Ever feel like you’re doing everything—posting on socials, creating new work, responding to enquiries—yet still spinning your wheels? What if the secret to your next breakthrough in your art business wasn’t more effort, but the right kind of structure?

Here’s the thing: artists often believe systems kill creativity. That if you plan too much or get “too organised,” you’ll box yourself in and lose the magic. But I’m here to flip that myth on its head. Because systems aren’t barriers—they’re bridges. They create more space for creativity, more peace of mind, and ultimately, more joy in your practice.

In this blog, I’ll share how systems changed everything for me and the artists I coach—from stuck and overwhelmed to flowing and thriving. Whether you’re juggling a day job, parenting, or just trying to stay consistent, you’ll walk away with small, actionable steps you can try today.

Want to dive deeper? Watch the full video episode here:
The Invisible Ingredient for Your Success as an Artist in Business

1. Systems Create Space for Creativity and Joy

When you’re constantly winging it, your brain is on overdrive: What should I do next? Did I reply to that email? What if I forget something?

Now imagine having a simple system for just one part of your business. Suddenly, decisions become easier, and you feel less frazzled.

One of our VIP clients, Claire B‑Cusack, is a brilliant example. With a jam-packed life as a mum, she realised she was spending hours sitting in the car during after-school drop-offs. Instead of feeling frustrated, she developed a system: she turned her car into a mobile art studio. Just like that, “dead time” became creative time—and her art practice flourished.

Try this: What’s one area in your art life where you could add a system to free up time or reduce stress? It might be:

• A templated email for commission inquiries
  
• A step-by-step shipping checklist
  
• A prep list for markets or exhibitions
  
  

It doesn’t have to be fancy—it just has to be repeatable.

2. Systems Can Be Flexible, Not Rigid

Many artists resist systems because they think they have to stick to them 100%. But creativity doesn’t work like that—and neither should your structure.

Rachel Sheree, another incredible artist I’ve worked with, found balance through flexibility. With part-time work, kids, and her art practice, she created a shed schedule that was structured enough to keep her focused, but fluid enough to adapt to life’s curveballs.

Her system was based on intention, not perfection—and that’s why it worked.

Try this: Build a short pre-creative routine to set the tone for your art sessions. Here’s an example:

1. Fill your water jar
   
2. Set up your palette
   
3. Light a candle or hit play on your favourite playlist
   
4. Take a grounding breath
   
5. Begin with intention
   
   

Make it short and doable. Try it for a week and notice what shifts.

3. Systems Prevent Burnout and Creative Block

When life is full and messy (as it often is), systems take the mental load off your plate. You don’t have to think through every step every time—and that’s where your brain gets the space to create.

I’ve seen this especially help parents and caregivers, where the mental load is real. Whether it’s deciding what to paint or figuring out how to pack an order, having systems means you don’t have to start from scratch.

Try this: Write out your own short routine or checklist and keep it visible in your studio space. Let it guide you on the days you’re low on focus or energy.

Wrap-Up: Small Systems, Big Shifts

Systems aren’t just for tech bros and spreadsheets. They’re for artists who want ease, clarity, and longevity in their careers.

Start with just one small system. Let it reduce the mental clutter and give you back your creative energy. Then build from there.

Some of the systems that changed everything for me include:

• An art production system to help me create at volume
  
• A lead attraction system to grow my audience
  
• A conversion system to turn enquiries into buyers
  
  

You don’t need all of these at once—but knowing what’s possible can shift your perspective for good.