There are numerous reasons to engage with tech as a creative or as an artist. Whether you work with video, audio, writing, animations, fashion, paintings or music – tech can help increase both your creativity and sales.
So how can it increase your creativity?
Firstly, realise that tech is everywhere now, and everything. Think about it; is there one area of your life that is not affected or impacted by technology? Probably not. Even if you’re an artist that only paints with your hands in a remote cottage, chances are you’ve ordered a paintbrush online at some point.
Many artists despise the ‘online’ environment and try to avoid it in order to nurture their creativity. That’s absolutely fine. We know that things like social media or online news can be distracting and is not likely to make you feel motivated. However, not all tech is negative or time-consuming. Much of the tech available today can actually help you get your message out there, and ultimately share your art with more people.
Here are a few examples of how tech can help your creative or artsy business:
1. Get a website
This point might seem obvious to some, but we’ve spoken to so many artists that don’t have an online presence at all. In today’s digital-first world, that can be a big mistake. You might think of a website as old school and ugly (or expensive), but there are many options available today. Have a look at businesses with cool branding and see what their websites look like for inspiration. There is an art hotel in Hobart that promotes its services online, and they manage to keep their site looking really cool while maintaining their artsy integrity. If you are selling printed sustainable sleepwear, make sure you get the message out there!
2. Find creative work opportunities
There are many websites online for freelancers and artists that offer work on a regular basis. Have a search around and check out new sites such as Daisie.com (created by Game of Thrones actress Maisie Williams). This allows you not only to connect with other creatives, but also opens up the door for potential work and collaborations. Imagine how good it would be if you could connect with like-minded people in your city!
3. Put your artwork up for sale
Again, this might seem obvious, but we recently spoke to someone that made us realise the importance of this point. Apparently, there are many artists that don’t want to sell their art online, because they feel like it’s “selling out”. Can we please start by saying: using modern technology to sell your stuff does not make it cheaper! You can sell really high-end products online without compromising the quality of your work. Just because you put your painting or luxury loungewear up for sale online, that doesn’t mean that you have to reduce the price or mass manufacture anything. If you want to keep an exclusive vibe, offer a certain amount only, and keep your prices high.
4. Find a side hustle
If you’re creating your art simply for the pleasure of it – you might need to find a job that can keep you afloat while you practice your passion. There are many different sites and communities in which you can find work. Some of the artists we spoke to had recently moved to Tasmania to get a hospitality job in Hobart. They just searched for careers pages online and got work almost immediately! It all depends on your experience and what you would like to work with.
Anyway, I hope these tips have helped to convince you that tech isn’t all that bad. Now jump online and improve your creative skills and sell some of your fantastic work!
