Artists can become household names at any period during their career.
Becoming an artist over 40 who reaches household name notoriety is a long road that requires certain steps, skill and time invested in this goal. Many artists over 40 have left a legacy, including Renaissance painters Leonardo da Vinci (died at 67) and Michelangelo (died at 88). Both artists worked well into their adulthood to become recognized names. Given technological advances, many networking and portfolio sharing opportunities are available for aspiring adult artists through the Internet.
Instructions
1. Local libraries have art books that help teach or build on skills within each medium.
Study your medium of choice and refine your skills. Artistic experience can begin at 40 or culminate over years of study. Decide what medium you are best skilled at, whether painting, drawing, sculpture or another medium. Read books related to the process of creating art in your medium and start sketching your ideas onto paper. Online courses, college studies and programs through local museums with art instructors can help refine your abilities and give you new tools for becoming an eventual household name.
2. A portfolio is a portable bag used to transport your artwork or photographs.
Put together a portfolio. Once you have accumulated a significant amount of work, take photos of your work (if sculpture) or include original designs in a tangible portfolio. This portfolio will serve as representation of your talent for meetings with art curators, museums and galleries for hopeful installation of your art. Use social networking sites and blogs to share your art with friends, family and acquaintances. Ask close family members (such as children, brothers and sisters) to post pictures of your work on their websites to further increase your exposure.
3. Art museums often pay artists to borrow or buy their artwork.
Meet with art galleries and museums. Set up appointments to show your portfolio to local galleries and art museums. Consider providing a one-page biography with your portfolio to explain your position as an artist over 40 who desires worldwide recognition. If your work meets their standards, you will be given space within their facilities to showcase your work and meet with the general public during presentations.
4. Artists over 40 who achieve worldwide status become household names.
Build your resume and detail all acclaims received through art showings. After presenting your work at galleries and museums, add all acclaims to your resume such as "best new artist" or "top artist over 40." If you present your work in juried art shows and win prizes, include that on your resume. Through building a quality portfolio and resume, you will receive household name status as an artist in your hometown, state, country, or possibly the world.
