We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Margarita Hanke a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Margarita, appreciate you joining us today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

I have been fortunate to dedicate myself full-time to my creative work, but it has been a journey of persistence, learning, and adaptation. It certainly wasn’t like this from day one. My path began with a deep love for art and a constant desire to explore and evolve as an artist. I’ve always balanced my artistic pursuits with other responsibilities, but my commitment to my craft has grown steadily over the years.

One of the key milestones for me was realizing the importance of showing my work to the world—participating in exhibitions, connecting with galleries, and using platforms to share my art. Each exhibition, whether local or international, brought new opportunities and expanded my network. Another turning point was diversifying my projects—writing books, creating workshops, and collaborating with organizations—these ventures have enriched my creative life and opened up additional streams of income.

Looking back, I believe the process could have been sped up if I had understood earlier the importance of self-promotion and networking. Social media, for instance, is a powerful tool I’ve learned to use effectively only in recent years. Engaging with other artists, audiences, and potential collaborators is invaluable. I would advise anyone starting out to invest time in learning how to market their work and build authentic connections from the beginning.

Every step has been a lesson, and while the journey has had its challenges, it has also been incredibly rewarding. Art is not just about creating—it’s about sharing, connecting, and evolving, and that’s where I’ve found the greatest joy and success.

Margarita, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hello, my name is Margarita Hanke, and I am a versatile artist, author, and musician with roots in Venezuela and a heart firmly connected to Germany, where I currently reside. My artistic journey began at an early age, nurtured by a fascination with colors, forms, and storytelling. I explored nearly all painting and drawing techniques while studying architecture and diplomacy, later refining my skills at the prestigious Städel School for Fine Arts in Frankfurt. My creative passion naturally expanded to include writing, music, and community engagement.

My artistic works range from vibrant paintings inspired by nature, culture, and emotions, to heartfelt written works like my ongoing children’s book project, Cleto y la Magia de la Música in german, spanish and english. I also curate and host exhibitions and offer creative workshops for children and adults. Each of my works carries an intention to evoke emotions, connect people, and inspire self-reflection or discovery.

What sets my work apart is its deeply personal yet universally relatable nature. My art is a bridge between my two homes: the warmth and vibrancy of Venezuela and the structure and harmony I’ve found in Germany. Each piece tells a story, whether through bold colors on a canvas or words crafted in my books, and I strive to make every creation meaningful for my audience.

I am most proud of how my work has touched lives in different ways—whether it’s sparking a child’s imagination during a workshop, bringing warmth and nostalgia to someone through a painting, or fostering an appreciation for music and culture through my writing. I aim to create connections and memories, leaving a positive impact wherever my work reaches.

For potential clients, followers, or fans, I want them to know that my work is a reflection of my authentic self—a celebration of life, creativity, and resilience. I am passionate about sharing not just art, but experiences. Whether it’s through my paintings, my books, or an exhibition, I want people to feel a sense of belonging and inspiration.

Lastly, I welcome collaborations and opportunities to bring my art to new spaces and audiences. Every new project is an opportunity to connect with others and make the world a little brighter through creativity.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Absolutely! Looking back, I wish I had known about the power of networking platforms and online communities tailored to creatives earlier in my career. Platforms like Instagram, Behance, and LinkedIn are not just for showcasing work but for connecting with like-minded individuals, galleries, and potential clients. These tools have been game-changers for sharing my art with a global audience and for finding inspiration and collaboration opportunities.

Another invaluable resource I discovered later than I would have liked is professional mentorship. Early in my journey, I navigated a lot on my own, but having a mentor—someone who understands the nuances of both the creative and business sides of the industry—can accelerate growth and confidence. Organizations like local arts councils or global initiatives such as the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition often have mentorship programs that are worth exploring.

Lastly, I wish I had tapped into the world of online courses and webinars sooner. Platforms like Skillshare or MasterClass offer incredible learning opportunities, from marketing your creative work to mastering new techniques. These resources not only enhance skills but also open doors to new possibilities.

If I could give advice to someone starting out, it would be to embrace these tools early, actively seek communities and guidance, and never stop learning.

If you have multiple revenue streams in your business, would you mind opening up about what those streams are and how they fit together?

Yes, my creative business thrives on multiple complementary revenue streams that allow me to share my passion in diverse ways. While my core focus is on creating and exhibiting art, I have expanded into other areas that complement and enhance my work. These include:

Workshops and Educational Programs: I host art workshops for children and adults, focusing on creativity, self-expression, and technique. These workshops not only generate income but also allow me to connect with people in a meaningful way, inspiring the next generation of artists.

Books and Writing: I’m currently working on a children’s book, Cleto y la Magia de la Música, which I plan to publish and promote as part of a larger series. Writing has become a natural extension of my artistic storytelling, and it opens up new opportunities for engaging with a different audience.

Collaborations and Licensing: My artwork has been featured on products like CDs and prints, and I’m open to licensing agreements with brands that align with my values. These collaborations allow my art to reach a broader audience while creating additional revenue streams.

Custom Commissions: Beyond gallery exhibitions, I offer bespoke commissions for clients looking for personalized pieces. This has been a rewarding way to combine my creative vision with a client’s unique story or request.

Exhibitions and Sales: Of course, the backbone of my business remains selling original works through exhibitions and galleries, both locally and internationally.

What ties all these streams together is my passion for storytelling through art, whether on a canvas, in a book, or in a workshop. These avenues not only provide financial stability but also ensure that I’m constantly evolving as an artist and reaching new audiences in innovative ways.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://margarita-hanke-art.com
• Instagram: #margarita-hanke-art
• Facebook: Margarita Hanke
• Linkedin: Margarita Hanke
• Youtube: coming soon
• Soundcloud: coming soon
• Other: Pinterest

Image Credits

Margarita Hanke