The data (shown left) was taken from survey by The Creative Independent. Over 1,000 artists were surveyed from 52 different countries. The data represents artists who have created their own businesses, by selling their art directly to customers, and if they feel financially stable. According to the article in Small Business Trends, 60% of visual artist businesses make less than half the average American household income

 Guta, M. (2021, March 5). 60% of visual artist businesses make less than half the average American household income. Small Business Trends. Retrieved October 30, 2022, from https://smallbiztrends.com/2018/06/visual-artist-salary.html 

In this “Do’s and Don’ts” visualization, I have listed 4 “do’s” and 4 “don’ts”. My goal is to
provide a simple list of what to focus on when building an art career – in addition to what to
avoid when building your career. This visual representation helps the reader focus on the more
important points such as networking and art industry education. Community building is the
focus of this visualization, such as finding a mentor and remember value your relationships by
not “burning bridges”. The reader will come away with easy to remember tips for career
building.

This visualization is referring to the importance of business education in art programs.
Based on my research, I believe one of the best and more effective ways to support artists is to
provide access to business management information. If an artist does not know to how build an
art business, then they will struggle to thrive as an art professional. Additionally, an artist with a
well-rounded education will be better adept at collaborating with art industry professionals
such as managers, agents, and gallerists. When artists are better prepared to succeed in the art
market, then the entire art industry thrives.

This visualization represents the most important steps in building a sustainable art
career. The most important step – and most important theme in my work – is education. When
artists have an understanding of business management, in addition to their art craft, they are
better prepared to build an art career that can sustain them long-term. Another important
theme is networking. Networking is often underrated and is a crucial component to any career.
Networking opens an artist up to opportunities and collaborations. Additionally, many artists
are self-employed and must prioritize their financial health. This means, prepared for
emergencies, periods of time when they are not selling or produces much work, and they must
create multiple income streams. This may look like relying on technology to sell their work such
a digital marketplaces and social media.