How to support the artists?

Whether we realize it or not, we’re surrounded by art and artists. Too often, the art is celebrated, but the artist is overlooked. We only see the finished artwork without thinking about the hours, effort, and struggles that went into creating it.

Behind every piece you admire, whether it’s in a gallery, online, or on your social media, a person is working through countless challenges. Rising costs of supplies, studio rent, exhibition fees, finding clients… and then, of course, everyday bills.

For many artists, these pressures become so overwhelming that they’re forced to step away from art because survival comes first.

Now, you might be thinking: But isn’t supporting artists expensive?

Here’s the truth: support doesn’t always mean buying a painting or making a big financial investment. Even small actions (online or offline) can make a huge difference in helping an artist sustain their career and keep creating.

Yes, you can support artists on an individual level. And trust us, those little acts of support matter more than you think.

1. Show Your Support Online

   
   

In today’s digital age, visibility matters. A simple like, share, or comment helps artists reach more people and build a supportive community. 

If you love a piece, don’t just scroll past!  You can like, share and recommend in your circle. Tell them how their work makes you feel. Sharing words of encouragement through comments and messages is powerful.

Every share increases their visibility, helping their art reach new eyes and hearts. Artists pour hours into their work; knowing that someone noticed and appreciated it can truly make their day.

2. Buy Their Work

   
   

One of the best ways to support an artist is to buy their work. Art isn’t just something pretty to hang on the wall; it carries a story, an artist’s journey, and even becomes part of your own collection. This will help the artist continue creating. 

If your budget allows, you can also commission an artwork. A commission is something made just for you, one-of-a-kind, and it provides artists with income and recognition. It’s a win-win: you get something unique, and they feel valued for their craft.

3. Become a Supporter or Patron

   
   

Becoming a regular supporter or patron goes beyond single purchases and takes your impact to another level. Through Artlune, you’ll be helping artists with something they often struggle with: stability. Instead of worrying about the next sale or bills, they can focus on creating.

So, how does it work?

• Supporters: They show ongoing support in small ways, like joining Artlune’s Support Program. Even a small monthly contribution can help with supplies or studio costs.

  
  

• Patrons: They commit to artists in long term, either financially or by consistently investing in their work. With Artlune’s Patron Membership, you can commit to supporting artists.

4. Support & don’t Ask for Free Art

   
   

It may feel like a small request, but asking an artist for free work is unpaid labor and devalues an artist’s efforts. Every artwork takes time, skill, and resources, things that cost real money. When you ask for free art, it devalues their effort and makes them feel their work isn’t worth much.

If you truly love what an artist does, the best way to show it is by supporting them, not by asking them to work for free. 

5.  Don’t Offer “Exposure” as Payment

   
   

“Exposure” doesn’t pay the rent or restock paintbrushes. While visibility is nice, it should never replace fair compensation. You’ve probably heard people say, “I can’t pay you, but it’ll be great exposure!” But the exposure doesn’t cover rent or buying paint.

Artists deserve to be compensated just like anyone else for their hard work. So if you want to support them, respect their craft the same way you would any other profession.

Join Artlune Circle and support artists

Artlune Circle is a community where collectors, art lovers, and patrons support the artists. By joining, you’re helping artists stay in their studios, continue their practice, and share their stories with the world. It places value in art not only as an investment but as a living narrative that shapes culture and connects us all.

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Artlune is more than a gallery; it's a movement to showcase the voices of emerging and mid-career artists from South Asia.

For more information, contact us at admin@artlune.com or call +91 9899187125 (India), +44 743 693 3096 (UK)