While many believe how to become a painter is something that cannot be taught, still others believe that practice can bring out hidden talents.
Unless you are a renowned painter, chances are you will have to take the commissioned painting route to success and income.
If being an unrecognized talent slogging away on anonymous paintings for others does not appeal to you, relax.
There is a difference between being a "for hire" painter and being a commissioned artist.
If your services are for hire, you paint for another painter or party and your name does not appear in the credit for the painting. However, as a commissioned painter, your rights over your work are protected. You own the copyrights to the painting – unless you willingly sign the rights over to your client.
How To Become A Painter – Painting Portraits
Portrait painting is the most common business for people who are newly starting out. While you may need to be an established artist before large organizations commission you to do landscapes and special events for them, you do need not have as much experience to be able to paint portraits.
Portraits are in huge demands from people of all backgrounds – whether new brides, new mothers, retirees celebrating their silver jubilee, or parents looking for the perfect graduation gift for their children.
As a portrait artist you will come into contact with different kinds of people. If you love painting your subjects live, you can ask for a few sittings. However, the process can be time consuming and you may miss out on clients who live in other cities. Painting from photographs is an easier and more commercially viable option.
Create a portfolio, as this can be an indispensable tool for convincing prospective clients that you are worth giving a shot. See if you can persuade an art gallery owner into exhibiting your works as well, as this can boost your credibility and advertise your work to a highly targeted crowd.
As for the legal requirements, you will need permits for opening a studio or starting a business. If you are planning to rent studio space there is more paperwork and additional costs to consider.
Art supplies such as paper, canvas, stools, paint, brushes, and easels can cost quite a bit if you prefer high quality materials. Don’t forget the crayons, charcoal, ink pens, and tracing paper. Portraits should be done in a well-lit room with an attractive background, so you will need to invest in the appropriate props.
To make your work more professional, have a good communication system at hand. This includes a PC with image enhancing tools, a telephone, an email account and messenger service, and a fax machine. Many of your long-distance clients will mail or fax their photos to you, so being prepared for this is important.
Before you start work you will be expected to deliver a sample. As a beginner who’s learning how to become a painter, you need to understand your limits. Play up your skills and take up assignments that do not require the talent of Picasso. As you become more experienced you can broaden the scope of your services.
A portrait painter needs to work hard to make a name for himself in the business. However, if you are creative, have some skill, and have a drive to succeed, there is no reason why you should not soon master how to become a painter.
