Money Matters for Artists
Oh, what I wish I knew at the beginning for this career instead of learning along the way. This is the very basics of getting started, but it is much better to at least start the conversation, see the information, then to stick your head and the sand and pretend you will magically become a famous artist. Looking only at your Art is not enough to make it, the money side of your artistry is equally important.
Money Matters for Artists. The worksheet is to get you thinking about value, who your audience is and why your work would actually be a good fit for a person or sales platform, and understand the power of knowing what you spend on art supplies and what you actually make in art sales. Then we get into the nitty-gritty looking at what all could potentially be a tax write-off ( so receipts you need to keep), and how to organize what’s coming in and going out.
The last section is for you to read on your own, but I promise when you are ready they are invaluable resources to further your understanding of the world you want to embark into, do not let this derail you. It may be uncomfortable, a big stretch if it’s not something you like to think about, but it will help you to be successful. I want you to succeed and not make the mistakes that I made as a new artist.
Money Matters Worksheet:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1q2etYUgtQg94w7b0fsl7eopTqSpXuYImrj8echDuCy0/edit?usp=sharing
Tax Deductions for Artists:
Money Matters Spreadsheet: Will be in View mode, but make a Copy for yourself to edit and put your own info into.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/110HayhOjj71U6ZUOBmvN9Zf_6U6OC-Eo4Nkzv7L7qEo/edit?usp=sharing
Must Read Resources:
How to Start a Business in Colorado: https://www.coloradosbdc.org/resources/entrepreneurs/small-business-navigator/
The Business of being a Freelance Artist: https://www.freelancetaxation.com
How to Price Artwork Consistently : https://www.artworkarchive.com/blog/how-to-price-consistently-for-art-sales-success
The Do’s and Don’ts of Pricing: https://www.artworkarchive.com/blog/do-s-and-don-ts-of-pricing-your-artwork
How to Sell your Art Online: https://www.savethestudent.org/make-money/ways-to-sell-art-online.html
How to Get into a Gallery: https://artbusinessnews.com/2017/01/how-to-get-into-a-gallery/
Next Level Pricing your Artwork: https://www.artbusiness.com/artists-how-to-price-your-art-for-sale.html