5 BEST BUSINESS BOOKS FOR CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURS

When I started my art business, there was little formal guidance for artists. Like many small businesses, I figured things out as I went along. But whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your creative business, you can always continue to learn. I read a lot of business books and have a reference library that I have collected over the years. But I still have much more to learn.

My ‘must-read’ list of creative business books:

Show Your Work. 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon. This book helped me to remember the importance of my process, rather than focusing so much on my results. It taught me to document my work and be more comfortable sharing it with others.

Art Money Success. Finally Making a Living Doing What You Love by Maria Brophy. I heard Maria speak at an art business conference several years ago. I was instantly impressed by her business advice, spirituality, and down-to-earth personality. Her book helped me find clarity in my artist’s voice and direction for my business. She also provides practical guidance on pricing your art, connecting with buyers, and marketing your art.

I’d Rather Be in The Studio. The Artist’s No-Excuse Guide to Self-Promotion by Alyson B. Stanfield. I’ve taken a couple of online classes from Alyson, and she is smart, kind, and supportive. But her experience as an art marketing consultant shines in this terrific resource for anyone with a creative business. She also provides guidelines for writing an artist statement and bio.

My Morning Routine. How Successful People Start Every Day Inspired by Benjamin Spall and Michael Xander. I tend to fight routine. Yet, I need it. I want to be ‘free like the wind’ and let my day evolve. But the fact is, I’m both more productive and happier when I have certain rituals in my life. Regular routines also help sustain my art business. My Morning Routine consists of a series of interviews with people who share their routines, and it helped me think about what works best for me.

Art Inc. The Essential Guide for Building Your Career as an Artist by Lisa Congdon. I’m a big fan of Lisa Congdon. She has a wildly successful career as an artist, but she didn’t pick up a paintbrush until her early thirties. Now she is a full-time professional artist. I wish this book had been available when I started my creative business. It’s a practical guide to different avenues for making a career with your art. She includes many organizational tips and detailed information about running a creative business.