Side Jobs for Artists to Support the Arts Community (#WeMakeEvents #RedAlert)
In these challenging times, many artists and creative workers have been coming up with fantastic ways to make extra money on the side, or ‘side hustles’ as they are commonly called. Are you an artist looking for inspiration for your own side hustle? Or maybe you’re just an arts lover wanting to support this community? Here are some creative businesses started by artists and creatives that could provide the inspiration you need.
It’s probably not news to you that the events industry has been hit particularly hard, with 62% of workers currently unemployed. Many of these highly skilled individuals have had to take up temporary jobs in retail or customer service to make ends meet. According to statistics, 94% of arts workers have suffered a loss of income, averaging around $23,500.
The arts and events industry stands to lose around 1.4 million jobs and $42.5 billion in sales due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to an estimate by the Brookings Institute. You may have noticed the #wemakeevents or #RedAlert hashtags on social media alongside photos of red-lit buildings. These campaigns began in the UK and have been adopted in the US too. They aim to highlight the plight of the events industry and seek public support.
But there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Some theaters have started to reopen and other countries are faring better, breathing life back into the touring circuit. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that by next year this crisis would be behind us. Below are some ways you can support artists during this difficult period:
1. **One Million Cards:** Through her photography, my friend Juliana is on a mission to create one million unique greeting cards. It’s great if you’ve been getting into letter-writing recently and you can support Juliana on her website.
2. **Scenery Bags:** This company recycles curtains and other materials from various performances to make bags and jewelry. Purchasing one of these items helps to fund theatre experiences for children through their partnership with TDF.
3. **Adane Art:** A performer I worked with a few years ago that crafts homemade cards, jewelry, and more. A great option for unique holiday cards.
4. **Management Experience:** An Etsy shop with plenty of theater-themed stickers. Perfect for the stage manager in your life.
5. **Backroom Finds:** A vintage sewing pattern and clothing site run by a stage manager. Ideal for those who’ve developed a sewing habit during the quarantine.
6. **SZMCcraftworks:** An Etsy store run by a designer duo selling masks, stickers, earrings, and charms, many of which are theatre-themed.
7. **Lesbian Earrings by Liv:** A versatile line of jewelry made from recycled sources for everyone.
8. **The Bundle Game:** A personalized gaming experience created by an actress and her sister. A unique (although a bit costly) gift option.
9. **Dirty Deeds Soap:** A soap business run by an artistic director, featuring a wide range of shaving and grooming supplies, ideal for holiday gift ideas.
10. **The Punny Pachyderm:** A shop selling specially made masks and totes. Check out their cool designs.
11. **Onesie Industries:** A company selling creative onesies for adults, a unique gift alternative for companies. Note that they are expensive.
If you work in the arts and have a side hustle, do invite people to support you! Spread the word and share this with others who may be interested. Let’s all work together to support the arts during this trying time.