How Do You Define Success as an Artist?

Success. It’s a word that’s thrown around a lot, especially in the world of art. But how do you measure it? Is it the number of sales, the fame, or the ability to pay the bills through your creative endeavors? For me, success as an artist is more personal, and I define it in two parts.

Part One: The Joy of Creating

A successful artist, in my eyes, is one who continues to create art that lights them up—whether or not they’re financially thriving. Art is, first and foremost, about expression. It’s about chasing that spark of inspiration and seeing it come to life. My Hypno Bat wall art, for example, is the perfect embodiment of this joy. I’ve poured my fascination with patterns, op art, and uncommon animals into this design. It’s a piece that excites me, one that brings together the hypnotic and the unexpected. Seeing it now available in my Redbubble shop feels like an achievement because I made something that truly lights me up.

Part Two: Thriving Financially as an Artist

The other side of success comes with financial stability. To combine the joy of creating with the freedom to stop doing jobs you hate—that, to me, is thriving as an artist. Financial success isn’t necessary to be a “complete” artist, but achieving it does open up possibilities. It gives you the time and mental space to focus solely on your art. My dream is to bridge that gap completely, to live in a world where my creations, like the Hypno Bat, not only spark joy but also allow me to make a sustainable living.

The Sliding Scale of Success

Success as an artist isn’t a destination; it’s a sliding scale. On one end is simply making art—staying true to what inspires you. On the other is thriving financially, so you can dedicate your full energy to your craft. Whether you’re just starting out, selling your first piece, or making a full-time living from art, every step on this scale is a success in itself.

The Hypno Bat wall art, now available on Redbubble, represents that blend of joy and progress for me. It’s a piece that combines my creative passion and a small step toward financial freedom. Wherever you are on your journey, keep creating. You’re already a success.

Let me know what success as an artist means to you—I’d love to hear your thoughts!