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How do I become an artist as a job without being a starving artist?

Most artist who try to make it big in life ends up homeless, no money and no enjoyment in life.

career-path spring26 artist
Thank you comment icon Hello Gennessy, Your inquiry has gone through my weekly mail. You are like a mentor to me, and unfortunately, my answer will be shallow because my expertise is in Finance. It's great to have some experience as an artist in life - it makes life more meaningful and full of joy. This is from an international perspective from someone living in Southeastern Europe (Balkans). Half of Gen Z in my country would like to be artists. It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about your future—most professionals didn’t have it all figured out at your age. Start by exploring what excites you, whether it’s solving problems, helping people, or creating something new. Every small step you take—like researching a role, shadowing someone, or trying a project—builds clarity over time. I can't help so much because I am too old for that kind of stuff, but stay updated with my peers' advice and turn back again in Career village for other questions. Connections matter as much as skills. Reach out to teachers, alumni, or professionals in fields you’re curious about. A short message asking for advice can open doors. Remember, most people enjoy sharing their journey—it’s how they give back. Hope it helps. Good luck. Isida Mici
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Kim’s Answer

Hi Gennessy,

The way to become a professional artist without starving is by having multiple jobs (art is one of them--then there are the things you do to pay the bills), working really hard at all your crafts--including learning how to promote your work--and hoping for the best. I wish I had a more satisfying answer, but I don't. It's very, very hard for almost all of us. We make art because we have to--not to "make it big." The studio artists in blue-chip galleries often get there because they have the ambition, (usually) talent and skill, social skills, social connections, and luck. And they're persistent. Artists seem to sort of "appear" on the scene, when in fact they may have been working thirty or more years, building an exhibition record, applying for grants and residencies, networking, and maybe selling and/or licensing their art. There are lots of ups and downs, and you have to be able to deal with both.

My advice to you is to focus on your art and develop a studio discipline as soon as possible, if that's what you really want. That means spending time in the studio painting or drawing or whatever you do, looking for opportunities, researching artists, going to see art in person whenever you can, and reading. Also, I think it would help if you talked to more working artists and read artist interviews so you can get a more realistic sense of what it's like. Maybe see if you can do some studio visits; maybe a teacher can help you. As you pursue your goals, they will shift. Your definition of success will shift.

You don't have to figure it all out today. Make sure art is always a joy and not something you resent. If it doesn't bring you fulfillment, it's not for you.

Best to you.
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