My last commission was a t-shirt for a cross fit gym. $300.

Co-op works? Not sure what you mean. I do work with friends on projects we create together for free but the plan is to develop ideas and products that can grow into entertaining and viable properties to market/sell. But the project has to be fun to do and as soon as it isn't we move on. We try to keep positive and stay happy while making art.

My day job is complicated but basically I do social work for severely mentally ill people who exist outside of the hospitals and jails in person and by phone. Not ideal by any means. I have a contract job coming up to do illustrations for educational materials though so I will reduce hours as a social worker(health benefits are important here).

Find other artists in your area and get together. It helps to network and create opportunities for work or to improve your skills.

We have a sketch group that meets once a month in a cafe in the city. Topics are chosen then drawn for 30-45 minutes, then 15 minute break and discussion then onto the new topic, etc. It is inspiring to see how other people work.