Not really a fan of New Year’s resolutions? Tell us about it. However, setting even the smallest goal may actually help you slip through the upcoming year. Be it opening your online store, learning one new technique, or trying a new tool. Focusing on that one thing you want to achieve will put you in a good mood, help you organize your work better, and make you believe in yourself more than ever.
1. Set up your (home) studio
Working from home gave us tough times last year. Consider changing your everyday life by finding a space devoted only to work and focus. Even a small room corner by the window may turn out to be a great mini-size studio. Keep it clean and organized, invest in good headphones and voila, you’ve got yourself a comfortable workspace.
2. Decorate your room with your own art
If you feel like you need a change in your personal space, try redecorating it with your own art. Give your style and soul to it and don’t be embarrassed to admire your own work. A breathtaking canvas will be a cherry on top for a perfect studio, so just print your designs on metal and enjoy them forever.
Check how to print your own art on Displates for less
3. Try a new art style
It’s time to take a step out of your comfort zone. Do you passionately paint nature and views? Try to draw a cat in a suit, and give your work a completely new direction. Don’t be afraid of a change – explore, experiment, and have fun. What the heck, even go crazy!
4. Try new art tools
Along with a new style, go for some new art tools. If you’re a traditional artist, try creating digital art for some time. Buy a monthly Photoshop subscription and learn how to draw on the screen.
5. Start reading art blogs
Being an artist requires development. If you haven’t been doing it yet, you need to start reading art blogs now. They’re accessible, mostly well-written, and filled with tips and inspiration you can’t do without as a creator. Plan to read at least 1 article a day, and you’ll see how fast it will become your habit. You can even start at this very moment, by visiting Displate Blog for some fresh design trends, interviews, and tips: displate.com/blog
6. Start selling your art online
If you still haven’t had the courage to start selling your art, now is the time. 2025 gives you tons of possibilities to open your own online shop. However, if you are new to this, try art marketplaces first. Platforms like Displate will provide you with end-to-end service and give you a hand in every boring and hard stuff. Selling art online has never been easier, so why not turn it into a New Year’s plan.
Open your shop on Displate now
7. Create a new collection of designs
Let’s say that you’re already a proud owner of an online portfolio. You may even run your e-shop filled with artworks you thoughtfully created through the months or years. Awesome. Now add a brand new collection to your offer and make your customers both happy and surprised. But before you do, research every possible niche or design trend on the Internet. Make use of trending tools available online, check what’s popular on marketplaces for artists and give people what they want!
8. Take care of your social media presence
Oh, so you’re not a social media type? Believe us, you are. Even if you have 20 followers, half of whom are your friends and family, you’re already out there. Make 2025 a year when everyone will notice you. As ridiculous as it sounds, an active social media presence can actually make you more popular than you think. So here’s the plan:
1. Post regularly with every new piece you create and use your creative process as a bait to gain people’s attention
2. Introduce yourself, this year will be more about being a real person than it was before
3. Encourage people to buy your stuff – put links to your online shops and even make use of affiliate links like Displate’s Share and earn ones. They will take your earnings to the next level.
4. Make contacts with other artists and chat with your fans. Let them know that you’re interested in their opinion and react to their questions and doubts.
9. Film your creative process and make your own tutorials
Making videos of your own creative process may be a great way to improve not only your skills but also others. If you’re an experienced illustrator, you could make a great teacher. Start sharing time-lapses and short tutorials on social media. You may soon notice that beginning artists use them to learn and inspire themselves.
10. Don’t be afraid to have a rest
Taking a break when you need one is an essential part of keeping a healthy lifestyle. So, if you ever feel tired, lost, or demotivated, just put everything aside. Take a long nap, go play with your dog, or leave for a few days. This will help you find your inner peace, clear your head, and feel inspired again.
11. Setting Goals for a Creative Year
As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time for artists to set goals that will help them grow and improve their craft. Setting goals can keep you focused, motivated, and inspired throughout the year. The key is to make your goals SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This approach will give you a clear roadmap for your creative journey.
Imagine setting a goal to create a new art piece every month. Not only will this keep you consistently producing more art, but it will also push you to explore new ideas and techniques. Or perhaps you want to learn a new medium within the next six months—think of the excitement and growth that comes with mastering something new. Sharing your art on social media at least once a week can help you build a following and get feedback from like-minded people. Setting up a dedicated art studio or workspace within the next three months can provide you with a sanctuary for your creativity. And don’t forget about taking online classes or workshops to hone your skills throughout the year.
By setting SMART goals, you’ll ensure that you’re making steady progress towards your creative aspirations and staying on track to achieve your desired outcomes.
12. Improving Your Craft
Improving your craft is a lifelong journey for any artist. It means continuously learning, experimenting, and pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. One of the best ways to enhance your skills is to learn from others. Attend workshops, classes, and gallery shows to gain new perspectives and techniques. Stay inspired by looking at the work of other artists, reading books, and exploring new ideas.
Experimenting with new mediums and techniques can open up a world of possibilities. Whether it’s trying your hand at digital art or exploring the textures of oil paints, each new medium can lead to unique and innovative art pieces. Regular practice is also crucial. Set aside time each day to create, and you’ll see your skills and confidence grow.
Here are some tips to help you improve your craft:
- Dedicate time each day to practice and create
- Experiment with new mediums and techniques
- Learn from others through workshops, classes, and gallery shows
- Stay inspired by looking at the work of other artists and exploring new ideas
- Push yourself outside of your comfort zone and take risks
By following these tips, you’ll continuously improve your craft and stay on track to achieving your creative aspirations.
13. Learning and Development
As an artist, learning and development are essential to your growth. Continuously acquiring new skills, techniques, and mediums, as well as staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies, will keep your work fresh and exciting. One effective way to learn and develop is by taking online classes or workshops. These provide access to a wide range of courses and instructors, all from the comfort of your own home.
Attending gallery shows and exhibitions is another fantastic way to stay inspired and exposed to new ideas. Seeing the work of other artists can spark your creativity and introduce you to new techniques. Reading books and articles related to art and creativity can also provide valuable insights and information to help you improve your craft.
Here are some tips for continuous learning and development:
- Take online classes or workshops to learn new skills and techniques
- Attend gallery shows and exhibitions to stay inspired and exposed to new ideas
- Read books and articles related to art and creativity
- Experiment with new mediums and techniques
- Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies
By following these tips, you’ll ensure that you’re always learning and developing your skills, keeping your art vibrant and innovative.
14. Sharing Your Art with the World
Sharing your art with the world is a vital part of being an artist. It means showcasing your work to others, whether through social media, gallery shows, or exhibitions. Building a strong online presence is a great way to start. Create a website or social media profile, and regularly post updates and images of your work. This not only helps you reach a wider audience but also allows you to connect with like-minded people.
Attending gallery shows and exhibitions can provide exposure to new audiences and help you build your reputation as an artist. Networking with other artists and like-minded people can open up opportunities for collaboration, feedback, and support.
Here are some tips for sharing your art with the world:
- Create a strong online presence through a website or social media profile
- Attend gallery shows and exhibitions to showcase your work
- Network with other artists and like-minded people
- Share your work with others through social media and online platforms
- Build a community of supporters and fans
By following these tips, you’ll be able to share your art with the world and build a reputation as a creative and talented artist.
