specific art equipment
Register your art business
Develop marketing strategies for your art business
01. Create a business plan
The first step in how to start an art business is to create a plan. Creating a business plan has many advantages. It acts as a roadmap when making important business decisions and helps showcase your vision when talking with investors or raising funds.
Ideally, the plan covers all business details, including the business name, type, target audience, marketing strategy and pricing strategy. While some aspects may change as your business grows, creating an initial plan serves as a blueprint to kickstart your own art business.
![art business business plan how to start an art business - business plan](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/a77aa0_e42afe95fe844cb5a76e8d8d39c49cc1~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_49,h_32,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/a77aa0_e42afe95fe844cb5a76e8d8d39c49cc1~mv2.png)
It should include important business information, such as your target market, executive summary, marketing strategy , financial projections, type of business you plan to start and your choice of a business name .
Here’s an art business plan template to get you started:
Art business plan template
Executive Summary
Business Name: [Your Art Business Name]
Business Structure: [Sole Proprietorship/Partnership/LLC/Corporation]
Location: [City, State]
Founding Date: [Month, Year]
Founders/Owners: [Names]
Mission Statement: [Concise statement of the business’s purpose]
Business Description
Overview: Briefly describe your art business and key services
Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Clearly define what sets your art business apart from competitors.
Target Market: Identify your primary customer demographic and market segment.
Services and Amenities
List and describe the services you offer, emphasizing your skills and expertise.
Market Analysis
Industry Overview: Provide an overview of the art industry, including trends and growth projections.
Competitor Analysis: Identify key competitors and analyze their strengths and weaknesses.
Target Audience: Define your target client profile and their preferences.
Marketing and Sales Strategy
Marketing Plan: Outline your strategies for promoting the business, both online and offline.
Pricing Strategy: Detail your fee structure and any promotional pricing.
Sales Tactics: Describe how you will attract clients and secure projects.
Operational Plan
Location and Facilities: Describe your office location and facilities.
Suppliers: List and describe key suppliers for materials and services.
Staffing: Outline your staffing plan, including roles and responsibilities.
Financial Plan
Startup Costs: Detail initial investment requirements and startup expenses.
Revenue Projections: Provide realistic revenue projections for the first 3-5 years.
Operating Costs: Outline ongoing operating expenses, including utilities, software and staff salaries.
Funding Requirements: Specify any funding needed and potential sources (loans, investors).
Funding Proposal
Purpose of Funding: Clearly state how the funds will be utilized.
Amount Needed: Specify the amount of funding required.
Repayment Plan: Outline the proposed repayment plan for loans or investments.
Risk Analysis
Identify potential risks and challenges that may impact the success of your music business.
Develop strategies to mitigate and manage these risks.
Include any additional documents or information relevant to your business plan.
Examples: Portfolio samples, resumes of key team members, mock-ups of design proposals.
Summarize the key points of your business plan and highlight the potential success of your music business.
Conclude with a call to action or next steps.
Note: This template serves as a general guide. Adjust and expand sections based on your specific business model and goals.
02. Select a business structure
When starting your art business, it's important to choose the right business entity or structure that aligns with your goals. Consider options like a sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC ) or corporation .
The structure of your business impacts its legal, financial and tax aspects. So, carefully weigh the pros and cons of all business models before you make a choice.
Depending on the number of stakeholders and type of business you intend to start, you can register as a sole proprietor, a limited liability corporation (LLC) or a partnership.
Learn more: How to start an LLC
![art business business plan how to start an art business - business entities](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1f6616_6de2219950944904b53e574b1fa224a9~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_49,h_43,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/1f6616_6de2219950944904b53e574b1fa224a9~mv2.png)
03. Acquire relevant permits and licenses
Depending on your location, you may need a business license from your state, county and city. You may also need a food service permit if you choose to have food or drink onsite (such as for wine and paint events).
Learn more: How to get a business license
04. Obtain business financing or capital
Your new art business might need external funding. Secure these funds through investors, loans and grants created for art businesses.
![art business business plan how to start an art business - how to raise money for a business, 5 ways](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/46e2e0_b0c5a6e7386a4c1e96ed8566c37f23dc~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_46,h_43,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/46e2e0_b0c5a6e7386a4c1e96ed8566c37f23dc~mv2.png)
05. Set up accounting and bookkeeping systems
Keeping track of finances is essential, regardless of profit level. Set up a dedicated bookkeeper or use accounting software to track finances, including the funding and expenditures from setting up the business.
06. Source specific art equipment
You’ll need to purchase equipment and supplies. This may include exhibition material, furniture, drawing tablets or even a laptop to run your business operations.
07. Register your art business
Depending on your chosen business structure, such as an LLC, you may need to register your business. You’ll also need to think about registering your artwork for copyright protection.
While your artwork has an immediate copyright the moment you create it in many cases, you often still need to register your copyright to gain additional protections, such as the right to sue in Federal court should someone copy your art without your permission.
Learn more: How to register a business
![art business business plan how to start an art business - register a business](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/46e2e0_404465317c8d40e896be9fa5152fa285~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_46,h_40,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/46e2e0_404465317c8d40e896be9fa5152fa285~mv2.png)
Learn more: How to get a business license
08. Develop marketing strategies for your art business
There are multiple ways to market an art business, including distributing flyers, running ads or even spreading word of mouth.
Consider the requirements of your business and choose a suitable marketing strategy that’s within your budget.
If you have a business website, you can also promote it on social media. Wix helps you run ads on Facebook and Instagram directly from your website dashboard.
How to run a successful art business
Once your art business is up, you need effective strategies to keep it profitable. Here are some tips on how to run an art business for profitability:
Analyze your competitors: Learn about the products, services and marketing techniques they use to help identify gaps in your business.
Consider your target audience: A business selling comics to teenagers will require a different marketing and product strategy than an artist selling custom modern art pieces.
Personalize the sales process: Remember crucial details about the client and use them to enhance the customer's experience.
How to promote your art business
Here’s how you can increase the reach of your art business:
01. Create a website
Creating a website is one of the best ways to promote your art business online. You can either build a portfolio website to showcase all your artwork or set up an e-commerce store to sell your art online.
If you have limited web design experience, try the AI website builder by Wix. It helps you build polished and customizable art business websites in a few minutes using prompts.
02. Publish your work on social media
Social media platforms act as a huge virtual marketplace, with over five billion users in 2024. Publishing your work on social media helps you build an online presence, reach a wider audience and tap into diverse target markets.
03. Collaborate with affiliate websites
Affiliate websites promote your artwork in exchange for a commission or flat fee. Find reputed and trustworthy affiliate websites in the art industry and collaborate with them to list your artwork.
04. Network with other artists in your community
Other experienced artists can often help guide you in running a profitable art business. Visit art fairs and galleries and network with others in the local art community.
You can also search online forums if there are no in-person networking events around you.
Art businesses to inspire (all built on Wix)
Many art businesses use Wix to create their business website . Here are a couple of examples:
Hothaus is an Australia-based glassblowing studio run by two talented artists. Their website is an online store for their products, a platform to showcase their artwork, facilitates class bookings and displays testimonials and reviews.
Chelsea McShane Art
Chelsea McShane is an artist from the U.S. who sells art prints, frames and acrylic artwork through her website. The website narrates the artist’s story, answers FAQs and includes contact forms for her interior design services.
Benefits of starting an art business
An art business offers many benefits, including:
Flexible scheduling for side hustles
Creative outlet
Ability to be your own boss
Challenges of running an art business
Like any other business, an art business comes with risks. The biggest challenge is often that you need to wear multiple hats to manage clients, market and create products.
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How profitable is an art business?
The art market is a generally profitable niche with a substantial financial growth every year. Total art market sales ran about $39.4 million in 2023.
However, the profitability of individual art businesses depends on many factors, such as location, product, demand and pricing.
How to start an art business FAQ
How much does it cost to start an art business.
The cost of starting an art business depends on the type of business, products or services sold and the marketing strategies used. You need to factor in the cost of art supplies, salaries and the day-to-day expenses of your business.
Can an inexperienced artist sell art?
How do i price my artwork, other business ideas you might be interested in.
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An Artist’s Guide to Making a Business Plan (In Just 6 Steps)
Artwork Archive | October 25, 2016 (Updated September 20, 2022)
![art business business plan](https://d1zdxptf8tk3f9.cloudfront.net/ckeditor_assets/pictures/2408/content_desk58.jpg)
Being a professional artist involves more than being skilled with paints or clay—you actually become a small business owner!
So, where do you begin? By creating a business plan, of course! That’s why we’ve come up with an outline for artists to follow, so you can better understand your art business and develop a step-by-step strategy for success.
So when you are ready to carve out a half hour or so, follow along this guide (or bookmark it for when you are ready) and start writing down a plan to take your art career to the next level:
1. YOUR BUSINESS
A. Mission Statement
Figure out what your mission is by asking yourself the question, “why do you want to be a professional artist?” We doubt that it’s all about the money, but be honest with yourself about what it is about. Let this answer, and the passion you feel when you write it down, drive every other aspect of developing your art business.
B. Vision Statement
Your vision statement should describe where you want to take your art business in the future. But, success means something different to each and every artist. Do you want to be famous? Leave a legacy? Change the way people interact with art? Get rich? Do you want gallery representation? The answer is up to you.
Now, depending on your definition of success, develop short-term and long-term goals that will keep you on track. Try to set goals for each of the following: the next three months, six months, one year, three years, and five years. (Visualizing your art career like this will help you see the natural progression of steps to take, erasing the pressure to become an overnight success!)
Take this goal-setting advice from Catherine Orer , business and PR strategist for artists: “‘Quitting my day job to do art full time’ or ‘sell my art’ are not clear career goals.” Instead, Catherine asks you to dig deeper: “What type of career do you want? How much do you want to earn?” Spelling out exactly what you want to do will help you take the actual steps.
2. YOUR CUSTOMER
The next step is to identify who your ideal client is so you can market your artwork in the most effective way possible. Start by answering these questions:
What age group or income level can afford your pieces?
What are your client’s goals and how does your art help the client achieve them?
Where do your customers buy art?
Where do these buyers live, travel, or hang out?
What are their hobbies? Attitudes? Style? Interests?
What type of buyers understand your work?
Why do your clients buy art?
What connection can you find between you, your art, and your buyers?
What kind of marketing would reach them best (word of mouth, email, social media)?
With these answers, you can set up a well thought out plan of attack for your art marketing strategy. You can go where your buyers go, form important relationships , and know exactly how to talk with them confidently about buying your artwork.
![art business business plan](https://d1zdxptf8tk3f9.cloudfront.net/ckeditor_assets/pictures/1169/content_red-hands-woman-creative.jpg)
3. YOUR COMPETITORS
Much like understanding your target customer, you can’t dive into the art business world without understanding the rest of the art market—and that means who you are competing with.
Take the time to research other artists that are similar to you. Do they have great connections in the art world? Do they need better photos of their artwork? What are their prices like? Figuring out both their strengths and weaknesses can help you develop a plan for your own art business and gain a competitive advantage.
4. YOUR FINANCES
A. Expenses
Like any business, you are going to have expenses. But, they don’t have to eat up your hard earned profits if you plan for them ahead of time! In this section of the art business plan, write down the costs of everything you can think of, from supplies to renting studio space.
Once you’ve created your itemized list, you will need to formulate a plan on how you are going to pay for everything at the start of your art business. Do you have savings built up? Do you need to apply for an artist grant ? How many pieces do you need to sell to cover all of your costs? Is crowdfunding a good option for you ?
The answers to those previous questions about funding will get you thinking about how much you need to charge for each piece to actually make a living as an artist. Check out “ How to Price Consistently for Art Sales Success ” to learn more about different pricing methods.
5. YOUR MARKETING
Based on the profile of your ideal buyer, settle on the exact marketing strategy that complements your art business. Think about which of these art marketing outlets you should use: social media, email newsletters, art fairs, galleries, blogging, etc.
B. Where to Sell
Whether you target physical galleries, sell online, network within artist associations, or rely on a mixture of opportunities, determine where your potential customers will have the most eyes on your art.
C. Your Story
The next step is to write down your story as an artist. This is one of the most important steps because it’s how you can form a worthwhile connection with your possible collectors. Write your artist statement by answering these 5 questions art buyers have about you .
6. YOUR PROCESS
List out every single step of your art business workflow , from creation to sale. This will help you truly understand how long the process takes and how you should plan your schedule.
Plus, it’s a handy document to refer back to it in case you get stuck on what to do next! Here’s an example of what your process could look like:
Buy supplies
Begin piece
Share work-in-progress pictures on social
Finish piece
Take photos of finished artwork
List piece and details on Artwork Archive
Put piece up on personal website
Share on social media
Email collectors
Submit artwork to upcoming show
Generate invoice
Record sale in Artwork Archive
Get your art business up and running! Use this business plan outline and sign up for your 14-day free trial of Artwork Archive here .
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Ask Yourself These 8 Questions to Become a Better Artist (and Business Owner)
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10 Things to Know When Learning How to Start an Art Business
- Last Updated: May 5, 2024
![How to Start an Art Business how to start an art business](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/How-to-Start-an-Art-Business-qhcj0owxe42oy7fcfywwhrof7jhofmkulcahy904gw.jpg)
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It’s hard to learn how to start an art business when you’re confused, scared, or both. Since I’ve been in your shoes before, I want to make the process a little easier so you can get selling.
I’ve been working as a commercial illustrator and designer for about a decade now and I have quite a few areas I stumbled through.
I’ll share some important starting points I wish I knew – or did more efficiently – when I started out.
The Key Elements to a Successful Art Career
Financial and social independence from a traditional nine-to-five, more creative fulfillment in your career, an additional source of income, selling original paintings, starting an online shop, becoming an active content creator, 3. a business plan will keep you focused, register with your local licensing department in the united states, register permits and/or licenses in canada, paypal is one of the most common payment methods, wise is a reliable international transfer system, stripe is a well-known online payment portal, start by understanding common contract clauses, try out a boilerplate contract or hire a contract lawyer, get a contract signing program or software, tax withholding is part of a successful business, consistent recordkeeping will be your savior, squarespace, hire a web designer, inbound marketing, outbound marketing – how to start an art business, word-of-mouth and networking, inventory management software, customer relationship management, accounting software – how to start an art business, starting an art business is hard, but far from impossible .
- Remind Yourself Why You Want to Start an Art Business
- It’s Vital to Narrow Down the Art Business You Want to Start
- A Business Plan Will Keep You Focused
- You’ll Need a Business License (Or Equivalent)
- Start Researching Different Payment Types
- Become Comfortable With Reading and Crafting Contracts
- Don’t Be Afraid of Tax Season (Trust Me, I Know)
- You’ll Need a Simple, Mobile-Friendly Website
- Most of Your Work Will Come Down to Marketing and Word-Of-Mouth
- Start Researching Tools to Make Running a Business Easier
1. Remind Yourself Why You Want to Start an Art Business
The why part of your art business is a non-negotiable element of success. When you’re struggling to make money or stand out in a sea of similar artists, the ‘why’ will keep you afloat during the ups and downs.
Around 18% of small businesses fail in their first year , while another 50% will fail after the first five years. One of the most common reasons for these statistics is running low on money or struggling to stand out amid similar businesses.
![Remind Yourself Why You Want to Start an Art Business remind yourself why you want to start an art business](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Art-Business.png)
Below are a few common reasons why artists will start their own art business, but keep in mind this is just a starting point. Your reasons could be entirely different and that’s a-okay.
Are you sick of long commutes or creatively stifling traditional employment environments? Unsurprisingly, nearly 30% of people who started a small business did so because they wanted to be their boss .
Other benefits you’ll enjoy once you step out of the corporate world is:
- Setting your schedule – work when you want, how you want
- Charge your prices and get more control over your income
- Better work-life balance such as more sleep and more time off
The flip side to this is how much responsibility is on your shoulders. You have to commit to a regular marketing strategy, study your industry, and commit to your decision despite all odds.
Another common reason to consider being a professional artist is to enjoy your work. If you have more fun running social media accounts and painting all day long, that’s reason enough to make the switch.
Job dissatisfaction is at an all-time high lately, with one recent study finding 50% of people are unhappy with their jobs on a daily basis. Your artwork could be the launching pad for more peace of mind and financial stability.
![More Creative Fulfillment in Your Career more creative fulfilment in your career](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Creative-Fulfillment.png)
However, there’s nothing wrong with choosing an art career for side income instead of main income. When you do art full-time, it can be difficult to take a break from client work to work on creative projects, which can lead to burnout if you’re not careful.
You’re not a lesser artist if you seek out an art business to make a bit more money. It’s never been easier to supplement your monthly income selling art prints or merchandise .
- Making crafts on Etsy such as knitted blankets or clay pots
- Selling original paintings
- Crafting custom figure sculptures
- Painting digital art to sell on crewneck sweatshirts and t-shirts
- Designing banners, icons, and templates for web designers
Now, you’ll likely have irregular income for the first year or two before you start building a reliable target audience. Even experienced artists can struggle to make consistent income from selling art online, so going in with reasonable expectations can soften the sting.
2. It’s Vital to Narrow Down the Art Business You Want to Start
Your own business will have unique demands (though there are commonalities to art businesses, too). Below are a few examples of different types of art businesses and what to expect.
If you’re a traditional painter who wants to sell paintings, you could work from your own home or be featured in exhibits with other artists .
Your art business would need to take into account:
- Studio space – do you have room to store all your paintings and supplies?
- Shipping costs – this will shave a percentage off what you make
- Potential tax – this percentage changes depending on where you live
![Art Business You Want to Start art business you want to start](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Art-Business-You-Want-to-Start.png)
Perhaps you’re more interested in selling prints and merchandise in an online shop like Redbubble , Etsy, or Printful .
Your challenges in running a successful art business would look more like the following:
- Potential sales tax – print-on-demand sites generally take care of this, but you should still be aware so you know how much you’ll make
- Managing an email marketing list – this is a very helpful marketing tool
- Using multiple marketing tools – you’ll also need to consider blogging, a social media account, or SEO to reach your audience
An increasingly popular choice for artists today is becoming a content creator – this can look like active content creation via a Patreon or a social media account like TikTok.
- Live streaming tools – lighting, camera, a mic
- Familiarity with social media platforms – posting schedules, culture, and terms of service
The function of a business plan is the guiding star to your business’s metaphorical ship. Just like your ‘why’ helps you keep going on an emotional level, a business plan will guide you to tried-and-true methods to financial success.
Here’s one example of using a business plan to cement your target audience and how you’ll maintain a competitive advantage.
![A Business Plan Will Keep You Focused a business plan that will keep you focused](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Business-Plan.png)
4. You’ll Need a Business License (Or Equivalent)
A successful art business needs to stay legally viable and that often takes the form of a license. I renew my license every year with my state’s licensing department after filling out brief online paperwork.
However, this step varies from country to country, so I’ll use a few examples:
Since I live in the United States, each state usually requires a license through the state’s licensing department. The fee will vary and you usually only have to renew your license once per year.
![Register With Your Local Licensing Department in the United States register with your local licensing department in the united states](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Licensing.png)
Depending on where you live and what kind of business you’re starting, you may need a mixture of permits and licenses in Canada. Similar to the States, the price and frequency of renewal will depend on the business you’re running.
It’s easy to get intimidated when it comes to paperwork and legal documents, but just ask a representative for help. You can chat with someone over the phone, do a video call, or sit down in person with a professional who will answer all your questions.
5. Start Researching Different Payment Types
Once you’ve started applying for licenses and permits, you can start looking into payment types. There’s more flexibility than ever in getting paid these days, but below are a few more common methods.
PayPal is one of the most widely used online payment processors, particularly for artists. I depend on it for the majority of my income since it’s used by nearly everyone these days.
![Wise paypal](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/PayPal.png)
However, PayPal is a little brutal when it comes to fees – they do fixed fees ranging from 2.59% to 3.09% for merchant and personal accounts. While they don’t charge anything to transfer money from one PayPal account to the next, transferring from other bank accounts or payment processors will cost you.
Another useful transfer system is Wise, most commonly used by people who have clients in other countries. They also charge much lower fees than PayPal.
Wise requires you to submit the details of a separate bank account, including a checking account where they can instantly deposit cash. These details won’t be seen by clients, so there’s no worry about your private information being leaked.
![Wise wise](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Wise.png)
Last but not least, Stripe is a flexible online payment portal that’s becoming more commonly used. They not only accept many currencies, but you can transfer money between many payment portals, too.
One of their biggest barriers is their limited in-person payment options. They’re more useful as an online tool for artists who do most – or all – of their business digitally .
![Stripe stripe](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Stripe.png)
6. Become Comfortable With Reading and Crafting Contracts
Contracts aren’t a fun part of your art career, but they’re an essential part of building client relationships and staying legally protected. Even a simple contract or NDA is a good starting point to make sure all parties know what’s being made, why, and with what usage rights.
Put simply, a clause is any section of a contract that outlines a duty, deadline or need. Some of the most common clauses you’ll see in artist contracts are:
- Deadline – when is the project due?
- Communication – how will the artist and client stay in touch?
- Materials – what does the client need to give the artist to do the job?
- Usage Rights – what is the client allowed to do with the art? What about the artist?
![Hire a Contract Lawyer hire a contract lawyer](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Hire-a-Contract-Lawyer.png)
Hiring a contract lawyer is a stress-free way of getting all your legal ducks in a row. If you can’t afford one – they can cost between $20 to $200 an hour – you can start off with a boilerplate.
Boilerplate contract templates list several of the legal basics in one generic document. You can then customize it to suit the needs of your state license and personal demands.
Need a starting point? Try Law Depot for free legal documents, forms, and contracts for artists .
There are many ways to sign a contract, though digital means are easily the most convenient. You can use signing programs like eSign or sign .pdfs with Adobe Acrobat.
7. Don’t Be Afraid of Tax Season (Trust Me, I Know)
One of the biggest reasons why artists are hesitant to go the self-employed route is self-employed taxes. Below are a few details you should know about to start off right.
Every dollar you make in the art world isn’t yours. In the United States, you have to slice out a small chunk of your income to pay self-employed taxes – quarterly or through a customized interval.
![How to Price Your Art how to price your art](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/How-to-Price-Your-Art.jpg)
Depending on where you live and the business you run, you may need to hold between 20% to 30% of your income for self-employed taxes. This is one of many reasons to learn how to price your art so you can make a tidy profit.
Don’t ‘wing it’ or keep sticky notes when it comes to personal finances. I keep a spreadsheet of every single dollar I make – before and after fees – and sum up the total every month so I stay accurate.
Many artists use recordkeeping software such as QuickBooks, which can automatically download bank information or print financial statements for loans.
8. You’ll Need a Simple, Mobile-Friendly Website
Did you know at least 52% of all web traffic comes from a mobile device like a phone or tablet? If your website doesn’t function or look good on mobile, you could be missing out on half of your potential customers.
Free and easy to use, Wix is one of the go-to choices for artists who need a polished art website. Their drag-and-drop technology makes it easy to organize fonts, images, and templates into the site you’ve always wanted.
![art business business plan wix](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Wix.png)
While they have no free versions, they have a flexible trial you can add an extra week onto if you need more time to decide. Check out their pricing and features here .
There are several benefits to hiring a web designer that are not possible with free or pre-made templates. You’ll get a unique site layout and plenty of control over the little details, such as animations or layout.
However, web designers cost far more than a free web builder or monthly subscription.
![Hire a Web Designer hire a web designer](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Web-Designer.png)
9. Most of Your Work Will Come Down to Marketing and Word-Of-Mouth
People can’t hire you if they don’t even know about you. Even the most skilled professional artists will struggle to get work without the following marketing efforts.
Inbound marketing is a term that refers to people finding you, rather than you reaching out to people. If you’ve ever punched a question into Google to find a product, you already know how this works.
- Social media sites
- Online store
![Marketing and Word-Of-Mouth marketing and word of the mouth](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Marketing-and-Word-Of-Mouth.png)
The opposite of inbound marketing is the more traditional outbound, where you reach out to your target customer to see if they’re interested.
- Sharing business cards
- Calling over the phone
- Sending out emails
These two words may be the bane of introverts, but they’re a must-have in the art industry. Whether you like to visit art fairs or want to sell products online, word-of-mouth and networking increase your chances of regular income.
Generating positive word-of-mouth can be done by simply being reliable and friendly. Networking can involve visiting art fairs or just talking to people on social media.
10. Start Researching Tools to Make Running a Business Easier
Don’t feel like you have to do it all. A few tools can be an absolute lifesaver with the stresses of starting a business.
If you’re thinking of starting an online business that involves packaging and sending out goods, inventory management software will save you a headache. This useful tool will improve accuracy, track packages, and create a better customer service experience overall.
![Inventory Management Software inventory management system](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Inventory-Management-Software.png)
SquareUp is one tool you can try, especially if you want to sell clothes, furniture, or tattoo designs.
When you need help keeping track of potential customers or reaching out to repeat customers, a contact management system will shoulder the work for you. Also known as a CRM, these programs keep track of emails and different types of customers such as prospects and leads.
A prospect is a person in your target market that may benefit from your business. A lead is a person who’s already shown interest in your work, such as contacting you or following you on social media.
![Content Management System content management system](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Contact-Management-System.png)
HubSpot has a free CRM I use regularly (alongside very helpful online digital marketing courses).
As touched on above in the tax section, accounting software is useful for tracking taxes as well as budgeting. For example, FreshBooks has a freelancer variation you might find useful.
![Accounting Software accounting software](https://artignition.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Accounting-Software.png)
From narrowing down your target audience to learning how to start selling products, starting an art business is hard. I’m living proof that it’s far from impossible!
Want to continue expanding your education on your way to a successful career? Check out our top three alternatives to an art school education here .
Related posts:
- How to Write an Artist Contract: Learn To Protect Your Creative Rights
- How to Make Money as an Artist: 12 Cool Ideas
- How to Sell Digital Art Online for Complete Beginners
- 20 Art Business Ideas to Help You Make Money (and Enjoy It!)
- The Top 10 Best Print-on-Demand Sites for Artists
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How to Start a Profitable Art Business [11 Steps]
Business steps:, 1. perform market analysis., are art businesses profitable, 2. draft a art business plan..
Creating a well-structured art business plan is essential for setting clear goals and mapping out the path to success. It serves as a comprehensive guide for your artistic venture, detailing the roadmap from concept to market. Here's a concise guide to help you draft an effective art business plan:
How does a Art business make money?
3. develop a art brand., how to come up with a name for your art business, 4. formalize your business registration., resources to help get you started:, 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for art., what licenses and permits are needed to run a art business, 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for art services., what does it cost to start a art business, 8. acquire art equipment and supplies., list of software, tools and supplies needed to start a art business:, 9. obtain business insurance for art, if required., 10. begin marketing your art services., 11. expand your art business..
- Sample Business Plans
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How to Wrtie an Artist business plan + Free Template
![art business business plan Executive summary image](https://static-web.upmetrics.co/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/First-Graphic-of-page-Cta-01.png)
Are you an artist—oil painter, singer, makeup artist, or writer ready to turn your passion into a profitable business?
If yes, and about to start your own art business; wait a moment!
You will need to think about resources and funding for navigating the ins and outs of an artistic journey.
Also, you need to specify if there’s a significant market for your business to be successful, what potential customers expect from you, and who are your competitors.
However, having a solid business plan is an essential tool to answer all these questions, and this artist business plan will surely help you!
It will guide you through all the important aspects of an effective artist business plan. It not only fuels your creativity but also paves the way for a sustainable and prosperous artistic venture.
But before diving right into the plan; let’s find some interesting facts about the creative art industry.
![art business business plan sample business plan](https://static-web.upmetrics.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/25174316/sample-business-plan.png)
Free Business Plan Template
Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!
- Fill in the blanks – Outline
- Financial Tables
Creative Art Industry Outlook 2024
- The United States has been firmly holding its position as the leading global art market for the past few years, generating roughly 45% of the global sales value.
- The revenue of performing arts companies in the U.S. will amount to roughly $19,6 billion by 2024, while for independent artists, it will amount to approximately $23,1 billion .
- There are 71,828 people employed in the US musical groups and artists industry till 2023.
- The number of people increased 0.4% on average over the five years between 2018 and 2023.
- Zippia estimates that artists are 70% more likely to work at private companies as compared to public sectors.
Now, without further ado; let’s delve into the key components you need to include in your creative business plan.
Key Components of an Art Business Plan (w/ examples)
- Executive Summary
- Business Overview
- Market Analysis
- Product and Services
- Sales and Marketing Strategies
- Operations Plan
- Management Team
- Financial Plan
1. Executive Summary
An executive summary is the initial chapter intended to provide a quick overview of your entire artist business plan. It highlights the primary facts of your business, from art business ideas to financial projections.
Keep your summary concise and clear, use simple language, and avoid jargon as it quickly engages readers.
You can start by introducing the idea behind starting an art business and explaining what it does. For example, is it a startup, do you like to grow your business, or are you operating a chain of artist businesses?
Next, share a brief overview of how your art studio will be different from the rest. Provide a summary of each of the subsequent sections of your plan, such as:
- Describe the artist industry and the target market in brief.
- Represent the products or services you wish to offer.
- Give a snapshot of your marketing strategy.
- Name all the key members of your management team.
- Provide a summary of your financial projections.
After that, end your summary with a clear call to action, inviting potential investors or readers to the next meeting if they are curious about your business.
Generally, this section is written after the entire business plan is ready as you go through and draft all the important sections of your business plan.
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2. Business Overview
The business overview section provides detailed information about your art business, including ownership, legal structure, office location, business history, and other business-related facts.
Initially, you can draft all the foundational facts like:
- The name of your art business and the concept behind it, for example: do you need a makeup artist business plan, music artist business plan, or painter business plan, and what is the actual idea behind your artist business?
- The legal structure of your art business whether it is a S-Corp, LLC, sole proprietorship, or some other.
- Location of your art gallery and the reason why you selected that place.
After that, describe the owners of your business and mention their roles in running it. Emphasize the percentage of shares owned, and how each owner helps in the business. For example,
![art business business plan Business overview example for artist business](https://static-web.upmetrics.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/16124921/Business-overview-example-for-artist-business.png)
You can add a memorable, clear mission statement that sums up the objectives and core principles of your art studio. Also, include an outline of the business’s history and how it came to be in its current position.
If you want to, include some personality and interesting details, especially if you have any achievements or recognitions till now for your creative art.
Convey your aspirations and your clear vision. Highlight future business goals and if you have any plans of opening an art studio or hosting an art gallery opening.
3. Market Analysis
Next, dive into the art world as this chapter provides a clear understanding of the art industry, along with the target audience, competitors, and growth opportunities.
So, take some time to go further and identify your target market and define your ideal target customer. It will guide your artistic choices and marketing strategies.
Know more about your customers and which type of services they prefer: customized painting, greetings, invitation cards, poetries, songs, or anything else.
After that, give an overview of the art industry. It unveils necessary information about the market size and growth potential of the art market in which your business will run. :
![art business business plan Market Analysis Example for Art Business](https://static-web.upmetrics.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/16125116/Market-Analysis-Example-for-Art-Business.png)
Also, conduct detailed market research to identify direct and indirect competitors. Evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.
You can perform a SWOT analysis to find internal strengths & weaknesses of your artist business and external opportunities & threats in the market.
Based on that, outline unique selling points and competitive edge. Accentuate how your art is different from the rest of the arts, and explain how you can offer qualitative services.
Try to analyze emerging market trends in the industry, such as changes in customer preferences and explain how your art business will cope with all those trends.
You can describe any regulations or licensing requirements that affect your art business, such as safety codes, contracts, taxes, or something else.
Here is an example you can refer to draft regulations for your art business:
Operating within the art industry entails adhering to several regulations.
These encompass [specific regulations, e.g., “safety codes for installation arts, contracts ensuring the rights and responsibilities of both artists and clients and taxation structures specific to art sales”].
Our studio is committed to upholding all necessary licenses and continuously stays updated on regulatory changes to ensure full compliance.
4. Product and Services
The product and services section of an art studio business plan should describe the specific services and products you will provide. It should be detailed, informative, and customer-focused.
Start this section by introducing the artist first, along with the art form they will be using, for example, paintings, sculpture, photography, sketches, customized services, greeting cards, or something else.
Describe the artist’s distinct aesthetic and style and explain how it distinguishes them from other professionals in the field.
You can also include the specific items the artist produces, such as their original works, sell paintings or their limited edition prints, or any pieces they have been commissioned to create.
Try to describe each product’s advantages and characteristics as well as how they appeal to the target market. Also, emphasize the importance of quality by including all the details about the raw material you will use.
Here, don’t forget to explain how your business will ensure that all services and products are delivered with the highest standards of efficacy.
5. Sales and Marketing Strategies
A successful sales and marketing plan involves a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your potential customers.
Here are some key elements to include while writing your sales & marketing strategy:
Unique selling proposition (USP)
Clearly state the artist’s unique selling point, which should cover their taste, aesthetic, and the advantages of their products and services. Something needs to be said in a way that appeals to your intended audience.
Pricing strategy
Develop a pricing strategy that is competitive and affordable, yet profitable. Consider offering promotions, discounts, or packages for your products & services to attract new customers.
Marketing strategy
Draw out a marketing plan that can spread the word about your work and put yourself out there. You can include a mix of online and offline marketing channels.
Consider social media platforms, email marketing, content marketing, brochures, print marketing, and events.
You can take reference from the below example written using Upmetrics AI Assistant :
Sales strategies
Mention your sales strategy as an approach to turn potential buyers into clients by providing limited edition prints, discounts, and referral scheme discounts.
Customer retention
Describe how your art business will retain customers and build loyalty, such as through loyalty programs, special events, or personalized service.
6. Operations Plan
Next, you can craft a behind-the-scenes look into your artistic process and procedures.
This operations plan section paints a vivid picture of your creative endeavors, from your art studio setup to the tools and techniques you utilize.
First, you can explain how you go about creating your art, what tools and materials you require, and how long it takes to finish each piece.
If you collaborate with assistants or any other professional artist, provide details about their tasks and operational processes.
You can also describe your inventory management strategy, including your shipping, tracking, and storage methods. Mention how you’ll maintain track of your artwork and ensure that it’s transported and stored correctly.
![art business business plan inventory management strategy](https://static-web.upmetrics.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/16125442/inventory-management-strategy.png)
7. Management Team
The management team section provides a brief overview of the individuals responsible for driving the art business and highlights that your business has the most suitable team.
You can introduce your team members including the artist, the artist manager, the booking agent, the publicist, the accountant, and the lawyer.
Even if you’re an unaccompanied artist, showcase the key individuals who support your creative journey.
Try to provide a detailed description of the experience and qualifications of each manager, as well as their responsibilities and roles.
You can also represent the organizational structure of the management team, including reporting lines and how decisions will be made. Here is an illustration of an organization chart using Upmetrics:
![art business business plan organization chart example of art business](https://static-web.upmetrics.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/16125729/organization-chart-example-of-art-business.png)
If you have a board of advisors/mentors who have contributed to your business growth, mention them along with their roles and experience.
Don’t forget to explain your compensation plan for the leadership team and staff, including salaries, bonuses, and other benefits.
8. Financial Plan
A well-structured and in-depth financial forecast is the most important section for potential investors, as it offers a clear insight into any capital or investment requirements, startup costs, projected revenues, and profits.
So, develop a precise summary of your financial projections for the initial years of operation. Highlight all the crucial facts investors require for informed, strategic decision-making.
For a successful artist business plan, you should include the following financial statements:
- Sales forecast
- Expense budget
- Profit and loss statement
- Cash flow statement
- Projected balance sheet
- Break-even analysis
- Business ratios
- Exit strategy
From the above, you can estimate how much finances you will need to start and operate your art business. Consider funding resources including bank loans, SBA-guaranteed loans, angel investors, or personal savings.
Here’s an example of a projected balance sheet for the next 3-5 years using Upmetrics:
![art business business plan example of a projected balance sheet for art business](https://static-web.upmetrics.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/16125908/example-of-a-projected-balance-sheet-for-art-business.png)
9. Appendix
When writing the appendix section, you should include any additional details that support the main content of your business plan.
This may include financial forecasts, market research data, legal documents, and other relevant information.
- Enclose a table of contents for the appendix section to make it easy for readers to find specific information.
- Add financial statements such as income statements, balance sheets , and cash flow statements. These should be up-to-date and show your financial projections for at least the first three years of your business.
- Provide market analysis reports, such as statistics on the size of the art industry, consumer demographics, and trends in the industry.
- Include any legal documents such as business licenses, permits, and contracts.
- Provide any additional documentation related to your business plans, such as marketing materials, product brochures, and operational procedures.
- Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily locate the information they need.
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Frequently asked questions, how often should the business plan be reviewed and updated.
Review and update your artist business plan at least once a year or more often if there are significant changes in your business. It ensures your plan remains aligned with your artistic direction, market conditions, or goals.
What should be included in an Artist’s Business Plan?
A comprehensive artist business plan should include below key components:
- Sales and Marketing Plan
What kind of financial information does a business plan include?
In an artist’s business plan, the financial part includes startup costs, income statement, cash flow statement, balance sheets, and break-even analysis. It offers a clear idea of your financial health, enabling investors to estimate the potential success of your artistic business.
Is it necessary to have business experience to create an artist business plan?
Business experience is beneficial but not mandatory to create an artist’s business plan. Many artists successfully draft business plans with a passion for their art and a willingness to learn.
Can the template help in planning for long-term career growth?
Yes, a well-written business plan template can undoubtedly help you in planning for long-term career growth. Include your artistic goals, market strategies, and financial predictions, as the template can be a strategic tool for envisioning and working towards sustained success throughout your journey.
About the Author
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Vinay Kevadiya
Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more
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One can start an art business from home by crafting a clear business plan that outlines the artistic identity, target market, and financial goals. Leveraging free or low-cost online marketing tools like social media can also be a strategic way to reach potential customers without a significant upfront investment.
This guide will take you through the steps of initiating and operating a successful art business, including the advantages and challenges involved in starting a business, how to go about creating a business website and exploring ways to generate revenue in the art industry.
So, where do you begin? By creating a business plan, of course! That’s why we’ve come up with an outline for artists to follow, so you can better understand your art business and develop a step-by-step strategy for success.
Contents. The Key Elements to a Successful Art Career. 1. Remind Yourself Why You Want to Start an Art Business. Financial and Social Independence From a Traditional Nine-to-Five. More Creative Fulfillment in Your Career. An Additional Source of Income. 2. It’s Vital to Narrow Down the Art Business You Want to Start. Selling Original Paintings.
Here's a concise guide to help you draft an effective art business plan: Define your art business mission and vision, outlining what you aim to achieve and why it matters. Identify your target market, including demographics, preferences, and purchasing behavior.
Highlight future business goals and if you have any plans of opening an art studio or hosting an art gallery opening. The business overview section should offer a deep insight into your venture. So, make it engaging and precise—a snapshot that captivates and enlightens readers.