If you are a talented artist, who wants to make a living painting, sculpting, or in some other genre, you have to approach it as a business enterprise. Van Gogh's work sells for millions today, but during his lifetime he only sold one painting. If you don't want this to happen to you, you have to make plans. You can't expect art lovers to find you. Making a success in the entrepreneurial arts field means blowing your own horn.

Even if you are still holding down your day job and easing your way into the art world part time, you must make a schedule and stick to it. You wouldn't expect an employer to let you come in whenever it suits your mood. By the same token, you can't wait until you are in the mood to create to get work done. Creating has to become your job as well as your passion.

It's important to have a master price list. Even if people love the work you do and want to support your efforts, they still want to know what you have available and how much it costs. A master list, on your website, can be password protected if you want it available only to a select clientele. The list should be comprehensive, with taxes and shipping costs included.

Your price has to be fair and competitive. You aren't working by the hour when you are creating. The hours you spent on a painting aren't really relative. When you price your work too high, you won't have buyers. When you price your work too low, you won't be taken seriously. You should research artists whose experience is similar to yours and charge accordingly.

Sales are business transactions. A contract must accompany every sale you make. You will find sample artwork sales contracts online you can download and use, but it is best to spend a little money and have a lawyer familiar with contracts write one specific to you. It must contain language regarding reproduction and exhibition rights.

Good marketing is critical. If people don't about it, your art business will fail. You need a website that reflects your style and is consistent with your artistic expression. You might suggest to local restaurant or hotel owners that your work would be a great asset to their businesses. Community art centers, galleries, and art shows in the park are good ways to get yourself a little recognition.

Be sure to pay your taxes. You are going to need an accountant. As an entrepreneur, no one is taking taxes out of the money you earn. You need to do this yourself by reporting quarterly earnings. Even if you operate at a loss, you still need to file a tax return. Keeping detailed records is essential.

If making a living at your art is your dream, you should follow it. At the same time, you have to treat it as a business that has to make money to succeed. If you don't, you might find yourself like Van Gogh, with just one sale to your name.