I know how to become a successful artist

My cheeky t-shirt design: “Cats are from Venus.” features a feline alien levitating a razzed-up dog into her flying saucer. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it’s a nod to my love for 50’s and 60’s science fiction and horror movies. Picture the Earth vs the Flying Saucers, but with more fur and a lot more attitude. This design is a playful homage to that era of cinematic wonder.

Now, let’s get to the question at hand: what subjects do I consider myself an authority on? When it comes to this artwork, I’m definitely in my element discussing 50’s and 60’s sci-fi and horror. These movies are a treasure trove of inspiration, with their charmingly low-budget special effects and timeless themes of alien invasions and existential dread. They’ve shaped not only my art but also my sense of humor and appreciation for the bizarre.

On what subject(s) are you an authority?

Aside from my love of retro sci-fi, I’m also well-versed in 90’s alternative music and grunge. Think Nirvana, Mudhoney, and all the flannel-clad angst that defined a generation. The raw, unfiltered emotion of that era’s music has a way of creeping into my work, giving it a gritty, authentic edge.

And then there’s the matter of becoming a thriving artist. Ah, yes, I’ve got all the knowledge on what we should be doing to achieve success. But let’s be real—implementing everything at once is a Herculean task, especially when you’re a dad to two young kids, running a café art gallery, and setting up an off-grid regenerative farm. I’ve created enough distractions to keep me from my goal, but hey, at least I’m attempting to build my email list.

So, for those curious about the steps to becoming a financially successful thriving artist, here’s what you need to do (and what I’m still working on):

1. Create Consistently: This is key. Keep producing new work and experimenting with different styles and mediums.
2. Build Your Brand: Develop a unique voice and aesthetic that sets you apart from other artists.
3. Utilise Social Media: Share your work regularly, engage with your audience, and build a community around your art.
4. Network: Connect with other artists, attend events, and collaborate on projects.
5. Sell Your Art: Set up an online store, participate in art fairs, and explore different avenues for selling your work.
6. Build an Email List: Stay in touch with your audience and keep them updated on new projects and releases.
7. Diversify Your Income: Explore multiple revenue streams, such as prints, merchandise, commissions, and teaching.

There you have it—the blueprint for becoming a thriving artist. Now, implementing all of these steps while juggling life’s many responsibilities is another story. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that persistence and passion go a long way. So, here’s to all the distractions, the late nights, and the endless creativity that keep us going.

Feel free to share your thoughts on my “Cats are from Venus” t-shirt design or any tips you have for thriving as an artist. Let’s keep supporting each other and having fun along the way!