Welcome to Gaia! ::

Well, Austin said we needed more general topics, so here is something that I've been discussing with my DeviantArt Guild and I would like to see what you guys think about it.

It is very difficult for artists to make a living unless they are stellar (as in "child prodigy" aka "the art version of Mozart"). I personally have done a lot to promote myself artistically and I've only ever got one commission for Real Money (not Gaia gold; I get a lot of those).

What do you think about this? Am I doing something wrong when promoting or is it just my style of art? Maybe my art's not good enough, who knows? Am I the only one with this problem?

well my sisters friend kind of lives like one even though she is in college....she sells her artwork for money so i guess you could just have a side job maybe

Why not take your art to the streets or markets.We have people over here doing stuff like that all the time.Its quiet popular actually 3nodding

Wow! Thanks for all the responses everyone, I already have a few ideas to help improve my chances of selling my work. My biggest problem is that I live in Utah, a very art-hating state. I'm thinking that my best bet would be to advertise online.

Korosuki: I agree, I've dabbled in some 3D animations myself and the programs are a real pain in the a**. Good luck being a manga artist. I think the hardest part of getting into that field is coming up with something original; Manga is worth pennies these days... *sigh*

An6elbabii: Well, I tried taking it to the streets once but I got harrassed by a cop... Downtown Salt Lake has never been hospitable to me. I think I will try to take my work to some swap meets though.

Thyna: That's a good idea, I think I'll look around and see if there are any places doing charity auctions. The major art theme here is "Mormon Art". I have nothing against mormons, but honestly that's the only art that's really appreciated here in Utah. Everything else gets a thumbs down. I'm not really comfortable doing mormon art because I'm not mormon, but now that I think about it, it may just be the niche I need to get into the art world.

Hmm, there is a lot to ponder now. Thank you guys so much for your ideas. Keep the comments coming, I'd like to hear other opinions about this subject.

-Teshia

I really don't think so. It's the same thing with music. Your chances of making a full career out of the musical field are slim to none. It won't happen unless you have real talent and what the people want. If you a fabulous artist, and everyone loves your work, then there may be a limited amount of jobs open for you. Maybe a large field. Who knows.

I'd have a full time job, maybe a simple one that doesn't require too much attention, to go along with the side job of being an artist, if I were you. Then if your side job of being an artist (which is what you wanted in the first place) becomes overwhelming, and can only be handled as a full time job, and you can survive if you quit your fulltime job, then go for it.

Oh oh! You can cut off your ear or nose, or something else, then you'll be noticed! Take a look at the famous painter!

No, it's not that visible like a missing nose. Or ear.