The internet can be a great equalizing force: once artists needed the backing of a studio to help record, produce, and promote their work, now, digital and online tools give artists all they’ll need to create and get paid. However, having the tools and knowing how best to use them are two separate things.
Here are a few pieces of advice for modern artists.
1.Connect with Supporters with Merchandise
Before the pandemic, there were touring musicians who broke even by selling concert tickets, but made their real money selling merchandise. There are no live concerts right now but there’s always a merch table online.
Are you wondering what is print on demand for Canada and North America, and does it extend beyond t-shirts? There are companies designed to help online artists by handling things like order fulfillment and linking them with a nearby printer.
Artists can choose to slap their branding on a huge array of products, from clothes, like hoodies and socks, to smartphone cases and more. The Grateful Dead is a famous example of a band that had its own parallel aesthetic world of images that adorned everything from t-shirts, ties, and more. Connect with your fans and promote yourself by selling thoughtful merch.
2. Hone Your Craft by Doing it a Lot
If you’re a writer, publish a lot of articles or stories. If you’re a musician, release songs. By all means, practice your craft in a room by yourself, but releasing your work helps keep you accountable for ensuring it’s above a certain quality threshold.
Some artists have issues concerning self-doubt or imposture syndrome. These types of negative thoughts won’t have space or time to gnaw at you if you publish your art regularly.
Recharge your inspiration by consuming art you love, but hone your craft by doing it a lot.
3. Be Raw and Honest
The internet is full of influencers and even artists who are limited and dictated to by self-conscious brands. Rather than take the industrial approach and give people what you think they want to consume, just be yourself and don’t worry about affectations.
You don’t need to coat what you’re doing in irony or live up to what you think an artist should be or say. Just do you, and communicate honestly and openly with your fans and supporters. People can see through gimmicks, and they sense and appreciate authenticity.
4. Ask for Support
This is a rough financial time right now for many people, but don’t be shy about asking fans for support. Artists’ livelihoods were severely affected by the pandemic, and everyone needs to make an income.
If you have artist hang-ups about soliciting money, get over them. You can raise money for community causes too, but you don’t need to feel guilty about accepting money for your passion and hard work.
How many people staying at home during the pandemic spend their time reading, watching movies, or listening to music? The world needs art and artist right now, so keep these tips in mind and keep creating what you love.
