July 2024 : The Artistic Divas World

Starting An Online Art Business

Leave a Comment / Art, creativity, goal setting, online art business, Organization, Pinterest / admin

You’re thinking about starting an online art business to sell your art and digital products? That’s awesome! It’s such an exciting journey, and with the right steps, you can turn your passion into a thriving business. Here’s how you can get started and keep things running smoothly.

Start by defining your niche and learning who your audience is. What kind of art or digital products do you create? Are you into abstract paintings, digital illustrations, or maybe printable planners? Figuring out your niche helps you target the right audience. It’s like finding your tribe who loves what you create as much as you do.

Next up, creating a business plan is essential. I know, it sounds a bit formal, but it’s just a roadmap for your business. Think about your goals, who your customers are, and how you’re going to reach them. Also, consider your finances – how much you need to invest upfront and what kind of profit you’re aiming for. It doesn’t have to be super detailed, just enough to give you a clear direction.

Now, setting up your online store is where the fun begins. There are plenty of e-commerce platforms out there like Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, GumRoad, Redbubble, and Big Cartel. Choose one that fits your needs and budget. These platforms make it easy to showcase your products, manage inventory, process payments, and handle shipping. It’s like setting up a virtual shop where people can browse and buy your creations.

Your website is your online storefront, so make it look professional. Invest in a clean design that’s easy to navigate. High-quality images of your products are a must – they should make people go, “Wow, I need this!” Write detailed descriptions, set your prices, and make the checkout process as smooth as possible. Adding a blog is a great idea too. You can share your journey, tips, and updates, which helps build a connection with your audience.

SEO, or search engine optimization, is all about making your website easy to find on Google. Use relevant keywords in your product titles, descriptions, and blog posts. Make sure your site is mobile-friendly, loads quickly, and has quality backlinks. SEO might sound complicated, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a game-changer for attracting more visitors to your site.

Marketing your products effectively is crucial. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are fantastic for showcasing your work and engaging with your audience. Share behind-the-scenes looks, work-in-progress shots, and finished pieces. Consider running ads to reach a larger audience. And don’t forget about email marketing – it’s a powerful tool for keeping your subscribers informed about new products, promotions, and updates.

Customer service can make or break your business. Providing responsive and excellent customer service will set you apart from most others. Respond to inquiries promptly, address any issues professionally, and strive to exceed customer expectations. Offer special customer savings coupons, or add free items into each package sold. Happy customers are more likely to leave positive reviews and recommend your business to others. Word of mouth is incredibly powerful!

If you’re an artist, print-on-demand services like Printful, Printify,Redbubble, and Society6 can be a lifesaver. They let you offer a wide range of products without needing to keep inventory. These services handle printing, shipping, and customer service, freeing you up to focus on creating.

Diversifying your product offerings is a smart move. In addition to your original art, think about selling digital products like printable art, e-books, online courses, and design templates. Digital products, like journals and ephemera have low overhead costs and can be sold repeatedly, providing a steady stream of income.

Keep an eye on your performance. Regularly review your sales data, website traffic, and marketing metrics to see what’s working and what’s not. Tools like Google Analytics can help you track your performance and make informed decisions to improve your business.

Lastly, stay inspired and keep creating. Running an online business can be demanding, but it’s essential to stay motivated. Join online communities, attend workshops, and connect with other artists to keep your creativity flowing. Here is a video that will help you see how to get started and how to keep on top of everything: https://youtu.be/Rc6LakZ_Fvc?si=HU8ds6eqN6WjDSeV

Starting and running an online business selling your art and digital products is a journey full of passion, dedication, and strategic planning. Follow these steps, stay committed to your vision, and watch your creative talents turn into a successful online business. You’ve got this!

Be sure to check out some of our other previous posts about art and crafts here: theartisticdiva.com

Starting An Online Art Business Read More »

Finding Your Voice and Style as an Artist

Leave a Comment / Art, Art Journaling, artistic style, creativity, creativity, journaling, Therapeutic benefits of art, Time Management / admin

Finding your unique style and improving your creative thoughts can be quite the journey, but it’s such a rewarding one. Here are some tips and tricks that might help you along the way. We have explored this topic in various ways, and you can see some of them here, but today we are going to hit it straight on.

First off, finding your style. It’s all about experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Play around with different mediums, colors, and techniques. Maybe you’ve always been a painter but have never tried digital art. Give it a go! The more you experiment, the more you’ll discover what resonates with you. Keep what you love and let go of what doesn’t quite fit. Over time, you’ll notice patterns and preferences emerging, and that’s the foundation of your style.

Another great way to find your style is to study artists you admire. What is it about their work that draws you in? Is it their use of color, their subject matter, or maybe their brushwork? Analyzing the work of others can give you insights into what you might want to incorporate into your own work. But remember, inspiration is different from imitation. Take what you learn and make it your own.

Now, let’s talk about improving those creative thoughts. One of the best ways is to keep a sketchbook. Think of it as your creative playground. Draw, doodle, write down ideas, and don’t worry about making things perfect. This is your space to explore and let your creativity run wild. Sometimes the best ideas come from the most unexpected places.

Another tip is to set aside regular time for creativity. It’s like exercising a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Whether it’s a few minutes a day or a few hours a week, make creativity a part of your routine. This consistency helps keep those creative juices flowing.

Don’t forget the importance of taking breaks. Sometimes, stepping away from your work can give you a fresh perspective. Go for a walk, listen to music, or do something completely unrelated to art. Your mind will continue working on your ideas in the background, and you might come back with a whole new approach.

Collaborating with other artists can also be incredibly beneficial. It’s amazing what you can learn from others. Join a local art group or find an online community where you can share your work and get feedback. Seeing how others approach their work can inspire you and give you new ideas.

And here’s one of my favorite ways to spark creativity: getting out of your comfort zone. Try doing something that scares you a little. Maybe it’s working on a larger canvas, using a color you’ve never used before, or even creating in front of others. Pushing your boundaries can lead to amazing discoveries about your art and yourself.

Reading and consuming art-related content can also be a great way to improve your creative thoughts. Books, blogs, podcasts, and documentaries can provide new perspectives and ideas. Sometimes, hearing about someone else’s creative process can unlock something in your own.

Another trick is to keep a list of creative prompts. Whenever you’re feeling stuck, pull out a prompt and see where it takes you. It could be something simple like “draw something from nature” or more abstract like “create a piece that represents a feeling.” Prompts can kickstart your creativity and take your art in new directions.

Lastly, always remember to be kind to yourself. The creative process has its ups and downs, and it’s important to embrace them all. Celebrate your successes and learn from your challenges. Your style will continue to evolve, and that’s the beauty of being an artist.

So there you have it, a few thoughts on finding your style and boosting your creativity. Remember, it’s a journey, and every step you take brings you closer to discovering more about your artistic self. Keep experimenting, keep creating, and most importantly, keep having fun with it. Happy creating!

Here are a couple of resources to help you understand what I am talking about:

https://www.milanartinstitute.com/blog/5-secrets-to-honing-your-artist-voice-and-style

https://medium.com/swlh/how-to-find-your-artistic-voice-and-why-its-important-for-success-2cdba7b2ac4d

What is an Artist’s Voice and How to Find It

Finding Your Voice and Style as an Artist Read More »

Zines: A Creative Outlet for Everyone

Leave a Comment / Art, creativity, making zines / admin

Have you ever felt that itch to create something that’s entirely your own, something that captures your thoughts, passions, and creativity? If so, you’re going to love the world of zines. These little self-published gems are the perfect way to express yourself without any of the usual constraints.

So, what exactly are zines? Well, the name is short for magazines or fanzines, but they’re a whole different ball game. Zines are typically produced in small batches by individuals or small groups, and they can cover absolutely any topic you can think of. Personal essays, poetry, political commentary, fan fiction – you name it, there’s a zine for it. What’s really cool about zines is that they can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. Maybe it’s just a few photocopied pages stapled together, or maybe it’s a hand-bound book with custom illustrations. The magic lies in the DIY ethic, encouraging creators to let loose and express themselves in any way they see fit.

Here are a few examples: https://www.binderymke.com/what-is-a-zine

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zine

https://youtu.be/Qu0NXYIuY-0?si=ZF3NqtTJ7JHewSkA

Why are zines so popular? For one, they offer unparalleled creative freedom. You’re not bound by the expectations of mainstream media, so you can explore topics and formats that might not fit elsewhere. This is a huge draw for artists, writers, and activists who want to share their unique perspectives. Plus, making and sharing zines fosters a real sense of community. Zine fairs and conventions are fantastic places to connect with like-minded folks, share ideas, and support each other’s work. It’s also worth mentioning how accessible zines are. You don’t need fancy tools or a big budget to make one – just some paper, a pen, and your imagination. And in a world where digital media reigns supreme, there’s something wonderfully tactile about holding a physical zine in your hands.

Now, let’s talk about how to make a zine. It’s a fun and rewarding process that anyone can do. First, think about what you’re passionate about. It could be anything – a hobby, a social issue, your art. Once you’ve got your topic, start planning your content. Will it be articles, poems, illustrations, or a mix of everything? Sketch out a rough layout to guide you. Then, gather your materials. Basic stuff like paper and pens are a given, but you might also want to use photographs, clippings, or a computer with a design program if that’s your thing.

How to make a zine

Creating your pages is where the real fun begins. Draw, write, collage – whatever suits your style. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the charm of zines often lies in their raw, handmade quality. Once your pages are ready, it’s time to assemble your zine. The easiest method is to fold the pages in half and staple them along the fold, but you can get creative with binding techniques if you’re feeling adventurous. If you want to share your zine, you’ll need to make copies. Photocopying is the go-to method, but printing from a computer or using other techniques works too.

So, you’ve made your zine – now what? Start by sharing it with friends and family. Their feedback and support can be super encouraging. You can also sell or trade your zine at fairs, conventions, or online on platforms like Etsy. Distributing locally is another great option. Leave copies in cafes, libraries, or bookstores, or organize a zine swap with local artists and writers. Some libraries and archives collect zines to preserve them for future generations, so donating your zine to one of these collections is a neat way to reach a broader audience. And don’t forget about social media. Promote your zine online by sharing snippets, behind-the-scenes looks at your creation process, and info on where people can get a copy.

Zines are a fantastic way to let your creativity run wild and connect with others who share your interests. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking to try something new, making a zine can be incredibly fulfilling. So grab some paper, let your imagination take over, and start creating your very own zine today!

In addition to this post on zines, be sure to check out our other posts here.

Zines: A Creative Outlet for Everyone Read More »

ATCs: What in the Heck are they?

1 Comment / Art, Artist's Trading Cards, Artists on YouTube, Communities enhanced by art, creativity / admin

So far, we have explored numerous art mediums, art movements, and other types of art in fashion today and you can see some of these here or here or here. Now I want to explain to you about ATCs or artist’s trading cards, in case you’ve never heard of them before. They’re these nifty little pieces of art that are the size of standard playing cards, and they have this amazing way of bringing people together. The whole concept behind ATCs is super fascinating and fun. Let me tell you all about them!

So, ATCs are basically miniature artworks, each one measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches. These tiny canvases are perfect for artists of all levels to express their creativity in a small, manageable space. But the best part? They’re meant to be traded, not sold. Yep, it’s all about sharing your art with others and receiving their art in return. Kind of like a creative exchange program!

The idea of ATCs started with a Swiss artist named M. Vänçi Stirnemann in 1997. He wanted to create a new way for artists to connect and share their work without the barriers of galleries or high price tags. So, he organized the first ATC trading session in Zurich, and it was a hit! People loved the idea of swapping these little pieces of art, and it quickly spread around the world. Now, artists everywhere are making and trading ATCs, and it’s become this global community of creative folks.

Making an ATC is super simple and so much fun. You don’t need fancy supplies or a ton of time. You can use any medium you like—paint, collage, drawing, stamping, even fabric or mixed media. The only rule is to keep the size consistent. Grab some sturdy paper or cardstock, cut it to 2.5 x 3.5 inches, and let your imagination run wild. You could paint a tiny landscape, make a collage with magazine cutouts, or draw a whimsical creature. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes it so exciting!

When you’re done creating your ATC, you’ll want to sign and date the back, just like a real piece of art. Some people also like to add their contact information or a little note about the inspiration behind the piece. It’s a nice touch that adds a personal connection to the card.

Now, the fun part—trading! There are a few ways you can go about this. You can trade in person at organized events or meetups. These gatherings are a blast because you get to meet other artists, see their work up close, and exchange cards right then and there. But if you can’t find a local group, don’t worry. There are tons of online communities where you can trade ATCs through the mail. Websites and social media groups dedicated to ATCs are great places to start. You can post pictures of your cards, browse others’ work, and arrange trades. It’s a wonderful way to connect with artists from all over the world.

One of the coolest things about ATCs is that they’re perfect for art swaps. You can organize a swap with a group of friends or join one online. Each participant creates a certain number of cards, sends them to the host, and then receives the same number of cards from different artists. It’s like getting a little art collection delivered to your door!

And what do you do with all these tiny masterpieces once you have them? Displaying them is part of the fun. You can keep them in a binder with plastic sleeves designed for trading cards. This way, you can flip through your collection whenever you need a burst of inspiration. Or, you can frame your favorites and create a mini gallery on your wall. Some people even use them in other art projects, like incorporating them into larger collages or scrapbooks.

The beauty of ATCs is that they’re so accessible. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just dabbling in creativity, you can make and trade these little gems. It’s a fantastic way to try new techniques, share your work, and connect with a vibrant community of artists. Plus, there’s something incredibly special about holding a piece of art that someone else made with their own hands and traded with you.

So, if you haven’t tried making ATCs yet, give it a go! Grab some supplies, cut some cards, and start creating. Once you make a few, you’ll see just how addictive and rewarding it can be. And who knows? You might just make some new friends along the way.

I’d love to hear about your experiences with ATCs. Have you made or traded them before? What’s your favorite technique to use on these tiny canvases? Share your stories and tips in the comments. Let’s get a conversation going and inspire each other to create more art!

Here are a few sources to find an ATC swap for you:

ATCs: What in the Heck are they? Read More »