The internet has made it easier than ever for artists to get their work in front of a large audience — the trick is making that a viable career. This collection of stories explores how creatives from various disciplines are utilizing platforms like Twitch, TikTok, Etsy, and others to turn their passions into something sustainable. That could mean resurrecting centuries-old blacksmithing techniques on YouTube or building a new kind of crowdfunding platform. Or it could involve becoming an expert at designing immersive Fortnite worlds. Whatever the project, these creatives are finding ways to get paid.
How Creators Get Paid Online
From building branded Fortnite worlds to devising new crowdfunding techniques
Illustration by Jarett Sitter / The Verge
Fortnite Creative is opening up opportunities
Jay Peters
A more democratic take on the Patreon model
Jay Castello
A more independent approach
Alexis Ong
Once a means of supplementing an income, making assets and tools can now be a full-time gig
Lewis Gordon
Customized commanders, artistic alters, and pretty proxies galore
Ash Parrish
Luke Ross is doing what most game publishers won’t
Sean Hollister
The importance of being early
Andrew Webster
Annemarie Rose’s success reflects TikTok’s potential for artists
Megan Farokhmanesh
Software like Aim Lab and KovaaK’s are key parts of the esports ecosystem
Luke Winkie
Fortnite Creative is opening up opportunities
Jay Peters
A more democratic take on the Patreon model
Jay Castello
A more independent approach
Alexis Ong
Once a means of supplementing an income, making assets and tools can now be a full-time gig
Lewis Gordon
Customized commanders, artistic alters, and pretty proxies galore
Ash Parrish
Luke Ross is doing what most game publishers won’t
Sean Hollister
The importance of being early
Andrew Webster
Annemarie Rose’s success reflects TikTok’s potential for artists
Megan Farokhmanesh
Software like Aim Lab and KovaaK’s are key parts of the esports ecosystem
Luke Winkie