How to Support An Artist When You Have No Money
I know many people have told me over my art career that they "wish they had the money right now" to buy this art piece, or that art piece, or whatever else. I am the same way. I have original art in my house that I just had to buy. I also have had many moments where I wanted an art piece so bad but, alas, had no funds. Thankfully, there are ways to still support art and an artist that are beneficial to them without spending money.
Pexels
Share Their Work on Social Media. Commenting, sharing, liking, reacting, writing a blog on them, will all go towards benefiting the artist. This is the BIGGEST way to help an artist!!! Social Media is an algorithm game they have to play. In order to get more exposure, they need the likes and the comments. Comments with compliments and honest appreciation go a very long way. The more good exposure that an artist gets, the easier it is for someone that has the money to buy their work to come along and connect with the artist.
Be Active In Local Arts Government. Know the platforms, know the bills, know what's on the docket at the local government level and vote accordingly. Did you know that grants and government sponsorship are a contributing factor to the arts in your community? Find your local Arts Council and see what you can do to volunteer and help them. There is no Arts Council? Build one. Boost the art exposure in your community.
Gallery Show opening at Art Works in Cedar City, Utah.
Go To Their Gallery Opening. Go to that open mike night, go to that gig, go to where the artists are. Having a crowd of people at events will be fun for you and exhilarating for the artist!
Donate Just A Little Bit. Put a dollar in the tip jar, buy their smaller prints, contribute to their Patreon page. A little bit still helps. If everyone did just a little bit, it goes such a long way in the end.
Artists have a long and varied job. They need to create the art, market the art, prepare and ship the art, promote the show, pay for venues and spaces, work horrible second and third jobs, just so they can create. It takes insane passion and skill to do these things. Let's take some time to appreciate and support an artists. Go share a favorite artist with someone... right now!