5 Easy Ways to Sell Your Art as a Beginner (Plus a Bonus Tip!)
Feb 05, 2025
Feeling Overwhelmed by How to Start Selling Your Art?
Getting your art seen and making sales can feel daunting when you’re just starting out. But the good news is, you don’t need to have a huge following or gallery representation to begin. With a few simple strategies, you can start showcasing your work and building an audience today.
I’m Pam Morgan, an abstract artist and collaborator, and I’m here to share 5 easy ways to sell your art, even if you’re new to the scene. Plus, stick around for a bonus tip at the end that could help you generate even more opportunities!
1. Start with Social Media
The easiest and most accessible way to get your art seen is through social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Here’s how to get started:
- Post consistently, including works in progress.
- Use relevant hashtags like #EmergingArtist or #ArtForSale to attract viewers.
- Engage with your audience by replying to comments and interacting with other artists and potential buyers.
- Don’t wait for perfection—just start sharing your work!
The more you post, the more people will discover your art. Which platform do you use most often?
2. List Your Art on Online Marketplaces
If you’re not sure where to sell your art online, here are a few beginner-friendly platforms:
- Little Sparrow Collective: Ideal for handmade and original artwork with a supportive, community-driven atmosphere.
- Etsy: A popular marketplace for handmade art and crafts.
- Redbubble & Society6: Great for selling art prints and merchandise.
- Facebook Marketplace: Perfect for selling locally.
Start by listing a few pieces and write compelling descriptions that tell the story behind your art. Have you thought about selling prints or just originals?
3. Participate in Local Events and Art Markets
Local art fairs, pop-up markets, and community events are great ways to showcase your work in person. Here's how to make the most of these opportunities:
- Look for local art fairs, craft markets, or venues like coffee shops that feature local artists.
- Set up a simple, eye-catching display with your best pieces.
- Bring business cards or QR codes that link to your online store or social media accounts.
In-person events also help you network with other artists and buyers in your community.
4. Collaborate with Small Businesses
Partnering with local businesses can help you reach a wider audience. Here’s how to collaborate:
- Ask coffee shops, salons, or boutique stores if they’ll display your art.
- Offer to do live painting events or demonstrations at their location.
- Propose a commission split for any art they sell on your behalf.
It’s a win-win situation—you get exposure while the business enhances its atmosphere with beautiful art.
5. Join an Artist Community
Connecting with other artists can accelerate your growth and success. Artist communities offer:
- Encouragement and promotion for your work.
- Insider tips on marketing and sales.
- Opportunities for collaboration and referrals that lead to sales.
Being part of a community keeps you motivated and accountable as you build your art business.
Bonus Tip: Offer Commissions
Even if you’re just starting out, offering custom commissions is a great way to gain experience and sales.
- Post examples of your style and pricing on social media.
- Create urgency by offering limited commission spots.
- Ask happy clients to share their experience and tag you in posts.
Custom work builds trust and can help you expand your audience through word-of-mouth referrals.
Recap: 5 Ways to Sell Your Art as a Beginner
Here’s a quick summary of the tips we covered:
1️⃣ Use social media to share your work and engage with your audience.
2️⃣ List your art on online marketplaces like Little Sparrow Collective, Etsy, or Redbubble.
3️⃣ Participate in local art events and markets to showcase your art in person.
4️⃣ Collaborate with small businesses to gain exposure.
5️⃣ Join an artist community for support, connections, and opportunities.
Bonus: Offer custom commissions to start generating sales and building your reputation.
