Making A Living From My Art - How Long It Took Me & How Much I Earn

This video is sponsored by Skillshare 💖 The first 500 people to use my link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/mimipurnellillustrator...
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"Long-Term Success for Artists: Grow and Maintain Your Income Streams"
I've been working towards making a living from my art since 2020 and last year I made the equivalent of a full-time salary as an artist and content creator! 🎉💖 Let me show the financial journey of my small art business so that you can see how long it took me and how much I earn.
🌷 Join my art community on my Patreon: / mimimooillustration
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“Plan Your Creative Business: Your Path To Creating Income As An Artist”
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Where to find me:
My Website: www.mimimooillustration.com
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A big thank you to my partner for filming and editing this video! Find his hiking channel here:
/ simplyhikingyoutube

[@MimimooIllustration]

I know that finances can be a bit taboo but I really want to be honest and open about mine because they are SO important if you want to make a living from your art (we all have bills to pay afterall)! 💖 Also, if you're looking to invest in your art skills this year then remember to make the most of your free trial of Skillshare - the first 500 people to use my link will get a 1 month free trial: skl.sh/mimipurnellillustrator01241

[@np8173]

I think the issue is that people associate what they are paid with what their true value is, and that is not the case. So people don't want others to see that they are not making barrels of money because they are afraid others will think that it's because they do not provide value in other ways. As someone who figures out how much to pay people for a living, there is no real rhyme, reason, or logic as to why some make more or less than others (ie. teachers vs. hedge fund managers, etc.). Hopefully someday people will realize that those values are not one and the same. Thank you for sharing your story and your finances. I greatly appreciate your openness.

[@S0ulz0mqieAnimation]

Im hoping for art to be my full time career, i never drew during lockdown but 2024 is the year im gonna start, im 15 soon and i also need to earn money for all my gender affirming surgeries in the future and this is the path i wanna go down

[@Questionablexfun]

Your videos are such an inspiration and getting into the details really helps artists who have had little idea what it means to live on their art ❤ thanks!

[@zestreacupovesti]

Hi, what about the costs involved? Camera, licences, trainings, tablet etc... Can you help us with some planning of estimated investments?

[@imfoxheim]

That's exactly why I'm so grateful for this unusual insight into the numbers and strategy, thank you!

[@Ellary_Rosewood]

I'm trying to make this the year where I can FINALLY become fully financially independent from my work as an artist and KZbinr. I'm so close to getting my KZbin channel monetized, which brings me more excitement every day. I'm going to be moving to another country later this year, so I have a lot more motivation to make this work and live out my dream of being a traveling artist. ❤

[@hmmmnope2455]

You got this Ellary! I'm also an artist(I mainly do home decor pieces/items though) and this is what I want to achieve this year too Also checked out your channel, and you've got another subscriber(your watercolour and nature journal is just calling to me)

[@suepez]

I checked out your channel and subscribed. Good luck in your creative journey! ❤😊

[@humphrey_bear_MDC]

Good luck with your art. I'm trying my best to get started, but it is not so easy.

[@Ayla_Evanscence]

Subscribed! Let’s make dreams come true 🎉

[@SamHarrison2099]

I see you've hit 3.35k now - amazing, congrats!

[@steverogers7601]

2023 = $97,202 (usd) Wow that’s not bad at all! Well done! Appreciate that transparency! 2023 Breakdown in USD: KZbin = $32,375 Patreon = $27,415 Digital products = $18,989 Paid illustrations = $15,674 Courses = $2,083 Affiliate marketing = $609

[@MimimooIllustration]

Thank you for converting everything to USD!

[@iceheap9422]

That's a livable wage in the US!! Holy crap!!

[@NoelleFerne]

@@iceheap9422 In the UK that's literally more than our doctors earn (non-consultant level) by tens of thousands, it's more than a liveable wage where I come from, it's truly impressive!

[@charlotteandrewsart2094]

@@iceheap9422 It IS pre-taxes though. If she made this in the US, she'd be paying ~30% income tax off of that total, PLUS health insurance (which is more expensive when not subsidized by an employer). In the United Sates, this would bring someone's take-home pay to about $54,000 for the year. That can still be very livable, but it depends on where you live, if they have dependents (which makes health insurance at least twice as much, about ~ $1,200 monthly), etc.

[@artbyAaliyahHayes]

@@charlotteandrewsart2094 That's a very real breakdown. As an American myself. Straight facts.

[@lindsayhill1921]

Almost a year and a half after you started illustrating, you got a book deal? That's impressive! I would love to hear about that process and how that came about.

[@ClaymizerYT]

Seeing your annual income gradually increase to what it is now with hard work inspires me that I can one day create art for a living; it won’t be easy BUT it is possible. This is just what I needed to see today to get me out of a rut; Thank you!🙂

[@jocastuazon950]

This is the definition when someone asked you about your dream job, to do things you love since you were a kid, and this is is my dream to be an illustrator.😢

[@ChristinaGonzalezBJD]

Just found your channel and just loving the vibes and feeling inspired! Thank you 😊

[@RondysArt]

So happy to see another video from you! ❤

[@uncomfy.cherry]

thank you for sharing this and being so open about it! I hope I am able to get there with my art soon

[@lifeandmind5116]

Congrats! And thanks a lot to share your journey to inspire me. This is a good message to my new year life.💖

[@Thecurlyarttalks256]

Thank you so much for your transparency. You’ve been a great inspiration to me and a driving force behind my decision to embark on my digital art journey. It’s wonderful to witness your growth! ❤

[@ThePottedMug]

Thanks Mimi and Skillshare! Really appreciate the insight and can’t wait to take your class on Skillshare ❤

[@escaflower]

I love how transparent you are! I will need to go and watch all your videos from the start. 😍

[@agatajasinska6791]

Bravo! Congratulations 🎉 I remember when you started on YT in 2020. Beautiful journey.

[@Eiznek05designs]

Thank you so much for sharing your journey! It is helpful to see the progress you made throughout the years.

[@ilkaschulze644]

It's always so amazing to see the steady growing of your Business, your skills and your numbers. I still love all of your content! Thanks for this inspiring Video! ❤

[@katehollomanart]

This is so good! Thank you for sharing, it's encouraging!

[@mariageorgieva9564]

Hi Mimi! That has been so valuable and informative - I can't thank you enough for sharing your actual real life experience. Much appreciated and wishing you even more success in the new year!

[@andreallaodeazevedo8101]

Thanks for sharing all of your process through the years. It´s really... eye opening. It´s been a nice, challenging and rewarding journey so far, I assume. Keep the great work!

[@upmanandwani8799]

Hi..i get so inspired seeing your work always..so thought to stop by and thank you 😊

[@M_Uchiha]

I think it's amazing that your art isn't that complex but still evokes so much emotions! Love it! :) I'm a portrait artist, so that's kinda different but I love seeing different styles and themes in art!

[@ayamostafa5919]

I subscribed forbyour channel last year bec of a video you make like this. Its the Authenticity and honesty that makes me appreciate your channel so much. Thank you for sharing your story and details ❤🎉

[@ogpechie]

I love how straightforward this is. I appreciate you sharing this important info with us !! New sub :D

[@BlackwolfllArt-zc9vq]

I absolutely adore when KZbin recommends me new art channels that i previously didn't know of!! :). I'm excited to check out your channel ^^.

[@AngelicscalliwagsArt]

Thank you so much for sharing! Not only is it very interesting it's also helpful as someone just starting out. 🧡

[@itsmissko]

What a wonderfully honest and informative video, thanks for making this ✨💛✨

[@vizeath]

First, congratulations for reaching your dream! And secondly, thank you for sharing your experience which could motivate other artists like us...

[@alexgwynn]

Your videos are so inspiring. I love watching your journey. You def show all the hard work put in, and it’s not a get rich quick scheme. It must be so rewarding ❤

[@honeyreyes4384]

Videos like this make me realise that I wasted such opportunity in 2020 but also makes me feel positive that amazing people truly built amazing businesses from 2020 that still continue to bring me joy. Including your content, and your art, there’s been a couple of traditional bakeries that have popped up from peoples kitchens during 2020 that are still going on that I order from on a regular basis I’m sure I’ll find more along the way as it has been my continuous goal to support more small businesses when I’m looking to purchase something Amazing work and perseverance and I’m so happy that your illustration business is now your full-time job. Congratulations on your steady progression. I’m so happy for you!

[@ayumisachan]

Thank you for another insightful and inspiring video, Mimi ❤ I'm a big fan! I hope that you can also share how you negotiate/get started with contracts/legalities/tips for picture book illustrations.

[@TiaRenee]

I just love you, Mimi. Your style, your voice, and how genuine you are. My heart was leaping while watching this video. I am so happy for you!! And both excited by what is possible if I continue to go after my dreams. Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@felishiarae332]

Really appreciate your transparency and your openness to share actual numbers, really encouraging! And well done for working so hard to build your business! The beauty of your art definitely reflects that. Blessings on you!

[@MunazahA]

Just found your video and this was helpful. I want to boost my art and I wasn’t sure about the time I needed. I know I need to make time in order to make art full time. Thank you. Btw you got a new subscriber hehe.

[@atkakhurshid3872]

Thank you for making this video, sharing insight of your work and earning ❤

[@alkhemiegypt]

You're honesty and modesty is so refreshing. And your professionally presented videos are easy to follow and really inspiring. If I watch one of your videos whilst having breakfast, it inspires me to have a more productive and enjoyable day. A big thank you from me! 👍

[@ChantelleArts]

this is so fascinating, thank you for sharing with us ☺☺

[@JoyJoy_Journal]

I’m so motivated to start my buisness plan as an artiste and a KZbinr too ! Thank you so much for your advices 🎉

[@fehliv]

aww the bees look so cute 🥰🐝 thank u for the motivation bc I'm always demotivated a 'lil when no one likes my stuff BUT 2024 is THE year to grow! So to all my fellow artists: I hope we all give our best and it will be rewarded just like mimimoo said! ♥

[@paintingandchocolate]

Thank you Mimi for this insightful and well-structured video, from a fellow KZbinr, Skillshare teacher and fairly new Patreon artist (so helpful to hear your thoughts on that aspect as well!). Work, passion and patience 🙌

[@lukydiamint]

Thank you for being so honest and sweet, it helped a lot ;)

[@xinhe-bd6qy]

thank you so much!!!! what I learn is never give up!!

[@girlwithaneedtodraw]

Thank you for making this video!

[@Craftytionery]

Hello ! New subscriber here. I just saw your video and I love how transparency this video is. I feel inspired how your journey had been through, your motivation got me. Thanks for sharing your journey as an artist

[@gittadevai8842]

Thank you for your transparency ✨

[@FiddlyTurtleArts]

You're one of the most inspiring artist youtubers for me, Mimimoo. Your transparency about all the work and time you had to put to finally reach a point where you can make art for a living is such a refreshing change from so many "get rich quick" content out there! Your videos actually calm me down when I feel anxious about not being able to make it as an artist. I hope you keep thriving. Maybe I'll reach there someday too so wait for me? Happy 2024 btw

[@quartierkrambylorana]

this is so inspiring, thank you for the video.

[@GitimaNath-dv8lh]

thank you so much for sharing this video 😊it is my first time watching your video and it was really very motivating....keep working sister❤❤

[@sboss794]

Very detailed and realistic analysis. No wonder you have grown substantially in just 3 yrs. All the best and warm wishes for your future!!!!

[@lucy.doodle.studio]

Love the video excited about the free skillshare trial!

[@_staynatural]

OMG! You cannot imagine how much you encourage me. I am at the point like you in 2020 with a burning wish to do exactly that!! Your work encouriging people is as valuable as your art itself. Liebe Grüße aus Germany

[@freakishchick182]

Thank you for sharing this. It was very helpful to see exactly where its possible to earn income and how much can be realistically made. It interesting to see how your income streams changed over the years too and how they fluctuated. The illustration is super cute too! I love bees😊

[@wise_nut]

I love this peaceful and humble video, thanks for sharing your story with such great honesty! :)

[@yuitangkhanhduyen]

thank you for your useful sharing. you are such an amazing inspiration for me to keep going on the journey 🥰🥰🥰

[@jyoti_arts18]

Seeing you inspires me to make time and keep making art videos, I had started a channel on KZbin last year but stopped due to my work but am going to start posting videos again and hope one day become an independent artist as you are. Thank you for sharing your experience ❤

[@jocastuazon950]

Im a begginer at doing digital arts and dont have properknowledge how things work , it's hard to pursue this dream if you have limited tools and resources but I'll do my best to provide for myself because this is my passion, i hope i can be like you someday❤

[@ItsFionaYellow]

Thank you so much for this video. Well presented and it gave me an idea that I have to work a lot harder on my car career. ❤

[@DNOTSoGoodArtist]

This video is telling me not to give up this year in w/c I'm actually considering. I do have my art channel and patreon but my earnings last year's not even half of the quarter of what you've presented. Thank you for being honest and for the inspiration!

[@lacybraswell3813]

I just checked your channel and my goodness! Not so good artist is definitely false and you’re funny and doggo is so cute! You’ve got a new subscriber my friend

[@qianyiland]

Wonderful works!😍

[@olgamoraiti]

I loved your honest video and your beautiful illustrations 🥰

[@MY.Design_and_Lettering]

I started my own art channel last year and am really greatful for your transparency. It's nice to see how consistency can work out. Sometimes it's hard to keep going when you don’t see any increases. So a motivational video here and there from you is super. 😊 Btw. it's amazing what you've build in this short time 😮👍🏽 congrats 🥳

[@nickymartz]

This was extremely insightful and beautiful to watch. Thank you. -New Follower

[@sumanuel]

Thanks for inspiring me, Mimimoo ❤

[@samiraingold]

this is really inspiring ❤

[@vizdotlife]

Thank you for sharing your inspiring story 🙏

[@LarisaCarliArt]

wow thank you so much for the very in detail info and all the numbers! I really enjoy your gentle vibe of the video as well ☺️

[@dorotadabrowska3799]

You are an inspiration 🤩

[@ArtistSwapnaNamboodiri]

Such a huge inspiration and thanks for sharing authentic figures, which comes as a validation for aspiring artists trying to build an art career! Btw I recently relocated to Australia , we might cross paths someday 😀🤞🏻🎉

[@RooNelo]

So glad I was finally able to use one of your skillshare links. Already saved your course and plan to go through it soon. Hoping to really take my art seriously this year. Thanks for all the advice and info you share!

[@MimimooIllustration]

Oh lovely, I hope you enjoy the class!

[@BaileytheIllustrator]

Honestly such an inspiration

[@KimOswalt]

I'm so proud of you! I've watched your videos for the past few years and it's so cool to see the progress you've made. Kudos to you for all your hard work and dedication.

[@MimimooIllustration]

Aw that's so nice - I really appreciate it!

[@anikour1463]

i love watching your videos other artist are like depressed ... but your videos make the viewer happy and smile in the video

[@Fuyofunni]

I don’t even want to do it full time but if I ever get big enough to only need my earning from my youtube art it would be so awesome. So happy for you for achieving this and not giving up ❤

[@AlexGriggAnimation]

Great vid. Really lovely to see your growth over the last few years (both creatively and financially). This isnt important really, but just a thought on the average income thing- i'm pretty sure those figures for median income are before tax. So if youre making that after tax youre doing super well :)

[@Diisyplayzz]

Wow this amazing thank you so much ❤

[@SelleArtsVlog]

You are such an inspiration.

[@surrcram]

I'm really stoked to see more artist use 2-in-1s as their digital art machine of choice. They've gotten so much better over the years.

[@franck4133]

Very informative, thanks a bunch :)

[@Questionablexfun]

MimiMoo’s videos help me not give up on my art as a full time freelance job dream

[@alittletales8699]

I am trying hard to become like you. I believe I can do it even don’t know how long will it take😊. Thank you so much for your sharing. It’s so beneficial😊😊

[@Adriana_mg]

Mimi, thanks for this video ♥️ did you do a video about tech stuff yet? Im curious which drawing pad you use, apps, etc if you don’t mind sharing it 😘

[@KristaDoyle]

What an informative video. Thank you.

[@calinehow]

Thxs a lot for that honest video😊

[@PrasBreaktime]

wish me luck!😅😅 thankyou, this really motivate me!

[@MemoirsByMara]

It's so great to see you grow over the years. I remember watching your videos before - at that time you had 1-3 videos with 30K views and the others barely reached 5K views. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I wish you all the best 💖

[@MimimooIllustration]

Thanks so much for supporting me for so long!

[@Undercoverbat95]

​@MimimooIllustration Jesus loves you all ❤️ his the only why to heaven❤repent ❤

[@peterxyz3541]

Thanks, this vid might save my life. Sadly, it’s a tiny exaggeration. You’re saving what’s left of my life with this road map. Now, the big challenge is for me to travel this road. I’m grateful ❤️

[@MH-lr6ue]

Thank you for this video.

[@ImagineArtist919]

Peace, thank you. I am working to do this as well.

[@golbarg4]

you are a blessing thank you

[@Abrylle07]

Thank you for inspiring us :)

[@kimchi8022]

Hi mimi! I noticed that you use a keyboard for your shortcuts and it seems to make your workflow a lot faster! I was wondering if there's a possibility that you may release a video on how to have a faster work flow? I feel like my shortcuts are not too good! 😅 also your video editing is amazing!

[@ruthlamich6640]

Nice journey, thanks for sharing. I’m actually decided to go back to graphic design. Success is all about reach and that seems impossible for me.

[@OpaqueEscape]

I think it’s so important for artists to think about growth long term and to focus on consistency. It breaks my heart that so many give up quickly after not seeing any results. I’m trying to ignore the numbers and focus on the joy of making art and teaching others.

[@kicknight3302]

This is very informative, thank you for sharing! Looking at your income chart we can see that most of it comes from marketing around making illustrations. Is it something you would like to change like spend more time illustrating? Good luck with you journey!

[@jamesbullo]

Congratulations 🎉

[@taruniversum7695]

so inspiring

[@maniok1977]

Wonderful! You do what you love to live, get paid ti do itand it's your own boss!❤

[@HannahMorenDraws]

I just barely started a channel and it seems like a long slog! I've been inspired by watching your progress for years~

[@MimimooIllustration]

It's definitely a marathon and not a sprint! But it's amazing how much progress you can make when you look back in a year - even if you're only posting occasionally 😊

[@HannahMorenDraws]

@@MimimooIllustration That's what is inspiring me! It's so much fun to have this archive to look back on~ I just hope I can learn to be of some help to others as you have!

[@purrplishpurple]

I have been trying to grow but it is just too slow for me. I am not an artist but I aspire to be a good content creator someday. I easily get discouraged so finding this video might be a sign for me to not give up on my dream. 💜💜💜

[@Art-talk]

This was masterclass how to make top video.

[@Bha_ama]

By listening this I am getting motivation....