Realistic Pros + Cons Of Being A Full-Time Artist and Content Creator

The first 1,000 people to use the link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/mimipurnellillustrator... ✨
Today lets talk about the pros and cons of being a full-time artist and content creator, because although I really do love my job that doesn't mean that there aren't also challenges (that I don't always share with the world)!
To help you make the most of your one month free trial of Skillshare, here are some classes that I think are a great place to start:
Make A Living As An Artist by Brooke Glaser
Drawing Is Important by Tom Froese
Overcoming Burn Out by Chrissy Curtin
The Busy Creative by Amandine Thomas
Intro To Procreate by Brooke Glaser
Intro To Digital Painting by Mimi Chao
Become A Greeting Card Designer by Anne Bollman
Roadmap to Getting Your Illustrations on Products by Anne Bollman
Your Roadmap to Surface Design by Bonnie Christine
Also, thank you to Treats for sending me a little box of international snacks to try! Get 15% off your first box with the code MIMIMOOILLUSTRATION www.trytreats.com/?aff=734
----
🥰 PATREON
Join my Illustration Club over on Patreon:
/ mimimooillustration
Browse the articles and videos available on my Patreon here:
www.mimimooillustration.com/p...
🖌️MY BRUSH PACK! (Procreate & Photoshop)
www.etsy.com/au/MimimooIllust...
💻 GEAR LIST
(My laptop is a Microsoft Surfacebook 3)
Find all the gear I'm using for digital illustration and KZbin here:
www.mimimooillustration.com/m...
🖼️MERCH SHOP
Cute organic t-shirts, jumpers, totes, stickers and art prints, designed by me!
mimimoo-illustration.teemill....
🎨 ETSY
Find some digital illustration goodies over on my Etsy shop!
www.etsy.com/au/shop/MimimooI...
🌷 PRINTABLE PROMPT LIST 🌷
gum.co/SSDUe
When you're stuck for something to draw you can download my prompt list for free or if you'd like to support me you have the option to pay what you like for it ♥
---
PINTEREST: www.pinterest.com.au/mimimooi...
INSTAGRAM: / mimimoo_illustration
WEBSITE: www.mimimooillustration.com
♥︎
All music is licensed from Artlist.io. Sign up today to get access to all the music I use:
artlist.io/Hello-16426
♥︎
Some of the links provided in this description are affiliate links
A big thank you to my partner for filming and editing this video!

[@MimimooIllustration]

The first 1,000 people to use the link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/mimipurnellillustrator03231 🎉🌷🥰 I've made a curated list of classes in my description that I've watched and enjoyed to help get you started!

[@artbyjennifers]

I love that you're so transparent about your art career 🥰❤ I really don't understand why there are so many people out there spreading negativity on social media, especially in the comments of such enjoyable videos like yours 🙈

[@MimimooIllustration]

Aw thanks for your support, I think some people can never be pleased!

[@queenkatma]

Agreed. I was a little surprised to see such nasty things written on videos that are probably the least controversial thing you could make: cute, cozy artwork and free tips for career artists. Somehow, people find a way to be negative about even that. Like Mimi said, I think some folks can just never be pleased. I love all of the videos I've seen by Mimi. They're super helpful and relaxing to watch and listen to.

[@Kalavati.C]

Mimi your channel is so inspirational and I am also very grateful that you shared your art journey. It inspired me to start drawing again’ ❤

[@LisaZoe86]

Thank you for your honest videos. :-) The negative comment about being shocked to learn that you are no vegetarian and demanding for you to do "better" made me roll my eyes at the one who made that comment. How pretentious. But there are quite some kiddies out there who seem to think they are going to make this world a better place by demanding from others to do as they say. Anyway, I hope you find a good middle way between working and relaxing. :-)

[@MimimooIllustration]

Same! Such a strange thing to say to someone on the internet (and it was such a teeny moment in my video) 😄

[@sofistyx]

Dear Mimi, as a freelance artist I can really relate to your struggles of balancing life, tasks & creativity. I just wanted to let you know that I truly enjoy your videos. I think you're nailing it! Have a wonderful day 🙂

[@MimimooIllustration]

Oh that is so kind of you to say, thank you so much! 🥰🌷

[@eineperson3689]

I love how incredibly honest you are about your life as a self-employed artist. It takes a lot of courage to do that on Social Media where so many people are not fully honest. I am not surprised that you describe yourself as an actually quite private person. Hearing you say that and thinking about it that is probably one of the reasons I was drawn to your channel because it showed me that you can also have a KZbin Channel and a public career even if you are not naturally seeking public attention. Android and Windows would be the more popular choice in Germany by the way 😊 Thank you for your video, it was very enjoyable to watch, as always ☺💫

[@HellzSayzDANCE]

Wonderfully and clearly laid out. Not enough people are clear about both the ups and downs in the business, I really appreciate the time you (and your boyfriend) take to make these videos, thank you 😊

[@MimimooIllustration]

Aw that's so sweet of you, we really appreciate that!

[@HellzSayzDANCE]

@@MimimooIllustration You’re very welcome 😊

[@Lia13_]

Thank you so so much for posting this! Definitely very helpful and gives lots to think about. 😊

[@itsrong]

thank you for the video, always very helpful! : )

[@AnggiSahamCantik]

Hahaha I'm with you Mimi. I also like Windows and Android 😂 I really enjoy you sharing your story. It inspire me to keep going in building my freelance writing business.

[@MimimooIllustration]

Aw that's lovely to hear!

[@christinakentart]

Thanks so much for sharing this, Mimi! I'm at an earlier stage than you in growing my art career, but I was able to relate to so much of what you said. It's great to know that I am not the only one feeling this way, and also really inspiring to see your progress, especially to see that you also have setbacks/periods of slow growth. ❤

[@jennifert7127]

Thanks for this! I loved this and quite a few of the things you spoke about are so relateable. I love your illustrations!

[@prophenica]

this was such a real and informative video, i am glad i found you. Thanks you so much for this 💞🐯

[@prexytheartist]

I like that you show details on how you do this constantly! 💕💕

[@konekoshu]

Been super inspired by your artworks and watching a lot of videos of yours. Your tips and cons and pros always give insight how life as a full-time artist and content creator really is. You are very inspiring. Thank you for all your inspiring and insightful videos!

[@kaoriart]

you're such an inspiration to me, I love your videos and I like to watch them when I feel a bit lost in my artistic path 🥰 thank you for sharing your experiences, it's super important for every artist and the ones that would like to make art their full time job, keep going ♥

[@aliceangel6538]

Pretty informative and encouraging video!!🙂💕

[@Papershire]

Thanks so much for all the transparency, especially with the youtube stats, I always get so hypervigilant about my stats and numbers going down sometimes worries me. So happy you get to be a digital nomad I hope you and your bf are having a wonderful time traveling!

[@ellasketch]

Lovee the video Mimi! Don't you ever stop making art and these amazing videos because of some trolls on the internet! I can proudly and loudly say that you were one of the first KZbin artists who inspired me to start my own channel. I'm so happy for you and your achievements 💜

[@yessbetan]

Your life sounds so amazing, even with all the challenges. Thank you for being such a wonderful inspiration!

[@peacegirl19]

I love your transparency and your sharing about how you make your business successful! (Also love the vizsla in this video… what a cutie!!) 😍

[@ayasartstudio]

Thank you Mimi for the efforts you put into your videos! They are always insightful and shed the reality on all the self doubt that goes behind having a creative career. Keep it going 👏☺

[@extremesubtlety]

Really great video! Id love to have being an artist be full time one day and this really opened my eyes to what it could be like ❤❤

[@lgp423]

Well, it is so very human to feel all of this and I can very much relate to your experiences. As artists we need to be super resilient, motivated, hard working, determined, inspired etc. etc. and occassionaly it is all just too much therefore those tea and cookie breaks as well as other selfcare methods are so important! Don't ever feel bad about them as they are simply necessary. Best of luck to you and your business ❤!

[@joeyotten2091]

Last podcast on the left is my absolute favorite podcast and levar burton reads is a close second! It’s like reading rainbow for adults

[@zzayaart9868]

Dear mimi i luv you hihi you just make my mental health good I struggle a lot to find my way in illustration field whenever i watch your videos i feel so confident and immediately went to do some illustration and planning am trying so hard to be noticed by someone and give me some hope

[@sboss794]

I needed this today. Thanks for posting....❤

[@saberkite]

Thank you for this! I'm considering going full time as an illustrator, but I've never really had my own business/working for myself full time, so I had worries. This is so helpful. Thank you.

[@friesfairy]

thank you for sharing your experience ❤ you told exactly my thoughts, and especially on using windows instead of mac, like you can’t draw directly on a mac screen or use your favorite gear without buying expensive adapters, the list goes on. love your channel✨

[@carizzamakes8813]

Hi! thank you so much for this video, very much appreciated❤️ I'm a freelance artist too with a 1 yr old baby and finds it really hard to make something these days, your video gives me comfort and reminds me not to force myself too much❤️❤️❤️

[@neethusartistry]

Dear Mimi, I am totally intrigued and inspired by your work and videos ever since I bumped into your channel. Such insights into the reality of your work life makes it only better for people like us to understand what to expect and what not, to proceed accordingly. Thank you so much for creating such a wonderful informative video with all the details authentically! Love & Light 🤎✨ P.S - I am a Windows - Android person! 🙋‍♀️😁

[@LeaflingBags]

Such a great video, as a small business owner I can totally relate.

[@LaurenJuarez]

This is the best most validating video I’ve ever seen. I’ve been searching for a video just like this. I am a full time creator and feel every single one of these. Even down to the random emails. It is a dream job but all of the small things can really add up. Thank you for this

[@Kalavati.C]

Thank you Mimi for sharing your journey! This is so helpful and I am grateful for skillshare for providing the free trial. This is great information. 🎉 Cheers! Cali Karen

[@Meghane_Rms]

Thank you for sharing 😊

[@CarminaGarderica]

That is so cute that you include even "not so bright side" of this job, and as we are all people not robots - we need to have such a informationfrom you because everybody all ver the world have the similar problems/issues and struggles! Thank you very uch for all this words!

[@HeatherLewis1700]

I'm so very happy of videos. ❤

[@maureenpenton-theartofthedraw]

Appreciate your frankness. I am just starting my art journey on KZbin and Instagram. I am also a private person and feel a certain exposure in the social media world. Totally understand how we are flying by the seat of our pants through it all. Trying to do it all is exhausting but also exhilarating. Enjoy the journey.❤

[@happyhealthymonkey]

Thank you so much for your energy ☺️☺️☺️💚💚💚🌸🌸🌸🌞🌞🌞

[@chris-piascik]

So relatable! Great video.

[@pernilla-goth]

The decisions you say is to boring to talk about is really not boring to listen to! I really appriciate your videos because thet give realistic expectations and tips which I know will be helpful for me when I finally star my own small art buisness. And I would love to hear your thoughts on these "boring" decisions 🥰 Thank you for sharig so much of your journey with us!

[@AlchemyNova]

Thanks for being an inspiration as a creative entrepreneur, Mimi

[@suzannabunch4624]

I've just started on this journey and am learning all of these lessons!

[@Mystic_Dragon_Art]

Thanks so much for sharing the behind-the-scenes of your art business journey with us. It's very useful and inspiring for those of us following in your footsteps! And don't mind those cringe inducing trolls. They obviously don't understand that there is such a thing as a graphic art style. Or that there's a lot of inspiration in these videos about running an art business regardless of one's personal preference of art styles. I'm guessing their first intro to art was an "Art of (insert game here)" book and that they really don't know anything else besides entertainment concept art. Anyway, you're awesome and please keep sharing with us.

[@sungly3007]

Thank you so much Mimi. Many apologies for my silence. I am taking a small step back to figure out my style and what I want to achieve with my art. Your videos anew wonderful and very inspirational. Please don’t worry about this unkind messages, I am so sorry that there are some not so nice human beings. You are an amazing artist and you are doing very well to fulfill your dreams. I am very happy and I wish you have your strength. Looking forward to seeing your next video 🙏

[@shmickcreations]

Beautiful 🙌🕊️

[@MajeedaArt]

I haven't made the leap to full-time artist but that's the goal but I'm already feeling/relating to much of what you shared particularly the urge to procrastinate, and the early stages of income concerns, how much to charge, and trying to develop a regular routine of creating new content, dealing with sudden internet buffering, etc. I appreciate your candor I think there's a lot of misconceptions with regards to being an artist in general and especially becoming a full time artist via social media, there's so much to learn and keep sustained especially in the beginning I've been asked to illustrate books through the years as I use to illustrate often prior to switching my style and I also felt self doubt though I am thankful for the offer. becoming a full time artist has certainly been a mix of ups, and downs but I'm thankful for the ability to create as it's gotten me through many difficult stages in my life, and it's one of the few skills that I have that I feel somewhat confident in. thanks for sharing ☮️

[@astral-star-worldbuilding]

Yay another Tassie Artist!!

[@sunshinejulie5687]

Yay, another Surface artist! I love apple stuff too, but nothing beats My Surface for drawing. 🤗

[@IDrawToothpicks]

You look like An illustration! I can see you love art. And love the people that follow you. I aim to be you someday! And make money doing what I love artist here. And I love your videos on the fears/ things holding artists back video. It really inspires never stop making content like that. If you ever need a break though. Well all still be here when you return A

[@letfreedomring7684]

The Creative Penn is a Great podcast for self-published authors. I've been listening to it for several years now. Thank you for sharing your art journey. 🙂

[@angiespov]

You have no idea how big of an inspiration you are to me and to many people. I discovered your channel last year and I really love your videos and styles! Now that I have started college, I hope to aim high and be a motivated, inspiring illustrator just like you :)) also, seeing those treats made me miss my home country. Those Filipino snacks are pretty good!

[@MimimooIllustration]

Aw that is so lovely to hear!

[@yumicoy349]

Thank you for the transparency in these videos, I greatly appreciate the value within them. Just wanted to pop a comment here to talk a bit about the "guilt" that I am sensing in the video in regards to procrastination and rest. While I don't want to assume you aren't aware, as humans, we were never meant to work as much as we do in todays society! I think we should be viewing these things, such as laying down all day or procrastinating, as a sign of rest needed. And so instead of guilting ourselves, saying we "should" be doing this or that, lets try and talk about guilt and why we feel it in the first place. Work is essential to have the money to pay for expenses, responsibilities, and so on. But the thought that we should push ourselves every time and feel guilty for resting is a systemic issue that we need to unlearn!

[@ZombieOwl12]

Thank you for sharing this! This is actually something I go back and forth on regularly. I'm pretty sure that this is what I want to do, but really giving it the time it needs is a struggle with other responsibilities 😔 All these downsides are what I tell myself when I want to stop trying, but it's good to hear that they aren't the majority of the time. 💕

[@MimimooIllustration]

The downsides are always worth it for the upsides (if it's something that you want to be doing, of course)! No job can be perfect, so if the challenges are worth it then go for it 😊

[@RhiannonKagoe]

thank you for making me feel more valid!! I also wake up at 5am to draw and spend most of it in Pyjamas. It's hard being your own boss

I just found your channel with this video & now I'm subscribed. I used to do what you do and had the same issues and perks, so I appreciate your honesty. I don't do it anymore, I realised it wasn't for me. About mosquitos... yeah, I don't like them either, it's one of the many reasons I live in a cold weather country xD Finally... what a strange "criticism" that of the pink girls dream... I'd thought that was a feature! Some humans honestly confuse me... Have a great day and thanks for this lovely and sincere video!

[@AnaBela1990]

i guess there will always be people that voluntarily or unconsciously risk to chip away at our confidence through their words, but learning how to navigate all that and (re)center yourself is a daily practice and a skill we all need to master, no matter what we do in life one thing i’m grateful for in this moment in time is that we have unlimited access to find our community and supporting kindred spirits, and it’s a certainty they are out there. Mimi is one of those people for me and a constant source of inspiration and motivation. This channel has given me permission to dream and lose the false narrative that is too late or i’m not skilled or special enough to pursue my passion. There is a place for everyone in this world, all we have to do is work at it and that’s the only success that matters- following your heart. Congrats Mimi for stepping into the digital nomad life, it’s wonderful to see you reach your milestones!🎉

[@softandcosy]

the negative comments really surprised me!! the last one especially is so bizarre

[@jennymhulla]

It makes me so happy to hear other small business owners also having unproductive or procrastinating days 😭😭❤️

[@nonzev1377]

I use windows and Android too! I have definitely experienced those Mac questions. Everyone works different, you do what works best for you ^_^

[@mrs.quills7061]

I recommend the podcast art juice! They talk about the ebbs and flows of being a creative and are great to put on while you work. I found them during the pandemic when I was temporarily off work.

[@MimimooIllustration]

That sounds like a great recommendation - thank you!

[@VisualMind]

I can assure you that as a Mac user I also get asked regularly why I don't use Windows 😂 I also get asked my I use a Canon camera and not Sony. I get asked why I use Final Cut Pro and not Adobe Premiere. I even get asked why I'm LEFT HANDED for gods sake 🤣 people are wild haha Thanks for sharing an HONEST look behind the scenes. Being a full time artist is awesome but very far from perfect. It's a cool job but it's definitely not doodling all day. Being employed comes with certain perks that people take for granted. We romanticize self employment way too much. It's so so much harder than it seems!

[@WindaLeeDraws]

Wow, just found your channel 😢 why I haven't so soon..you're so inspriring. I am an artist and selling my art too. Thank you for sharing this ✨️

[@johntumbo3175]

I loved your background in Tasmania so when you said you moved, I was actually shocked that i shouted why!! out loud. Then you show the snake and I was like " oh am fine".

[@pragyadamani8050]

Thank you for the snake warning❤

[@annmariebarreiroart]

My favorite podcast is called Voice Hugs! I think you'll really enjoy it. It is a nice helpful advice podcast that focuses on self progress and it's a nice calming podcast to listen to while drawing!

[@MimimooIllustration]

Oh that sounds nice, I'll check it out - thank you!

[@tanjaelsklingart]

Exactly what I feel - doing so much work but still feeling that it is never enough (( and this is very stressful

[@bettyszwagierczak4062]

Lovely video! Can relate to so many points as fulltime illustrator. But I envy you digital nomad life - would love to travel and work, but it'll be super difficult with kids ^^'

[@idarusso]

I would like to become a freelance illustrator..your videos are Always very helpful ✨

[@sarahwilson214]

Thanks!

[@MimimooIllustration]

Thanks for your support, Sarah!

[@kennywilsonca]

Thanks for this. I want to make the jump to full time too and have been overwhelmed trying to figure it out. Do you do one on ones?

[@heatherartsy8944]

I have a Microsoft surface laptop studio which I think replaces the one you have I think they just redesigned it mostly either way it is an amazing laptop! I can actually use the full version of photoshop which is why I highly recommend it!

[@barbaragonzalez3029]

love how you communicate all the aspect about being and artist (or wanting to be). about the patreon, what are the discord benefits 👀?

[@MimimooIllustration]

We have a Discord community where people can share their art or ask art questions, but the primary use of it is for our monthly illustration club where we all join the same prompt and anyone who wants to share their art on Discord can do so. It's a very encouragin community 😊

[@ChantelleArts]

The negative comments are so weird… if you eat meat, you can’t draw animals? What?

[@PurrPlanetPlay]

subscribed

[@Artinthecountryside]

Lovely video! What program are you using to for your illustrations on the Microsoft surface book?

[@qpadua1948]

Thank you for being transparent. Love your content. Do you mind sharing name/brand of your stylus? P.S. the snake would’ve sent me packing 😂

[@shellecedurfee5140]

Best Business podcast ever. "The Jenna Rainy Show" 😊

[@newlinsa]

I would love to start illustrating and be able to use my art and love for all things creative to actually earn an income! So far, my art "skills" have been in acrylics, and I mainly paint landscapes. Do you have any advice on how I can transition from painting to illustrating? Thank you SO much for your videos, I am learning a lot so far and still have a lot of videos to watch 🙂

[@lmc8888]

I use only Windows and Android too!🙌

[@KaterynaM_UA]

the most important things I want people to understand is that working freelance you are working SO much more than in 9 to 5.

[@ilkaschulze644]

Hey mimi, the trolls are everywhere. Don't care. Your work is fantastic! 💛

[@fuzzydragons]

ooh nice carpet python 🥰 and yep pretty much winging everything (also, apple products are way overpriced for what you get spec wise)

[@ingridokamura]

So true😂❤

[@soph862]

Hi Mimi! Which headphones are you using? Currently on the look-out to find some noise-cancelling ones :) Thanks!

[@Joymultimediadesign]

This podcast is nice: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

[@samguentherillustration]

I would love to work for myself, I do dog portraits and children’s books, however I need the healthcare from a full time job. (Yay USA!) I juggle it all but it gets difficult and tiring

[@paodm6317]

favorite parts: mosquitos hahaha and the snake woaaahh... was that in Tasmania?

[@kerryideillustration9432]

I can totally relate to all of this. So many hats to juggle and yes self doubt and questioning myself all the time. I think you have created an amazing business in a very short time, so congratulations 🥰

[@MimimooIllustration]

That's so kind and encouraging of you, thank you so much!

[@Micah-countrysidedweller]

Thanks for another great video 😊 A podcast I think you'll enjoy is Inside creativity by Elin Loow.

[@splendidcyan]

Appreciate this video haha! I have a question on your Surface Book-- does it overheat at all after hours of drawing and painting, or when you're working on large files? I've been a Surface Pro user for YEARS and I loved my SP3 enough to trade it in for an SP7 around 2018, but since then my SP7 has just not handled my long painting hours very well. I'm often having to restart the computer to get it to recognize the stylus, and this is after everything like checking battery levels and such. It might also just be that my Surface Pro is getting old, but I'm just curious if the slightly larger frame of the Book helps it not suck in so much heat. And if anyone else has experience with this I'd love to hear that too haha.

[@amandahilleary2581]

Have you done any courses to do illustrations as a career???

[@poocky100]

Even classic full time employees live with uncertainty so don’t worry you’re ok. Thanks for the video

[@nadiashabani2262]

Dear Mimi, I celebrate you and just wish you the best! Watching your channel grow is so exciting. 🥳🪴🌵🍓 Best regards from Switzerland

[@missyroberts8197]

What laptop do you use for drawing??

[@gremics-gallery]

Hello Mimi, It would be good to hear what you think is behind those periods where the incomes trend down. Have you some ideas on the cause? Thanks

[@MimimooIllustration]

I think it's often just the nature of algorithms where sometimes your content is being shown a lot and sometimes it isn't. Sometimes the content I've made isn't as appealing to as many people (but maybe a smaller part of my audience are passionate about it). I should make a video about it 😊

[@mrs.quills7061]

This was so beautiful to watch and you’re so right about the stats because sometimes they’re not accurate for example. I was watching this at work while working lost track of time and am now finishing it the next day. I feel bad because I know it’s not good for KZbin’s viewership stuff, but it doesn’t mean people got bored either. Social media/internet burn out is real too. Sometimes I was just making stuff to appease an algorithm and while I was gaining traction it was too much too soon. I’ve taken a break to refocus what needs to get done and work at a slower pace. I’m kinda okay with that too because Instagram, tiktok and other places like Twitter are changing so much and here in the states there’s talks of tiktok bans too. So I’m like is it worth putting my efforts there if I don’t get much in return besides a superficial like? I want to be an independent artist at this point. I’m in a creative field, but between the pay cap and just being tired of feeding corporations my talent and efforts and working beside not so wonderful people I’m just done. I know it’s hard work and I’ve appreciated the pros and cons in each point. You inspire me to keep going and hopefully have the courage one day to make my own KZbin channel!

[@felichiebiancalaroya2721]

What’s your laptop model?

[@TangsTails]

Omg, I got the same email with the bike! I think they mass-sent, because they didn't even include my name, just "Hi ," 🙃

[@MimimooIllustration]

Oh no way! Yes it definitely wasn't personalised - I wonder what their strategy is...

[@TangsTails]

@@MimimooIllustration Right? Even if I had a biking channel, not personalizing it is 🚩... it was my first sponsor email, too, so hoping the next one at least knows my name! 😅

[@eyraluna]

😍😍😍

[@menutalia8035]

Thanks to share this information. I just want to ask you something: could you tell me what kind of laptop stand do you use? I'm looking for one for my ipad and this one looks sturdy.

[@MimimooIllustration]

Yes it's very sturdy! It's from Amazon, you can find the link on my gear list: www.mimimooillustration.com/my-art-gear