Support Is Everything (and It Doesn’t Have to Cost a Dime)

Shelbi Barnes

Being an artist isn’t just about making things — it’s about putting your heart out there and hoping it connects with someone. Every mosaic, every board, every piece I make carries a part of me. And sometimes, that’s both the best and hardest part.

When you’re newer to the art scene — still finding your people, still learning how to get noticed — support means everything. I’m not talking about money or fancy shout-outs. I mean real, simple support from your community, friends, and family.

Because when it’s there, it can change everything.
And when it’s not… well, it can sting more than you’d expect.

The Quiet Kind of Hurt

It’s not easy when you feel unseen. You spend late nights creating, loading up the car for shows, setting up your booth, pouring yourself into it — and then sometimes, barely anyone stops by. Or your friends scroll past your posts. Or the people closest to you don’t really get what you’re doing.

It’s not about needing constant praise. It’s about wanting to know that what you’re working so hard for actually matters. That someone out there is proud of you for even trying.

When that support isn’t there, it doesn’t just hurt your feelings — it chips away at your drive. Because art, especially handmade art, runs on heart. And heart needs encouragement.

What Support Really Looks Like

The good news? You don’t have to spend a dime to support an artist or small maker. Seriously.
Here are a few ways that make a huge difference:

  • Like or comment on their posts. Algorithms notice. But so do we.

  • Share their work — on your story, to a friend, or in a group. You never know who might fall in love with it.

  • Stop by their booth at a market, even if you’re not shopping. Sometimes just a “Hey, I saw your stuff online!” can make our whole day.

  • Talk about them. Tell your coworkers, your friends, your hairdresser. Word of mouth is still the best marketing there is.

  • Leave a review if you’ve bought from them before. It builds trust for the next customer.

  • Remind them they’re doing great. Sometimes a kind word is worth more than a sale.

Those little things? They keep small creators moving. They remind us that what we’re making matters to someone besides us.

To the Ones Who Show Up

If you’re one of the people who already do these things — who cheer, share, and stop by just to say hi — thank you. You might not realize it, but you’re part of the reason artists like me keep creating.

And if you’re someone who hasn’t supported a small artist yet, maybe this is your sign to start.
It costs nothing, but it means everything.

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