From Passion to Profession: My Journey as a Freelance Artist

      When I first picked up a pencil as a kid, I had no idea it would become the foundation of my career. Back then, it was just doodles in the margins of my school notebooks—now, it's how I pay the bills, find purpose, and connect with people around the world.

Freelancing as an artist isn't the easiest path. It's unpredictable, often chaotic, and sometimes lonely—but it's also deeply fulfilling. Every piece I create carries a bit of me with it. Whether it’s a character design for a game developer, an illustrated portrait for someone’s anniversary, or a personal passion project, art has become my language, my livelihood, and my lens on the world.

The Freelance Hustle

People often ask what a "typical day" looks like for me. Truth is, there isn’t one. Some days I don't have a client and I work on various personal projects, and I pray that Blender doesn’t crash. Other days, I might be deep in creative flow for hours, barely remembering to eat. It’s a constant balance between the art I love and the admin that keeps it all running.

One of the hardest things I’ve had to learn? Valuing my time and pricing my work. Like many artists, I used to undercharge—afraid of scaring off clients or seeming “too expensive.” Over time, I’ve realized that respecting my own work is essential. If I don't, why should anyone else?

Finding Inspiration

Inspiration can come from anywhere: a shadow on the wall, a stranger’s expression, a melody I hear while sketching. I keep a messy digital folder full of reference images, ideas, and half-formed concepts. Some of them will never see the light of day—and that’s okay. Not everything needs to be shared. Some art is just for me.

That said, the online community has been incredible. Instagram, Facebook, and even Reddit have helped me find fellow creatives. It’s easy to compare yourself to others (and I still fall into that trap), but more often than not, I find myself inspired rather than intimidated.

What I’ve Learned (So Far)

1. Don’t wait to be “ready.” I started taking commissions before I felt “good enough”—and I learned so much in the process.

2. Take breaks. Burnout is real, especially when your hobby becomes your job.

3. Say no sometimes. Not every project is worth your energy. And that’s okay.

4. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small. Finished a piece? Sent that email you were dreading? That counts.

Looking Ahead

I’m still figuring things out—this career is a work in progress, just like any piece of art. But I’m grateful. Grateful that I get to create, that people trust me with their visions, and that I’ve built a life doing what I love.

If you're an aspiring freelance artist reading this: keep going. Keep drawing, painting, sculpting, animating—whatever it is you do. There’s room for your voice. And the world needs it.

Thanks for being here.