Using crappy materials will give you crappy results. One good piece of equipment can make all the difference... These are my recommendations from what I've used in the past.
Be Environmentally Friendly
Not only is it a good thing to do but it'll give you and your art more depth and respect. For Example...
Teach Workshops
This is a great way to let your community know that you exist. It is also possible to earn a nice amount of money this way. Plus, it's good experience...
Insure Your Work
Ask your local Insurance Companies for quotes for Art Insurance that covers your art against theft and damage while in your possession, on display, and in transit. Be sure to ask more than one as the quotes you'll get will vary quite a bit. This is Why...
Become Tech-Savy
Do you really want to be one of those artists that lacks the skills? I didn't think so.
Reviews & Recommendations
These are tools that I have personal experience with and think are worthy of being recommended. Also, if you are wondering, I am an Affiliate of Blick Art Materials and Amazon because this is where I do the vast majority of my shopping for art supplies and books to help me with my art career.
I shall be writing reviews for each of these books and other items in the future and I'll update this page whenever I do with those links for easy reference.
This is the first place I go when I'm thinking about adding to my Fine Arts library. They generally have everything I look for and for a lot cheaper than the big chain bookstores we have locally. I am also a frequent buyer through their New & Used section.
There are a lot of books that deal specifically with the business side of the art world and I fully recommend those to artists. The Legal Guide for the Visual Artist by Crawford is, for the lack of a better word, illuminating. It helps identify common pitfalls and dangers that an artist absolutely needs to be aware of. Crawford's Business and Legal Forms for Fine Artists is also extremely handy as it puts more power and knowledge in the hands of the artist. It also comes with a CD where you can print the forms you need for whatever situation you find yourself in.
There are a few marketing books in my collection but if you only buy one then purchase How to Survive and Prosper as an Artist (without selling your soul) by Caroll Michels. Excellent information, good read, huge list of resources in the back that, frankly, just make your life a heck of a lot easier.
Blick Art Materials
I am a big fan of this company. I've been able to find the brand-name tools I needed for framing my own artwork professionally and at a HUGE discount compared to other online retailers and when I search the local stores downtown. The shipping isn't bad either. I buy a lot of colored pencils and not only do they have pretty much every color made but for under the list-price. And that makes me a very happy artist.
