How I became a working artist {my humble journey}

How I became a working artist {my humble journey}
This video is sponsored by RichMomBusiness.com and the free 3 video training series to help you sell your handmade products online at freehandmadetraining.com
RichMomBusiness on KZbin: / richmombusiness
I recorded this vlog because so many people ask me how to make a living as an artist and I realized that very few people would actually talk about how they did it. I wish I had a roadmap to follow and I hope this will be a roadmap of sorts to some of you or at least give you some idea of what to expect when chasing the dream:)
How I became a working artist {my humble journey}
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[@lindamcdermott8157]

Lindsay, I am a long time fan. The most encouraging thing you said in this video was that you did not have a degree in art. I wanted to be an artist since I was old enough to hold a crayon. My dad was a professional lettering artist and decorator. My parents forbade me to study art even in high school. They wanted something "better" for me! My degree is Home Ec. Never worked in the field! I always felt disappointed at not being an artist and always felt that I was just not good enough. Long story short, I raised my children as a single working mom, took art classes along the way as I could afford them. I retired, and along came KZbin and the Frugal crafter...... I create and paint and sell my work at local shops. I finally can define myself as an artist! You are an inspiration to me, to hear that you also did not have your degree in fine arts, is probably the single most encouraging thing I've heard. Thank you. FYI , my first job after college was 1 hr live TV, Romper Room.

[@nicholearends9374]

Thank you!! I just got fired from my job at a hotel in December and decided to pursue my lifelong passion of being a full-time artist, this video was super helpful! I'm really encouraged and inspired by your commitment to being at home with your kids, which is what my goal is when I have them. Thank you again!

[@Lulumommy1000]

Hi, Lindsay.Everyone should hear your story whether or not they want to be an artist. You gave some great lessons on establishing priorities, setting goals and deadlines, being realistic, being proactive, and PERSERVERING! I am close to retirement, so not career building anymore, but this information translates to life in general and is timeless. As always, you have inspired and motivated me and many others! Thanks and best wishes for your continued success and happiness.

[@thefrugalcrafter]

Lulumommy1000 thanks so much:)

[@LindaBeeGood]

As a 52yr old (artist since I was a child) I am now seriously considering art being a significant part of my income. I am an empty nester and single so my time/money are my own. I am a realtor, but it sucks at my soul while art refills my spirit. I figure I can sell real estate AND create a curriculum of art classes, day classes, weekend workshops and on-site retreats at places people go to relax. I am actually quite good but I have not honed my skill with enough practice over the last 20yrs while I've been the sole provider. NOW...it's my turn and my kids fully support me. I just have to figure out how to support ($$$) myself. Lindsay...you have inspired me that I can be an artist and I can be successful. Thank you .

[@ellewhy4418]

Thank goodness that KZbin is a part of your journey because I've learned so much from your videos . Thank you for sharing not only your talent but also a part of yourself with all of us.

[@jobernhardt6531]

Lindsay, I know this is an older video that I had to post and tell you how much I appreciate you telling your story. I am 50, disabled after five back surgeries, but I still have a passion for quilting, dyeing, and mixed media. The path of a creative life is definitely not flat, has many peaks and valleys, but it is so worthwhile. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@Farmhousebytheriver]

I so enjoy watching and learning from all your videos. Your so sweet and kind to offer them for free. I loved hearing your story and am inspired by your journey!

[@kathrynholden4223]

I know you put this out a while ago but I really found it inspirational for people starting out in almost any profession. Believing in yourself and setting realistic goals is an important theme. I am retired now and worked as a psychologist, but as I built my practice, I learned, as you did, that being willing to take advantage of opportunities and to be creative in how you approach each job can eventually pay off. And now I have time to watch your videos and try and make some art!

[@jillmarieschierbaum6717]

I stumbled upon your channel doing research from craft fairs and have then watched more. As a fellow creative person, I am striving to live as an artist full time. I just love this video. This video truly came at the right time. Thank you so much!!!

[@JaneArtsyOtternutKirkwood]

You are such an inspiration, I just love your enthusiasm, energy and dedication. Thank you so much for all you do to teach and inspire us with your beautiful paintings and crafts...you are without doubt my favourite KZbinr

[@thesupergirl20186]

Loved hearing your story, and after a nursing and business degree, and raising my family and career behind me, I am having a blast indulging my artistic side with vim and vigor! I had to retire early due to medical reasons but my studio gives me so much joy and learning more each day is an adventure. I sure would like to coup some of my money back for supplies so I don't spend my retirement!

[@onyana]

I found your story fascinating. And the big take home message for me was the persistence, planning and hard work required to make your dream a reality.

[@waltpierluissi2301]

Mrs. Lindsay, I have seen a lot of your videos and I have learn a lot with them. I am an accountant with a passion for painting... But because is my JOB to be the provider for the family, I had to set away my passion just as a hobby... Every time free I have I am expending it in my passion... Your videos are very encouraging and I have think that maybe, now that I am 56, I could try to make my hobby to provide some extra income for me.... so, thanks for your tips....

[@thefrugalcrafter]

+Walter Pierluissi You are smart Walter, you know you could also cross over to art more full time as you retire and do tax returns on the side, you can find a balance that fulfills a financial need and an artistic one. My accountant is a retired accountant from a bank and he is wonderful. Maybe you could specialize in taxes for artists and meed some wonderful people!

[@waltpierluissi2301]

That's a good Idea, actually I am Tax Adviser for Spanish Speaking people in my actual Job.... But most definitely I will embrace Painting once my retirement hit my existence; I just can't wait for it to happen... Thanks and keep your videos rolling... it is a joy to watch your videos... Thanks.

[@robaczeklittleworm4095]

you should try at least you'll do sth good for community.

[@happycluck4163]

Thank you so much for the valuable and practical info of your personal story and journey! I'm sure there are other folks like me who really appreciate that you recognized the importance and took the time to share this information. I look forward to checking out the website you listed as well!

[@momoclangford4673]

Awwww. I wish you had been around when I was younger and in the heyday of my painting. I might have gone on to do exactly what you are once my babies got in to school. Of course youtube wasn't in existence back then. So instead of pursuing my art I used my nursing degree and worked as a school nurse. Now that I am retired I'm rediscovering my love for art. Thank you for being an inspiration to all the young folks and old lady.

[@NancyLynn]

All I can say is, 'you're the best Lindsay'! Thanks, so so much, for keeping it real!

[@craftygrandma6419]

I loved your humble journey Lindsey and how you are living your life...you are blessed in so many way's...I think it's wonderful! Your living the life you want to and I think that's great for you and your family...not selfishly either, you share your feelings and your craft which is a beautiful thing...thanks for sharing your life also....that's what makes us come back you know....not so much all your frugalness...lol...it's all your living!

[@KathleenRenninger]

Thank you so much for sharing your journey. There are so many gems in this video. You're a great businessperson, with a positive attitude, which is essential.Your example is certainly a good one to follow. So kind of you to bring this story to all of us who have struggled .

[@mannan]

Girl, I have struggled finding another job when I had Art Education, i had to become an art teacher for almost 8 years untill I get fed up!! I like my art classes, but when you find out that the organization you’re working in have different goals than letting you teach kids art in peace, I quit my job .. But I truely miss art so I finally decided to make business in Art (something I have passion in) .. and you don’t know how much you inspire me .. We live in different parts of the world, since I’m living in Kuwait .. But I see so much of me in you and your journey .. Thank you soooooo much~❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@68cristian]

wow, shat a story...lots of respect for your work ethic Lindsay. Good on you ! Love your tutorial vids too !!! thank you !

[@TraceyMitchem]

Thanks so very much for your honesty!!! It is rare for me to hear someone speak as fast as I do. I am glad to hear it and the info was dead on and very helpful T

[@summerswoodworking]

Wow your such a survivor! Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@shirl91ful]

Thank you for this one. I've taken art classes through out the years that have helped. They only share the basics with you and not how to sell and make a living. Thank you for sharing your secrets with the rest of us.

[@aislinngraves4291]

Thank you Lindsay! I'm 53 and just starting out as a working artist. :) Thankfully my family is not counting on my income for support so I have time to build my business but this was very helpful and encouraging.

[@MaremiSmallArt]

Such a pleasure to listen to you ! So many useful informations and real truth being told. Wonderful vlog ! You just have a new subbie here :) I wonder how come I have not seen your channel before ? I guess I have lots to catch up, as you mentioned hundreds of videos ???? Wow :) Well done on having a pleasure to work and enjoy working at the same time. Thank you so much for sharing your journey, great story and awesome advices. Enjoyed your Vlog a lot ! Now after watching your Vlog I see I have lots to learn hehe Sending you many creative hugs, Marta xx

[@coreybartkuscole444]

I am binge watching all your videos, Lindsay...so great!😀

[@lindadudas9783]

tfs❤ A degree can't make a you an artist and can't define who you are. You have taught us so much-needed information about tequnique, products, etc...it's beyond the scope of any degree. I'm learning something new all the time and I'm sure others do too. You teach us your knowledge how to use products or tequnique , on just about everything available to us always graciously let us know there are many other different possibilities as well😊 I am learning something new from you and being entertained at the same time from your genuineness and fun personality. You can't beat that! You help us to do what we love! Hugs and a huge thank you!

[@lauramurphy438]

Thank you so much for doing this video. I enjoy your videos and appreciate the time it takes to produce these videos. I look forward to the next one. Happy Crafting!

[@stephanieortiz5920]

You're so Awesome Lindsay!!!...Thanks for sharing with us your experiences!!!

[@gracelerch6462]

Thank you Lindsay for all your videos!!! Especially this video.God bless you always.

[@annsowers4591]

Lindsay, I remember learning how to make jewelry from you. While your hairstyle and color has changed (Love It!) you haven't. I suddenly lost my oldest Son in 2012. No one could tell me why. As you can imagine my life as I knew it was over. It has taken me up until recently to be able to concentrate and learn something new. I am so thankful you are still here doing what you do best. Not only are you gifted in art, you are gifted in connecting with people. You never know who you will touch along the path of life, but I know I am happy you have crossed my path. Thank you!

[@acrookedpinky2689]

Loved it! Love u,and your videos.pls dont stop,cant wait fir your stampiing classes.

[@joannabatherson6783]

Lynsey, thank you for sharing this video! I enjoy your videos and enthusiasm for your family and great artwork!

[@rociomolina4595]

I love you Lindsay. I think you're amazing and thank you so much for sharing your road to success.

[@cmkartist03]

Thank you Lindsay for your inspiring video! you are so sweet and such a joy to listen too! and watch!!! Love your art too!

[@caroltillietmo6889]

I love your energy! I have enjoyed your videos over the year or so that I found you, please keep up the great work.

[@brendagray3220]

Me personally never took it for granted that your fame came easily. I can see all of the hard work you have done. I appreciate all of your videos and your willingness to share them with the world. You have become an important part of all of our lives. We all love your spirit that comes through your hard work.

[@thefrugalcrafter]

Brenda Gray aww, that is so sweet, thank you:)

[@nancybryans7477]

Truly appreciate hearing about your journey. I am a mom of three and I look back and think I should have started pursuing my art sooner. I did work at home for 7 years when my children were very little custom designing slipcovers which was very creative and a lot of work. Now, as an almost-empty-nester, I am planning my next stage in life. I have learned to create mixed media works, alcohol inks, acrylics and more mediums. I feel, that like you, I am outgoing and could teach others.

[@biancadesilets2285]

I am an artist too (not formally educated) and I don't like driving either :) I started painting in my mid 30' and now I'm 40, and I've been selling my paintings at the Farmer's Market; so far I've sold over 300 paintings and I keep them for the most part small, card size and people love them. I have learned a lot from your tutorials and I want to thank you for sharing with us and teaching us with such a bubbly attitude. Blessings to you and all other artists out there and artists in the making. :)

[@ElinT13]

Thank you, Lindsey! Your road just shows that it is as always: there is no place in the world where you get money for nothing. It is giving and taking, and the giving is mostly hard work, lots of thought and good focused decisions (and a little bit of luck, too). Greetings from Germany!

[@roxyscraps]

Thank you for the good, sound advice. So many people make it look easy, and I know it is a lot of work. Your fun personality makes your videos entertaining as well as informative. Thanks again.

[@artfulevidence]

This is one of the most positive and helpful videos I've ever watched! Thanks Lyndsay!

[@annediserafino2470]

What a a wonderful story, I was memorized listening to you! Thank you I watch your videos all the time .

[@samthomart]

I found this so helpful - setting realistic goals and trying many different things. Thank you!

[@MoetCristal]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. Brings me hope!

[@MariaNyceDesigns]

Hi Lindsay, thank you for such a treasure trove of information on your experiences and where to get help in starting an artistic career. I've watched several of your videos and appreciate all that you've done and continue to do for us!!! Blessings and continued success to you!!!

[@touchdowninflatables3723]

I have loved hearing your story!!!! It gives me so much hope! I am a stay at home mom to five little ones who are each a year apart and my oldest is seven. My life is absolutely insane but art is what I love...along with broadcasting and music! I hope to one day be able to say that I have done what you have and finally MADE IT! :) thanks for all the things you do and for always being so positive and uplifting. You are my favorite channel on you tube and I always hurry to see what new video you have put up!

[@thefrugalcrafter]

Touchdown Inflatables aww, thanks! They will all be in school before you know it:) Enjoy them when they are little, there will be more time for art in a couple of years, just make sure to give yourself a little art time everyday:)

[@muttlesslove1647]

Enjoyed hearing your story. I LOVE your videos. THANK YOU!!!

[@created2bless322]

You are a treasure and always have a wealth of information to share! Thank you for being you! I enjoy your channel and think you're amazing, even more now! God bless you ♡

[@chantalp.146]

Wow, congratulations! A clear and honest story with the greatest advises possible, i.e. believe in you, do what you love but be ready for the rainy days make sure you have the boots, the umbrella and the rain coat plus . . .you are a fighter and are very inspiring. Thank you for the video.

[@Ladycrafty6]

Thank you Lindsey! Your story gave me real insight into how perseverance is necessary to achieve success.

[@jaxcreativeinspirations]

Lindsay, I have been a fan of yours since last summer when I stumbled upon one of your videos. I LOVE and appreciate how MUCH you share with us!!! Thank you for sharing so much!!! I wish I could just be a fly on the wall when you girls do your "Ask a Crafter" series!!!! Keep on doing what you are doing, I am working toward that path as well (only I want to set up a crafting retreat center here on the Island I live on in WA state)... and please keep on sharing!

[@deadchannel772]

Howdy, Lindsay, I really appreciated that you took time out of your day to make this video. I just finished my first year at art school in Philadelphia, and hearing about your story helped. At the school I attend every student has to take the business minor course that's associated with their major (e.g. Business for Illustrators, Business for Fashion Designers, etc.) so we graduate with at least one major and business minor. Thank you again!

[@Collectionsbytracy]

Thank you for sharing your incredibly long and hard working story. Inspires us to never give up when other people tell us no.

[@cynthiaemerick9517]

Great info and love your journey. i have done many things including teaching and local displays and sales. Your video has given me many ideas to go forward with my art business.

[@ChrystaloftheLight]

we love you! thank you for your humility and kindness☮

[@jeannieatkins6357]

Very encouraging, thank you Lindsay.

[@shawnaraye495]

Love you Lindsey and so admire being a Mom first!

[@applesauce6546]

Hi Lindsay, thank you for sharing your story. I have often wondered how The Frugal Crafter came about. I enjoy all your videos, even the things I have never tried before, it encourages me to try new things. I think you are a wonderful teacher, very down to earth and just a regular gal, it is what makes everything you do so lovely. Thanks for sharing all of your talents with us.

[@kellywest1032]

My daughter just graduated with a 4 yr degree in art (sculpture and ceramics double major). Even at a university, the art dept. did not do much to prepare her for how to make a living. I'm going to send her the link to this encouraging and informative video. I love your energetic approach to everything!

[@maryannharvey5089]

Thank you for telling your story. I love your energy and the beautiful art.

[@dorothyscheffelman9419]

Enjoyed your description of your amazing path to a career in art. You are so inspiring. Thank you, and by the way your English is just fine!!

[@padali29]

Thank you for your honesty when explaining that it took you a lot o time and hard work to get to where you're at.

[@talisman006]

I love your positive attitude, you're just inspiring on so many levels! Real glad I bumped into your channel, thank you

[@qesther63]

Thanks for sharing! It's always wonderful to hear how other people have done it.

[@dorothyatchison1825]

Wow ... what an excellent video on the trials and tribulations of a working artist ... in my experience I have noticed that most art teachers have never survivied as artists so they enter the teaching of ... young artists enter the world not really understanding the "business of art" and many get short changed in the process ... it's ideal to follow your passion but you have to stay awake at the switch ... thank you so much for the telling of your story ...

[@martydennis4421]

Thanks for sharing your story.

[@TarasArt0812]

I think you are just so real and admire all your videos!

[@leonorasimons8681]

Always find your videos so inspiring and informative Lindsay. I have been crafting all my life but have always had a regular job until the recession struck! Have only been able to get odd jobs here and there thanx to my age so seriously considering turning my crafting hobby into my job - I figure I have nothing to lose and who knows, maybe I'll succeed!! That would show them all! Thanx for your inspiration Lindsay and your enthusiasm always makes me feel anything is possible - much love from a devoted subscriber xx

[@thefrugalcrafter]

+Leonora Simons good luck Leonora!

[@PatsTreasuresNCrafts]

Great information. I love hearing how you went about things. I'm also very happy that you shared that it is a long process. Anything worth having is worth working towards. Nothing just falls in your lap and all of a sudden you're rich and famous. At least not to us crafters LOL TFS I'll check out the links :) Hugs ~ Pat

[@kaycitwedell7390]

Thank you for sharing your story- I truly appreciate it, as I have a tendency to start doubting myself simply due to lack of societal validation.

[@elventory]

Thanks so much for sharing your journey! I've dreamed of being a professional artist since I was a kid, and unfortunately, life has had other plans, but you really make it seem like it's still possible, that maybe a new game plan might be what I need instead of languishing in giving up. Thanks a bunch for the booster shot of inspiration, and hope.

[@lovelyjavid]

Thank you for sharing Lindsay.

[@lloydrobert6182]

You got me at "I hated driving!" I do too. Now whatever you say is good!

[@kimleon-guerrero9980]

Happy New Year ! Thank you so much for sharing your experience and all the valuable information. ✨💞✨💫

[@AntonioMazzolaWatercolors]

And that's why I love watching your vids. Thank you for that story. It is not an easy path to success, but one worth taking. Tony

[@HAquitaniaFE]

Thanks for sharing, I started following you because I liked your tutorials and it has been so nice to get to know how you solve things in life and how you have pursue your arte-making dream and achieved that.

[@teresamorgan4529]

Lindsay, I so enjoy your craft videos and especially enjoyed hearing of your journey. As an author who can't draw a straight line with a ruler, I love your approach to art and watercolor, especially. My editing mode keeps me disappointed when I look at my results. So, thank you for saying again and again: It doesn't have to be perfect. I'm not surprised you worked in radio. You're such fun to listen to as well as watch. Lots of enthusiasm and exactly enough laughter.

[@joyfulreader1857]

Oh wow. Remarkable story - the lady with the gallery? Utterly sad - plenty of past and present artists have made their living WITHOUT an art degree (Van Gogh, JR etc). Good on you for persevering your goal. Awesome video.

[@My3Katz]

OMG! I want to take whatever you're on! Kidding! You have a wonderful personality and such energy. You are amazingly courageous to try things. I've always been the opposite. Wouldn't risk trying something because, what if I fail? Consequently, I didn't try things that I might have succeeded at. I envy you your energy. And I'm so glad you have come to do all your wonderful videos!

[@prupoo2]

Hi Lindsay I appreciated this video so much,I hope that you keep doing these sort of vids as it is so encouraging to hear,I am just starting out as a pet and wild life artist and hope to do it full time some day soon,so I honestly do appreciate your advice.

[@FeliciaFollum]

Thanks so much for this!! I'm in the process of starting my business. I think I'm in the stage of commiting to something for a year and seeing what works. ETSY and being an art vendor are looking promising. I have a lot to learn for both. Also having work in small galleries and and coffee shops helps. I teach private and group lessons/classes and have had various teaching jobs over the last few years. Now we can live in my husband's income (we don't have kids yet) so it's the perfect time to get it up amd going.

[@wildatartcamp]

down the frugal rabbit hole and here is a wealth of info I didn't expect. Thank you for some of the best videos on all things art and craft, Lindsay! I love that you don't keep it all to yourself. That's how I aim to do my art and craft life.

[@thefrugalcrafter]

Thank you!

[@nancyspicer6046]

Lindsey, I love your teaching. I love your artwork. I love the colors and I learn so much. Thank you. I was trying to do something else in this society as a career. But, because I had extra ordinary stress and with my illness bipolar I was triggered. I am looking at doing something artistic and giving back to the mental health community. I may not make money but that is all that I have. I am still learning but the more that I do the more Idea's that I have. Thanks again for being one of my teachers.

[@eveeichner3627]

thank you for sharing your story.....yes....hard work and patients will get you to your dream.

[@uh_-uz2lh]

thank you for sharing and your experience in broadcasting makes your video so interesting : ))) I am sure every experience we have had is always valuable!

[@andefrayser]

This was very helpful and encouraging. I really needed to hear this- thank you very much!

[@peggygarber3232]

amen to country music Thanks for sharing-if I ever get to Maine I am going to purchase some of your work.

[@LauraCRiker]

Thank u so much for doing this . I am just getting the urge to want to do my artwork full time. And this was so informative for me and now I know y I have not heard back from any of the magazines that I have sent my work too.....lol....I'm not alone!!!!! From your no. 1 fan.....Laura

[@thefrugalcrafter]

Laura Riker you are welcome:) I am so glad it is helpful!

[@lettienugent]

I enjoyed this video. ALSO, I enjoyed several of your videos last night that I just happened upon looking for information on how to make my own acrylic stamps and I found your video on making ink to re-ink stamp pads, and chalk paint. It was SO interesting! Thanks so much for all the good info.

[@thefrugalcrafter]

+LettieNugent.com thanks!

[@judymooreperezful]

I lovebthat you are sharing this experience. It sounds a lot like my fashion design career.

[@24jessejames]

definitely not an artist, and not looking to start a business (i am a scrapbooker) but do appreciate the time that you took to create this video and share your experience - thank you for doing that!

[@Summerlove1977]

Dearest Lindsey, thank you so much for sharing your art journey. You are so positive and I love your energy and your artwork is beautiful and very inspirational. ((Hugs)) Farah 🙏

[@jakethecatsmomconn5180]

Good insight! My friends and collegues all tell me that I should try to sell my crafts (up-cycle), but my ex-husband had his own business and I know, what they dont, how amazingly hard it is to be your own boss and be responsible for bringing in your part of the household income. I applaud your tenacity and efforts. Thanks fir making theses videos and I will see the linked videos that you recommended. Ahh, maybe someday I will get courage to fight the uphill fight like you! I kind of think going to a weekend craft show or junk show might be my option. Thanks for HONEST sharing!

[@jeanieferretti4203]

Great video Lindsay! I would have given up a long time ago. Thanks for sharing your journey...

[@SusanneYoung]

Great video! it couldn't have come at a better time. I'm trying so hard to find a way to do what I love fulltime instead of what I currently do. Such helpful tips!

[@waterlilyheart541]

This is a very honest video!! Thank you very much for all your advice and sharing, i'm happy you're making it as an artist, you're such an inspiration!

[@thefrugalcrafter]

thank you! My hubby just joined my business full time too! What a crazy ride!

[@lechat8736]

JUST GREAT!! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING YOUR EXPERIENCE.

[@thefrugalcrafter]

happy to help!

[@cr8tivesouldesign]

Thanks!! very inspirational

[@janemcdonnell8737]

This is great. Artist's have an advantage creating a business because we are creative. Your story is evidence of that as well as inspiring. I love all of your videos.