AI tools have given rise to a new way of creating art and have captured the imagination of art creators and enthusiasts worldwide.
They’ve also opened exciting opportunities for them to monetize their AI-generated work.
In this post, we’ll show you how to create art with the help of AI and, most importantly, how to make money with AI art.
Whether you’re an aspiring AI artist looking to get started selling AI-generated art or an experienced one exploring new ways to showcase your talent, this guide is for you!
What’s AI art?
As you can probably figure, AI art refers to artwork created using artificial intelligence tools.
These tools leverage machine learning, deep neural networks, and other AI techniques to analyze, interpret, and generate visual content.
They can learn and replicate patterns, styles, and artistic features by processing a lot of data from existing art, photographs, and other visual elements.
How to generate art using AI
Most AI art tools require a pretty straightforward process:
- Choose an AI art generator: There are various top AI tools available, such as Jasper Art, Midjourney, Dall-E 2, and Canva, each with its unique features and capabilities. Find and pick one that aligns with your artistic vision and the formats you want.
- Select the template or style: You’ll then need to provide input data, which can be some instructions, an existing image, a sketch, or a dataset of images. You can also choose a specific style or theme you want the AI to replicate in your pieces.
- Adjust the settings to control the output: These might include colors, brush styles, texture, and other artistic elements. Try different combinations to achieve your desired outcomes.
- Generate and refine the artwork: After you’ve set the parameters and provided the inputs, the tool will generate the AI artwork based on your provided information.
- Review and edit the output: When it’s done, review the piece to ensure it matches your vision. You might need to make some adjustments or edits to improve it and add a personal touch.
By following this simple process, you can generate illustrations, AI images, abstract art, and more in a matter of seconds.
Now, let’s explore the top ways to monetize AI art!
How to make money with AI art
Way #1: Art Sales and NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens)
NFTs are unique digital tokens stored on the blockchain that provide proof of ownership for a specific digital asset, including artwork.
You can tokenize your pieces through platforms like Ethereum and list them for auction or sale on marketplaces like OpenSea, Rarible, or SuperRare. They act as decentralized marketplaces, allowing artists to showcase and sell their NFTs directly to collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide.
An exciting aspect of NFTs is being able to generate recurring income. Every time your NFT is resold in the secondary market, you can receive a percentage of the resale price, providing an ongoing revenue stream.
By leveraging art sales and NFTs, you can tap into a global network of collectors and enthusiasts, gain recognition, and make money selling AI-generated images.
Way #2: Digital Art Commissions
Digital art commissions consist in creating custom AI art, such as illustrations and designs, based on clients’ specifications.
They’re an excellent way to make money selling AI-generated art and connect with clients on a more intimate level, delivering artworks tailored to their preferences that possibly lead to long-term relationships.
To attract potential clients, build a strong portfolio that showcases only your best AI-generated art pieces. It should include examples of different styles, themes, and subject matters that display your versatility and expertise.
You can then promote your services through your website, social media channels, and art communities. By engaging with followers and sharing progress on ongoing jobs, you can build excitement and generate interest from potential clients.
Way #3: Print-on-Demand Merchandise
Another way to earn money from your art is by turning it into tangible products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and wall art.
Print-on-demand platforms like Printful and JetPrint integrate with e-commerce sites and allow you to upload your AI designs onto various products.
Once the design is uploaded, you can choose the product types you want to showcase your art and set their pricing. These platforms handle production and shipping, letting you focus solely on creating art.
You can then promote your merchandise through social media, art communities, and your own website or blog.
Way #4: Collaborations and Partnerships
Collaborations and partnerships allow you to create joint art projects, products, or marketing campaigns with other artists or organizations.
For instance, you may partner with a musician to create a fusion of AI-generated abstract art and ambient music.
Look for artists, brands, or organizations that align with your artistic style, values, and target audience.
When approaching them, highlight your expertise and the value you can bring. Showcase your portfolio of AI-generated artworks, artistic processes, and achievements.
Combining different artistic styles through joint art projects or series can result in innovative artworks that appeal to specific audiences and translate into more recognition and work.
Way #5: Art Licensing and Commercial Use
Another lucrative way to sell AI art is by allowing businesses to use AI-generated pieces from you for various commercial purposes, such as advertising, marketing, or product packaging.
To find clients, you can leverage online art marketplaces and platforms that specialize in licensing and commercial use. You can also attend art events and join online communities that can lead to potential work.
A good tip here is to identify industries or niches that align with your art style and content and tailor your portfolio and marketing efforts to them. That’ll make it easier to attract businesses in those niches and convey your skills and expertise to them.
Way #6: Art Galleries and Exhibitions
Art galleries and exhibitions allow you to showcase your artwork in physical or virtual spaces, giving it more visibility and exposure to a broader audience.
In addition, art collectors often attend these events to discover new and talented artists. That makes them incredible places to build relationships that may lead you to long-term success.
Start by assessing where you could display your work. Check the galleries’ past exhibitions and focus on those that match your style, themes, and formats.
If you’re taking your first steps into AI art, you may have to start with lesser-known venues that are more likely to take beginners. Still, those can provide excellent opportunities to generate your first sales, network, and pave the path for growth.
And as your reputation grows, you can get invited to higher-end exhibitions and may even consider organizing your own.
Way #7: Crowdfunding and Art Grants
Crowdfunding is a fundraising method that involves raising small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically through online platforms. That’s an excellent way to fund complex projects that demand more resources.
Artists can create campaigns on crowdfunding websites like Kickstarter or Indiegogo, where they set a funding goal and offer various rewards or incentives to backers in exchange for their financial support. Some reward examples include limited-edition prints, exclusive experiences, or personalized artworks.
If the campaign reaches or exceeds its funding goal within a specified time frame, the artist receives the pledged funds to create their digital artwork.
On the other hand, art grants are financial awards given by governments, foundations, or arts organizations to support artists’ projects.
Actively seek and apply for grants that align with your artistic goals and themes. Then, submit a compelling proposal paying attention to their application guidelines.
While competition can be fierce, persistence and ongoing portfolio improvement will increase your odds of getting them.
Additionally, forming relationships with art organizations and attending networking events can provide insights into potential grant opportunities and facilitate future collaborations.
Way #8: AI Art Courses and Tutorials
Once you’ve mastered AI art creation, you can teach AI art, allowing you to make money and help other aspiring artists at the same time.
You can create tutorials, step-by-step guides, and practical exercises covering various aspects, such as techniques to create AI-generated artwork, integration of AI into traditional artistic processes, and how to make money with AI art.
Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Skillshare allow you to host and sell courses. You can also use your own website and platforms to sell directly to students.
You can then promote your courses and attract mentees by leveraging social media platforms, email marketing, and collaborations with influencers or art communities.
Making money with AI-generated artwork – Final thoughts
There are many ways to make money selling AI art.
Each provides different opportunities and has its own set of challenges. And the best you can do to take your first steps into the AI art world is to pick one that feels right and stick with it for a while.
And as you gain experience and confidence, you may try other revenue sources.
By selling AI-generated art leveraging multiple strategies, you can diversify your income and eventually find ways that can make you more money and better align with your goals and preferences.
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