There are many ways for artists to approach teaching art and Make Money Without Selling Art.
If you're just starting, I recommend teaching one art concept, skill, or project. When you start with a specific focus, you’ll create a process that will be the blueprint for you to build on as you continually improve and expand what you teach.
Why Would You Want To Teach Art?
One of the great things about teaching art classes is that it's a fantastic way to connect with others who also share your interests. In addition to sharing what you know, you will also learn more about your craft from the process of teaching it as well as from your students.
When you’re clear about what outcome your students will have as a result of learning with you, this will help them feel successful. You’ll build a reputation as a knowledgeable art teacher, making it easier to fill your classes with students who are excited to learn from you.
Offering workshops and classes are also a great way to connect with shop owners, other artists, and art collectors. I often view it as a way to get paid while finding new buyers for what you offer and getting your name out in the art community.
When you’re organized and confident enough to teach your craft, you’ll be a respected contributor in the art scene.
A bonus you may find when you take samples of your art to show to the class is that you may also make art sales. I know artists who do this with much success.
How Do I Teach Art?
My favorite way of teaching art is to start with one live workshop. I want to say to make it in person, but with how the world is moving, an online event can also be effective.
This way, you get immediate feedback on your student’s experience, you get to hear their questions as they are applying your instructions, and you can use that feedback as a basis of content for your marketing and outreach as well as to improve your course each time you offer it.
The biggest reason to do it live is to hear what words and phrases your student’s are using so you can incorporate those exact words when you are selling your next workshop and your art. This helps you to connect with your buyers and makes the sales process easier.
What Are The Different Ways To Teach Art?
It can be easy to earn income when you start teaching art classes. In my article, Is Teaching Online Worth It? You May Be Surprised, I explain how a workshop at as little as $40 a person can equal some high income to your art practice.
Especially with modern technology, there are many ways for you to teach your craft. They include stand-alone workshops, a series of classes, private lessons or mentoring. How you deliver your art classes can also vary.
You can offer them live and in person or online. Perhaps you prefer to pre-record them so they are on-demand to accommodate your student’s schedule.
I often get asked if teaching art online is worth it, so I wrote a blog to answer this. My reply may surprise you.
Whichever way you choose, this could be an avenue for you to make money without selling art with some creativity and planning.
Are You Ready To Teach Art?
If you’re interested in pursuing teaching art as an addition to your art practice, I’ve written an article to help you best prepare what materials to have on hand. Check it out!