I will tell you why artists starve- both writers and fine artists. It’s not for the fun or the glamour or the “paid-your-dues” of it all.
1- Art supplies are expensive. I went to art school. And at a certain point you either NEED or want some art supply (be it a certain kind of paper, or a specific tube of paint, or even an entire set of a certain kind of paint) and it’s either get that thing or eat. And often times the eating can be sacrificed.
A professional tube of oil pain CAN cost into the HUNDREDS of dollars. A legit copy of Photoshop ain’t cheap. Even subscribing- you are just throwing money at a thing on your computer so you can keep arting. Gouache is $8.00+ A TUBE. That is one smallish tube of one color.
2- No one is buying what you make. This goes for fine arts and writing. It’s all very well and good to “art harder/better/faster/longer/more” But it is MEANINGLESS when no one is buying what your selling.
3- And this is where I’m a little confused- because everyone I know- writer and artist (with a few exceptions) ALREADY HAS A DAY JOB. I don’t think there are artists out there literally starving for their art anymore. And again, if they are- see #1 and #2. I know people who go long stretches without employment because they can’t a job. I know people who coast on the good will of their relatives *cough* to get by.
4- If you are staring it isn’t from romance or laziness. IT’S BECAUSE NO ONE IS BUYING WHAT YOUR SELLING. It doesn’t always mean the product is bad. I honestly have NO IDEA how to succeed. If I did I would have by now.
Che Gilson 
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