Here are some of the many jobs you’ll also be working if you’re a creative
Being an artist, or any kind of creative, is more than just one job.
It might be nice to imagine that becoming an artist will mean you’ll spend entire days behind the easel, but there are many other tasks that art school won’t prepare you for. The business-side of your career can end up taking up 50% (sometimes more) of your ‘work time’ if you want to get the attention, clients, and profile you want. 
You’ll be a financial advisor:
Dealing with incomings, outgoings, savings, and investment in things like equipment and a studio is a big part of surviving freelance life without too much stress. Don’t forget to price your artworks and time highly enough to pay yourself!
… a social media consultant & web designer:
Followers definitely aren’t everything, and your success online doesn’t necessarily match your success in actual sales or artwork quality. However, more opportunities than ever are online and making sure your digital presence is professional is key to finding those connections and chances.
… a secretary:
Keeping track of Zoom meetings, the collection of works by clients and shipping companies, payment days, contracts, and more can be a full-time job in itself. Make sure you’re armed with a good calendar and diary (both online and IRL) to ensure that nothing falls through the gaps.
… your own legal team:
Ever had to chase up a client for a late payment? Seen someone steal your design online? Unless you’ve got big bucks, you’re going to need to know how to handle these legal issues yourself. The School of Life never stops.
…. a PR whizz:
Getting that dream brand collaboration takes patience and emails – sometimes a hell of a lot of emails. Knowing how to present yourself to potential collaborators, and bagging those opportunities, is a huge skill.
… an event planner & socialite:
Not finding opportunities to show your work to the public? Organise your own exhibition. Not feeling like you’ve got the right contacts? Make sure you’re going to the PVs, talks, and other events you might find them at. Networking can be exhausting, but sometimes we have to bite the bullet.
What other roles have you had to take on within your artistic practice?
Text by Verity Babbs
