Networking for Artists: A Real-World Guide
1. Start With the Right Mindset
🔹 It’s About Relationships, Not Transactions
Networking isn’t about collecting contacts or chasing gigs — it’s about connecting with people.
Be curious. Ask questions. Celebrate others' wins. Share their work, not just yours.
“Should I connect with art directors or other artists?”
Honestly? Early on, don’t sweat the titles. That junior artist today might refer you to a dream job later.
Treat everyone with the same respect — that’s how real relationships grow.
🔹 Be a Good Human First
People don’t just remember your work — they remember how you made them feel.
Be kind. Stay humble. Uplift others. That energy is magnetic — and it shows what kind of collaborator you’ll be.
Image by Brushsauce student Ryan Tsui 2025
2. Build Creative Friendships That Last
🔹 Start With Shared Interests
Genres, games, hobbies, favorite artists — small talk leads to big bonds.
🔹 Go Deeper With Shared Values
Friendships thrive around:
Common goals (publishing a comic, landing a job)
Growth mindsets
Creative philosophies (freedom, consistency, passion)
Find people aligned with your direction, not just your tastes.
🔹 Collaborate Often
The strongest bonds are built while creating:
Join weekly drawing sessions
Share a digital or physical studio space
Start a casual critique group
The best conversations happen between the work.
Image by Aija Baumane brush sauce group mentorship 2025
3. Take Action With Intention
🔹 Be Proactive
Don’t wait for opportunities — create them.
Invite people to draw. Start a group project. DM someone just to connect.
“So what’s the best way to get hired?”
There’s no magic formula. Most jobs come through odd, unpredictable channels — a friend’s post, a random intro.
Traditional applications? Hit or miss.
What does work: showing up, staying visible, and being part of the community.
But none of that matters if your skills aren’t ready. So keep showing up — and keep leveling up.
🔹 Plan Ahead for Events
Don’t go in blind.
Research who’s going
Set goals: who you want to meet, what to say
Practice how you’ll introduce yourself
“Proper planning prevents poor performance.”
🔹 Put Yourself in the Right Places
You can’t control timing, but you can control where you show up.
Discords
Local art meetups
Online workshops
Industry events
“Can I build a strong network just online?”
Yes — but it’s tougher. Face-to-face makes trust easier and faster.
If in-person isn’t an option, double down on consistency and outreach. It’s possible — just takes more patience and clarity.
4. Stay Consistent Over Time
🔹 Follow Up and Stay Visible
Even if no one seems to notice — keep showing your work. Keep commenting. Keep supporting others.
That quiet persistence builds reputation.
🔹 Understand the Long Game
Some people won’t respond. Some connections take months to grow. That’s normal.
If someone ghosts your message? Don’t take it personally. Follow up once, then move on.
Your energy is better spent on doing and growing — not on chasing replies.
Image by Brushsauce student Irina Grabarnik 2025
5. Practice Self-Awareness
🔹 Don’t Isolate Yourself
Wearing headphones 24/7 or avoiding conversations might seem chill — but it cuts you off from:
Group learning
Community momentum
Project updates
❌ Isolation in school = invisibility in the industry.
🔹 Self-Evaluate Your Energy
Ask yourself:
Do I give support, or just take it?
Am I kind and reliable, or draining and inconsistent?
Would I want to collaborate with me?
“How do I know if my skill level is ready?”
Compare your work honestly with mid-level pros — not beginners, not legends.
If it’s not there yet, no shame — just spot the gaps (lighting? design? polish?) and use that as your improvement map.
Use comparison to get clarity, not self-doubt. You're aiming for alignment, not perfection.
6. Show Up Like a Friend, Not Just an Artist
🔹 Be Someone Worth Working With
Congratulate others’ wins
Leave thoughtful feedback
Offer help when you can
Follow through on your promises
People don’t just hire skills — they hire people they trust.
🔹 Carry Yourself With Standards
Confidence + Kindness + Clarity = Professionalism
Even tiny interactions — a comment, a thank-you, a share — shape how people perceive you.