The Invisible Ingredient for Your Success as an Artist in Business
Oct 15, 2024
What if the missing link in your art business isn’t more time, talent, or motivation—but systems?
In this episode, I break it down step-by-step:
The Invisible Ingredient for Your Success as an Artist in Business
Many artists feel overwhelmed by admin, unsure how to stay consistent with marketing, or scattered trying to balance it all. But the truth is: structure supports creativity. The right systems don’t limit your freedom—they give you more of it.
Whether you’re self-taught or formally trained, learning to implement simple, repeatable systems can help you manage your art business more efficiently—so you can spend more time in the studio and less time spinning your wheels.
From handling enquiries to staying on top of shipping and marketing, systems create mental clarity and sustainable progress. And no—they don’t have to be complicated or rigid.
Let me show you how easy it can be to set up systems that work for you, not against you.
1. Systems Create Space for Creativity and Joy
Take Claire Cusack, one of my VIP artists, for example. A busy mum juggling her kids’ activities, Claire felt like she never had time for her art. Then, she set up a mobile art studio in her car. Now, she sketches between school pick-ups and extracurriculars—reclaiming time for her creative work without sacrificing her family’s needs. This simple system gave her time, joy, and freedom.
Look at one part of your day that feels hectic and set up a system to simplify it. Maybe it’s using canned email responses or creating a shipping checklist. Start small.
2. Balance Structure and Flexibility
Rachel Sheree created a flexible schedule to manage her art practice, day job, and family responsibilities. She keeps it loose but intentional, allowing her to focus on both admin and creative tasks without burning out. Her system isn’t rigid, but it ensures she gets everything done.
Create a flexible schedule for your week that includes time for both your creative work and admin tasks. Adjust it as needed, but keep the structure in place to maintain balance.
3. Creative Blocks Happen Without Systems
Overwhelm kills creativity. By setting up systems that handle the busywork, you clear mental space and avoid burnout. One way to do this is by creating a pre-creative routine. It could be as simple as setting up your workspace, playing your favourite music, or lighting a candle to signal the start of your art session.
Write out a simple pre-creative routine and stick to it for a week. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just something that helps you get into the flow.
Systems are the invisible ingredient that makes your art business run smoothly, allowing you to focus on creating and selling. Start small—a simple routine, a flexible schedule, or batching your social media content—and build from there.
If you’re ready to build your art business with structure, support, and creativity at the centre—join the waitlist for Art for the Heart.
This program is designed to help artists like you thrive—with systems, mindset shifts, and real community backing you every step of the way.