Artists on Patreon are finding new ways to share their art with fans while building communities that support their work. Whether you're an artist looking to start a Patreon or want ideas for making your content stand out, here are some of the most popular types of content artists offer. From online classes to behind-the-scenes insights, these ideas are tried-and-true methods for connecting with fans and gaining new subscribers.
Art Classes and Tutorials
Many artists on Patreon share art classes and tutorials that help their subscribers learn new skills. Artists can provide extra value by offering step-by-step videos, live drawing sessions, or downloadable guides. This content is viral because fans often want to learn their favorite artists' techniques.
For example, an artist like Loish (Lois van Baarle), a digital artist with a large following on Patreon, offers her supporters exclusive tutorials that break down her coloring and design methods. These tutorials are available only to specific membership tiers, giving fans a reason to join higher levels of her Patreon.
Digital Wallpapers and Prints
Digital wallpapers and printable art are perfect for subscribers who want unique artwork on their devices or as part of their home decor. Digital downloads are accessible for artists to create and share on Patreon and provide a fun way for fans to feel like they "own" a piece of their work.
Artist Sophie McPike offers her patrons exclusive monthly digital wallpapers featuring her unique, dreamy landscapes. Her fans look forward to each new release because they get fresh artwork to display monthly on their devices. This content type also works well because fans can show their support by having the artist work on their phones, tablets, or computers, spreading the artist's style to even more potential fans.
Exclusive Comics and Illustrated Stories
Artists who create comics or illustrated stories find Patreon a great platform to share exclusive content with fans. Many creators use Patreon to release episodes or updates to their comics that are only available to subscribers, giving fans a reason to keep returning for more. This works exceptionally well for storytelling artists who want to share their creative universe with a smaller, more dedicated audience.
One example is Sarah Andersen, the artist behind Sarah's Scribbles. She releases early access to her comics and additional sketches for her subscribers. This is popular because her fans are eager to see her work before it's publicly available. Additionally, Sarah sometimes shares "secret comics" with her Patreon supporters, which they love because they feel like they're a part of an exclusive club.
Coaching or Mentorship Sessions
For artists who are also skilled teachers, offering personalized coaching sessions can be a fantastic way to connect deeply with their audience. These sessions can be anything from 1-on-1 art critiques to portfolio reviews or even coaching on growing a social media presence as an artist. Coaching or mentorship sessions can also be valuable for young or emerging artists who want specific feedback to improve their skills.
An artist like Gabriela Herstick, who guides spirituality through her art, offers special coaching sessions for her top Patreon tiers. Her followers appreciate getting personalized advice from her, making them feel like they have an exclusive connection to their favorite artist. While 1-on-1 coaching is time-intensive, it's also one of the best ways for an artist to build trust and connection with their supporters, making fans feel valued.
Early Access and Exclusive Content
Early access and exclusives are perfect for fans who want to be the first to see or own an artist's latest work. Many artists use Patreon to let subscribers get a sneak peek of upcoming pieces or collections before they're available to the public. This type of content is desirable because it feels unique and limited, giving fans a reason to support the artist.
For example, James White, a digital artist known for his vibrant retro-futuristic art, often shares early access to new projects with his Patreon subscribers. His supporters love this feature; they feel like they're getting an insider's look at his work. This is especially exciting for fans who like having exclusive content to show off to friends or on social media.
Making the Most of Patreon
Artists are using Patreon to make a living and, connect with their fans, and build supportive communities. From teaching fans new skills through tutorials to offering exclusive content that lets fans feel "in the know," artists can make their Patreon pages engaging in many ways. The key is understanding what fans want most and finding creative ways to provide it consistently. With some experimentation and regular posting, you can turn your Patreon into a place where fans feel valued and excited to support your journey. If you want to get started, contact us today at FibertArt. Our experts can guide you through the process.
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