7 Ways to Support an Artist Friend

More than in any other profession , artists who want to earn an income from art need support, especially in the first steps . Therefore, while rewarding, pursuing a career in the arts can be quite a thankless journey. While gaining public support can be a daunting task in itself, an artist should always be able to count on their friends and family to kickstart their career, but this isn't always the case.

Even with the best of intentions, we often do or say things that, instead of encouraging our friend to continue creating, end up hindering their process even further. Therefore, we present 7 ways to ( truly ) support your artist friend:

1. Make an investment

One of the simplest—but still worth mentioning—ways to support an artist friend is by purchasing some of their work for sale. Whether it's a pricey original painting or a simple sticker, it's the act (not the amount of the investment) that can give them the extra strength to keep going.

Whether it's because you're short on cash or because your income depends on someone else, sometimes investing financially is out of the question, but there are other ways to "invest" in your friend's work that are completely free.

2. Don't ask

As tempting as it may be, avoid asking your friend to do your work for free—and this intention can be conveyed unintentionally in the form of simple comments like "ahhh, give it to me!" or "can you do one of those for me?" Besides putting the artist in an uncomfortable position (after all, you are their friend), it devalues ​​art as a profession.

This topic also includes asking for a discount on a product that's on sale. If your friend just started a business, they probably don't have enough money to give you a discount, so it's better to buy the full price or not buy at all.

Of course, if he gives or offers you something, it's okay to accept it (I myself have voluntarily given original drawings as gifts), but in opposite situations, do your best not to leave your friend in an awkward situation.

3. Interact

A simple like on social media or a positive comment about a piece of work can make a big difference. For artists, knowing that the people they care about most are supporting their career is essential.

4. Share

Sharing a friend's post on your stories, for example, costs nothing. Adding a positive comment or a gif of a cute dancing animal costs nothing either—but it will make the artist's day and may even introduce new people to your work.

5. Connect and Recommend

If you know someone who could help your friend's career (for example, someone who could hire them or work on a collaborative project), introduce them. Most opportunities for growth within an independent career come from connections—and these can be facilitated by a mutual contact.

When someone asks for gift suggestions, is looking for a new decor item, or is looking for something you know your friend can offer, be sure to recommend your services and share ways to get in touch (like an Instagram account). This way, you can find indirect ways to invest financially without spending a dime.

6. Give your opinion,

But only when the artist wants it. If your friend asks for feedback on their work, be honest. Tell them exactly what you think and help them improve where needed. In this case, any kind of constructive criticism is always welcome. It's these comments that help you grow and find new ways to win the hearts of more people.

However, never give your opinion on things that don't concern you—for example, about his career or how you think your friend will end up selling art on the beach (believe us, we're well aware of this possibility). He's pursuing his artistic career because he loves it, and as long as he's happy, you should be too.

7. Be present

This last tip alone is more than enough. Be there to listen and support your friend at different stages of their career. Often, all they need is a word of encouragement or simply someone nearby to talk about their struggles and share their successes.

In short...

A little support never hurt anyone. Whether in dance, literature, music, theater, or even video production, knowing that there are people who still believe in art gives everyone hope that the world will one day be a better place.

With love,
Re