Crowdfunding Essentials Every Artist Should Know

If you’ve ever wondered how artists can successfully fundraise online, this guide will walk you through simple, proven steps to make your creative project a reality.

Let’s talk about a side of crowdfunding that rarely gets the spotlight—how it can empower artists to raise the funds they need for their creative projects, whether that’s a new exhibition, a book, or a community art initiative.

The core principles are the same, whether raising funds for a nonprofit or a creative project. Over my years of experience raising over $100K for humanitarian causes, I’ve found that successful crowdfunding boils down to an approach I like to call “inside-out thinking.”

making stained glass -How Artists Can Successfully Fundraise Online

Taking a break in July from my move to Italy from Malawi- Making stained glass in the USA

Here’s what that means: if you really believe in your project, it’s about being all in—engaging your inner circle first, moving outward gradually, and sustaining momentum even when the initial excitement has passed. Here’s how you, as an artist, can apply the same principles to secure funding for your passion projects.

Step 1: Start With Yourself

Yes, the first donation should come from you. Why? It’s about showing your commitment. Your backers want to feel that you genuinely believe in your project. Even a modest contribution—$5, $10, or more—shows visitors that you’re invested and already making strides. No one wants to be the “first” to donate to a project sitting at $0, so by contributing yourself, you give others that critical nudge.

Pro Tip: If you’re able, make additional small donations periodically, even anonymously. This helps keep momentum going when the campaign lags.

Step 2: Your Inner Circle of Friends and Family

In the first days of your campaign, reach out individually to close family and friends. A personalized email or message, ideally with their name, is essential. Let them know how much even a small contribution would mean to you. Avoid sending one mass message! People are far more likely to respond if you ask them individually.

Why This Matters: When friends and family support you early on, you build social proof. This effect will help attract new donors as it shows people that others believe in your project.

crowdfunding successfully using Kickstarter

My artist friend Justin P. Moore regularly runs successful Kickstarter campaigns to create new editions of his popular vegan cookbooks, “The Lotus and the Artichoke” series

Step 3: Acquaintances and Wider Networks

Once your inner circle has given some initial support, start branching out. Social media is a great tool here—post updates, share snippets about your project’s progress, and ask for small contributions or shares. This stage is all about visibility and connecting with those who know you but may not be part of your close circle.

Tip for Artists: When you post about your campaign, add compelling visuals of your work. Crowdfunding for art is a visual journey; potential backers need to feel your passion and see your artistic vision.

Step 4: Strangers and the Public at Large

Now that your project has gained traction, it’s time to reach the broader audience. Try reaching out to online communities, relevant art groups, and potential press contacts. Here, the key is to show how your art makes an impact, whether through storytelling or visuals. Consider sharing your story in online art groups or with local press, highlighting what makes your project unique and why it deserves support.

crowdfunding success for artists and idealists

Here’s a GoFundMe screenshot of my recent successful crowdfunding campaign to help a feeding center in Lilongwe, Malawi. Those are my sons helping out in the photos.

Step 5: Rinse and Repeat

Momentum tends to slow down mid-campaign, so this is the perfect time to reinvigorate interest. Post updates, share new visuals or even mini-goals (like raising an extra $200 to purchase supplies), and continue engaging with your audience.

Bonus Tips:

  • Create Small Wins: Set mini-goals that make it easy for people to feel that they’ve contributed to something tangible. For example, if $50 buys materials for one painting, let people know!
  • Use Rewards: Thank backers with small perks like digital prints, exclusive updates, or an acknowledgment on social media. Even the smallest token of appreciation can go a long way.

Perks and artistic rewards from Justin P. Moore's recent Kickstarter project

Perks and artistic rewards from Justin P. Moore’s recent Kickstarter project

The process may look simple, but successful crowdfunding for your art project requires dedication and determination. Each step pushes you outside your comfort zone but leads you closer to creating something that will bring your vision to life. So start with yourself, tap into your community, and stay consistent. With these steps, your art project can become more than just a dream—it can be a shared journey with your supporters.

P.S. Need extra help with your crowdfunding journey? Whether you’re looking to refine your campaign, boost your social media presence, design a compelling website, or map out a full project plan, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Visit the Artists and Idealists Growth Studio to learn how we can work together to make your creative vision a reality. Let’s turn your artistic passion into a fully-funded success!

Kristen Palana