We know that art education and creative talent alone will not guarantee a successful art career. As an art career coach and artist’s mentor I’ve learned there are certain characteristics successful artists have that set them apart from others. In this article I offer 8 of these traits that work for many artists I know. I have also added some examples of how you can incorporate them. In each category you’ll find links to related articles for further reading.
1. Courage
Matisse reminds us, “Creativity takes courage.”
He was correct. Success does not reward timidity so step outside your comfort zone.
* Dare to raise the volume higher on your activities to promote yourself and your art.
* Stand up for what you believe and create the kind of art that meets your highest moral and ethical standards.
* Refrain from mediocrity, fashions and trends in art, and continuously seek new levels of creativity and professional achievement.
* Have the courage to leave a relationship or refuse a business offer that will compromise your integrity and self-worth.
* Be brave and follow your artistic vision.
* Seek positive role models and mentors and aspire to be more like them. Discover motivation in stories about artists who have triumphed over adversity.
Read “Being Inspired by Courageous Artists”.
2. Commitment
Artists who have an unwavering commitment to stay focused on their priorities accomplish their objectives.
Commitment is the difference between a goal and a wish. We all have wishes and dreams, but what matters most is when we devote ourselves to following through on those goals we desire, even when we don’t want to do the work.
* Exercise a relentless discipline to learn and apply artistic techniques and the desire to push creative boundaries.
* Demonstrate your commitment to your art career success by laying the foundation with a business plan.
* Make a decision to accomplish a specific goal this year and set a date for it. For example, you may commit to creating 10 new paintings for a one-person show this year or selling 5 paintings in the next 6 months.
* Incorporate daily habits to review and reinforce your creative, career and financial goals. Make your goal a priority and use a relentless approach with a “to do” list and deadlines.
* Strive to be a good manager of your time.
Read 10 Time-Saving Tips For Busy Artists.
Read “How to Create Your Art Business Plan”.
Read “Where to Find Art Buyers”.
Read Take Your Art Career Dreams and Goals Higher.
3. Confidence
If you hear a voice within you say “you cannot paint”, then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced”. Wise words by Vincent van Gogh
Vincent was correct. This might be the most important quality you need for success. Art collectors and art dealers are attracted to artists who radiate confidence the same way that bees are drawn to flowers.
* Be the kind of artist who demonstrates a clear vision of your personal and professional strengths. Exude an infectious positive energy in your posture and methods of communication.
* Build your confidence muscles and self-esteem the way an Olympic champion does. It requires a daily routine.
As Van Gogh reminds us, ignore the critical inner voices as well as the judgmental naysayers.
* Don’t allow self-doubt to sabotage your career.
* Eliminate your need for approval and acceptance.
* Trust and follow your innate creative instincts.
“Because one believes in oneself, one doesn’t try to convince others. Because one is content with oneself, one doesn’t need others’ approval. Because one accepts oneself, the whole world accepts him or her.” ~ Lao Tzu
Read “8 Golden Keys to Art Career Success”
4. Consistency
As soon as a serious professional artist has achieved a high level of proficiency, they refrain from jumping from one creative direction to another. They have acknowledged and attained their true identity and distinctive style that is recognizable.
Experimentation is great when you are in your studio but not so when you bring your art to a public forum. If you spread yourself all over the creative map it will require more time and effort to target your collectors, galleries and opportunities for recognition.
If you want to achieve success adopt a consistent level of professional behavior, a regular program of art marketing activities, and a cohesive artistic style.
* Be consistent and reliable in your business relationships. Show up on time. Follow up.
* Develop and follow a cohesive marketing approach that matches your consistent, recognizable body of work.
* Speak and write about your art in a consistent manner that reflects your unique vision.
Read “How to Write Your Artist’s Statement: 28 Guidelines”.
Learn about my writing services for artists.
5. Changeability
Stubbornness, inactivity and inertia are the enemies of success. Successful creative individuals are open and receptive to change.
They apply new methods of problem solving, embrace new art materials and technology, and keep abreast of changes reflected in art world events.
* Don’t be afraid to change if a plan, behavior, attitude or strategy isn’t working. Tap into your innate strength and wisdom to alter or replace it.
* Periodically examine your ineffective habits and consider other proactive alternatives. Learn to be as flexible as a willow tree and you will never be uprooted!
* Never cease exploring and learning about the mysteries of life. Continue to learn new ways of doing things.
Read “The Art of Self-Education in the Information Age”.
6. Camaraderie
Camaraderie is an empowering experience. Seek fellow artists with whom you can share your goals, resources and information.
* Exude a spirit of generosity among fellow artists.
* Help others in need for the mere satisfaction of it without expecting anything in return.
* Find your ideal community. Join arts organizations where you can find others who understand and empathize with your challenges and you can give and accept support from each other.
* Look for groups on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook where you can find kindred spirits and form alliances.
Read “Advice To Artists From Artists Hamish Blakely and Bren Sibilsky”.
Read “Taking the First Steps to launching An Artist Group or Organization”.
7. Cooperation
Successful artists practice honesty and maturity in their professional relationships and diligence in their art business responsibilities.
In business the act of cooperation, even with people you wouldn’t be friends with, is essential.
* Strive for common ground in your business relationships.
* Tolerate other people’s opinions.
* Try not to burn any bridges.
Read “Build Your Art Career with People Power”.
8. Collaboration
People gravitate to artists like a magnet when they recognize they are not only gifted artistically, but also imbued with a spirit of generosity.
Artists who demonstrate these admirable traits attract the interest, support and collaboration of others. Writers like me want to write about them, people want to buy their art, magazine publishers choose their art to grace the covers of their publications.
* Strive to serve a purpose beyond gratification of your ego.
* Avoid isolation and tap into the power that there is strength in numbers.
* Be a person who enjoys reciprocation, mutual exchange, and partnerships.
* Participate in art projects with others who share your vision.
Read “Create Successful Art Events”.
I am so happy I found your articles to advise me. I am currently 5yrs in on an art journey. I found it to be my passion and have since been practicing. Now, I’m wanting more than art fairs and the local art scene. I’m extremely grateful but I’ve found myself trying to fit in because of the status quo of the art here where I reside. It’s been ok but not great. Now I’m committed to being great and my beat and honest in my creativity. Reading these points have helped me find clarity also have stepped on some toes. One thing I need to work on is consistency. Some business relationships haven’t been the best because I rushed in anticipating a certain expectation and experience and it doesn’t turn out the way I hoped. If I play the victim I can say that I’ve been misunderstood several times and never exerted any energy to clarify any of them. I’ve just kept moving on. I’ve experimented and tried many things. Now for about a week my social media is deactivated until I’m more consistent in my work and approach. I’m considering residency programs but again, taking a time out to get clear on my mission and vision. Working on a financial plan and other things. But this is the most honest information I’ve gotten since I started. It’s clear and precise. Thank you for sharing.
Dear Janelle, Thank you very much for visiting my website and sharing information about yourself. I’m so happy you found the article helpful. Please save my link and visit my NEWS page every Wednesday https://renee-phillips/news when I post a new topic and links to several articles. I wish you tremendous success and I look forward to visiting your website after I post this reply. All the best to you!
Thank you Renee!
For me, I need to work on Commitment and Consistency, as it is difficult to realize any of my goals when grandchildren are involved.
These are all good suggestions to follow! You are very insightful.
Sincerely,
Biruta
Family comes first! Your “Commitment” to your family is very important. 🙂
Thank you very much Marie and Andrew. I appreciate that you wrote a comment and enjoyed the article. I hope you visit the website often as I add new articles to help artists achieve their goals.
All the best,
Renee
I think I will put it under my pillow so maybe eventually it will all stay in my head. Thanks Renee.
Thank you Yvonne,
You make me laugh! Why don’t you make an audio recording of it!?
Best regards,
Renee
This is both affirmation and brilliant guidance! Thank you for sharing these building blocks to success; which, incidentally, applies to everyday life… Curious that.
This is truly inspiring for me as an artist! I live in a remote area and have some problems with attending events since I am far from everything. But I am involved in our Artists’ Center in Carleton and in the training comittee at our regional Culture Council.
Thank you for sharing these priceless success advices.