As a visual artist, one of the questions I’m frequently asked is, “Do you have a day job?” While often framed as casual curiosity, the underlying assumptions behind this question can be disheartening. The question subtly implies that art alone isn’t enough — that an artist couldn’t possibly make a living from their craft. It suggests a disconnect between the creative work we produce and the idea that it has real, tangible value in society.
Why do people feel so comfortable asking this question? What drives the assumption that artists can’t make a sustainable income from their work? It often comes from societal perceptions that art is not a “real” career, or that it’s more of a hobby than a legitimate profession. These assumptions not only undervalue the labor, skill, and time that artists invest in their work, but they also perpetuate a narrative that creative careers are unsustainable.
The Hidden Insult in the Question
For an artist, being asked if they have a day job can feel like a judgment — whether intended or not. It can carry the insinuation that our art isn’t good enough, that no one would possibly buy it, or that success is somehow unattainable. In some cases, if someone doesn’t personally connect with or value our work, they might even project their lack of understanding onto the broader market: "If I don’t like it, no one else will."
If this were the case, wouldn’t it be better to keep such thoughts private? Artistic taste is subjective, and just because one person may not appreciate an artist’s work, it doesn’t mean there isn’t a thriving community of collectors and supporters who do. The question reveals more about societal biases than it does about the artist’s potential for success.
A Shift in Perception Is Needed
The idea that artists can’t make a living solely from their art is outdated and damaging. It’s based on an antiquated understanding of art as a luxury or a side pursuit rather than a legitimate career. While it’s true that the creative path can be financially unpredictable at times, the same can be said of entrepreneurship or freelance work in any field. And yet, those professions are rarely questioned in the same way.
The world we live in today is rich with opportunities for artists, including independent, to thrive. Platforms like Instagram, Etsy, and online marketplaces make it easier than ever to connect with audiences, sell art, and build sustainable careers. Creatives also have opportunities to teach, license their work, and write books about being creative entrepreneurs, all of which can supplement their income and build lasting careers. Artists contribute far more to society than simply producing "pretty things"— we create conversations, challenge perspectives, and add cultural value to the world. Our work is essential, not optional.
Having work in a gallery or a show isn’t the only marker of being a successful artist. The channels through which an artist shares their work may vary — whether it’s through social media, online stores, pop-ups, or community events — but that doesn’t make them any less of a “real” artist. Success in the art world is not limited to traditional galleries, and just because an artist is using alternative means to get their work out doesn’t mean their work holds less value. Artists taking control of their own visibility and using a variety of platforms are just as legitimate and should be viewed with the same respect as those represented in galleries.
Moving Toward Supportive Conversations
Instead of asking artists if they have a day job, consider questions that show genuine interest and support, such as, “When’s your next show?” or “Do you have a website where I can see more of your work?” You might ask, “Are you on social media so I can follow you?” or “Do you have a newsletter I can sign up for?” These are specific, supportive questions that encourage artists to share more about their work without implying it’s not a full-time, legitimate career.
Reframing the Conversation
Asking artists if they have a day job may seem harmless, but it reflects deeper issues about how society views creative careers. It’s time for a shift in perspective. Artists are professionals, and we deserve to be recognized for the value we bring — not questioned or dismissed. Instead of defaulting to assumptions about how an artist makes their living, let’s encourage genuine engagement. Ask how you can support their work, where you can see more of it, and how to stay connected.
The world is richer with art — let’s start treating it that way.
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