LOOKING BACK ON NEARLY 7 YEARS OF ART BUSINESS

I thought I would talk a little bit about what has happened these few past years.

During the first five years of starting my art business, I was still working in a maritime company as a full-time job. I was scared to go full-time as an artist. My family made me believe that having a standard income is better than being a starving artist. During this time, I only had time to create new paintings, go for photoshoots and be part of some group exhibitions. I had no time or strength to focus on selling and marketing my art business. In 2022, I decided to quit my full time job in order to renovate a new space in Athens (Greece) where my art studio gallery "AndieArt" is situated since. I wanted to give a chance to my dream of being a full-time artist and have my art business.

It was not and still is not an easy road… especially the first year when I started to work full time on my art business, I was selling under-charged originals and limited editions of fine art photography, and I was over-worked.

Other than a bit of art class at school and a couple of university subjects on business, I had no idea what I was doing.

Nevertheless, I am still persisting.

I love painting and taking photographs. When I paint, it is mainly with acrylics. I love this medium.

The money I made at my first solo exhibition in 2018, went into buying professional acrylic paints and other archival supplies.

From 2018, my art itself has developed so much. I finally found my style and my new collection (work in progress) will reflect it.

Finally it feels like this art business thing is going somewhere and becoming a little sustainable machine of its own. So if you are a fellow artist and want to create a career for yourself, here are my tips.

1. Work on a style that is your own. Be inspired, be similar but being unique will set you apart.

2. Work your butt off! It is not an easy road but persistence is key.

3. Do not listen to those that do not understand. You will be judged but muting those voices will make you stronger and see a clearer path.

4. Surround yourself with other creative persons. Go for coffee with other artists, send to your favorite artists an email asking questions. Creativity is strength in numbers and you will only get so far alone in your studio.

5. Find your customers. You will not be everyone's cup of tea but your ideal tribe will lift you up and love what you do.

   
   

Antigoni x