MeWeFree | ArtistsUntold Gets Up-And-Coming Artists Paid By Turning Their Works Into Wearable Art

May 13

May 13 ArtistsUntold Gets Up-And-Coming Artists Paid By Turning Their Works Into Wearable Art

I’m far from a talented visual artist, but as a writer, I have an appreciation for what artists put into their work. When I write, I bring something from inside myself outward. My thoughts, emotions, feelings, beliefs, knowledge, wisdom and more go into my written pieces. I can only imagine what internal elements visual artists are bringing out when they’re making paintings, drawings, sculptures, etc.. Also, as a writer, I know how hard it is to actually get your work out there on your own and actually get paid to do it. Judging from the few artists that I see in the actual spotlight and the myriad of artists I see creating often to little aplomb, I know artists are always looking for ways for their work to pay off.

However, there’s an interesting brand out that is actively working to create new revenue streams for artists. That brand is ArtistsUntold and they turn minority artists’ works into wearable art pieces (mostly t-shirts and hoodies) which is sold on their site, with the artists getting a cut of every sale. “ArtistsUntold is an online retail platform that provides up-and-coming minority artists with the opportunity to promote and monetize their artwork through apparel sales,” reads the official ArtistsUntold website. “Creating art is expensive enough, so we provide our platform at no cost - leaving the artist with an income stream that allows them to buy that new paint brush set, 64-inch canvas, or camera lens. ArtistsUntold is here to promote cultural appreciation, so make a purchase, spread love, be bold, and wear ArtistsUntold.”

ArtistsUntold currently is promoting the work of eight artists who have collections through the brand. All pieces are limited in quantity at the artist’s discretion (which is a plus for amateur hypebeasts like myself), sizes run from XS to 4XL and prices are reasonable when talking about exclusive, wearable art. A couple of the artists also have prints for sale. Personally, I’m always on the lookout for unique tees and hoodies featuring artistic imagery. Having some of these special items by certified and cosigned Black artists is right up my alley. It’s cool to have dope shirts, but to know that the artist responsible for that dopeness is getting paid off the sale is an added bonus. In addition to paying artists, ArtistsUntold partners with One Tree Planted “to help reduce our carbon footprint and create a sustainable shopping experience for our consumers and the world we live in.” One tree is donated for every item that is sold and 5 trees for every recycled product that is purchased.

Check out what ArtistsUntold is working with below (partially) or at artistsuntold.com. Follow them on Instagram at @untold.artists.