Building an art career without galleries | A conversation with artist Mel Mitchell Jackson

In this video, I sit down with fellow full-time artist, Mel Mitchell Jackson, to discuss their unique career path outside the traditional gallery and MFA routes. We dive into their art journey, from early inspiration and family influences to attending art school and developing their career afterward. Mel shares what their business as an independent artist looks like today, offering valuable insight into alternative ways to succeed in the art world. We also talk about their biggest recent business win, challenges they’re currently facing, and their thoughts on navigating life as a full-time artist outside of the gallery system. For artists looking to build a career outside of the traditional gallery system, Mel provides thoughtful advice and key takeaways that can help shape your decision. More about Mel: Website: https://melmitchelljackson.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOOM8YsisiGNjJKSf-I1fMA Retreats: https://melmitchelljackson.com/book-a-retreat Learn portrait painting from me! https://www.christinakentart.com/portraitpaintinglesson Support my work on Patreon ❤️ https://www.patreon.com/christinakentart * Links * My website: https://www.christinakentart.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinakentart Shop: https://www.christinakentart.com/shop Newsletter: https://www.christinakentart.com/newsletter Meet me and see my art in person! (Bay Area, California): https://www.christinakentart.com/exhibitions * Tips for beginner artists * How I learned to paint: https://youtu.be/ubstmKOs-Xw My palette: https://youtu.be/qoeAa0eAQR4 My brushes: https://youtu.be/vPxnLToMV5k Home art studio setup: https://youtu.be/526QNa2LKuk Learning composition: https://youtu.be/al_o5kZE8zY Basic color mixing: https://youtu.be/N0hrRE1Ltrw Plein air painting kit: https://youtu.be/GHins7UNI94 * My art career path * How I started growing my instagram: https://youtu.be/NjvSPAnc4oU How I started selling my work: https://youtu.be/iB5twDhCXdc How I started showing my work: https://youtu.be/S_C0Jc7RlpM How I started working with galleries: https://youtu.be/2sA1ZT8YoEY How I became a full-time artist: https://youtu.be/ZTTcBISiIxo