Can i become a freelance artist?

Question

I want to become a freelance artist when i leave college but i've heard it's very hard to make a living out of, is that true? and any useful tips?

Answer 1

Build yourself an extensive portfolio.

Include works that are as commercial as you can manage without compromising your portfolio's integrity.  [It should represent your taste as well as ability]

Look for opportunities to do work in your local community.  Library, new building projects, schools.  Get them to at least cover your costs, so you can claim it was a legitimate commission.

Unless you have exceptional talent in a field that has a ready local market to you, it will be tough.

Answer 2

Yes, it's very difficult to make a living as an artist, period, much less "free lance". You haven't said what your medium is, but you will need an extensive portfolio as well as another method of earning a living until you get some clients and/or a gallery. You'll be doing a lot of pavement-pounding to flog your art, so you need to get up a list of places and/or people to whom you want to sell. If you're in school, ask your art instructor for some ideas - they usually have access to some information, as well as the local library, and look around for some artist groups you can join to get some tips and ideas as well.

Answer 3

if you want to be a freelance atist the you can do it

Answer 4

Yes it is difficult. Any job is but its harder for those with the term Freelance, because you have to generate your own work, until you have a standing within the community hardly anyone will be interested so it's down to you and your hard work, blood, sweat, tears, early mornings and late nights which will make you have a standing. Be focussed, confident and determined that this is what you want and dont let anyone try to sway your decision. Acceptance is good but dont let it go to your head. Rejection should be accepted and seen as an opportunity to improve.