5 Ways I Make Money As An Artist and Art Youtuber (with exact numbers)

Figuring out which income streams work best for your art career can be a challenge. In this video, I share the five income streams I used to make over six thousand dollars last month!
I don’t share these income reports to brag or to flex, just as a community resource. I desperately wished someone was more open about how they make money as an artist when I was just starting out my art career, and you know what they say, right? Be the change you want to see in the world.
I'm admittedly in a unique situation as an artist on KZbin, which makes my income streams different from other artists out there, but all of them are valid! I'm really excited to launch my online shop later this summer and add another income stream to my art business.
📅 Book an art business strategy session with me: 1-on-1.com/kelsey
Watch my journey to become a full time artist: • My journey to become a...
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This video has been dubbed into Spanish (United States) using an artificial voice via aloud.area120.google.com to increase accessibility! Very exciting. You can change the audio track language in the Settings menu..
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[@a.salguez]

I can't wait to start posting here on KZbin to promote my art career as well. I've struggled A LOT when it comes to the infamous art block and mental stability but after discovering you channel, I feel like I can also do this. Thanks for cheering up this artist on her 30s!

[@asparagussauce]

holy shit, the online art community is such a small world! fancy seeing you here!

[@a.salguez]

@@blissyogi8699 Thank you so much! I will give it a go 😊

[@a.salguez]

@@asparagussauce Oh my, I wasn't expecting to find you again through KZbin! Going asap to follow you on instagram

[@PinkNeptunee]

Just subbed!

[@superiorgo2368]

I write, I writer I respect once said something like "I don't get writers block because it's my job and you aren't allowed to freeze up at your job." It really helped me to frame things. If art is your future don't let yourself freeze. You only freeze because you give yourself the room to. If you were at work you'd probably just do your best to get the job done and possible redo it later.

[@johncarmanarts]

An interesting and growing phenomenon on KZbin: artists who make money from KZbin videos about how to grow their online presence rather than actually selling their art or devoting most of their time to a serious art education. Or put another way, artists who make most of their money from KZbin videos about being an artist rather than actually being an artist

[@nicholasjacobson7834]

The key to making money with art? Be a KZbinr.

[@ueckbueck]

😂

[@TheHuYao]

guess I'll just stick to making no money then because I have the same charisma as a rock

[@realtalk4994]

Yeah I mean, doing art KZbins is cool and all, but it's a totally different set of skills from making the art. Lol

[@maureenp2248]

According to my friend who's a vfx artist, the biggest money in art comes from working in the advertising industry. But doing cgi for tv/movies is also quite good and feels less "selling your soul" lol

[@rohit620]

@@TheHuYao woww you've alot of charisma then.. Rock is a GOAT in WWE

[@YetiMakesYouLulz]

I'm trying really hard to start up my art career finally, and these videos really make it seem possible. If I could work hard enough to get even half the success you've made for yourself, I could finally quit my soul crushing retail job and just focus on making art ✨️ I'm gonna try my hardest to keep grinding. It may take years, but it'll be worth it! Thanks for all the tips and inspiration!

[@galtenoble]

Good luck to you. Retail work is the worst!

[@zofiajaneczek184]

Please keep on going! The world needs you to be a creative. I'm also stuck but not in retail and it's killing me! It take everything I have just to make it to this job and not walk out every single day. Believe in yourself and to your future success!

[@megansmith5388]

I'm going through the exact same journey right now, once you know what you want and focus on making it happen anything is possible, never let anyone discourage you

[@dotesnstuff6332]

Any updates? how u doing ?

[@croft4746]

Also understanding the market is so essential, and especially keeping in mind how marketing and business savvy is how you’ll make money, the art itself is an extremely small factor. I found this book called Artful Ambitions: Your Guide to a Thriving Art Career by Alexander Abbott I think, and it changed so much for me. It’s a tricky market but definitely hackable once you understand it.

[@kevinhernandezrosa4819]

Most of this work that you are doing I wouldn't define as being "Art" it's more like design and admin and lifestyle coaching.

[@mimiirae]

unfortunately, if you want to be any sort of creative / artist working freelance, you're gonna have to basically do 10 jobs in 1 and transfer all your skills! unless you're really really lucky!!!

[@greenplasticgun]

It's the honest reaction to to finding out you made more than you thought that got me. Congrats on being a successful artist and thanks for sharing it with artists! You are the change!

[@abiconnick]

Yes!! Need more transparency like this in the creative industry🎨 Money is such a taboo subject, when it really shouldn't be!! Appreciate you putting yourself out there and being honest (as I know so people could potentially misinterpret this as 'braggy'). It's okay to want to earn a lot of money and I think this will inspire and open a lot of peoples eyes to what is actually possible, hopefully save a few starving artists too! Loving the content 💛

[@tinyspyro8163]

I REALLY love your presentation style. You have a nice, calm attitude, friendly and at the same time, straight to the point with just enough details/context :) It is SO NICE to watch a creator who doesnt add waffle/filler to hit that 8 min mark!

[@JarOfLooseScrews]

Agreed, really appreciate your transparency with this. A lot of artists need to watch videos like this, you offer ideas and advice I wish I'd known about years ago, too. Many thanks for your videos, as always very helpful : ) To everyone else, good luck with your art careers, hope you get to do what you want to do.

[@Erik-fn7kj]

Love your art 👀

[@JarOfLooseScrews]

@@Erik-fn7kj Thank you very much

[@Al3xInWon3rLand]

Congratulations Kelsey your hard work is paying off! I’m so inspired by your journey and willingness to share the highs and lows. Wish you more and more success!

[@StrawbearyStudios]

Thank you for always being so transparent! It’s so motivating and I love getting to see how much you’ve grown!!

[@prismaticmochi]

Nice! It's great your income is scaling so quickly! It really helps being able to see the figures and different sources, as well as a realistic time frame and view into the amount of effort it takes. Thanks so much as always 🙏

[@tobizarb9452]

This is awesome! The thing I love most about your videos, is that you share the successes AND failures. Your mindset to persevere or pivot and try something different is inspiring to watch. To see an artist build their career and take us along the way is just what the community needs. Yourstory (with trial and error) from the current perspective and not from someone who only shares once they've made it is something rarely seen, especially in the art community. Your perspective and transparency is so valuable! Thank you.

[@pinkbunnypeepsyall8251]

i really appreciate you sharing the numbers! most artists are super evasive about that (understandably) but it’s nice to know concretely how financially rewarding different things are

[@sismystik]

I love you for being transparent! I’ve been struggling with this !

[@lukegordonharris]

Thanks for being so open about all this! Do you have a video about how you balance everything, like how many hours you put in to KZbin as opposed to freelance?

[@KelseyRodriguez]

I have a few (just search planning or time management on my channel) but nothing super up to date. After I finish moving I’ll probably do an update on that!

[@rigelr5345]

@@KelseyRodriguez Second this, would love to hear more about it! Thanks for the transparency.

[@athernandez666]

@@KelseyRodriguez I'm REALLY looking forward to that. Thanks!

[@calmthefrontdoor]

Congrats Kelsey! You're videos are amazing, you make it so short and sweet and easy to understand, but somehow packed with information every time!

[@jocydoesart]

Thanks for sharing your journey and congrats to your increasing revenue! These videos have opened my eyes to how being a full-time artist isn’t a fool’s dream, but an actual tangible reality. I’ve been enjoying starting my own journey thanks to you! Excited to keep following your videos :)

[@michelepastele5347]

Thank you Kelsey - I really appreciate your generosity in sharing your actual income and the actual streams of income. That is so hugely helpful and I know it will be helpful for so many other artists as well! x

[@IfTheLydFits]

OMG I am so happy for you!!! Thank you for being so transparent and sharing all of your knowledge and progress with us!

[@janinafisher101]

Really appreciate your transparency, so we can see what is possible. Another good idea would be to tell us the breakdown of how long you spend on each of those income streams to generate that income. Love your channel, Kelsey!

[@saragreyke]

It's so insane to see your journey through your videos! We are literally watching your advice working, its so inspiring

[@sarafeartist]

Thank you so much for being so open about the financial aspect of being a artist/content creator, it’s super inspiring! 🤩

[@patriciavargas8762]

I love love your content, you are my inspiration for not giving up on my art. I would love to see you progress from 0 to now in the future and how you keep working on it and maintain making art and all of that. I'm super happy for you and what you achieve!

[@ArtistaRachel]

Thank you for these videos Kelsey! It's amazing to see how much your channel has grown. So encouraging.

[@kathrynd8055]

I’m so proud of you! I’ve seen your channel grow so much over this past year and it is so inspirational! Keep up the good work!

[@isthisfinn]

I am so proud to see how far you came :) You are really inspiring, and i'm currently in the process of learning about content creation and filming my first video thanks to you!! Thank you so much for being transparent and honest with us

[@tampham2421]

Thank you very much! You’re really appreciated!!! I want to see these kind of things as a starting artist to know what I’m getting myself into, how much should I expect to invest in and get out, etc. But none of the artists I’m following ever talk about this, like it’s taboo or something. Thank you so much!

[@Rachelhappyface]

I’m so pleased to see a video like this! I’ve just started trying to learn more about Procreate because I really want to break out of my day job and do something more creative, this is exactly the kind of content I need!

[@SimonBoulter]

Good stuff. I enjoy these art business/youtube growth videos. They seem to be really helping to grow your channel. Also, I'd like to see more videos about your own artwork.

[@KelseyRodriguez]

Most of my recent videos are batch filmed because I’m moving right now, but once I’m settled in I’ll be doing lots of studio vlogs! Stay tuned 🥰

[@vicioushellsing]

Good for you girl! you put in the work, you deserve it! keep killing it.

[@elsaartsy]

Thank you for this, it’s so nice of you to share this kind of information. I really want to start making money of my art but it’s so difficult in the beginning but I hope I can grow my following and eventually live my dream of being a full time artist. And it’s so nice to see the different ways you can make money of your art. 💕

[@chantalleonhardt]

Thank you again for being so transparent 🙌 your tips are immensely useful

[@liminalsister4078]

I love your videos. The transparency is super inspiring! I really appreciate artists who talk openly about money 🖤

[@saifsami_ss]

i like the style of your editing and the environment you are in and the transparency and positivity you have thank you so much and i hope you reach your goals

[@DanielAlvarez-ud7su]

My goal in life right now is to be my best artist, I have a lot to reach for. I stumbled on your channel thinking this’ll just have more hollow videos but I’ve watched more and got more motivated. With every tip you give me, I actually feel like I can do this. I’m 19 and have a lot of growing up to do but I have a good feeling this is what I live for. Thank you for showing us the way!!

[@EvelinTee]

Agreed. It’s so hard to find out any info on making money as an artist and I appreciate your transparency.

[@FilipaValentim]

Thank you so much for sharing this! Amazing video! You are so incredibly generous to share this information, your transparency is GOLD ❤️👏 Congrats on the amazing KZbin trajectory you’re killing it and you’re crazy inspiring 💪😍

[@kellybrassard767]

I just came from your video where you talk about your plan to become a full time artist. At that time you around 500 ish followers, look at you now! (And this video was 1year ago) I am so so happy for you! Love the transparency ✨ ❤

[@Jinan.]

I can't tell you enough how useful your videos are, thank you for posting this kind of content ♥

[@AngryPanda.]

One of the most useful videos I've come across on this topic. I've been a struggling freelancer for years, feeling inspired to try and start up some other income streams

[@chknhero3427]

Thank you for sharing this! It's actually very encouraging to see another artist make money from their work 🙏

[@samphilobinna4964]

Making passive income is not easy as they say it is but it is very possible just be informed

[@ImperfectlyLaura]

I really, really appreciate how straightforward and to the point this video is. I would love to be able to say I'm making that much in a month someday with my artwork!

[@JocelynWhite]

Just wanted to let you know the part about the month delay made perfect sense to me. You did well explaining :) Also, I don’t consider myself as an artist as I do not commonly create art. However, I am very thankful to see you so willing to share information you didn’t have when it could’ve been helpful. I think that shows your appreciation for the industry as well as other artists. Definitely subbed and excited to learn more about artists and their process beyond just art.

[@safegourd]

Thank you for this video!! I’m currently trying to figure out what I want to do with my life, and videos like this make me think that art might actually be possible as a career for me ^_^

[@PatriciaGodboutArt]

Thank you so much for your transparency, arlee bean is the only other artist who is upfront and honest about their income, even so, you go beyond her in your openness. Much appreciated.😊

[@kibalev]

I really want to explore posting my art here on youtube! I think it is such a powerful platform to share your ideas and artistic vision! Thank you for your videos, they are truly inspiring!

[@nevadewinter7032]

Seeing this give me hope, I have been struggling with making art as a career all my life and I'm barely entering my 30's. I have a supportive partner and friends that want me to pursue in this career but... having my family tell me that working as an artist will not help me in life and after hearing it for so long I started to believe it was true.. And here I am working at a job I hate LOL. Finding your channel gives me the motivation and drive to finally put my skills as a career!

[@graythistle]

thank you for the transparency and for sharing what has worked for you. you're amazing and so kind

[@noovernightguests]

Thank you for making this video Kelsey! I would love to be making 7K a month but for now, it's all about building up my content and community. This was actually really helpful and I appreciate your honesty.

[@piry3093]

So helpful and honest. You’re a great contribution to the community, thank you!!❤

[@QuietPenguinGaming]

LOVE the transparency!! Thanks Kelsey!

[@FoundersandCreators]

Things I love about this channel: 1. The Content 2. Cool Thumbnails 😉

[@alittleofsomething]

Just getting the online shop going would help *me* to live a much better life, and you got so much figured out. Damn, those multiply income streams are something.

[@allisonvillaizan5096]

TEH SPANISH DUB WAS SO SHOCKING I LOVE YOU!!! IM FROM LATIN AMERICA AND IM SAHRING YOUR VIDS WITH ALL OF YM FRIENDS!!! LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!

[@MaddCB]

Congratulations 🎉🎈🍾 that makes me happy when I see other artists winning!!😊😊

[@honeybearjenn]

you're videos are SO helpful. thank you so much for what you do, and you're hard work really inspires me to do more with my channel and work

[@arythea5459]

Respect to your transparency!!! Please continue doing so.

[@Miss_dilettante]

Your videos help me a lot in my KZbin journey and I feel happy to get all the information which is difficult to find otherwise.

[@quotesntrends2901]

Thank you for being a transparent. Abolish the stigma that we can't be successful with pursuing your passion for art.

[@markadelhoch1063]

Congratulations on your success! That must feel so good after all of the challenges you faced to achieve it. Making a living as an artist has always seemed like such a tough grind but you really make it seem like a dream that can indeed come true. Thank you so much Kelsey!

[@MeganBrookeThomas]

This was the perfect video for me to learn who you are!! Great video overall and really appreciate your openness. Lead me to watching more videos and plan to keep doing so. 😊

[@fesbra]

so straight forward. so glad i came up with this. i'm a 34 year old mtg artitst looking at how to afford stuff in the future and this is gold.

[@ninnnnnilum]

Thank you very much for this video! I've always wondered about the exact numbers too. Thank you for being the change that you needed when you were starting out :)

[@arsontattoos5702]

I love your videos. Your always so positive and inspire me so much. Thank you for helping so many people!!❤️

[@user-if8bb5eq7p]

Yay, Kelsey! Congratulations.

[@thepinkcloudproject7678]

Thanks! I’m just getting started after years of denying this dream and my soul is on fire! I got sober 9 months ago and now I have nothing holding me back but me, and I’m ready to go! Your channel single-handedly broke down the business side for me. Like, “explain it to me like I’m 5” level. I just completed illustrations for a childrens book that will be published in November, and I’ve got some painting commissions lined up! I will always be checking in on your channel:)

[@KelseyRodriguez]

Congratulations on your sobriety! That's a huge deal. And your upcoming children's book!!!! I'm so so glad I was able to help break it down for you, making this career path more accessible for people is a major goal of mine. Feel free to share your work over in our community discord, there are a few children's book illustrators over there!

[@jowrites]

Thank you for sharing this and being so honest and open. I find this very helpful.

[@rinovarka]

Really neat to see this breakdown! Me personally, still working the long game, gotta make stuff to make in an online shop to vids to freelance, with a unrelated job on the side ahaha. Best of luck with your other endeavors!

[@chimchan8248]

subscribed. girl you gave me a lot of hope in starting an art/lifestyle channel.

[@annadreamsart9756]

Wow, you did GREAT!! Congrats! And thanks for showing it's possible.

[@Latifastudios]

Thank youuuu for this Video!! It's so informative and motivating to see; definetly going to binge watch your videos. I need all the knowledge I can get xD

[@AMO17]

Lordy, it's been a struggle for me personally, but I love when other artists succeed. I get stuff here and there, but I've been ghosted pretty frequently. I'll keep pushing for a little while longer, though.

[@Lilstarnerd]

It has been SO amazing to watch you achieve your goals Kelsey!!!! You are truly inspiring 🥹🥹❤️

[@PercabethLovernot]

this is so cool! thank you for providing numbers, it really puts things into perspective for me

[@ChickenGeak]

It's people like you who are sharing their knowledge and resources that are genuinely ensuring the next generation of artists don't suffer. Thank you so much for being so transparent and, well basically giving me hope for my future as an artist. I quit my job to take care of my mother through the pandemic and with multiple mental health issues of my own I just can't go back to a normal working environment anymore, it's now or never for me to take myself (and my 240 followers on instagram) to bigger and better things, you're giving me the hope and motivation I need to kick myself into gear, thank you

[@miniciominiciominicio]

Wow, that’s so awesome of you to directly share this information. You’ve accomplished so much. Even with my incredibly fulfilling career of a front-line healthcare professional -not a doctor or nurse- on the code team and work with the sickest, most at risk of dying right now patients, at full time I make $5k net. And that’s Canadian lol I can just imagine what 1M sub counts who get adsense and sponsorships but also stream and get money thrown at them on twitch/youtube make. Plus those that have a patreon as well. What a privilege to know some real numbers. Thank you for sharing and gl in the future!

[@arizonamars]

I love this!! Thank you so much for this information. I'm so excited to finally move out of the 9-5 lifestyle and be happy!

[@charberrymilk]

You are so generous and kind and I don't even know you in person!! :') You inspire me everyday!!

[@Vegarcade]

Very inspiring, thanks for sharing and always being so transparent.

[@AoiKasumi]

Very inspiring! You really managed to achieve your goal! 🎉 I'll keep watching your videos, because they are so motivating and I hope I will also get there. 😊

[@laowaistudieschina7470]

Lady, you are a gold mine of information!! I thank God for your channel and I thank you for sharing your expertise! Now I have some idea where to start on my own journey.

[@trevorduppart8841]

Well done! Transparency is always so helpful.

[@branimalYT]

Going to go comb through your videos now and try to make a plan for myself! Hope that my art is good enough lol, thanks for the eye opener!

[@thespitefulartist]

I absolutely love this! I just downloaded Notion and love it ❤

[@emotioningames]

Hey. Thank you so much for sharing, being able to live from your work is such an important topic. It's hard to find the info sometimes so I appreciate it.

[@arthurgphotography]

Great content for people mid career like me who want to pivot to our passion. Keep them coming!

[@10kcreatorsllc]

Love how you're using Notion! That's cool. Thanks for sharing this video and for showing the numbers!

[@cannibalcatgirl]

THANK YOU FOR BEING TRANSPARENT. I hate that money is such a taboo topic. How is one supposed to get a realistic idea of how this stuff works if no one discusses it? Thank you for sharing! I love your channel

[@danielsandoval8591]

Thank you for sharing this! Very helpful seeing actual numbers :)

[@HolyAwesomeStitches]

I've just started watching your videos as I'd like to make my living as an artist as well. Your videos are godsend. Your willingness and transparency to talk about the steps artists can take and just how financially beneficial it can be is so nice to have as a resource. I can't wait to see where my own career will take me, and it feels more real than it has before thanks to the help you've provided!

[@lucyl697]

man I am super jealous haha. for me the issue getting started is finding the disclipline and energy to develop my skills to the point where my art is actually monetizable

[@gingerboy9170]

Props for giving the numbers even though I'm not sure how accurate they are... I'm subbing... 👏💃

[@marabstracto3215]

I just saw this video, I had never seen you and I already love u. Thank you so much!

[@athenakaterina8545]

you are amazing!! thank you so much for alll of your videos. some of the most helpful art advice I have received in years.

[@MarcusGunn-mr1px]

Glad I was able to catch this video this should teach me a lot

[@angelica-webster]

I am filling out my notion template I just bought the other day - thank you, Kelsey!

[@katrinatholen4721]

Thank you! I'm too disabled to work outside the home, and am often stuck inside with blizzards, and would like to do art full time at home. Looking forward to learning from you. After I hit spring market in person I'd love to do mentoring.

[@aleishastringer3678]

I just came across your channel, thank you so much for this video! I'm looking at a future as an artist and this is really helpful

[@FernKhaoroptham]

Thank you so much for your videos! You inspired me to start a KZbin channel and journey to be an independent artist.