7 Practical Ways to Make Money as a Landscape Artist

Published on 31 July 2023 6 min read

Sell Original Artwork
Offer Landscape Art Classes
Create and Sell Art Prints
Work on Commission
Participate in Art Fairs and Exhibitions
Sell Art Online
Apply for Art Grants

There's no denying the magic that comes from the brush of a landscape artist. Wide open fields, sunsets over mountains, or serene lakes can be brought to life and shared with the world. But, if you are a landscape artist, you may often wonder: "how to make money as a landscape artist?" Well, it doesn't have to be as mystical as the scenes you create. Here are seven practical ways to turn your passion for painting landscapes into a profitable venture.

Sell Original Artwork

First things first: your original artwork is your bread and butter. It's the raw expression of your talent, the physical embodiment of your artistry. And guess what? People are willing to pay for it. Here's how you can sell your original landscape art:

Direct Sales: You can sell your art directly to art lovers and collectors. This could be through art shows, open studio events, or even local community gatherings. Remember, your direct clientele are not just art connoisseurs, but also those who simply appreciate beautiful landscapes.
Art Galleries: Reach out to local art galleries. They often host exhibitions and are always on the lookout for new talent. Make sure your works are framed professionally and present yourself as a serious artist.
Corporate Sales: Ever noticed the art in hotel lobbies, office buildings, and restaurants? Corporations often buy art to enhance their workspace, and landscape art is a popular choice due to its calming and inspiring effect. Don't hesitate to approach businesses in your area.

Remember, when it comes to selling original artwork, pricing is key. It can be tricky to put a monetary value on your creativity, but don't undervalue your work. Research, understand your market, and price your art appropriately. This is a significant step on your journey of figuring out how to make money as a landscape artist.

Offer Landscape Art Classes

Now this one's a no-brainer: if you're good at something, why not teach it? Offering landscape art classes is a great way to share your expertise and make money while doing it. Here's how:

Start Local: Start by offering classes in your local community. It could be at a community center, a park, or even in your own studio. The materials needed for landscape art are pretty basic - a canvas, some paint, and a beautiful view. Plus, everyone loves the idea of painting in the great outdoors!
Teach Online: If local isn't your thing, or if you want to reach a broader audience, consider teaching online. Platforms like Zoom or Skype allow you to connect with art enthusiasts from around the world. Plus, you can record your lessons and offer them as paid courses for those who can't attend live.
Workshops and Retreats: Organize a painting retreat or a workshop. You can partner with local businesses like hotels or B&Bs and offer a complete package. This can be an immersive experience for your students and a lucrative venture for you.

Teaching not only adds another revenue stream but also helps establish you as an expert in your field. Plus, it's a rewarding experience to watch your students create magic with their brushes, all thanks to your guidance. So, if you're wondering how to make money as a landscape artist, remember that your knowledge is valuable, and there are many out there eager to learn.

Create and Sell Art Prints

Are you sitting on a goldmine of beautiful landscape art and wondering how to make money as a landscape artist? Well, here's one way: create and sell art prints.

Step into the Print Market: The art print market has exploded in the last few years. People love the idea of owning an art piece without breaking the bank. Plus, with the advent of digital printing technology, it's easier than ever to create high-quality prints of your original artwork.
Choose Your Medium: You can offer prints on paper, canvas, or even merchandise like t-shirts and mugs. Depending on your audience, one medium may be more popular than others. Experiment and see what works best for you.
Set Your Price: Pricing can be tricky. You want to cover your costs and make a profit, but you also don't want to price yourself out of the market. Do some research, see what similar artists are charging, and set a fair price.

Remember, selling prints doesn't mean you're selling out. It's a way to make your art accessible to a wider audience. And the best part? Once you've made the initial investment in creating the print, you can sell it over and over again. Now that's what I call a smart way to make money as a landscape artist!

Work on Commission

Another practical way on how to make money as a landscape artist is to work on commission. This simply means creating artwork specifically for a client who requests it. Let's look at how you can make this work for you:

Advertise Your Services: Let your existing network, be it on social media or your local community, know that you're open for commissions. Word-of-mouth is a powerful tool. You never know who might be looking for a custom landscape piece!
Discuss the Details: Once a client shows interest, it's time to talk specifics. What does the client want? What's the deadline? And most importantly, how much are they willing to pay? Make sure to have a clear agreement to avoid misunderstandings later.
Get a Deposit: It's a good practice to ask for a deposit before starting work. This not only shows that the client is serious but also covers your initial costs.

Working on commission can be a rewarding process. It gives you a chance to stretch your creativity and create something truly unique. Plus, it's always a thrill to see your clients' reactions when they see their ideas come to life on canvas. So why not give it a shot and see how working on commission can boost your earnings as a landscape artist?

Participate in Art Fairs and Exhibitions

One of the most exciting ways to make money as a landscape artist? Participate in art fairs and exhibitions. It's like a field trip for artists — you get to meet fellow creatives, exchange ideas, and of course, sell your work. Here's how to make the most of these events:

Choose the Right Event: Not all art fairs are created equal. Some cater to contemporary art, while others prefer traditional styles. Look for an event that aligns with your style and audience.
Prepare Quality Work: This should go without saying, but bring your best pieces to the fair. Remember, your work represents you. Make sure it's something you're proud of.
Network: Don't just stand behind your booth. Mingle with attendees, chat with other artists, and make connections. You never know where a casual conversation might lead!

Participating in art fairs and exhibitions not only helps you make money, but it also raises your profile as a landscape artist. It's a chance to showcase your work to a wider audience and get your name out there. So, ready to hit the next art fair?

Sell Art Online

Who said you need a fancy gallery to sell your art? In the digital age, selling art online is a great way to reach a global audience and make money as a landscape artist. Here's how you can do it:

Create Your Online Portfolio: The first step is to set up your online shop. You can use platforms like Etsy, Artfinder, or even create your own website. Make sure to upload high-quality images of your work and include detailed descriptions.
Set Fair Prices: Pricing your art can be tricky. You want to make a profit, but you also don't want to scare away potential buyers. Do some research, see what similar artworks are selling for, and set a fair price.
Promote Your Art: Use social media, email newsletters, and your personal network to get the word out about your online store. The more people know about it, the more chances you have of making sales.

Selling art online is not just about making money. It's about sharing your passion for landscape art with the world. So, are you ready to take your art to the global stage?

Apply for Art Grants

Art grants might not be the first thing you think of when wondering how to make money as a landscape artist. But, they can be a game changer. Grants can provide you with the funds to pursue new projects, buy supplies, or even cover living expenses while you focus on your art. Here's how you can get started:

Do Your Research: There are many different art grants available, each with their own requirements and deadlines. Start by looking for grants that are specifically aimed at landscape artists or the type of work you create.
Prepare Your Application: Most grant applications require you to submit samples of your work, a project proposal, and a personal statement. Make sure to tailor your application to each grant you apply for.
Don't Give Up: Applying for grants can be time-consuming and competitive. But don't get discouraged if you don't get the first one you apply for. Keep trying!

Remember, art grants aren't just about the money. They're also a great way to gain recognition and credibility in the art world. So, why not give it a shot?

If you're looking to turn your passion for landscape art into a sustainable source of income, don't miss the workshop 'How To Live Off Your Hobby' by Louis Bever. This workshop will provide you with practical tips and strategies to help you make money as a landscape artist and turn your hobby into a thriving business.