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If you’re an artist, you’ll know how unpredictable income can be. Some months are brilliant—sales fly in, your inbox is buzzing. Other months? Total silence. It’s unsettling, especially if you’re trying to make art your main source of income.

That’s why I want to share something that’s helped me (and many others) build a more consistent flow of income while staying creative: starting a membership.

My Path to a More Reliable Income

I never imagined I’d end up creating a membership site. Years ago, I was fresh out of uni, trying to figure out what I wanted from my creative life. I loved art but didn’t feel drawn to the traditional gallery route. I wasn’t painting every day—I’m not a “daily practice” kind of person. And that’s okay.

What I did love was connecting with artists. Talking about process. Visiting galleries. Building community. So, I leaned into that—and it became the foundation for something that would completely change my life.

What a Membership Site Can Look Like

Let’s break it down: a membership site is where people subscribe—usually monthly—to access something from you. This could be:

  • Access to tutorials or behind-the-scenes content
  • A supportive creative community
  • Monthly art deliveries or print subscriptions
  • Live workshops or planning sessions

It’s not one-size-fits-all. And that’s the beauty of it—you build something that fits you.

Why It Worked for Me

I created a virtual art studio nearly 10 years ago, at a time when I had two young children and needed something flexible. What started as a small idea blossomed into a thriving community—United Artspace.

Through this membership, I’ve:

  • Connected with incredible artists worldwide
  • Created a safe, inspiring space for artists to grow
  • Built an income stream that supports my life and allows me to take time off when needed

And I’ve done all of this in a way that aligns with who I am and how I want to live. It’s been one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done, both creatively and personally.

You Don’t Have to Teach (Unless You Want To)

When people hear “membership site,” they often think they have to become a teacher. But that’s not the case. Some artists offer:

  • Monthly demos (like my friend Bonnie who shares her drawing process)
  • Creative community spaces
  • Behind-the-scenes access
  • Regular print deliveries

Others, like my friend Sharon, run pop-up memberships—short-term, no-fuss groups with a clear start and end. She keeps it simple with a Facebook group, a few weekly videos, and manual payments through PayPal. No fancy tech.

Start Simple, Start Now

One of the biggest myths is that you need complex systems and tech to get started. You don’t. If you have an audience—even a small one—and a clear idea, you can begin.

Start by asking yourself:

  • What do I love doing?
  • How could I build something that brings people together around this?
  • What could I offer each month that feels natural to me?

Then build from there. Don’t overcomplicate it.

The Magic of Consistent Income

What’s changed my life the most is the predictability. Knowing that money is coming in each month—even during quiet spells or unexpected life moments—is priceless. Whether I’ve been unwell or simply needed rest, the membership has kept going. And that stability has been a game-changer.

Endless Possibilities

Your membership could be anything:

  • A space to sell exclusive work
  • A club for art collectors
  • A hub for creative challenges

If you align it with your personality and lifestyle, it won’t feel like extra work—it’ll feel like a natural extension of what you’re already doing.

If this idea has sparked something in you, I encourage you to explore it further. My mentor, Stu McLaren, offers an incredible (free) training that helped me get started nearly a decade ago. It only happens once a year, so if you’re curious, now’s a great time to check it out.

Building a membership site changed my life. It gave me freedom, purpose, and financial stability—all while staying connected to my creative self. And I know it could do the same for you.

Let me know if you have questions, and I’ll see you next time!

 

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Have a great week & take care,

Michelle xo