Full-Time studio painter selling through galleries

Collectors, galleries (who take a commission on sales), corporate and hospitality clients, interior designers and people buying larger commissioned pieces.

Gallery sales (the gallery usually keeps a share), direct sales from studio open days and exhibitions, commission fees, and occasionally teaching or workshops alongside your painting.

• Developed, consistent artistic style
• Pitching to galleries and writing an artist statement
• Pricing and managing your own finances
• Building relationships with collectors and designers

• Gallery agreements: check commission rates, payment timing and who owns the customer relationship before signing
• Public liability insurance and cover for your artwork in storage or transit
• An ABN is needed, and GST registration is required once turnover reaches the threshold, so check with the ATO
• Studio leases: read the terms and check any council or zoning conditions for the premises
• Income can be slow and irregular, so plan for a cash buffer or a second income

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on studio rent and bond, materials, framing and how you promote your work. Read studio lease terms carefully and check any council or zoning conditions.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on gallery sales, commissions and fairs. Income can be slow and irregular, so plan for a cash buffer or a second income. This is an estimate, not a guarantee.

Check commission rates, payment timing and who owns the customer relationship before signing a gallery agreement. Also check public liability insurance, cover for artwork in storage or transit, and ABN and GST registration with the ATO.