Opportunities for Artists

The “starving artist” stereotype has been around popular culture (and our collective imagination) since the mid-19th century. This misleading cliché paints a picture of a one-dimensional character with a singular focus: producing art at all costs, sacrificing their well-being to create their works. But here’s the thing: Plenty of artists have built successful and lucrative creative careers. And now, more than ever before, working full-time in a creative capacity isn’t just feasible–it’s also incredibly in demand. It just takes planning, preparedness, and knowing where to find the right opportunities. Many income and exhibition pursuits are available to artists of all disciplines and skill levels, yet many still ignore them, thinking they’re a waste of time. However, creative opportunities such as art calls, artist residencies, and artist grants can go a long way to further an artist’s career. 

As an artist, seeking out pathways that provide time, space, and support to develop your artwork and your brand is essential. If you’re searching for ways to cultivate a flourishing career in the art world, this guide is an excellent place to start. We’re digging into the world of creative opportunities available to artists so you can pursue a career in the craft you love.

At TheArtList, we see artists and photographers use open submission opportunities to develop their careers successfully every day. Keep reading to learn more!  

What are Art Calls?

An art call is an open invitation for artists to submit their work for consideration in a show or exhibition. Many art calls are put out by galleries or exhibition spaces as a way of curating new work for shows. However, calls can also come from magazines or other publications seeking art for features, from websites looking for new content, or even from private collectors. 

Often, there is a theme that artists must adhere to, and juried shows tend to be more competitive than non-juried shows. But whether you’re submitting to a juried or non-juried show, make sure you familiarize yourself with the submission guidelines before sending in your work—a failure to do so could result in your artwork being automatically disqualified.

For many artists, open calls are an opportunity to give themselves a prompt and structure and set boundaries and deadlines when working in the studio. They also open artists to new exposure, connections, and potential prizes if their work is selected. 

What are the Most Common Types of Art Calls? 

• Competitions – awards for themed art contests
• Exhibitions – artwork shows featuring selected artists
• Vendor Events – art fairs, festivals, and craft shows
• Requests for Proposals – paid art projects

What are the Benefits of Submitting to an Art Call? 

The specific benefits will vary depending on the call but generally include: 

• Winning prize money (as well as other prizes such as art materials, etc.) 
• Gain increased exposure and publicity for your personal brand as an artist 
• Some calls may offer print exposure, such as a magazine cover
• There’s the possibility of being discovered by a gallery, curator, or collector
• Bonus: Whether or not you win, you’ll become an active member of the art community

What is an Artist Residency?

Artist-in-residence programs, or artist residency programs, offer artists an opportunity to live and work in a new environment—often one that is very different from their usual surroundings—for a period ranging from a few weeks to several months. Artist groups resembling artist residencies can be traced back to at least 16th-century Europe when art academies began to emerge. 

During a residency, artists can explore new locations, experience different cultures, and experiment with new materials and mediums. Much like study abroad programs, residencies are often aimed at young artists and can end up having a long-term impact on their life and work.

Residencies typically provide housing and studio space free of charge (or at a significantly reduced rate), as well as access to resources like libraries and galleries. Some residencies also offer stipends or fellowships that can help offset the cost of living expenses. If you’re interested in applying for a residency program, make sure you check out the eligibility requirements. Some programs are only open to artists working in certain mediums or from some geographical regions.

What Are Artist Grants? 

Artist grants can provide vital financial support for individual artists and organizations pursuing new work or presenting existing work. Grants might be for set amounts of money and for a set number of applicants, or they could be portions of a larger overall grant budget, awarded as the committee overseeing applications sees fit. All of this will depend on the institution or organization that is offering the grant. 

For artists, grant money can be for specific projects or for general operations. Grants can help artists attend a residency program, rent a studio, purchase supplies and materials, and more. 

There are many different types of artist grants available, each with its own eligibility requirements, application processes, and deadlines. When applying for an artist grant, the most important thing is to read the eligibility requirements carefully and follow all instructions when completing the application form.

What Can Artists Use Grant Money For? 

What you can use grant money for as an artist will depend on the grant. Most grants will ask you to complete a budget proposal in which you break down how much money you will need and how you will use the money. Typically, artists can use grant money for a variety of purposes related to their work, including: 

• Materials and Supplies
• Studio Rental or Purchase
• Equipment Rental or Purchase
• Marketing and Promotional Expenses 
• Travel Expenses Related to Research or Presenting Work
• Living Expenses While Working on a Creative Project
• Salaries for Collaborators on a Creative Project 

What is an Artist Fellowship? 

A fellowship is similar to a grant in that it’s financial assistance given to an artist (or group of artists) to help them further their careers; however, fellowships are typically awarded by organizations or foundations with an interest in promoting specific types of art (for example, environmental art, sculpture, or digital media.) 

Artist fellowships usually include additional perks like mentorship opportunities or exposure to new audiences; if you think you might be eligible for a fellowship program, familiarize yourself with the application process—each fellowship has different requirements. 

What Educational Opportunities are there for Artists? 

The world of art is a vast one, with endless educational opportunities for artists at all levels and disciplines. Some options include certificate programs, master classes, online courses, summer intensives, and workshops. These opportunities can provide invaluable networking opportunities in the creative community as well as exposure to new techniques, ideas, and mediums. And if you’re looking for a more traditional educational experience, there are also plenty of colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fine arts.

Related: The Five Best Sites to Learn New Artistic Skills

How Can I Start a Career in the Art World?

Successful artists have one thing in common: they put their heart into what they are passionate about. We are here to reassure you that setting yourself up for success in a creative field is possible! In fact, there are plenty of things you can do to increase your opportunities in the art world. Here are just a few: 

1. Enter Art Calls

One way to get your start in the art world is to enter art calls and contests. There are a number of online and in-person competitions open to fine artists and photographers of all levels of experience. Entering these competitions can help you gain exposure and build your portfolio. Additionally, many competitions offer prize money, which can be used to fund your art career. 

2. Network With Other Artists 

Another way to get your start in the art world is to network with other artists. There are a number of ways to meet other artists, including online and offline networks. Joining an artist group or association is a great way to meet other artists, build community, and learn about opportunities in the art world. 

3. Use Social Media

Social media is an excellent tool for artists and creatives of all experience levels. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn allow you to showcase your work to a broad audience. Additionally, social media platforms can be used to connect with other artists and art professionals online. Use social media to build your network and expand your reach in the art world, build a following, and connect with art collectors and gallerists 

Related: 5 Ways to Use Social Media to Generate Buzz About Your Artwork 

What Different Kinds of Careers Can a Professional Artist Pursue? 

Art is an endlessly versatile profession that can take you down any number of paths–––existentially limited only by your imagination! Artists can be portrait artists, graphic designers, professional photographers, game development artists, textile artists, illustrators, tattooists, sculptors, and film animators. They can also use their skills to teach in schools or colleges, working with children, teenagers, or adults. Some artists even pursue degrees in art therapy to become art therapists. Some artists focus on creating works for organizations and institutions, while others establish themselves as entrepreneurs with their own studios or work positions at other artists’ firms. 

The bottom line is that when it comes to a career in art, you’re only limited by your own imagination and perseverance. If ambitions stretch far enough, you could be the next Picasso.  We believe in you! 

Final Thoughts 

As you can see, there are many different ways for artists to get involved in the world of professional artmaking—and many different benefits that come along with doing so! Whether you’re looking for financial support, exposure for your artwork, or simply some dedicated time and space to focus on your craft, there’s sure to be an opportunity out there that’s perfect for you. 

Art calls, contests, grants, educational opportunities, residencies, fellowships, grants, and other programs can provide invaluable resources like time, space, and financial support that can help you develop your work and build a fulfilling and financially rewarding career. So what are you waiting for? Start pursuing your passion today!

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