Canvas For Painting – Custom Size

For mural artists, the creative and financial unpredictability between projects can be frightening. Long gaps between commissioned work can cause stress, insecurity, and a sense of instability. However, there are ways that mural artists can cope with these periods by proactively managing their time, building connections, and exploring new opportunities. Here’s how many mural artists overcome the fear of long gaps between projects.

1. Diversifying Income Streams

In finance, there’s a good rule to never put all your eggs (investments) in one basket. The same goes for people in the art industry.

One of the most effective ways mural artists deal with project gaps is by diversifying their sources of income. In addition to murals, many artists offer workshops, sell prints, or take on smaller commissioned pieces.

For example, renowned muralist Shepard Fairey not only creates large-scale works but also sells limited edition prints and apparel through his Obey brand​.

Having multiple streams of income helps artists reduce reliance on mural commissions, providing financial stability even when projects slow down.

Platforms like Etsy or Society6 allow artists to sell their art to a broader audience, creating passive income that can cover gaps between larger commissions. This strategy not only keeps cash flow steady but also increases an artist’s reach and visibility.

2. Networking and Building Relationships

Mural artists often face long periods between large projects, and a crucial way to bridge that gap is by continuously networking. Building strong relationships with local businesses, community organizations, and fellow artists is key to keeping a steady pipeline of potential projects. Many muralists work closely with urban development projects or public art initiatives, which often lead to recurring collaborations.

In a study of public art programs in the U.S., many artists who developed long-term relationships with local government agencies found more consistent opportunities for mural work​. By maintaining a visible presence in their communities—whether by attending art events, volunteering, or showcasing their work—artists can stay on the radar for new projects.

3. Engaging in Personal Projects

Periods between commissions don’t have to be idle. Many mural artists use this time to create personal projects that expand their portfolio or explore new techniques. These projects can be turned into social media content, shared with followers, and used as self-promotion to attract future clients. By staying creatively active, artists remain visible to their audience and continue developing their artistic style.

Personal projects can also serve as pitches for potential clients. For example, an artist may use this downtime to create mock-ups of murals for businesses or public spaces, giving prospective clients a visual idea of what the artist can bring to their space. This proactive approach can often lead to unexpected opportunities.

4. Using Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for mural artists looking to fill gaps between projects. Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok allow artists to share their work and connect with a global audience. By frequently posting past projects, behind-the-scenes content, and process videos, artists stay relevant and build a loyal following.

According to the 2021 Hiscox Online Art Trade Report, social media has become one of the top ways artists connect with buyers and clients . Muralists who maintain a strong online presence can leverage this to gain new commissions and collaborations.

Read our tips on how to find collaborative opportunities here.

5. Learning New Skills

When project gaps occur, mural artists often use the time to enhance their skills. This may include learning new painting techniques, exploring different mediums, or even taking classes in business management or marketing. Continuous learning ensures that artists are not only improving their craft but also preparing for future opportunities that may require new skill sets.

Additionally, many muralists take this time to experiment with digital art tools like Procreate or Adobe Illustrator, which can open up new opportunities in design, illustration, and branding.

By diversifying their income, building strong relationships, and staying active creatively, mural artists can turn the fear of long gaps between projects into an opportunity for growth and exploration. These strategies ensure both financial security and continued creative development, making those quiet periods between commissions more productive and fulfilling.