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

[@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.

[@cazh34rts]

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!!

[@ChandrewsArt]

@@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]

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

[@razrv3lc]

@@ChandrewsArtin some of the cheaper states, that’s still well above the average household income! I make less than that annually in an accounting job lol

[@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!🙂

[@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

[@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.😢

[@CrackerDip]

I am kind off demotivated by the fact that to be an artist, to earn good money... we need to be a content creator first. KZbin, social media, patreon. Seeing where your biggest earnings came from just confirms that. I have an online store for 3 years now and when I was active as a content creator, I sold my art. Now I stopped using social media as much cause it was draining me out. Besides I want to create art, not reels for the majority of my day. Anddds my sales stopped too. Idk man, i dont like making art like this

[@CrackerDip]

@@mariarzyt_3D Right? I used to work full time + managing my business, packing my art, creating art, and then making content. While maintaining a social life and taking care of my family. I ended up with a burnout and depression. Art used to be my safe zone, my output, but because of the "social media pressure" in order to succeed I lost it all. It was my dream to become a fulltime artist. Then I had a taste of what it will be like: selling myself, being social media obsessed, turning into an influencer, etc. And I hated it. I still dream of becoming an artist and displaying my work in gallery's and exhibitions, but at what cost? Ofcourse there is a balance and some content is "easy" to create. It's just hella difficult to find and maintain

[@human47134]

How else will people find you or know who you are without social media though? Like… I don’t even know who you are? It sucks, I agree, but, unless you’re world famous… you gotta put yourself out there.

[@CrackerDip]

@@human47134 you've just proven my point :)

[@hangeh5313]

​@NoelleFerne damn that 1000 years most artists had been poor with little to no income bruh, a lot of artists died with no money before their works were recognised. Those who famous and rich were like, one out of thousand

[@hangeh5313]

@NoelleFerne then social media is just another tool for us artists to make a living, you have social media you earn more, if you don't you earn less, everyone need money to live, even artists. Today that's how the world works, there're 8 billions ppl on earth with so much more things than the past, more artists = more options also :))) everyone is busy, we can't just expect clients to find us on the street or out of nowhere

[@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❤

[@emmaluna3898]

I also want to make a living from art but too scary to even try it. Your video gives me a lot of faith and confidence, It might take a long time but it is better to start it now than to regret never trying it. Thank you so much for posting the number, it helps me a lot! Love you~

[@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.

[@beckyb76563]

It is but she said she was a graphic designer before that!

[@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

[@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 ❤️

[@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!

[@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! 👍

[@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! ♥

[@KimbertKarepowan]

I've got the same motives as u do, i actually dream to be an illustrator especially for children🥺, i got to the point where i felt like giving up but looking at ur video now it motivates me though i'm still confused where to start, still have a long journey to go! thanks for inspiring me to continue my dream💓

[@ArtbySurbhi]

You inspires me to pursue my dream. I always wanted to become an artist, but unfortunately due to some issues it was hard for me to enroll in any college. But i starting learning and i also post videos on KZbin in hope that i will also become financially independent.😊

[@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 :)

[@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 🥳

[@agatajasinska6791]

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

[@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 😀🤞🏻🎉

[@vizeath]

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

[@Seditious10]

Love this. I've started own clothing brand and recently invested into ipad for illustration. 17moths into this wild journey but I love it. Got4 events this months for stall. Zealous rebellious clothing.

[@_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

[@lilou_dawn_illustration]

I am also an artist and this year, I am going to work hard and live the life I dream through my art. May God bless us all❤

[@roxaneartc]

Have you started yet?

[@lilou_dawn_illustration]

@@roxaneartc yes!

[@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😊😊

[@upmanandwani8799]

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

[@xinhe-bd6qy]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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!

[@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. 💜💜💜

[@escaflower]

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

[@simpleePrea]

Watching your vedio inspired me , I have been trying to paint and it’s the editing I have to learn and It’s hard .. Hope one day I will be able to make more art content and give joy and peaceful moments to people while they watch my vedios !! May be one day I can make it my living !! Thank you for your honest vedio it’s inspiring to me !

[@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 🎉

[@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!!!!

[@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 ❤

[@Questionablexfun]

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

[@heyitsmaraluna]

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!

[@anikour1463]

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

[@Sup_keke]

This is my year to get moving in my art and grow a following on KZbin and Instagram Hopefully soon I’ll be able to sell art

[@user-jm5jt9ud4p]

Wait, when you started back in 2020. Did you already have experience and skills with art to begin with? How old were you then? I'm 35 is it too late? Haven't drawn since I was a kid!

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@AirshipPirate]

Love the clean workspace. You have all your tools in the tablet 😅 I'm a biology student/taxidermist/artist, my table is consistently full of unfinished projects 🙈

[@tcj226]

This is really helpful, thank you for sharing. The one thing I'm curious about is how you grew your Instagram following to the point where it could be profitable. It seems difficult to get a large following like that.

[@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.

[@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 🙌

[@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 ❤

[@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!

[@reddevilsunited_2060]

Started learning art as a complete beginner after turning 27. Don't know if i m too late to make a career out of this but u know let's give it a go lol.

[@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!

[@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 ❤🎉

[@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!

[@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.

[@itsmissko]

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

[@-_-j]

You say you aren't earning fully from the art, but the content on KZbin, but I do appreciate the art just as much as if it were a still, a poster or something. also, seeing you drawing is like performance art, isn't it?

[@BenHeffernanArt]

Wow! I used to drive all night sleep when I could during the day just to crack a 100k as a truckie and you can make 1 & 1/2 x my income doing what you love!?! Very encouraging. I'd love to just replace my truck income with my art. That would be my dream! Thanks fellow Aussie!

[@ChantelleArts]

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

[@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 ^^.

[@rondyart]

So happy to see another video from you! ❤

[@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! ❤

[@prakharsrivastava8218]

Really like to say thank you for being so transparent throughout this video with your income so that we get an idea … really appreciate it❤️💯

[@AngelicscalliwagsArt]

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

[@gittadevai8842]

Thank you for your transparency ✨

[@ThePottedMug]

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

[@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 ❤

[@Eiznek05designs]

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

[@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😊

[@devinalexandra3858]

This video came at the perfect time for me, as I'm preparing to start doing portrait commissions to support myself during a tough time. I was having doubts that it would be profitable at all, but seeing how well it worked for you at the very beginning of your journey has revived my confidence and eased my financial worries.

[@MimimooIllustration]

That's perfect timing! My next video is actually all about getting started with commissions 😊

[@devinalexandra3858]

Oh how wonderful, I can't wait! 😊 @@MimimooIllustration

[@devinalexandra3858]

@@MimimooIllustration Oh how wonderful, I can't wait! 😊

[@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! ❤

[@lifeandmind5116]

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

[@ChristinaGonzalez87]

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

[@itr6540]

Thank you for sharing your journey it is good to learn, but I think free trial requires an ongoing payment for a yearly membership. So it is not actually free. Blessings.

[@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 😘

[@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!

[@lukydiamint]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@wise_nut]

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

[@ogpechie]

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

[@MaleeshaHansani111]

Thank you so much for the videos ❤ please make more videos like this it helps for growing artist . Keep it up 🎉

[@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❤❤

[@samiraingold]

this is really inspiring ❤

[@ChromatosedGhost]

I have mental health barriers to address, but this is my goal too. Thanks for this video.

[@jadedjhypsi]

I am curious, where do your picture book illustration gigs come from? I am never sure of which platforms to focus on or sell stuff???

[@TheIncantoHeaven]

Thanks for sharing 🎉 so basically if you don’t create KZbin videos and only focus on illustrations then the earning percentage is really small. I lost all hope 😂 but good for you for monetizing your journey

[@atkakhurshid3872]

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

[@yuitangkhanhduyen]

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

[@girlwithaneedtodraw]

Thank you for making this video!

[@kippillustration]

Thank you, i'm trying to do the same but i often lose trust in the process since you don't really have an easy growth. I think consistency is key and you confirm that with your videos and contents. Do you have any suggestion about the audience for a non native english speaker? Would you suggest to follow this path in Italian for a smaller audience but feeling "safer" or to just try and test it out in english even though i will sound a bit lame with my accent? ahah, Thank you

[@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!

[@budaloops]

Hi Mimimoo! I found your channel last week and im drawn to your content. Would you recommend starting with childrens book illustration on Upwork? Have you used social media DMs to land a client before? I started freelancing logo and packaging design from 2020 and now i want to create cozy art for lofi music playlists. I loved my childhood bedtime stories and also, sketching is theraputic and i want to spend more time doing it. Thanks a lot for doing this video ❤

[@MimimooIllustration]

I've not used Upwork to find work before so I can't really be much help there, but social media can definitely be a place to find clients. My publisher found me on Instagram and sent me an email - so you never know what can happen when you have your portfolio on social media!

[@budaloops]

@@MimimooIllustration Ah. Thank you. Would you say you made yourself discoverable?

[@popiolkapisze]

Thanks for that video. It is very inspiring and helpful ❤ Best wishes and regards from Poland 😊

[@pennysutton6493]

Great video… thx …and you’re such a talented illustrator

[@dorotadabrowska3799]

You are an inspiration 🤩

[@jtArtsMedia]

What a super helpful and very interesting video this is. Thank you for sharing it 😊

[@BaileytheIllustrator]

Honestly such an inspiration