Jess Miller on Blending Art + Influence: Licensing, Content, and the Power of Showing Up

What happens when you mix illustration, authenticity, and strategic content creation? You get Jess Miller, a dynamic artist and creator who has seamlessly merged her artistic voice with digital influence. In this episode of the Art + Audience podcast, Stacie chats with Jess about building multiple income streams, the rise of social content as a legitimate business model, and why showing up online can unlock unexpected opportunities.

Whether you're curious about brand partnerships, licensing, or simply want permission to build your business your way, Jess’s story will leave you both informed and inspired.

From Pandemic Posts to Partnerships

Jess’s journey into content creation began in 2020 with a simple intention: draw every day and share it. What followed was a consistent online presence that naturally evolved into brand deals and a thriving business. She didn't begin with a grand plan for monetization. Instead, she focused on showing up with creativity and consistency. 

Fast-forward to today, Jess partners with major brands like Adobe, Casetify, and Michael’s, not just as an illustrator but as a creator who understands the value of storytelling and community online.

Understanding Content Creation as a Revenue Stream

Jess breaks down how “content creation” is often misunderstood. It’s not always selfies and reels, it can include user-generated content (UGC), hands-only crafting videos, or software tutorials. She’s built income by producing brand content that never even hits her own feed.

Her pro tip? Know the difference between creating art and creating content. And then charge for both.

Yes, Artists Can Make Real Money from Social Media

Jess keeps it real about money. When asked about her range of brand deals, she shared partnerships that have ranged from $2,500 all the way up to $25,000, depending on the scope.

And while she doesn’t post numbers in her annual income pie charts, Jess does post percentages, openly sharing the evolving breakdown of her revenue sources every year to help demystify the business side of art.

The Power of Multiple Income Streams

A major theme in this conversation is the value of diversifying your income,not just for growth, but for stability. Jess encourages artists to start small, adding just one new stream at a time. Over time, you’ll learn which paths align with your strengths, energy, and lifestyle.

For Jess, that has included art licensing, content partnerships, UGC, teaching, and most recently… publishing.

Art of the Zodiac: A Coloring Book Born from Resilience

One of the most exciting things on Jess’s horizon is her debut coloring book, Art of the Zodiac, hitting shelves February 24th through Page Street Publishing.

Created during a personally difficult year, the book is a testament to her resilience and creativity.

Look for Art of the Zodiac wherever books are sold, including Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

Jess’s Top Tips for Artists Who Want to Start Content Creation

1. Show up consistently – It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a rhythm that works.
2. Poll your audience – They’ll tell you what they want to see.
3. Batch your content – Consider filming days to streamline production.
4. Use simple gear – Jess swears by her second phone and a $20 tripod.
5. Know your value – Don’t say yes to $150 reels. You’re worth more.

Final Thoughts

Jess Miller is a shining example of how modern artists can build flexible, fulfilling careers by embracing change and owning their value. Whether she’s sketching at her adjustable Branch desk, crafting UGC for Michael’s, or launching a book from her backyard studio, Jess is proof that you can merge your passion and personality into a business that feels authentically yours.

Listen to the full episode to hear more about pricing, boundaries, creative resilience, and how art osmosis might just shape the next generation.

Follow Jess on Instagram @jessmillerdraws to stay in the loop. 

If this episode resonated, share it with your fellow artists. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the Art + Audience Podcast. Follow Stacie on Instagram @gingiber | @leverageyourart. 

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If you have questions about your own art journey? Call the Art + Audience hotline at (479) 966-9561, and Stacie might answer your question in a future episode!