The Broke Artist Myth: Why Your Art Isn’t the Problem, Your Money Mindset Is

For decades, there’s been this idea that being an artist means being broke. We hear it in phrases like “starving artist” or “creativity doesn’t pay the bills.” Furthermore, many artists in South Africa accept financial struggle as a normal part of the journey.


But what if I told you that your art isn’t the problem—your 'money mindset' is?

There are artists making real money from their craft, while others, just as talented, barely survive. The difference? Financial literacy, mindset, and strategy. If you don’t take control of your money, it will always control you.


In this article, we’ll break down why creatives struggle financially, how to shift your mindset, and practical ways to start building wealth as an artist in South Africa.


1. Why Financial Literacy Matters More Than Talent

South Africa is full of incredibly talented musicians, painters, dancers, filmmakers - you name it! But talent alone doesn’t guarantee success. My heart breaks to see veteran actress Nandi Nyembe now wheelchair bound and penny-less, struggling to afford her own healthcare after 53 years in the industry. Nonetheless, in the true spirit of Ubuntu, let's dig into our pockets and help out the living legend.

Support acting veteran Nandi Nyembe

If financial success was only about skill, some of the most gifted artists wouldn’t be struggling to pay their bills. The truth is, making money from your art requires understanding money itself.


Most creatives were never taught financial skills, so they make common mistakes like:


• Not tracking income and expenses.

• Not knowing how much to charge.

• Living gig to gig without financial planning.

• Not saving or investing in the long-term.


Talent is your foundation, but financial literacy is your blueprint. Without it, your career will always be unstable.



2. Breaking the Cycle – Managing Irregular Income & Avoiding Financial Stress

One of the biggest challenges for artists is inconsistent income. You might make R10,000 in one month and nothing the next. This cycle creates financial stress and makes it hard to plan for the future.


Here’s how to start managing your money smarter:


✅ Create a “Salary” for Yourself

• Instead of spending everything when money comes in, pay yourself a set amount each month.

• Example: If you make R30,000 over three months, divide it into R10,000 per month.


✅ Separate Personal & Business Finances

• Open a business account for your music or creative work.

• Pay business expenses from this account, so you know exactly what you’re making and spending.


✅ Save for Dry Months

• Set aside 20-30% of every payment for emergencies or low-income months.

• Use envelope budgeting—separate your money for rent, food, and business costs.


✅ Invest in Income Streams That Pay You Regularly

• Streaming platforms, merch sales, sync licensing, online courses.

• Build passive income so you’re not only relying on gigs or one-time payments.



Lesson: You might not need to make more money— maybe you need to manage what you have better.

"Smart creatives diversify their income. Instead of making money from just one thing, they create multiple revenue streams."

3. How Successful Creatives Build Multiple Income Streams


Relying on only one source of income as an artist is risky. What happens if gigs dry up? If clients stop calling?


Smart creatives diversify their income. Instead of making money from just one thing, they create multiple revenue streams.


Here are some income ideas South African creatives are using right now:


💰 Performances & Events – Charge for live shows, corporate gigs, and private events.


💰 Merchandising – Sell branded T-shirts, caps, or digital products like beat packs.


💰 Streaming & Digital Sales – Platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube (monetization).


💰 Teaching & Coaching – Offer music lessons, workshops, or online courses.


💰 Sync Licensing – Get your music placed in films, TV ads, or video games.


💰 Crowdfunding & Patreon – Build a community that pays to support your work.


The key is to stop depending on one thing and start making your creativity work for you in different ways.



Conclusion: Take Control of Your Finances & Thrive


The broke artist myth is just that—a myth.

The real issue isn’t lack of talent, but lack of financial strategy. By changing your mindset, managing your income, and building multiple revenue streams, you can create a profitable and sustainable creative career.


👉🏽 What’s the first step? Start by tracking your income and expenses this month. You can’t fix what you don’t measure.



At Gertrude & Ko, I help artists and creatives take control of their finances, grow their brands, and build real wealth from their talents. If you’re ready to stop struggling and start thriving, book your FREE consultation with me and I'll be more than happy to tailor a plan to help you achieve control of your finances! Simply click here.

💬 Question: What’s the biggest financial challenge you face as a creative? Drop your thoughts in the comments!


Until next time!

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+27 (63) 880-3096

andile@gertrudeko.co.za