If there is one thing in this world that I know a lot about, it is working as a creative in the UK. Let’s be honest with ourselves, it can be a hard industry to break in and it is not for the faint-hearted. As someone who has made a career in the creative industry, I like to think that I know a thing or two about how to make it work for you. And, as a mother of an artist, I want to make sure that all of your budding creatives get a good start and make money with your artistic skills.
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Get qualified
This might should like a ridiculous thing to say but you should listen to me about this. If you want to make it in this world, you need to have the paperwork to back it up. It does not matter what career path that you choose, you need to be able to show the world that you know what you are doing. Of course, being a creative means more than just having a piece of paper, but there will be times that these pieces of paper can set you apart from others. Choose the creative courses you take wisely and don’t be afraid to invest in your education.
Intern places
Say what you will about internships but no one can deny that they can get you places. The issue is that people pick the wrong internships and end up wasting their time. There are many art, design and photography internships available, you just need to decide which one is the best one for you. Some of the best ones that you will find will be in major cities such as New York or London. What you do is need to be mindful of choosing one for the sake of it. Sometimes, you need to go with your gut and question if this choice is best for you. If it isn’t, then you should decline the opportunity politely and wait on the right one coming along.
Travel the world
I have spent most of my life in a small town in Ireland but I am lucky to have travelled. I have not travelled far, just to other parts of the UK mainly, but I have travelled. Seeing other places and discovering how the world works can be one of the hardest things that you can do but it is worth it. And, as a creative, you cannot create fresh art if you are stuck in the same place. One of my favourite places to visit is London as it is a melting pot of cultures and ideas. There is a mixture of history and modern design. And it holds a special place in my heart for being the first marathon that I ever took part in. Even if you only travel to other cities around you, the experience can be eye-opening.
Balance with backup
If there is one thing that I know all too well, you can’t be creative if you are worried about paying for your next meal. If you can, ensure that you have regular pay coming into your bank account. Let’s be honest with ourselves, we all need to eat and the starving artist is not a good look. Part-time jobs are always available if you look, and you will have to curb your spending until you make some decent money with your creative ventures. If you find yourself in a major city such as London, you are guaranteed to find plenty of part-time or flexible work to help fund your artist lifestyle.
There you have it, a quick guide to getting started off as a creative who makes money. Always check out your options from internships in London to travelling. I hope you have fun making your mark as an artist.