From Freebie to First Paycheck: How One Mural Changed Everything

I’ll never forget the moment I realized my work had real value. Not just in my eyes, but in the eyes of someone willing to invest in it.

Back when I was just getting started, I posted in a local Facebook group offering free murals. I wanted experience, portfolio work, and any excuse to paint on a bigger canvas than a sketchbook.

This was going to be my third mural ever, and I had no idea what to expect. I went into the job with zero expectations of payment. I was just excited that someone trusted me with their wall.

The client? A kind and creative homeowner who welcomed me into their space and said, “Name your price.”

Wait… what?

Cue internal panic. I had no pricing system. No rate card. Just paint, passion, and a Pinterest board full of inspo.

But that moment changed everything. He paid me, gratefully and confidently, as if it was never a question.

The Mural That Taught Me to Value Myself

That experience flipped a switch in me. It wasn’t just about the money, though that certainly helped, it was about realizing that my creativity, time, and energy were worth something.

Until then, I saw myself as an aspiring artist trying to prove I could do it. After that mural, I saw myself as an artist building a business.

I poured everything into that project: the design, the details, the communication. And in return, I received something more valuable than a paycheck — validation. Confidence. A new standard for what I deserved.

Why I’m Sharing This

If you're a new creative, here’s your sign: stop underselling yourself. Yes, do the free work when it makes sense. Yes, build the portfolio. But also? Watch for the moment when it’s time to level up.

That third mural, my first paid project, was my turning point. It gave me the courage to treat my art as a profession, not just a passion. It set me on the path to where I am now: creating murals for brands, businesses, and clients who value creative storytelling as a tool for connection and growth.

Final Thoughts: A Shoutout to Bryan

A heartfelt thank you to Bryan, my very first paying client. You believed in my work when I was still learning to believe in myself. Your support gave me the confidence to recognize my value as an artist and helped me take the first real step toward building my business. I’m truly grateful for that moment — it changed everything.