How I Became a Full Time Artist at 23 Years Old (My Story)

[@customcreationsbyslb]

Just crazy how similar your story is to my own. Always loved art as a kid, won a coloring contest at the age of 9 I believe I was. Didn’t believe art could be a viable career and went to university n studied accounting. Now after being in the corp world for years and years doing accounting, I’m finally trying to make it as a full time artist. Love your art!

[@Mfalconer]

Wild! I guess accountants have a knack for art LOL

[@OutcastDimensionTCG]

Lmao same!!! I was always doing art but stopped because thought it wouldn’t work out. I painted skateboards too lol hated the idea of being an accountant but I didn’t think being an artist would work. I tried different careers and then came around to accounting lol did well hated it but made a living and now trying to become an artist instead because I should have never stopped.

[@dollladie]

I'm very, very proud of you. Artist-to-Artist, you're a blessed example for emerging artists to follow. I did not begin my life's dream until I was 62! Now, almost 68, my tribe has found me, and I'm luxuriating in this gift that was given to me. I beg you to never, ever, ever give up your dream. Your work is lovely! Stacey Torres

[@creativegemarts]

Just the video I’ve been waiting for.

[@justanotherisekaiprotagoni7293]

😂but like I’m finna make a website and all that cuz this the kinda of video that make me wanna sell art

[@m.h.8084]

You're an absolutely wonderful and brave, smart, beautiful young lady. Bravo. I congratulate you and wish you endless success forever. I know, because I'm a 50 year old artist slaving in a 9-5, with no energy, time or knowledge to make it. Talent and kindness meant very little alone.

[@vanessas7599]

This has literally been my dream since I was a child… feels very overwhelming to try to get to where you are now

[@Whiskey_Actual]

Looking at how detailed your artwork is, I can't help noticing that you're also very articulate and deliberate with your words.

[@acaciajoellesamuel8548]

I’m so so so glad to find you! I’m 22 and I just finally decided that I want to be a full time artist a few months ago. But it’s been sooo overwhelming to figure out where to start the actual selling part 🥴. Your story is so similar to mine too it makes this step feel way less daunting, so thank you!

[@diidimeh]

I genuinely felt like you were talking only to me. I was fighting tears by the end of the video. I don't even know you yet I'm so so proud of you and happy for your success! Keep shooting for the stars! I'm feeling so inspired from this, as I'm also very close to reaching my personal goals as an artist.

[@AlexsaurusRex]

One month check! How's the art coming along? Hope you're still inspired and learning something new

[@Alexpurdypotatofx]

I’m at the first step of this journey. I thought about going to medical school, I’ve had a job since I was 18, I wanted money, freedom from my parents, I tried makeup school, and it wasn’t really for me. The medical field is always needed, it’s a reliable source of income. But I can’t seem to get myself in a class, I can’t choose a field to study. And I finally asked myself, if the impossible was possible what would it look like. I want to do art for a living. 9-5 isn’t for me. I can’t mentally do this anymore. I’m breaking free. This is such an inspiring story and it makes me feel a lot better about taking these first steps

[@EyeAmLuhv]

This video popped up at the perfect time ✨ thank you for sharing your journey with us 🙏

[@dianabanana08]

i graduated from acctg and was on my way to becoming a chartered accounting but God intervened and for some reason, without any qualifications, i now work at an art gallery as an audience engagement coordinator and working towards becoming a full time artist. good video!! thank you so much!

[@monetlemon]

Thank you for sharing this. My dream is the be able to be a full time artist. I'm currently working as an art teacher while building my business. This video gave me a sense of direction for what I need to do to get to where I want to be. So thank you.

[@PolyvoreThea]

You are so inspiring! I am a 57 year old artist- I’m gonna say it is never too late to strive nd paint what you love. Thank you!

[@loelli__]

I have never felt so proud of a stranger🙌!!! Good for you girl, keep that fire alive!!🔥❤

[@KarenAyala]

Oh my, I have a very similar background, although it took me until my phd program in finance to realize the same thing you realized at university. Very inspiring! Thank you so much! 😊❤ best regards from Brazil!

[@kunlexyworld]

Am so so impressed with your career story/ journey. Am a Nigerian Photographer & Videographer. Seriously Am crying watching your video. So so impressive

[@Theartofemman]

I totally viewed this from beginning to the end with no interruptions & Rewind, your story is very interesting and important (θ‿θ), I've been a supporter, your story has helped me to not relent but keep chasing my dreams 🌍

[@donatfairs204]

Thank you for sharing your story. Inspirational and nice to see the new goals you've set for the business.

[@LindorMusiq]

Thank you for this, you just answered a lot of questions and cleared the way. Been craving for this kind of information. So wish all artist would share their story just like you did. May god bless your hustle.

[@sarah-louiserossi9665]

I’m 24 and on the journey of becoming a full time artist thanks for sharing your story!

[@iiyhano_de_Jesus]

Hello my name is iyhano and I’m in love with your channel because I came from Africa one year ago to pursue my dream in the USA 🇺🇸 and your story is inspiring me a lot ! 🥰🥰🙌🏾🙌🏾 and in my channel I’ll be telling my story from now until the day that like you I’ll say “yes I’m full time artist 👨‍🎨 “ and I hope have i great journey as you had! and you still having 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@Madebybleu]

This is exactly what I needed to see today! I'm also 23 and I'm so ready to quit my 9-5

[@TaniaPomalesArt]

Thanks for sharing your story. I'm currently on my path to making it full time. It makes me happy to see you be so successful. This is excellent. I got a degree in art, but my minor is accounting/business. I thought I wanted to be an accountant or a teacher, and I very QUICKLY realized I didn't want to do that. Lol. Like you, I knew deep down that art was and is my path.

[@demightyart380]

Thank for sharing your journey. I love it and am moving out of my comfort zone

[@electranica777]

✨️Amazing story.☀️🕊All the best for yiur journey✨️

[@NikoleTheAnimator]

I'm working towards becoming a full time artist, and I can't tell you how inspiring your video has been to motivate me towards that goal. I've been watching a lot of videos specifically about the business aspect, which is important but your video was the first one where I could feel your passion, excitement, and happiness with your career choice. Thank you for sharing, I'm so excited to become a full time artist eventually :)

[@SeanLinellIvySr]

You've motivated and inspired a lot with this video! Love your spirit! Keep at it!

[@dasblackstarr8288]

thank you for sharing your story 🙂

[@Angela-jy8um]

Great story. Thanks for sharing.

[@victoriaangell-sanchez]

As a fellow artist who wants to start an art business and still lives with their parents, this has been really inspiring to hear your journey and i hope my art has me dancing with Lil Kim someday too xD

[@jessicatambo851]

I love your story😍 I love how your parents are supporting you❤️

[@patsyjohnson2064]

I really enjoyed this. Thank you for this story. Im inspired.

[@mimd2134]

Love! Thank you !

[@craving_artist_tee]

Very inspiring…Thank you for your video

[@andzhela9484]

Bravo girl, just Bravo! Following your purpose , I love your mindset and admire your consistency and talent. You are amzing , keep doing what you are doing!

[@alexzandriathegood]

Wow M. you are so humble! I am inspired by your story, especially the part about making the most of your current circumstances. Success isn't a linear process, it takes a whole lot of faith and perseverance to make it to where you are now. I can't wait to see what you do next.

[@Mfalconer]

Thank you! 🙏🏾💕💕

[@madiscanvas]

I’m pushing to be a full time artist so I’m Literally so happy I found you you’re amazing❤️

[@somannifique5201]

just found your channel and already love you 🥺 thanks for making this vid!

[@queenniyahbingai9347]

Very Inspiring...Thank you for sharing and teaching. As I was listening to yur story I was like yes! So So happy for you sis. Keep on your path.

[@karennguyen1857]

this video is so real i feel like i know you personally! i feel like all your videos that i've watched so far have been put on my path as a person trying to do what makes me happy in life, this video was definitely for me and i am so grateful that you shared your story and experiences as a growing artist. and the fact that you're a canadian artist is so cool! i was born in bc but i currently live in edmonton. i love that now after receiving the recognition as an artist, you look to express who you are as an artist and your message besides doing comissions. I feel like i'm definitely in the beginning stages of my journey in relation to whenever i feel like i've "made it" but your story is like exactly what i've been dreaming of, being able to be recognized for my work and be in the same surroundings as influential people that i look up to. when i get to where my dreams will take me, i'm not going to forget the advice that you've given in your videos. i love that i got to hear your story and your future plans, you are an artist that i resonate with !

[@naturallyeccentric05]

Very inspiring. Amazing that you found your freedom so young. I’m just a year younger than you put you’re a huge inspiration.

[@luvpepperhead]

I thoroughly enjoyed hearing your story. Thank you for sharing your startup journey. Your video is so timely and inspirational. LOVE.

[@mysticalrose1414]

The part about the grants was so extremely helpful. Thank you.

[@trahapace150]

Research the grant its not that simple, they have some stiff requirements....you can't work or go to school it becomes a full time commitment for 3 months. Which if are working a job you would have made that much anyway.

[@mickey5565]

Such an interesting and inspirational story. Thanks for sharing!

[@SonjaPond]

Great video! Thank you :)

[@Jerrytheworm]

That's awesome!!

[@lc3069]

Are there any copyright/legal implications on selling a painting of a celebrity? Its something that's always confused me.

[@benjaminyancey1660]

Yeah I wanna know this too!!

[@TheArtistOliverJames]

Always a great question with a complicated answer... I have found. Would love to know her view/take too.

[@leonaandreea9335]

What I have been reading is that it is illegal to sell a painting of a celebrity, but if it's changed in a way that looks very original or distinct (you can tell that it's a piece of art made by someone with original implements, ie: geometrical/Colorful etc) then this is debatable, because the artist also is being covered by a right (sorry I don't know how it is called, but it has a name). If I didn't explain well, you can Google, I tried haha

[@zuzu_1]

This really gave me hope, thanks for sharing your journey! Wishing you much success and happiness.

[@iamnykira]

Congratulations!

[@diaryofareader6156]

This is the first video of yours that I've seen. I guess YT is trying to tell me something. I just started my creative journey and just got my third commission. I'm ngl, I'm nervous but excited. Hearing your story and the success and joy you've had from it is really inspiring and I feel like I'm motivated more to keep going and to keep trying. I hope you find even greater success in the future 💜💜💜

[@adriannalennox5497]

Glory to the Most High Great video.

[@yungsoul4706]

Beautiful story 🎨🖤

[@jennk2361]

Thank you for sharing! I am really looking into becoming a full time artist in the near future.

[@Mfalconer]

You got this! 💪🏾

[@createwithmary630]

Awesome information, just discovered your amazing channel. So cool😊❤️👍

[@artsbyimee]

Hi 👋 this video was suggested on my feed 😊 I enjoyed watching and subscribed 👍 take care and hope to see you next time 👋

[@jennk2361]

I am truly inspired by your story! Good Job!

[@elenadistefano7766]

so young and so wise.. amazing story! tks for sharing it :)

[@russellsmith6213]

You’re amazing very inspiring

[@priestlaaris8208]

Thank you M. Falconer for sharing your story. Its definitely inspired me to continue my dream of being a full-time artist. I wish you all the best on your journey and I can't wait to see more of your art.

[@megroxyms]

Will you do a video about where to find all the free resources you are mentioning? Thanks for sharing!

[@Criii.art_]

Love the video . Love her . And your art is amazing 🤩

[@kevvykev7934]

Very inspiring!!! Keep it up!

[@ArtScoop2020]

Hey just checked out your channel.. it's really amazing! Can you share the basics of pop art? Like Do's and Don'ts.. or maybe.. things to consider before start painting pop art..what are areas to highlight in the painting.. like a complete video with all the questions answered about it please😅Thank you! 💞

[@shaylaparks17]

I’m loving it !!! 🎨🥰 it’s so inspirational

[@raquelmarieart]

Yeeees 🙌🏾 document making that original series!

[@Mfalconer]

Definitely!

[@FWilliamsson]

I love your videos, so inspiering! 😍😍

[@originalman01]

Congratulations on your success and thank you for sharing your story, I’m really inspired now!!🙏🏾

[@BendtProductions]

Thanks Melissa, as I paint I was going through a lot of similar type videos and yours struck me as the best! Very inspirational and informative.

[@gigi7778]

You are so talented, I believe I've seen the Michael Jackson painting on etsy, I love it!!! Amazing story and you are so inspiring. Continued success to you!!!

[@sandycathcartwild]

I love you and the things you share with us. Thanks for being so open.

[@raineynight]

Melissa, Thank you so much for this!!!

[@ThatAnxiousArtist]

Can't wait to be on this level!

[@travisanderson34]

Hi! I loved your video, and I also think your art is beautiful! Thank you for sharing your art story. I feel inspired to create my own full-time art business. I am quite the procrastinator, but I look to you as a role model in terms of where I want to get to in the short term.

[@russellsmith6213]

And beautiful

[@ScottHebert604]

amazing!

[@IsobelleOuzman]

Thank you for sharing your journey!

[@michaelenechi]

Totally enjoyed. Thanks for inspiring young artists

[@BB-vq8my]

Absolutely loved this! Thank you for being so honest and inspiring. 🤗

[@briannaparnell7534]

Hey Melissa!! I love your videos and your artwork so much. This video is inspiring and couldn’t have come at a better time for me❤️

[@OJ_Walter]

This surely gives me hope,courage and a purpose for life... University is literary killing me at the moment 😅😅😅 Thank you👊

[@CCHCraig]

This was such an informative and interesting video. Too long? I didn't want it to end. I learned so many new things about you that were so inspirational. Thanks for doing this Melissa

[@terrid911]

You’re quite an inspiration and so talented! Thank you for sharing your success! I love your work! ♥️

[@pendafulemulumendu6810]

Very inspiring Melissa ❤️

[@uniquefairart1331]

This was phenomenal! Thank you for sharing your story!

[@JessicaNicoleDickerson]

Loved this video SO much and I'm 10000% inspired ❤️

[@florenceesibi4390]

Happy New Year Melissa! I just came across your channel. You are such an amazing inspirational young lady. Your future is so bright and it is a pleasure to see what you accomplish next 👏👏💫

[@kwash4347]

Love this! So inspiring and encouraging. Thank you ✨

[@Kassary]

Thank you so much for being so open about this! Your journey is really inspirational to me. Ive always doubted myself because all I want to do is sell my original artwork instead of taking commissions all the time. Im glad you are able to transition from that, showing that its definitely possible even if you dont have a million followers on instagram. (Although you definitely deserve the world to see your work! :) )

[@seame3795]

This is so inspiring! Thank you for sharing!!! 💜

[@mr.juniorer]

I’m so glad I discovered this video, you, and your channel! Very informative and inspiring! I’m definitely looking forward to watching more of your content, and I now have even more confidence to better up my game at becoming a full time artist! Thanks for taking the time to make this video! :)

[@Criii.art_]

I loved this so much ! your passion really radiates through the screen. I came across your art about two years ago and its inspired me so much 🤩

[@jamesbang7912]

Any tips on how to balance a job and doing art cause jobs can be draining

[@davidaaronartist]

Gracias,mucho gusto conocerte colega 🙏

[@girometta3698]

Hey! I’m a new subscriber i love your videos. I’m from US and I would love if you know any programs like BITS around here… Or how can i search for them? Thanks for this useful videos.

[@chrisbakoula8424]

I subscribed and rang the bell.

[@AliZaidi]

Freakin' hate you!! Aarrgghh... 🤬 LoL.. the more I watch your videos the more I get inspired and honestly I'm so thankful that I found your channel by accident that day. Definitely gonna meet up when I visit Toronto! Wishing you Love and Success 💕

[@Naomim1]

Hey M. Falconer I am a digital artist and I want to print and sell them as well but I was wondering is there copyright involved because I like to draw celebrities. Please let me know and I love your artwork! ❤️❤️

[@OutcastDimensionTCG]

Lmao yesss the how to draw books (especially DBZ).

[@mauricesullivan9992]

Will you ever make a process video of how you get your portrait sketches onto canvas🙏

[@Mfalconer]

Maybeee 👀

[@THEonlyMATRiiX05]

Hey Melissa, I loved this video! I totally resonated with your story because I have a similar background going to business school and now starting my own art business @streetvisionart_ on ig as well. Thank you for mentioning the grant programs!! I am from Toronto as well and I definitely will be taking advantage of those opportunities :) You got me as a new subscriber as well 👍