When most people think of an artist, they picture someone sitting peacefully at an easel, paintbrush in hand, creating something beautiful from imagination and emotion. And while that moment of creation is at the heart of what we do, it’s only one small part of the story. Behind every finished piece of art lies hours — sometimes days — of unseen effort, planning, and persistence.
Being an artist today is so much more than just making art. It’s about getting yourself noticed, building your brand, and finding ways to stand out in an ever-crowded digital world. Every piece you see online has a whole world of work behind it — from the initial sketch and material preparation to the lighting, photography, editing, and writing that turn it into something ready to share.
Then comes the part most people never see: the business side.
Artists are their own marketers, photographers, website managers, accountants, and customer service departments. There’s content creation for social media, maintaining online shops across multiple platforms, writing newsletters, tracking expenses, and keeping up with ever-changing algorithms — all while continuing to create new work.
And that’s before you even touch the paint.
Another huge part of the artistic journey is the exhibition side of things. Preparing for a show can take weeks, sometimes months, of hard work — choosing the right pieces, framing and labeling, transporting artwork safely, and setting up displays that reflect your style and story. Exhibitions bring incredible opportunities to connect with people in person, to see real reactions, and to share the meaning behind your work face-to-face. But they also come with costs, time pressures, and the emotional rollercoaster of hoping your art will resonate. Whether it’s a local art fair, a solo gallery show, or a pop-up event, every exhibition represents countless hours of unseen effort and investment — all for the chance to bring art into the world and connect with others through it.
There’s also the mental load — the constant worry about sales, the pressure to stay visible, the uncertainty of whether your next launch or show will be successful, and the rising cost of living that makes every decision feel heavier. It’s a balancing act between creativity and survival, passion and practicality. You’re one person doing the work of many, fuelled by love for what you do and the hope that others will see the value in it too.
That’s why every bit of support matters. A like, a comment, a share — they’re small actions that have a big impact. They help your work reach new eyes, they encourage you on the tough days, and they remind you that people care about what you’re creating.
And when someone decides to purchase a piece — whether it’s an original painting, a print, or even a small handmade item — it means the world. There’s a quiet celebration behind the scenes, a little happy dance, and a deep sense of gratitude. It’s more than just a sale; it’s validation that all the time, effort, and heart you’ve poured into your work has found a home.
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Couldn't agree more! I always love to see what you are creating and I can always see how much time and effort goes into everything you do