29 Business Ideas For Artists [2024]

Interested in starting a business as an artist in 2024?

If managed well, building a business as an artist could be more lucrative than employment. So, which are the best business ideas for Artists?

We put together 29 of some of the best artist business ideas you can start in today.

For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other artist businesses to help you see what it takes.

Here's the full list:

1. Start a video production company ($156K/month)

As an artist, starting a video production company could be a natural extension of your creative abilities, allowing you to make extra money or even establish a thriving side business. You could leverage your artistic eye and storytelling skills to create compelling marketing videos, commercials, and corporate films for various clients. This venture not only allows you to supplement your income but also provides a platform to blend different art forms and innovate within the medium of video.

Furthermore, your unique artistic perspective could set your production company apart from others by offering a more creative and visually captivating approach to typical corporate videos, online ads, and product showcases. This differentiation could help attract a diverse range of clients who are looking for more artistic and engaging content for their marketing strategies. Ultimately, venturing into the video production business could open up exciting new opportunities for artistic expression and financial growth.

2. Start a youtube channel ($146K/month)

Starting a YouTube channel could be a fantastic way for you as an artist to supplement your income or even build a thriving side business. By sharing tutorials, showcasing your creative process, or offering insights into your artistic journey, you could engage a broad audience and attract subscribers who appreciate your unique perspective. This platform allows you to connect directly with fans and potential customers, turning your passion for content creation into a source of revenue.

YouTube’s established monetization system provides multiple opportunities to earn—a popular channel with engaging content could benefit from ad revenue, sponsorships, and even direct sales of your artwork. To join YouTube’s partner program, you would need to reach 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the last 12 months, making consistent and captivating content crucial. Success stories of other artists on YouTube can serve as powerful motivation, illustrating that with dedication and creativity, this avenue holds significant financial potential.

3. Start a podcast ($97.9K/month)

Starting a podcast could be a fantastic way for you as an artist to supplement your income, make extra money, or even launch a side business. By creating audio content that shares your journey, techniques, and insights about art, you could connect with a passionate audience interested in your expertise and creative process. This format allows you to both entertain and inform, leveraging your unique perspective to build a loyal listener base.

To get started, you would need to choose a niche within the art world—maybe art history, modern art techniques, or interviews with other artists—that resonates with you and potential listeners. Basic recording equipment like a microphone and headphones will ensure a professional sound, while a free or affordable hosting platform can help you publish your episodes without a significant upfront investment.

Promotion through social media, online communities, and word of mouth would be key to growing your audience. As your podcast gains traction, there are opportunities to attract sponsors or advertisers, turning your creative passion into a viable income stream. This avenue not only supplements your art career but also expands your influence and reach in the art community.

4. Start a soap business ($67K/month)

As an artist, starting a soap business could be a fantastic way to supplement your income and channel your creativity into a new medium. Soap-making allows you to blend your unique artistic vision with the practicality of everyday products, creating custom designs and scents that can set your products apart from standard offerings. This industry is experiencing growth, so your artistic edge could be exactly what attracts customers looking for unique and visually appealing skincare products.

Moreover, a soap business can be comfortably managed from home and requires a relatively low initial investment, often less than $1,000 for supplies. Given the rising popularity of homemade soap and skincare items, this could be a lucrative venture that allows you to leverage your existing skills while working during your free time. With the increasing trend of online sales, breaking into this market could be straightforward and highly rewarding.

5. Start a skin care product line ($110K/month)

As an artist, you could channel your creativity and attention to detail into crafting a unique skin care product line. The skincare industry, valued at 130 billion USD in 2021 and projected to grow at an annual rate of 4.6% until 2030, offers a booming market ripe for innovative and artistic solutions. By incorporating your artistic vision, you could design visually stunning packaging, develop unique product names, and create a captivating brand story that resonates with consumers seeking distinctive and effective skin care options.

Moreover, you could leverage your understanding of aesthetics to develop formulations that are not only safe but also beneficial in improving your customers' skin. This endeavor allows you to supplement your income or even start a full-fledged business, all while expressing your artistic flair in a new and lucrative industry. Embracing this opportunity might just provide the perfect canvas to blend your passion for art with entrepreneurial success.

6. Create an online course ($83.3K/month)

Starting an online course could be a compelling way for you as an artist to supplement your income or even build an entirely new business. With your specialized skills in areas like painting, digital art, or sculpture, you could create and sell digital classes to subscribers eager to learn these techniques. By identifying educational gaps and developing engaging video lessons and supplementary materials, you tap into a growing market of lifelong learners.

You have the flexibility to design your courses around self-paced or cohort-based structures, which can cater to different learning preferences. This not only provides passive income potential but also allows you to reach a global audience with minimal startup costs. For those who enjoy sharing information and teaching, launching an online course platform could be a lucrative endeavor that monetizes your instructional talents.

7. Start an online jewelry store ($165K/month)

Starting an online jewelry store could be an exciting and lucrative way to supplement your income as an artist. With the global jewelry market valued at around $76 billion in 2020, there is a significant opportunity to tap into a growing industry where your unique artistic skills can shine. By selling your handcrafted pieces online, you could reach a wider audience and offer an extensive selection of affordable jewelry that is increasingly in demand.

An online store allows you to showcase your creativity and offer a personal touch that many mass-produced items lack. Choosing the right e-commerce platform is crucial as it helps you manage your inventory, process secure payments, and provide a seamless shopping experience to your customers. This venture not only provides an additional revenue stream but also offers the potential to turn your passion for art into a thriving business.

8. Start a dog treat business ($635K/month)

Starting a dog treat business could be a perfect venture for an artist who enjoys baking and has a love for dogs. You could channel your creativity into designing healthy, natural, and visually appealing treats that capture the attention of pet owners. By ensuring your treats meet nutritional standards, you'll be combining artistry with a practical and heartfelt service.

Artists thrive on creativity and attention to detail, which could translate beautifully into creating custom birthday cakes and festive holiday gift boxes for dogs. These specialty treats would not only stand out in the market but also satisfy a growing demand for personalized pet products.

By leveraging online and local markets, you could transform your passion for baking and pets into a thriving side business or even a full-time endeavor. This allows you to supplement your income while indulging in a creative pursuit that brings joy to dog owners and their furry companions alike.

9. Make a body care products ($44.3K/month)

As an artist, you could leverage your creativity in designing and selling body care products like soaps, lotions, and scrubs. This entrepreneurial endeavor can serve as both a lucrative side business and a fulfilling artistic outlet. Your unique perspective allows you to create visually appealing and distinct packaging, catering to the growing consumer interest in self-care and natural products.

Entering the body care market is relatively straightforward but will require some dedication to research ingredients, craft formulations, and meet safety standards. Platforms like Etsy or your own website can help you reach a broad audience without needing a physical store. By focusing on sustainable, eco-friendly packaging and unique product combinations, you could easily distinguish your brand from others.

This business idea offers a harmonious blend of artistry and entrepreneurship. If creating tangible products that enhance people's well-being resonates with you, starting a body care product line could be an excellent fit. Your creativity could not only fulfill market needs but also establish a beloved brand that stands out in the industry.

10. Start a freelance writing business ($62.6K/month)

Starting a freelance writing business could be a fantastic way for an artist to supplement their income. With your inherent creativity and unique perspective, you could offer fresh and engaging content across various niches, ranging from art critiques to creative stories. This outlet could provide not only a channel for additional revenue but also an opportunity to reach a broader audience with your artistic voice.

Freelance writing offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to define your own work schedule and work from home. It's perfect for balancing your existing art career with a new business venture. Essential personal qualities such as strong writing skills, ability to meet deadlines, and staying up-to-date with current writing tools and trends will enable you to thrive in this role.

Imagine transforming your artistic insights into captivating articles or blog posts, reaching new clients, and establishing yourself as a versatile creative professional. By harnessing your ability to communicate effectively and think outside the box, you could carve a unique niche for yourself in the freelance writing world.

11. Start a niche accessories brand ($196K/month)

As an artist, starting a niche accessories brand could provide an exciting and lucrative avenue to supplement your income or even grow into a full-fledged business. By leveraging your creative skills, you could design unique jewelry, handbags, or small fashion accessories that stand out in a crowded market. Given the significant profit margins in this industry, your artistic flair could command a premium price, allowing you to benefit financially from your talents.

The custom accessories market was nearly $473.46 billion by 2020, indicating strong consumer demand for personalized and unique items. Platforms like Etsy, Amazon, and Facebook give you access to a broad audience, allowing for easy scalability as your brand gains traction. Tapping into this growing trend, your niche accessory brand could become a go-to destination for customers seeking one-of-a-kind, artistically inspired products.

12. Start a lifestyle product brand ($39.1K/month)

As an artist, you could leverage your creative skills and unique vision to start a lifestyle product brand that reflects a distinct way of life or attitude. This type of business would enable you to transform your artistic expression into diverse products such as clothing, accessories, cosmetics, or home goods. By infusing your art into tangible items, you could connect with customers on a deeper level, offering not just products but an experience that resonates with their lifestyle.

This entrepreneurial venture allows you to supplement your income or even create a full-time business by capitalizing on the growing trend of lifestyle brands, which focus on personal and relevant products. By crafting items that embody your artistic style and values, you could carve out a unique niche in the market, attracting a dedicated consumer base. This approach does more than just sell your art; it sells a piece of your world, creating a compelling brand story that customers would be eager to be a part of.

13. Start an online community ($21.6K/month)

Starting an online community could be an excellent way to supplement your income or even build a full-fledged business as an artist. By gathering people who share common values and interests in art, you could leverage your online presence to sell your products, from original artworks and prints to art supplies and merchandise.

Additionally, you might find opportunities to promote affiliate links for art-related products and earn a commission, or even run ads on your community platform. Furthermore, you could offer exclusive membership benefits with behind-the-scenes content, tutorials, and personalized advice, adding another revenue stream. Initiating sponsored content collaborations within your community could provide extra financial benefits, making your online space both a creative and profitable endeavor.

14. Start a jewelry product ($167K/month)

If you're an artist looking to combine creativity with commerce, starting a jewelry business could be the perfect venture. Creating custom or unique pieces allows you to showcase your artistic talent while tapping into a market that values individuality and craftsmanship. This business could be an excellent way to supplement your income, as jewelry often commands higher price points, especially when crafted as one-of-a-kind or limited-edition pieces.

You'll need a basic set of tools, an eye for design, and quality materials like gemstones, metals, and beads to get started. Platforms like Etsy or your own ecommerce site can help you reach a broad audience without the need for a physical store. With effective marketing, particularly on social media platforms like Instagram, you could attract a fashion-forward customer base, making this not just a side business but potentially a full-fledged enterprise.

15. Start an art business ($61.4K/month)

Starting an art business could be an excellent way to supplement your income or even establish a full-time venture, especially if you have a passion for art. You’d have the flexibility to work on your schedule, set your prices, and engage in something you truly love—all while supporting yourself financially.

There are numerous avenues available for artist-entrepreneurs today. You could sell your work online through platforms like Etsy, showcase your pieces in galleries or museums, or find a niche selling at craft fairs and flea markets. The opportunities are virtually limitless, making it a practical and fulfilling option for artists with an entrepreneurial spirit.

16. Start a woodworking business ($15.8K/month)

As an artist, starting a woodworking business could serve as a fantastic way to supplement your income and explore new creative outlets. While many people view woodworking as merely a hobby, it presents a lucrative opportunity with significant growth potential. By leveraging your artistic skills, you could create unique and custom wood pieces that stand out in the market.

Working from home, the flexibility offered by a woodworking business allows you to scale your operations according to your goals and availability. You could also diversify your income streams by teaching others about woodworking, starting a woodworking blog, or even flipping furniture. This blue-collar side hustle not only taps into your creativity but also offers the potential for unlimited earnings.

17. Start an interior design consulting business ($33.6K/month)

For artists with an eye for aesthetics and a passion for interior spaces, starting an interior design consulting business could be a natural and profitable extension of your creative talents. You could leverage your understanding of design principles and your ability to visualize and communicate beautiful, functional environments to help clients transform their homes or commercial spaces. By showcasing your past design projects in a well-crafted portfolio, you can attract clients who appreciate your unique style and artistic vision.

In addition to the creative aspects, running a successful interior design consulting business will also require you to hone skills in marketing, budgeting, and project management. You could offer a range of services, such as space planning, furniture selection, color consultation, and accessorizing, adding considerable value to the client's experience. By staying updated on the latest design trends and building a strong professional network, you could establish yourself as a reputable and reliable designer, making it easier to attract and retain clients.

18. Start a photo printing business ($391K/month)

Starting a photo printing business could be a natural extension of your artistic skills, especially if you're keen on preserving moments and passionate about tangible art forms. By offering high-quality paper photos, canvas prints, or personalized photo gifts, you can create a service that turns digital images into lasting, cherished memories.

In today’s digital age, many people still find value in holding a physical photograph, making your service both nostalgic and meaningful. This business can also allow you to experiment with different materials and styles, adding a unique touch that only an artist can provide. With effective marketing and a focus on quality, a photo printing business could become a profitable side venture or even a full-time enterprise, seamlessly blending your artistic passion with entrepreneurial aspirations.

19. Start a film production company ($305K/month)

Starting a film production company could be a natural extension of your artistry, allowing you to manifest your creative visions into various forms of media like commercials, television programs, or social media content. With your artistic eye, you could handle significant aspects such as scripting, location scouting, and the overall creative direction, ensuring each project stands out with a unique flair.

By leveraging your existing network and artistic skills, you could focus on creating visually stunning and compelling video content that resonates with a wide audience. While it might seem daunting at first, following a structured approach—like determining your niche, drafting a business plan, and securing proper funding and equipment—could set the foundation for a successful venture.

Whether you're producing short films, corporate promotions, or engaging social media clips, a film production company could offer a lucrative path to supplement your income while allowing your artistic passion to drive your business forward.

20. Start a dessert boxes store ($171K/month)

As an artist, your creativity and eye for aesthetics can make a dessert boxes store an exciting and profitable side business or even a new main venture. You could leverage your artistic skills to design unique and visually appealing dessert boxes that stand out in the market. This field offers plenty of room to experiment with colors, layouts, and textures, ensuring that each box is a piece of art in itself, enhancing the overall gifting experience for consumers.

Beyond just creating beautiful designs, you could infuse your artistic touch into the desserts themselves, making your offerings truly one of a kind. Collaborating with local bakers or even baking your own treats would provide additional layers of creativity and control over the final product's quality.

Given that gifting is an integral part of how we connect with loved ones, a well-packaged and beautifully designed dessert box can serve as the perfect gift, creating memorable experiences for customers. Embrace the potential to merge your artistic talents with entrepreneurial aspirations, and you could carve out a unique niche in the consumer goods market.

21. Start a supplements company ($392K/month)

As an artist, starting a supplements company could be an innovative way to supplement your income and tap into the thriving wellness industry. By creating a line of dietary supplements, vitamins, and protein powders, you could reach a broad audience ranging from fitness enthusiasts to health-conscious individuals who prioritize daily nutrition.

This venture provides a cost-effective startup option, as you can run the business from your home and utilize online platforms to sell directly to customers. Furthermore, the artistic skills you already possess can be immensely beneficial in designing compelling and unique packaging, marketing materials, and social media content to attract and engage potential buyers.

Entrepreneurial artists have the opportunity to creatively integrate their personal brand with health and wellness, offering a distinctive edge in the booming supplements market. This approach not only diversifies your income streams but also allows you to connect with a new, health-focused audience.

22. Start a bartending service

Starting a bartending service could be an exciting opportunity for you as an artist, offering a creative and social way to supplement your income. You already appreciate the art of presentation and aesthetics, which would give you an edge in creating visually appealing and memorable drink experiences for customers at events, bars, and restaurants. Your artistic touch could help you stand out by crafting unique, themed cocktails that cater to various events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale festivals.

Moreover, the bartending service industry is projected to grow by 9% from 2019 to 2029, providing a steady demand for skilled bartenders. By obtaining a liquor license and hiring trained staff, you could leverage your talent for detail and flair to deliver exceptional customer service, even in high-stress environments. Continuously educating yourself on new drink trends and mixology techniques will ensure your business remains competitive and innovative.

23. Design a digital file platform ($19.5K/month)

As an artist looking to tap into the booming digital economy, you could consider starting a digital file platform. This venture entails creating a secure and accessible hub where users can store, share, and manage their digital files, such as documents, photos, and videos. Artists could significantly benefit from this by offering specialized features catering to creatives, like high-resolution image storage and portfolio organization.

Imagine having a platform where fellow artists, photographers, and designers can effortlessly upload and access their work while ensuring their data is protected. To get started, you would need to invest in robust cloud infrastructure and prioritize security features like encryption and multi-factor authentication. Marketing through tech forums, social media, and partnerships with other digital services could help you build a strong user base.

As someone with an eye for tech trends and a knack for problem-solving, launching a digital file platform not only promises a lucrative market but also provides an opportunity to make a significant impact in the artistic community.

24. Start a christmas tree farm

As an artist, starting a Christmas tree farm offers a unique opportunity to supplement your income every December while leveraging your creative touch. You could use your artistic skills to create a visually appealing farm and even offer custom-decorated trees or handmade ornaments to enhance your clientele's holiday experience.

Growing trees in your backyard allows you to inject personal flair into the holiday season, positioning your farm as a boutique or bespoke option for décor companies and consultants. Although some trees may take over two years to mature, this presents the possibility for you to plan and execute seasonal art installations or events tied to your farm, further integrating your artistic passion with entrepreneurship.

25. Start a Dried Flowers Business

As an artist, starting a Dried Flowers Business could offer you a unique avenue to express your creativity while generating supplementary income. You could design beautiful dried flower arrangements that serve as standalone pieces or integrate them into your existing work, such as jewelry or clothing. This allows you to leverage your artistic skills in a new medium and to cater to a growing market for natural and sustainable decor.

With the right marketing and services, a flower-drying business can potentially bring in substantial profits. For example, charging $200 to preserve bouquets from important events could yield around $18,000 or more in profit for every 100 orders. This suggests that your passion for creative, tactile work could translate into a lucrative side business or even a full-time endeavor.

Moreover, sourcing flowers locally and participating in community events like craft fairs and farmers' markets not only supports local agriculture but also enhances your community presence. Before diving in, ensure you have all the necessary permits and a suitable location, enabling a smooth and successful launch of your artistic venture in the dried flowers market.

26. Start a meal prep business ($185K/month)

As an artist, starting a meal prep business could be a perfect side hustle to supplement your income while leveraging your creativity in the kitchen. You could design visually appealing and delicious meals, catering to an audience that appreciates both aesthetics and taste. This creative culinary venture could also provide a refreshing break from your artistic work, ensuring a balanced and fulfilling professional life.

Considering the growing demand for meal delivery services fueled by busy lifestyles, your artistic background could offer a unique selling point by emphasizing beautifully curated meal presentations. Efficient meal preparation and effective communication with clients about their dietary preferences could set you apart in this fast-emerging niche. Not only could this venture provide extra income, but it could also serve as a platform to explore and express your creativity in a different domain.

27. Start a zapier consulting agency ($8.75K/month)

Starting a Zapier consulting agency could be a game-changer for you as an artist looking to diversify your income and engage in entrepreneurial endeavors. With the growing buzz around Zapier's potential in streamlining business operations, becoming proficient in this tool allows you to bridge the gap between creativity and technology. You could use your unique artistic perspective to craft seamless workflows for companies, enhancing their productivity while building a lucrative side business.

As an artist, supplemented by tech-savvy skills, you could offer customized Zapier solutions to businesses seeking automation in marketing, sales, and support. Given Zapier's estimated annual revenue of $122.5M and its wide adoption across industries, there's a promising market ready for innovative consultants. By getting ahead of the curve and establishing your consulting business, you could transform your artistic career into a multifaceted enterprise.

28. Start a maternity store ($3.25K/month)

As an artist, you could draw on your creativity to design unique and stylish maternity wear that accommodates both comfort and fashion. The increasing number of working pregnant mothers has led to a growing demand for formal maternity wear, providing you with a thriving market to target. By blending your artistic vision with functional design, you could create a niche collection that stands out in both physical stores and online shops.

Additionally, setting up a maternity store allows you to use your artistic skills in branding, product photography, and merchandising, transforming your artistic abilities into a multifaceted business venture. You could collaborate with fabric designers to introduce exclusive prints and materials, ensuring your collection resonates with modern, professional mothers. This venture could not only supplement your income but also offer a fulfilling way to expand your artistic career into the world of fashion retail.

29. Become a studio owner

As an artist, starting your own music studio could open up a range of entrepreneurial possibilities while supplementing your income. By owning a fully-equipped recording studio, you'll not only create a dedicated space for your own creative projects but also provide a valuable resource to other recording artists.

This side business or full-time opportunity allows you to charge for studio time, increasing your revenue streams. To ensure smooth operations and focus on your art, you could hire a trained studio manager to handle day-to-day affairs, making your venture both manageable and lucrative.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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