How to Become an Artist in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Become an Artist: Step-by-Step Guide to Turning Passion into Career

You can become an artist by practicing consistently, learning foundational skills, and developing a unique style while showcasing your work to the world. Whether you’re a student, a beginner, or starting later in life, the journey requires creativity, persistence, and the ability to build visibility for your art.

What Does It Really Mean to Become an Artist?

Being an artist goes beyond drawing or painting—it means expressing ideas, emotions, and perspectives through a creative medium. Artists exist in many forms: painters, musicians, digital illustrators, sculptors, photographers, and performers.

In India, art is deeply rooted in cultural heritage. Today’s artists, however, are not limited to galleries or traditional careers. With platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and online marketplaces, even beginners can turn their talent into recognition and income.

How Do I Start Becoming an Artist?

Many beginners ask, “How do I start becoming an artist?” The truth is, you don’t need expensive tools or a degree at first—you need dedication.

Steps to Begin Your Artistic Journey:

1. Pick a Medium – Decide if you want to focus on drawing, painting, digital illustration, or music.

2. Learn Fundamentals – Study perspective, anatomy, shading, and color theory.

3. Practice Regularly – Commit to at least 1–2 hours of art every day.

4. Build a Portfolio – Keep your best works in one place, online or offline.

5. Seek Feedback – Share your work in communities and accept constructive criticism.

6. Take Inspiration, Not Imitation – Learn from established artists but find your voice.

7. Use Free Resources – Online tutorials and workshops can accelerate learning.

How Can I Become an Artist After 12th?

For Indian students, the question often is: “How can I become an artist after 12th?”

Educational Paths to Explore:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Ideal for traditional arts such as painting, sculpture, or applied arts.

• Bachelor of Design (B.Des) – Focused on design, digital art, animation, and modern creative industries.

• Diploma or Certificate Courses – Short-term, skill-specific training for digital design, animation, or calligraphy.

• Self-Taught Route – Many successful artists today are self-learners who built portfolios through online learning.

Is 25 Too Late to Become an Artist?

No. Age is not a barrier. Some of the world’s greatest artists began late in life. Van Gogh started painting seriously in his late twenties.

Why Age Doesn’t Matter in Art:

• Creativity has no expiry date.

• Skills improve with consistent practice.

• Online platforms give equal opportunities to all age groups.

• Life experience adds depth to artistic work.

So, if you’re 25 or even older, it’s never too late to start.

Can an Artist Make Good Money?

Yes, artists can make good money if they know how to market themselves and diversify their income.

Factors Influencing Artist Earnings:

• Skill & Recognition – Higher skill leads to higher-paying opportunities.

• Type of Art – Commercial art (design, digital, illustration) pays more consistently than fine art.

• Platforms Used – Online sales, exhibitions, and commissions increase earnings.

• Consistency – Regular output and active visibility lead to financial growth.

When you start selling your artwork, one of the most important steps is deciding the right price. You can try our Art Pricing Calculator to calculate a fair value for your work.

How Much Money Do Artists Actually Make?

The income of artists varies widely. A beginner may earn a modest income, while an established artist can make lakhs monthly.

Some artists also make passive income through online courses, YouTube channels, and selling digital prints.

How Much Can an Artist Earn?

This depends on skill, demand, and niche.

• Fine Artists – Selling physical paintings and sculptures can bring high but irregular income.

• Commercial Artists – Designers, animators, and illustrators often earn steady pay.

• Freelancers – Income fluctuates but can grow with experience.

• Influencer Artists – With a strong online following, earnings can be exponential.

How Does an Artist Get Paid?

Artists earn money in several ways:

• Selling Artworks – Direct sales, galleries, or exhibitions.

• Commissions – Customized portraits, murals, or designs.

• Teaching & Workshops – Offline or online art classes.

• Freelance Work – Logos, illustrations, book covers, digital designs.

• Online Content – Ads, sponsorships, and paid promotions on YouTube or Instagram.

• Music Artists – Royalties from Spotify, concerts, and merchandise.

Can Beginner Artists Make Money?

Yes. Beginners can start earning through small commissions, freelance gigs, and digital marketplaces. Even selling affordable prints or offering beginner workshops can generate income.

Practical Tips for Beginners:

• Offer portrait commissions to friends/family.

• Sell digital prints on Artisthu,  Etsy or Indian platforms.

• Start a YouTube or Instagram page to build an audience.

• Want a deeper step-by-step plan? Check out our guide on selling paintings online to start building real income.

What Is the Highest Paid Artist Job?

The highest-paid art careers are usually in commercial design and entertainment industries, such as:

• Art Directors in advertising/film – ₹10–20 lakhs annually.

• Game Designers & Animators – ₹6–15 lakhs annually.

• UI/UX Designers – ₹8–18 lakhs annually.

• Famous Fine Artists – Can earn crores if their work is in demand.

Is Being an Artist a Career?

Yes, being an artist can be a sustainable career. While it requires persistence, it offers flexibility, creative satisfaction, and multiple income streams.

Advantages:

• Freedom of expression

• Global audience reach through online platforms

• Opportunities in education, freelancing, and digital markets

Challenges:

• Income instability at the start

• Need for self-promotion

• Competitive field

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become an Artist Professionally

1. Learn and master your craft.

2. Build a professional portfolio.

3. Decide your niche (fine art, digital, design).

4. Network with other artists and potential buyers.

5. Start small with commissions and online platforms.

6. Promote yourself on social media.

7. Expand into multiple revenue streams (teaching, freelancing, selling art).

Conclusion

Becoming an artist is not about instant success—it’s a journey of skill-building, persistence, and creativity. Whether you’re starting after 12th, at 25, or later, it’s never too late. With consistent practice, smart promotion, and multiple income sources, you can turn your passion into a fulfilling career and even a profitable business.

FAQs

Q1: Can an artist make good money in India?
Yes. Artists can earn well by diversifying income—through sales, freelancing, commissions, and teaching.

Q2: How much money do artists actually make per month?
Beginners may earn ₹10,000–₹20,000, while professionals can make ₹1 lakh or more.

Q3: Can beginner artists make money?
Yes, through small commissions, digital prints, and freelance gigs.

Q4: What is the highest paid artist job?
Art directors, animators, and designers are among the highest-paid in the creative industry.

Q5: Is being an artist a good career choice?
Yes, if you combine creativity with consistency and self-marketing.