Welcome fellow mandala art lovers! If you’re seeking some fun and aesthetic mandala art ideas and inspiration, you’re in the right place. This post is your gateway to a world of creative and accessible mandala art drawing ideas that are sure to spark your imagination.
What is Mandala Art?
Before we dive into these awesome mandala art ideas, let’s take a quick look at what exactly defines a mandala. A mandala is a symbolic geometric design that represents harmony, unity, and balance. You can read more about mandalas in this blog post.
Now, without further ado, let’s dive into this list of aesthetic mandala art ideas that will surely ignite your artistic spirit.
And if you’re eager to take your mandala drawing skills to the next level, don’t miss out on my mandala drawing class – a wonderful opportunity to enhance your craft!
Aesthetic Mandala Art Ideas and Inspiration
*Note: all mandalas shared below were drawn by me, unless otherwise stated
Begin by embracing simplicity. Opt for a straightforward design and employ a contrasting, complementary color scheme to achieve a bold aesthetic impact.
Experiment with creating mandalas on black paper using metallic or gel pens.
Explore the fusion of intricate mandala patterns with animal forms for a captivating and artistic result.
Divide the mandala down the center and infuse one side with florals or an entirely contrasting element for a unique touch.
Speaking of flowers, you can integrate blossoms into your entire mandala design to create a breath-taking impact.
Explore a unique approach by transforming unexpected objects into mandalas, like these ice cream cones.
Experiment with embedding a scene within your mandala artwork, like this example featuring a mountain and forest design.
Explore color variations and overlaid shapes, as demonstrated in this cloud-themed mandala design.
Get creative by crafting mandalas in unexpected locations or materials, such as etching them onto seashells or drawing them in beach sand.
Explore diverse materials like gel pens to add variety and texture to your mandala creations.
Consider placing mandalas within other objects, such as this example of a hot air balloon mandala design.
Alternatively, keep it minimal with black and white. Add shading or use varied pen thickness for a bold impact.
Add an element of surprise by placing unexpected objects within your mandala, like this captivating Jupiter-themed design.
You can see even more examples of aesthetic mandala designs in my sketchbook tour video below.
For even greater mandala art inspiration, you might find my mandala drawing workbooks with prompts truly enjoyable!
Conclusion
Mandalas are like your artistic playground – experiment, explore, and enjoy! Whether you love simple designs or want to try something unexpected, the world of mandala art is full of possibilities. So, grab your tools and start creating your own unique mandala masterpieces!
If you were inspired enough to create your own mandalas from these, share it on Instagram make sure to tag me @julieerindesigns.
Hey there, fellow artists! Have you heard of Skillshare? It’s an online education platform for creative people who love to learn and teach. It’s not only an opportunity to learn and share our skills, but also has the potential to make us some extra money, or even a full-time income! So in this post, I’m going to be sharing with you my experience of how to make money as an artist on Skillshare.
Back in 2021, I took a leap outside my comfort zone and published my first Skillshare class. Now, with five classes under my belt and a growing income stream, I can attest to the great opportunities this platform has to offer.
Although the initial challenges of video creation were intimidating, the rewards have been fulfilling and it has opened new doors for my career as an artist and content creator.
So let’s jump in to this post on how to make money as an artist on Skillshare.
What is Skillshare?
Skillshare is an online learning platform and community with thousands of classes in design, business, and more, taught by professionals in their field.
Members pay a monthly, or annual fee to access all courses on the platform, along with some other perks, such as live classes. They predominantly focus on creative disciplines like painting, illustration, and software tutorials such as Photoshop and Procreate.
As well as being an excellent platform to hone your creative skills, Skillshare offers the opportunity for artists to share and monetize their own expertise.
As a Teacher on Skillshare, you can create and publish your own courses, guiding learners through your unique creative process while earning money doing what you love.
How do you make money as an artist on Skillshare?
The most common way to make money on Skillshare is by becoming a Teacher and uploading your own courses.
When someone watches one of your courses, you earn a share of the revenue, based on how many minutes of your course(s) they watch. If you have a popular course with a lot of students, you could potentially earn a decent amount of money.
Another way to make money on Skillshare is by becoming an Affiliate. Affiliates are people who promote Skillshare courses and earn a commission when someone signs up for a Premium Membership using their affiliate link. You can promote your own and/or other teacher’s classes to earn this type of income.
If you have a blog or social media with a large following, you could make some decent money by promoting Skillshare courses.
How do you get started on Skillshare?
To get started on Skillshare, the first thing you need to do is create a free account and set up your profile. You can do this by going to the Skillshare website and clicking on the “Sign Up” button.
Note: If you’re not interested in becoming a Premium Member, you can still make money from Skillshare as a teacher and affiliate.
How do you make courses for Skillshare?
Now you’re ready to create your first course. This may take a significant amount of time, and there can be be a learning curve if you are not familiar with the hardware and/or software needed to produce videos. It’s okay, you can learn! (If I can do it, so can you).
There are tons of resources out there to help you product your first Skillshare class. Both on Skillshare itself, Youtube, and blog posts on the web.
The main things you will need to produce your videos are:
It’s possible to create your class without a microphone, but they do tend to perform better if you can speak directly to your students rather than just screen casting or using on screen text.
For editing my videos, I use a free video editing software called DaVinci Resolve. I was completely new to this software so I followed some Skillshare courses and YouTube videos to learn how to use it. You can use any video editing software you have or are familiar with.
Skillshare class structure
Skillshare has a very specific structure for their courses that you’ll need to follow.
They want a stand-alone introduction video which is kind of like a trailer or highlight reel for your class, which anyone can watch it (even non members). This is meant to entice people to sign up to take the rest of your class. Below is an example of a class trailer from one of my classes:
You’ll also need to film individual videos for the Supplies and Class Project, and an Outro or Conclusion video to wrap it all up.
So a typical class outline might look something like this, with each one being a separate video:
Introduction
Supplies and Class Project
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
Outro
Skillshare also really encourages you to have some sort of Project at the end of the class that students create and can share with other students on the website and social media.
You’ll also need to come up with a great title, description, and an eye catching thumbnail for your class. This takes time and experience to master. Your first course might not be that great right out of the gate. But just keep working on it and making more more courses, and this will improve over time! The great thing is you can update your older classes with new thumbnails, revised descriptions, and even add or replace whole lesson videos in the future.
The Skillshare website has tons of information and tips about producing your first class. I highly encourage you to go through the articles in their Teacher Handbook before you get started.
Don’t worry too much about getting it just right the first time. After you publish your class, someone at Skillshare will review it within the first 72 hours and let you know if there are any issues with the video quality or content so you can address it and even re-upload if necessary.
How to Promote your Skillshare classes
Once you’ve created your course, you’ll need to promote it. There are several ways to do this, and I’ve listed just a few ideas below:
Share it with your following on social media.
Write one or more blog posts about it.
Post your intro video on YouTube with a link to the class in the description. (You are allowed to post the intro video but not the other lessons on YouTube)
Engage with your existing students and encourage them to leave reviews and share their experience with others, helping build your reputation as an instructor.
Collaborate with other Skillshare teachers and cross-promote each other’s courses to tap into each other’s audience.
Use email marketing: Build an email list and send newsletters to your subscribers, promoting your Skillshare classes and sharing valuable content related to the courses.
Use Pinterest: Create eye-catching graphics and pins that lead to your Skillshare class landing pages to attract organic traffic.
Create shareable content: Develop engaging and shareable content related to your classes, such as infographics, tips, and tutorials, to attract more attention online.
These are just a few ideas of ways you can promote your Skillshare classes to attract more students and make more money.
How much money can you realistically make on Skillshare?
There’s no easy answer when it comes to how much money you can make on Skillshare. Realistically, it depends on a variety of factors such as the quality and popularity of your courses, how often you promote your courses, and how many students enroll in your courses.
That said, some Skillshare teachers have been able to generate significant income from their courses. Some of their Top Teachers have reported earning over $100,000 in a year.
While it’s certainly possible to make good money on Skillshare, it’s important to set realistic expectations. Many Skillshare teachers supplement their income with other activities such as freelance work, consulting, or selling other products. If you’re looking to make a full-time income as an artist online, it’s important to diversify your income sources.
At the end of the day, how much money you can make on Skillshare depends on a variety of factors. If you create high-quality courses and promote them effectively, you can certainly make a good income from Skillshare.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my journey of making money as an artist on Skillshare has been rewarding. From publishing my first class in 2021 to now having five classes and a growing monthly income, I’ve experienced the power of this platform.
So if you’re looking to make some extra money as an artist from teaching online classes, Skillshare is a great platform to consider.
Let me know what you think about making money as an artist on Skillshare in the comments section below! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this potential income stream.
Are you looking to take your image editing skills to the next level? Then look no further than this tutorial on how to remove backgrounds in Photoshop!
In this video tutorial I take you step by step through the process of removing backgrounds from images using the selection and lasso tools.
I demonstrate how to do this with a both a simple image of a laptop, and a more complex image featuring a person in the foreground.
You can use these skills to edit your photographs, or create designs with transparent backgrounds to use for stickers, t-shirts and other print on demand products with Photoshop!
How to Remove Backgrounds in Photoshop with Lasso Tools
Open your image in Photoshop and double-click the background layer to unlock it.
Use the Eraser tool to erase out major parts of the background, without getting too close to your subject.
Select the appropriate lasso tool for your image, such as the Lasso Tool, Polygonal Lasso Tool, or Magnetic Lasso Tool.
Begin by making a rough selection around the object or subject you want to keep. For straight edges, use the Polygonal Lasso Tool. For irregular shapes, use the Lasso Tool or Magnetic Lasso Tool.
Continue tracing the outline of the object, and close the selection by connecting the endpoint with the starting point.
If needed, use the Add to Selection or Subtract from Selection options to refine the selection (Can also use + or –).
Hide or delete the original background layer (if there is one remaining) to see the transparency.
Use the Eraser Tool or Layer Mask to further refine the edges of the object if necessary.
Create a new layer below, and fill it with a solid color to check for any stray pixels.
Save your image in a format that supports transparency, like .PNG.
With practice and experimentation, you’ll become more proficient in using lasso and selection tools to remove backgrounds in Photoshop.
In conclusion, removing backgrounds in Photoshop using the lasso tools is a powerful technique that allows you to isolate objects and create images and graphics with transparent backgrounds. With the flexibility and precision of the lasso tools, you can achieve clean and professional results.
Remember to practice and experiment with different selection tools to find the one that works best for your specific image. So go ahead and give it a try in your next project!
Hey there, fellow creatives! I’m excited to share with you a fun tutorial on how to make your very own coloring pages on your iPad using the Procreate app.
In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll dive into the world of creating beautiful mandala coloring pages on your iPad, complete with inspiring quotes that will uplift your spirits. So, grab your iPad and let’s get started!
How to Make Coloring Pages on your iPad with Procreate
Step 1: Setting up your Canvas
To start, open the Procreate app on your iPad and create a new canvas. Choose the dimensions and resolution that you prefer for your coloring page.
To create coloring pages for print, I suggest using the Paper size, which is 8.5 x 11 inches.
Step 2: Drawing the Mandala
Navigate to the Actions menu (the wrench icon on the top left of the screen), click on Canvas, turn Drawing Guide on and then click Edit Drawing Guide.
Then go down to Symmetry > Options, and select the Radial option.
Now, using the drawing tools in Procreate, begin drawing your mandala. Play around with different shapes, patterns, and intricate details to make your mandala unique.
Step 3: Adding Inspirational Quotes
Now, it’s time to incorporate an inspirational quote (or other text) into your coloring page. Select a quote that resonates with you or your audience.
To add your text, go to the Actions menu again, click on Add, and then click on Add Text. Type out your quote, then go to Layers, tap on the text layer, and then select Edit text. Under Attributes, select the icon that looks like an O (next to Underline). This will make the text appear as just the outline of the font (note: this does not work on all fonts).
Then, you can go through your fonts and select one you like. You can download additional fonts from Creative Fabrica, if you like.
If the letters of your chosen font are connecting, they may overlap. You can then go to Layers, tap on the text layer and select Rasterize. Then you can go in and erase the overlapping lines to make the text connect cleanly.
Finally, position the text around the mandala, ensuring it complements the overall design.
Step 4: Final Touches and Exporting
Once you’re satisfied with your coloring page, take some time to add any final touches or details.
When you’re done, export the file in a high-resolution format, such as a PDF, PNG or JPEG, depending on your specific needs.
To share your mandala go up the Actions menu (wrench icon), click on Share, and then select the file type you require, and save it to your iPad.
Now you’re ready to print or share your new coloring page however you like!
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a stunning inspirational quote mandala coloring page using Procreate on your iPad.
Coloring pages are not only a great way to relax and unwind but also make wonderful gifts or digital products to share with others. You could even make and sell your own coloring book if you make enough of these.
You can also download the coloring pages featured in this tutorial by clicking on the image below or visiting the Downloads section of this website. There, you’ll find a collection of intricate mandalas and uplifting quote designs ready to be colored and enjoyed.
Whether you choose to unwind with a cup of tea or share the joy of coloring with friends and family, these printable coloring pages are sure to bring moments of tranquillity and creativity into your life.
I hope this tutorial has inspired you to create your own coloring pages! Feel free to experiment with different styles, themes, and techniques to create unique coloring pages that reflect your artistic vision. The possibilities are endless!
If you enjoyed this tutorial, don’t forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube channel for more art-related content. Stay tuned for future videos where I’ll be sharing additional tips, tutorials, and creative inspiration.
But first, what exactly is Zazzle? In short, Zazzle is a print on demand marketplace where you can create designs for real life products, like art prints, t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more. Then, those products are printed and shipped to customers after they order them. This eliminates the need for inventory and allows you to focus on creating and marketing your designs!
Zazzle is just one of many print on demand marketplaces that you can use to sell products from your art.
I really like Zazzle because they offer a wide range of products, from apparel to home décor to electronics, so you can create a diverse product line that appeals to your audience.
With thousands of shoppers from around the world browsing the site every day, Zazzle has a huge customer base. And their platform is user-friendly and easy to navigate, so you can focus on designing and marketing your products without getting bogged down by technical details.
In my Skillshare class, Sell Your Art Online with Zazzle, I’ll guide you through the entire process of setting up your own Zazzle store, from designing your products to customizing your storefront and much more.
Before diving in, check out the class trailer below to get an idea of what you’ll learn and see if it’s right for you. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me or post a comment below. I’m here to support you and help you succeed!
Here’s a peek at what we’ll cover in the class:
Setting up your store
Navigating the Zazzle website
Creating multiple product types from simple to advanced
Raising your ZRank
Organizing your store using Categories and Collections
Tips and tricks to streamline product creation
Creating custom banners and cover images for Collections and Categories
Customizing your store front
Additional pro tips from a Pro Bronze seller with nearly 10 years of experience
You can watch my Skillshare class for free with a one-month trial membership using my link.
This means you’ll have access to not only my class, but also thousands of other classes on Skillshare, including classes on graphic design, branding, and social media marketing.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced Zazzle seller, there’s something for you in this class. I can’t wait to see what you create!
Running a successful art business requires more than just creativity and talent. It also requires a solid plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and resources. An art business plan can help you stay focused, organized, and motivated as you navigate the ups and downs of running a business. Whether you’re a seasoned artist looking to take your business to the next level, or a beginner just starting out, this guide will help you create a roadmap for success.
As an artist who has turned my passion into a successful business, I understand the importance of having a well-crafted business plan. Over the years, I have honed my skills and learned what it takes to make an income as an artist, and I want to share my knowledge with you. By following the steps outlined in this post, I believe that you too can create a solid art business plan that will help you achieve your goals and build a sustainable career.
Why You Need an Art Business Plan
An art business plan is a roadmap for artists to achieve their professional goals. Whether you’re just starting out or have been selling your art for a while, having a solid business plan is crucial for success. Think of it as a roadmap that will guide you towards achieving your goals and making your art business dreams a reality. Don’t worry if you’ve never written a business plan before, it doesn’t have to be super complicated or intimidating. You can make it as detailed or as simple as you like, just start somewhere!
As we go through this post, make sure to take notes on all the sections we cover. You can keep your art business plan in a notebook, a Google doc, or a Word document. I also have a Notion template that you can use as a starting point.
What to Include in Your Art Business Plan
When it comes to creating your art business plan, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Your plan should be customized to fit your unique goals, vision, and circumstances. However, there are certain elements that most art business plans have in common. Here are some key sections to include:
Business Summary: This section should include a brief overview of your business, your mission statement, and your unique selling proposition.
Market Analysis: Here you will conduct research to gain an understanding of your target audience, your competitors, and the overall market.
Products and Services: Describe the products or services you offer, and what makes them unique.
Marketing Strategy: Outline how you plan to market and promote your art business to reach your target audience.
Financial Plan: This section will outline your projected income and expenses, as well as your funding sources and financial goals.
Remember, your art business plan can be as detailed or as simple as you like, depending on where you are on your art business journey. The most important thing is to just start somewhere, and make adjustments along the way as your business grows and evolves.
Now that you have a basic understanding of what should be included in your art business plan, let’s dive deeper into each of these points and discuss how you can create a plan that will help you achieve your business goals.
A Summary of Your Art Business
The Business Summary section is where you’ll give a quick and easy rundown of your business. It’s important to include your mission statement, which is essentially what your business is all about, as well as your unique selling proposition, which is what sets you apart from your competitors. Think of this section as an elevator pitch – it should be short, sweet, and to the point!
Identify your business’s purpose and goals: Ask yourself what your business is about and what you want to achieve with it. Write down your answers and summarize them into a few sentences.
Define your target audience: Think about who your ideal customer is and what they’re looking for. This will help you create a more targeted and effective summary.
Focus on your unique selling proposition: What sets your business apart from others in your industry? Highlight your unique strengths and what makes you different.
Use simple language: Your summary should be easy to understand and concise. Avoid using technical jargon or complex language.
Get feedback: Share your summary with others and get feedback. This can help you refine your message and ensure it resonates with your audience.
Conduct a Market Analysis
The market analysis section is all about doing your research to gain a deep understanding of your target audience, competitors, and the overall market. It’s important to know who your customers are, what they want, and how you can differentiate yourself from your competition.
This section can include data on your target market’s demographics, interests, and purchasing behaviors. You’ll also want to research your competitors and identify their strengths and weaknesses. By analyzing the market, you can better position yourself to succeed.
How to conduct a market analysis?
Here are some actionable tips for conducting market research as an artist:
Identify your target audience: Think about who your art is meant for, what their interests are, and where they spend their time. Look at demographic data, such as age, gender, location, and income, to get a better understanding of your target audience.
Research your competition: Look at other artists in your niche and see what they are doing. What are their strengths and weaknesses? What makes your art unique compared to theirs? You can also look at their pricing, marketing strategies, and social media presence to get an idea of what works well.
Understand the overall market: Look at trends in the art market to see what types of art are popular right now. Consider the economic climate and how it may affect the art market. Look at art publications and websites to see what topics are being covered and what people are interested in.
Describe your Products and Services
In this section, you’ll want to provide a detailed description of the products and services you offer as an artist. Be sure to include information about the materials you use, the types of art you create, and any special techniques or processes that set your work apart. You can also talk about any additional services you provide, such as commissions or custom pieces. Don’t be afraid to get specific and really showcase what makes your art unique and desirable to your target audience.
Some examples of what you could include in this section are your original paintings, prints, commissions, workshops, or even merchandise like stickers or tote bags featuring your art. It’s important to be specific about what you offer, so your potential customers can understand what they’re buying and what sets your work apart from others.
Develop a Marketing Strategy
Now that you have a good understanding of your audience and products/services, it’s time to develop a marketing strategy that will help you promote your business. Some effective strategies for artists include social media marketing, email marketing, collaborations with other artists or businesses, and participating in local events and markets.
Choose the strategies that best fit your business and audience, and be sure to set goals and track your progress. For example, you could aim to grow your social media following by 100 followers each month, or to send out a monthly newsletter to your email subscribers. By developing a clear marketing strategy and tracking your progress, you can ensure that you’re reaching your target audience and achieving your business goals.
Come up with a Financial Plan for your Art Business
Managing the financial aspect of your art business may seem intimidating, but it’s a crucial step in achieving your goals. First, identify your start-up and ongoing expenses, as well as potential income streams, to determine your break-even point and set reachable financial goals.
You can use online accounting tools or create a budget spreadsheet to monitor your expenses and income regularly. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of your finances, so you can make informed decisions about pricing, marketing, and investments. In my Art Business Toolkit Notion template, I’ve included a budget tracker to help you get started. By tracking your expenses, you’ll be able to make strategic decisions that contribute to the growth and profitability of your business.
Conclusion
In conclusion, writing an art business plan may seem overwhelming, but it is a critical step in achieving your goals as an artist. By breaking down the process into manageable sections, you can create a plan that reflects your unique vision and sets you up for success. Remember to use the tips and tools provided in this post, and don’t be afraid to start small and revise as you go. Once you’ve completed all of the sections, put it all together into a cohesive plan that will guide you as you build and grow your art business. With dedication, persistence, and a solid plan, you can turn your passion into a thriving business.
In this blog post, we’ll explore various ways to leverage AI tools to enhance your art business. However, we will not be discussing the topic of creating and selling AI art, which is a separate subject altogether. If you’re curious about using AI to boost your art business, spark your creativity, and increase your productivity, then keep reading!
AI has been a hot topic in the art world lately, and for good reason. But it’s not going away anytime soon, so why not embrace it? By using AI as an assistant for your art business, you can supercharge your productivity and take your business to the next level. With a bit of creativity, there are numerous ways you can use AI to your advantage.
What is AI?
Artificial Intelligence, or AI for short, is a branch of computer science that focuses on the development of intelligent machines that can perform tasks which traditionally required human intelligence, such as answering questions, conducting research, and problem-solving.
Recently, AI has become increasingly prevalent in various fields, including the arts, and has opened up new opportunities for creative business owners. Through machine learning and other AI-powered tools, artists can now generate personalized content, analyse data, and conduct market research with greater ease and efficiency. AI can be used in a number of different ways in your art business, from automating simple tasks to helping you out of a creative rut.
How can you use AI in your art business?
There are many ways to use AI to boost your art business. Here are some examples:
Writing a business plan
Creating a business plan is essential to the success of any business, including an art business. By using AI you can create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, objectives, and strategies for success. Feed the AI as much data as you can about your business and ask it to create a business plan for you. You can then tweak and revise it as needed and go from there.
Conducting market research
To grow your art business, you need to understand your target market. AI can help you conduct market research to identify your target audience and their preferences. With AI-powered tools, you can analyse data on your customers’ demographics, interests, and behaviours to gain insights into what they may want. By understanding your target market, you can tailor your artwork and marketing messages to better meet their needs and preferences.
Generating ideas for new artwork
One of the biggest challenges for artists is coming up with new and innovative ideas for artwork. AI can help generate new ideas for artwork that will appeal to your target market. These tools use algorithms to analyse data on your target audience’s preferences and suggest customized artwork that is tailored to their interests. By using AI to generate ideas for new artwork, you can save time while creating pieces that resonate with your audience.
Writing marketing copy
Marketing is crucial for any art business. However, writing effective marketing copy can be challenging. With AI tools, you can create compelling social media posts, blogs, and product descriptions that resonate with your target audience.
When it comes to using AI for your art business, the output is only as good as the input. To learn more about how to use AI properly, and structure your prompts to get the best results possible, I highly recommend this Skillshare class: Chat GPT for Creatives by Peggy Dean
Using AI to improve your own artwork
One of the great things about AI-powered tools like CF Spark is that it can be used to generate new and unique artwork. Consider this: instead of looking at other artist’s work for inspiration, use AI instead! These tools are also great for getting out of a creative rut and help you find inspiration even when you’re feeling stuck. So, don’t be afraid to use AI to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of your own creativity.
AI can also help you with things like art market research and identifying trends. This information can be incredibly valuable for artists who want to create pieces that are more likely to sell, as it can help them understand what their target audience is looking for and what kinds of pieces are likely to be most successful in the current market. By using AI to stay on top of trends and market demands, artists can ensure that their work remains relevant and appealing to buyers, and can maximize their chances of success in the competitive world of art sales.
AI Tools for Your Art Business
Ready to get started using AI for your art business? Below is a list of some awesome AI tools that can help streamline your workflow, gather market insights, and even generate new artwork ideas. Of course, there are plenty of other AI tools out there too – new ones are popping up all the time! But these are a great place to start.
Chat GPT – a language model which can be used for generating ideas, writing content, and answering questions.
CF Spark – generate new and unique artworks to inspire your own work.
Notion AI – to streamline your workflow and help you with writing.
Canva AI – uses AI to suggest design layouts and color schemes for social media and marketing graphics.
Adobe Sensei – Provides AI-powered features in Adobe Creative Cloud
Considerations When Using AI for Your Art Business
There’s no one answer for how to incorporate AI into your art business. It’s going to vary depending on what you’re selling, who your audience is, and your art business goals. But, there are some general guidelines you can follow to make sure you’re using AI in a way that aligns with your business and values.
Supplement, don’t replace, human interaction. Your art business is built on human relationships. Whether you’re selling to collectors or working with galleries, you need to be able to build and maintain personal relationships. Use AI to supplement your relationships, not replace them.
Automate tasks, but don’t allow it to make decisionsfor you. AI can be a great tool for automating tasks like customer follow-up or marketing emails. But it’s important to remember that AI can’t make decisions for you. When it comes to important decisions like pricing or what art to sell, you need to rely on your own judgment.
Use AI to enhance your artwork, not replace it. AI has the potential to be a powerful tool for artists, but it’s important to remember that it should be used to enhance your artwork, not replace it. While AI can help generate new ideas, identify trends, and speed up certain processes, it can’t replicate the unique creativity and vision of a human artist.
Keep an eye on the future. AI is always changing, and new tools and applications are being developed all the time. It’s important to keep an eye on the future and be prepared to adopt new AI tools as they become available. This will help you stay ahead of the competition and make sure you’re using the best AI tools for your business.
Conclusion
AI can be a powerful tool for artists and art businesses, but it is important to use it wisely. With AI, you can manage your marketing, track trends, find inspiration for new artwork, and conduct market research. But you need to be careful not to over automate or you could lose the human touch that makes your business special. The possibilities are endless, and with a bit of creativity, you can take your art business to the next level with AI tools.
What are your thoughts on AI and using it for your art business? Let me know in the comments below!
As an artist, it’s important to be constantly learning and growing in your craft. There are a lot of great books out there that can help you do just that. Here are 10 must read books for artists and art business owners that I’ve personally read and highly recommend to you!
These books cover a wide range of topics that are relevant to both artists and art business owners. From managing your creative business to overcoming creative blocks, marketing, spirituality and more, there’s a book for everyone on this list. So, grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and start reading!
* Please note, some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using the links I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support and it helps me create more great content for you to enjoy!
Art Inc. is a great read for artists and art business owners for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it provides a comprehensive overview of the business side of the art world. For artists who want to commercialize their work, this book is invaluable. It covers topics such as marketing, PR, social media, licensing, and more.
In addition, Art Inc. offers a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of successful artists. Lisa Congdon interviews a number of well-known artists and art entrepreneurs, which provides insight into what it takes to make it in the art world. Finally, Art Inc. is simply a well-written and well-researched book. Lisa Congdon is a respected authority on the business of art, and her book is a must-read for anyone interested in the topic.
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron is one of the most popular books on creativity and the creative process. In it, Cameron explores the idea that we all have a “inner artist” that is blocked by fear and self-doubt, and offers a step-by-step program to help readers overcome these barriers and reconnect with their creative selves.
The Artist’s Way is a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt creatively stuck. Cameron’s writing is both funny and inspirational, and her program is easy to follow and really works. If you’re looking for a book that will help you get in touch with your creative side, this is it.
If you’re an artist looking to sell your work online, Cory Huff’s book is a must-read. The creator of TheAbundantArtist.com, Huff offers a wealth of practical advice, from choosing the right platform to promoting your work, pricing your art, and dealing with inevitable rejection.
He also addresses the emotional side of being an artist, and offers advice on how to stay motivated and inspired. Perhaps most importantly, Huff stresses the importance of living a creative life on your own terms – something that is often harder than it looks. This book is an essential read for any artist who is serious about selling their work online.
If you want to lead a more creative life, Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert is an inspiring read, touching on spiritual. The book dives into what it means to be creative and how to live a life without fear. If you’re a fan her most famous book, Eat Pray Love, then you’re going to love this one.
Gilbert offers readers plenty of advice, such as to embrace curiosity, take risks, and enjoy the process. She also provides inspiring stories from her own life as a writer. Big Magic is an empowering read that will leave you feeling ready to conquer your own creative endeavors.
One of my favourite books for artists is Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon. It’s a quick and easy read, and one of the most inspiring and insightful books that I’ve read on the creative process.
Kleon’s book is structured around 10 principles for artists, which he refers to as ‘stealing’: finding inspiration in the work of others, embrace collaboration, embrace your influences, work hard and be persistent, be open to new ideas, and embrace your inner weirdo. Each of these principles is explored in depth, with Kleon sharing examples from his own life and work, as well as from the lives and work of other artists he admires.
Steal Like an Artist is an essential book for artists who want to tap into their creative potential and create meaningful and lasting art.
If you’re an artist or business owner who wants to better understand how to inspire others, then you need to read Simon Sinek’s Start with Why. In this book, Sinek argues that the key to success is not what you do, but why you do it. Sinek explains that businesses and individuals need to start with their purpose, or their “why.” Once you know your purpose, it’s easier to communicate your message and connect with others. This is because people are more likely to be inspired by a shared purpose than by a product or service.
Sinek provides plenty of examples to illustrate his point, including Apple, Martin Luther King Jr., and the Wright brothers. He also explains how to apply the “why” to your own life and business. If you’re looking for a book to help you “find your why”, then you need to read this book.
In today’s business world, it’s all about standing out from the crowd and being unique. If you want to be a successful artist or art business owner, you need to be constantly creating and marketing new and innovative content. One of the best ways to learn how to do this is to read Gary Vaynerchuk’s book, Crush It.
In Crush It, Vaynerchuk explains how to use your passion and creativity to build a successful business. He provides practical advice on how to market your work, connect with your audience, and stand out from the competition. If you’re looking for a motivational read that will inspire you to take your art business to the next level, Crush It is a must-read.
There are a lot of books out there that claim to be helpful for artists and art business owners, but many of them are full of big promises and not much substance. However, there are a few diamonds in the rough, and one of those is Austin Kleon’s Show Your Work.
Kleon is a writer, artist, and speaker who tackles the modern world of marketing and networking in a way that is both simple and effective. In Show Your Work, he provides 10 easy-to-follow steps that will help you get your work out there and start getting noticed. One of the most helpful aspects of Kleon’s book is that he doesn’t try to sell you on the idea of self-promotion as some sort of necessary evil. Instead, he shows you how self-promotion can be a fun and rewarding process that will help you connect with your audience and build a career that you love. If you’re looking for a practical, no-nonsense guide to marketing your art, then Show Your Work is a must-read.
The One Thing by Gary Keller is a book about finding your focus and achieving success in your chosen field. Keller argues that focus is the key to success in any field, and he provides readers with actionable steps for how to achieve it.
He also includes inspiring stories of people who have attained great success by singularly focusing on their chosen field. This book is a must-read for anyone who is looking to achieve success in their career or creative endeavors. The author provides a clear and concise roadmap for how to achieve focus, and the stories of successful people provide motivation and inspiration.
The final book on our list is Atomic Habits by James Clear. This book is all about how to change your habits and make them stick. If you find yourself struggling to make changes in your life or business, this is the book for you.
Clear lays out a step-by-step process for making changes and gives you all the tools you need to make sure those changes stick. One of the things I love about this book is that it’s not just about changing your habits, it’s about changing your mindset. If you want to make lasting changes, you need to change the way you think about change. This book will help you do just that.
Conclusion
There you have it, 10 books for artists and art business owners that I think you should read. Hopefully, at least a few of these books resonate with you and provide you with the information, inspiration, or push you need to take your art business to the next level. There are plenty of books out there for artists, but these are the 10 that I think are essential for artists and art business owners. These books will teach you about the business of art, how to market yourself, and how to run a successful art business. If you’re serious about making a living as an artist, I highly recommend these books for artists.
In this post I’m sharing a new feature on the print on demand website Zazzle, which is the ability to add your own custom cover photos to your listings! This is a really great way to make your listings stand out on the Zazzle marketplace.
* Please note, some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using the links I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support and it helps me create more content for you to enjoy!
In a world filled with nearly identical products, it’s important to find ways to make your products stand out. Zazzle custom cover photos are one way to do this. With a little creativity, you can use cover photos to give your products a unique look and make them more reflective ofyour own brand.
Zazzle custom cover photos are easy to create and can be applied to any product via the individual product page. Cover photos can be changed at any time, so you can experiment with different looks to find the one that best represents your brand.
To learn more about the custom cover photos directly from Zazzle, read their cover photo landing page.
In the video below I demonstrate how to add custom cover photos to your listings, and how I’ve been designing them on my iPad. Aside from creating your own cover photos in Procreate or another app like Photoshop, you can also purchase or find free mockups for your listings on Placeit, Creative Market, Google and other websites.
A great way to make your products stand out from the competition.
When potential customers are browsing through all the different products on Zazzle’s marketplace, it’s the cover photo that will initially catch their eye. Therefore, it is important to have an eye-catching and visually appealing cover photo.
People are more likely to purchase a product if they are able to see what it looks like in a realistic setting. If you have a great product but are using unappealing or generic stock photos, then you are not doing your product justice. Take advantage of Zazzle’s custom cover photo feature to make your products stand out and attract more customers!
You can purchase a sample of your product and take your own photos of it, use a mock-up you’ve purchased, or create your cover photo in a graphic design software. Either way, adding a custom cover photo to your product will make it more eye-catching and likely to sell.
Use a variety of backgrounds and graphics to create a unique look for your product.
If you want your products to really stand out on Zazzle, you need to put some thought into your cover photos. Luckily, there’s a lot of flexibility when it comes to design. You can use a variety of backgrounds and graphics to create a unique look for your product.
The first thing you need to do is decide what kind of mood you want to create. Do you want something fun and whimsical? Or are you going for a more sleek and modern look? Once you’ve decided on the overall tone, you can start finding or creating some backgrounds and graphics. If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at what other people have done. See what kind of designs are popular and see if you can find any inspiration there. I’ve personally been using my own photographs, and actually going out and finding textures and photographing them specifically for cover photos.
Also think about the real-life setting you might find the product being used in. For example, I used a sandy beach background for flip flops vs. a wall texture background for a clock.
Once you have a general idea of what you want your cover photos to look like, it’s time to start putting it all together. Remember, your cover photo is the first thing people will see when they come across your product. So make sure it’s something that will grab their attention and make them want to learn more. With a little effort, you can create a design that’s truly unique and will help your product stand out from the rest.
Keep your cover photos high quality and eye catching
There are a few things to keep in mind when creating custom cover photos for your products.
Make sure the photo is high-quality and resolution. Zazzle recommends using a PNG or JPG file that is at least 300 DPI. This will ensure that your photo looks sharp and clear.
Next, consider the size of the photo. You want to make sure that the photo is large enough, but not so big that it looks blurry or distorted. A good rule of thumb is to use a photo that is at least 1000 pixels wide.
Finally, think about the background of the photo. You want to make sure that the background is simple and uncluttered so that your product is the main focus. A simple background, blurred photo or a contrasting solid color is usually best.
With these tips in mind, you can upload your own photos to create unique and eye-catching cover photos for your Zazzle products.
Conclusion
There are a few things to keep in mind if you want to use custom cover photos to make your products stand out. First, you want to make sure the cover photo is high-quality and fits well with the product. Second, you want the cover photo to be unique and not like anything else that’s out there. And finally, you want to make sure the cover photo accurately represents the product. If you keep these things in mind, then you’re well on your way to using custom cover photos to make your products stand out on Zazzle.
I hope this post has inspired you to add custom cover photos to your Zazzle listings. Go ahead and give it a try – you may be surprised at the results!
When it comes to running a successful art business, a big part of standing out from the crowd is creating a strong and recognisable brand identity. But what does that actually entail? In a nutshell, your brand identity is how your business is perceived by both your current and potential customers. It’s more than just your logo or website design – it encompasses everything from your company values and mission statement, to your overall aesthetic and the way you communicate with your audience.
Luckily, creating a strong brand identity for your art business is not as daunting as it may seem. By following a few simple steps, you can develop a clear and recognisable brand that will help you to attract and retain customers.
Define your art business and what it does
An art business is anything that involves creating, marketing, and selling art. This could be anything from fine art to digital art to craft supplies. To create a brand identity for your art business, you need to first define what exactly your business does and what makes it unique.
One way to do this is to sit down and brainstorm what your business offers and what makes it different from other businesses in the same industry. For example, if you sell paintings, what makes your paintings different from others? Do you have a specific style or focus on a certain type of painting? Who is your target market?
Once you have a good understanding of what your business does and what makes it unique, you can start to create a brand identity that reflects this. This can be anything from creating a logo and tagline to choosing a colour scheme and overall aesthetic for your business.
Whatever you do, make sure that your brand identity is cohesive and reflects the overall tone of your business. Creating a brand identity for your art business is an important step in making your business more visible and recognizable. By taking the time to define what your business does and what makes it unique, you can create a strong foundation for your brand that will attract new customers and help you stand out from the competition.
Research your competition
When you’re ready to start creating a brand identity for your art business, it’s important to do your research and find out what similar businesses are doing. This will help you get an idea of what’s working well and what you can improve upon.
One of the best ways to research your competition is to simply search for them online. Check out their websites and social media pages to see what they’re doing right. Make a list of the things you like and the things you don’t like about their branding. This will help you narrow down your own preferences and come up with a brand identity that’s unique to you.
Another great way to research your competition is to talk to them directly. If you know any other artists or art business owners, reach out to them and ask for their advice. They may be willing to share their own experiences and help you avoid making the same mistakes they did.
Finally, don’t forget to ask your customers for feedback. They’re the ones who will be interacting with your brand identity the most, so it’s important to get their thoughts on what you’re doing. Send out surveys, post on social media, or simply ask them in person what they think of your brand. By doing your research, you’ll be able to create a brand identity that’s unique, appealing, and sure to attract more business.
Find your niche and focus on what makes you different
When it comes to creating a brand identity for your art business, it’s important to find your niche and focus on what makes you different. This can be a difficult process, but it’s worth taking the time to figure out what sets your business apart from the rest.
One of the best ways to find your niche is to think about what you’re passionate about. What are the specific areas of art that you’re most interested in? What do you enjoy creating the most? Once you’ve identified your passions, you can start to focus on creating a brand identity that reflects those interests.
It’s also important to focus on what makes you different from other art businesses. What are your unique selling points? What can you offer that no one else can? By highlighting these differences, you’ll be able to create a brand identity that really stands out.
Finally, don’t be afraid to be bold with your brand identity. This is your chance to really put your own personal stamp on your business. So go ahead and be creative! Use your brand identity to show the world who you are and what you’re all about.
Create a mission statement for your brand
Creating a mission statement for your brand is a good place to start shaping your brand identity. This statement should be a clear and concise description of what your business is and what it stands for. It should be easy to understand and remember, so that your customers can quickly identify with your brand.
Your mission statement should be reflected in everything you do, from the products you sell to the way you market your business. It should be an integral part of your brand identity and should be communicated to everyone who comes into contact with your business.
If you take the time to create a strong and clear mission statement for your brand, you will be well on your way to creating a successful and recognizable brand identity.
Mission statement examples for an artist’s brand:
To create art that evokes emotion, inspires creativity, and encourages a deeper appreciation for beauty in the world.
To use my artistic talents to shed light on social issues and promote positive change in the world.
To connect with audiences on a deep, personal level through my art, and inspire them to find their own creativity and passion.
To bring joy and happiness to people’s lives through my colourful and whimsical artworks.
To use my art as a platform to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainability.
To capture the beauty of nature and the human experience through my paintings, and share it with the world.
To create art that transcends language and cultural barriers, bringing people together through the universal language of beauty.
To inspire and empower women through my art, celebrating their strength, resilience, and unique beauty.
Develop a visual identity for your brand
As an artist, one of the most important things you can do is develop a strong visual identity for your brand. Your visual identity is what will help you stand out from the crowd and attract attention from potential customers and clients. This includes your brand colours, logo, banners, avatars, social media posts and more.
Here are five tips to help you create a visual identity for your art business:
1. Define your brand. What are your core values and attributes? What makes you unique? Once you have a clear understanding of your brand, you can start to develop a visual identity that reflects who you are as a business.
2. Consider your target audience. Who are you trying to reach with your art business? What kinds of visuals, colours, textures etc. will resonate with them? When you know your target audience, you can create visuals that appeal to them.
3. Keep it simple. When it comes to visuals, less is often more. You want to create a simple, elegant visual identity that is easy for people to remember.
4. Use high-quality visuals. The visuals you use should be high-resolution and professional-looking. This will help you create a strong impression and build trust with your target audience.
5. Stay consistent. Once you have developed your visual identity, it is important to stay consistent with it. Use the same colours, fonts, and overall look and feel across all of your marketing materials. This will help people easily recognize your brand.
Check out this Skillshare class DIY Branding for Creatives to help you design a visual identity for your brand!
Monitor and adjust your brand identity as needed
Like any business, it’s important to regularly monitor how your art brand is performing and make changes and re-iterate as needed.
Here are a few tips:
1. Keep an eye on your sales. If you’re not selling as much as you’d like, it could be a sign that your brand identity isn’t resonating with your target audience. Take a look at your branding and see if there’s anything you could change to better appeal to your desired customers.
2. Pay attention to your online presence. What are people saying about your brand? Are they sharing your content? If not, it could be a sign that your brand identity isn’t strong enough. Again, take a look at your branding and see if there’s anything you could change to make a bigger impact.
3. Monitor your competition. See what they’re doing that’s working and try to replicate it. But also, be sure to differentiate yourself from the competition so you’re not just another “me too” art brand. By regularly monitoring your brand identity and making changes as needed, you’ll be sure to stay ahead of the game and keep your art business thriving.
4. Update your branding regularly. It may take some re-iterating until you’ve reached a point where you feel like your brand truly reflects you and your art business.
Conclusion
Creating a brand identity doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a professional and unique brand identity for your art business that will help you stand out from the competition. With a little time and effort, you can develop a strong brand that will attract new customers and help grow your business.
