How to Start Art Commissions as a High School Student

Many high school students find themselves passionate about art but unsure of how to turn their talents into a source of income. Inspired by friends or just as a hobby, sketching can turn into a meaningful side project with potential earnings. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build on your existing art career, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to embark on art commissions.

Getting Started

YouTube offers a wealth of tutorials and tips for aspiring artists. Searching for YouTube videos by artists like Matthew Sorgie can provide invaluable insights into the process of securing commissions. Focus on tips for improving your skills, marketing strategies, and understanding the basics of taxes and payments.

Self-Analysis and Motivation

Before you dive into art commissions, it’s crucial to evaluate your own motivations and desires. Do you genuinely want to earn money through your art? Additionally, reflect on the kind of income you can realistically expect. Artists often earn more through specific specialized projects rather than general sketches. This self-examination will help you set realistic goals.

Case Study: My Daughter's Experience

I have a daughter who is a talented artist herself. By the time she starts high school, she will have already honed her skills in creating anime characters and painting beautiful canvases. Although she has been accepted into art programs at her school, she missed her application due to the pandemic. To ensure she continues to grow in her artistic abilities, we decided to get her an art tutor.

One summer, while my daughter was sketching at a local park, a young teenager approached her. Impressed by her work, the teenager offered to pay for one of her pieces. This was a new experience for my daughter, who was hesitant due to her age and perfectionism. After some thought, she asked for $20, and the initial sale, including her fee for the piece, was $14.50. The sale was a success, and both girls were happy.

Understanding Your Art’s Value

Any artist who wishes to sell or display their work deserves to be compensated. It takes time, effort, knowledge, and specific tools to create a piece. For example, consider the difference between a mechanic and a baker. You wouldn't accept exposure for a free service if a mechanic or baker fixes something for you. Therefore, it's important to recognize the worth of your art.

To determine how much your time and effort are worth, consider your audience. Are you selling to peers, or are you placing work on social media and attracting clients? If you have a portfolio, you can create a variety of styles that buyers can choose from. Figures from other professionals can give you an idea of your worth. For instance:

Artists and architects charge for detailed sketches and plans. Tattoo artists charge for preliminary sketches. Landscapers and painters charge for detailed renderings and designs.

Examples from a specific region: In rural Georgia, U.S., my daughter charges $5 for a small size sketch, $10 for a family piece, and up to $20 for strangers or acquaintances. Larger pieces double the commission, with paintings and specific requests commanding higher fees. At just one year into commission work, she has saved $1,500.

Marketing and Promotion

To market your art effectively, you should advertise yourself shamelessly and go on other people's nerves, which essentially means promoting your skills vigorously. Utilize social media platforms to showcase your work and reach potential clients. Create a portfolio of your best pieces, and consider participate in local events or art expos to gain exposure and attract clients.

Conclusion

Starting art commissions as a high school student isn't just about earning money; it's about growing as an artist. By setting realistic expectations, understanding the value of your art, and effectively promoting your work, you can turn your talents into a successful and profitable venture.

Remember, the key is to start small and build gradually. As your skills and portfolio grow, so will your potential earnings. Good luck!