Digital artists have been gaining momentum in the online environment for some time now, especially since the pandemic. As prominent auctions took their activities online and new technological advancements like NFTs appeared, artists had the chance to expand their target audience and explore new creative horizons.
That’s how online art sales doubled following the pandemic, reaching 12 billion US dollars in 2023. So, there’s no better time to become a digital artist than now, when pop culture, technology, and art blend so beautifully.
But how can you reach notoriety, considering how many digital artists there are on social media?
With a simple search, you can find numerous other people with unique art styles and approaches to engaging with audiences. As the competition is tight, how can you measure success online? Luckily, we’ve figured out everything step by step with only ten tips.
Settle on a specific digital art style
Depending on your skills and availability to invest in digital art, it would be best to set a specific style to help better anchor your abilities. Of course, playing with art styles from time to time spurs some creativity, but it would be easier to choose between:
Digital illustrations include cartoons, logos, or icons that look similar to hand-drawn art;
Digital collage consists of images and digital elements;
Algorithmic art uses software programs and data to create visual designs;
Regardless of the preferred style, you’ll need to promote it on social media so you can look for similar artists who list their original fine art prints for sale online and get an idea of how your art will look among the competition.
Research on your target audience
As a digital artist, you may also need to become a marketer, so research the audience that would be interested in buying your art. You could start by looking into what category of people still buys art, but those who engage with online artists and share their work are also important.
Luckily, most social media platforms can provide useful insight into what people are searching for when it comes to art. Hashtags are essential since you will be using them to showcase your art and spread the word. You can also conduct market research on your own current audience by testing the popularity of a few different artworks and posts.
Be open to commissions
Artists are used to commissions, as some people or even businesses request specific artworks that may require more time and involvement than usual in exchange for money or advertising. Many customers usually demand digital artists for illustrative designs and cartoons.
It would be best to be open to commissions, as they can bring more attention to your art. Ideally, you address commissions through a contract that includes the project description, payment requests, and timeline delivery, so both parties are covered from risks.
Expand your skills
Sketching and character drawing are regular skills for every artist, but if you want to be special, it’s best to expand your abilities. For example, it might be helpful to know how to animate your drawings and make them move or interact with each other.
Digital art composition is also essential in digital artwork, especially when it comes to balancing positive and negative spaces or assessing harmonious triangles. Finally, since we’re talking about all things digital, make sure you’re used to user interface (UI) and user experience (UX), as they’ll help you better create products for mobile and desktop.
Play with software and hardware tools
As a digital artist, you’ll mainly need software and hardware tools to create unique artwork. If you can afford it, it’s best to test your skills on different platforms and equipment to see which is the most comfortable. For example, while you can use a regular computer or laptop for art, a graphic tablet is usually best.
When it comes to software, plenty of free solutions for beginners will allow you to learn how to draw. On the other hand, you may need special programs for 3D modeling and pixel art, so research the tools that suit your skills and creativity.
Find time to practice
While working for commissions and having a job in digital art are important for sustaining your lifestyle, it might be easy to forget just to practice. Take the time to draw objects from different perspectives and dimensions just for fun, as this can also help nurture creativity.
Practicing working with your software and hardware tools is also vital for your growth as an artist as you get out of your comfort zone and are more knowledgeable regarding the available features of creating art. You can get into value studies or negative space drawing if you're out of ideas. You’ll be surprised to see how many artistic challenges are out there that will provoke your skills.
Get some qualifications
While many digital artists are freelancers and like to prove their skills through their portfolios, having specific qualifications can help them secure jobs. This has been difficult for some, especially since the pandemic triggered numerous layoffs of digital artists in the past years.
Having relevant qualifications allows you to remain relevant and valuable even in this job crisis market, so try to get certificates in anything from graphic design to 3D modeling. You can complete many online courses from the comfort of your own home, and since you’re also practicing, you can master them easier and faster. If you’re eager to do so, pursue a degree in artwork.
Are you ready to become the best digital artist?
Digital artists are in demand at the moment, as the industry is flowing with unique creators who leverage social media and blend techniques to design incredible artworks. However, the massive competition makes it difficult for some to be seen, which is why digital artists should research their target audiences, improve their skills, and be open to commissions.
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