The Anime Art Economy in the Western World
In this article, we're going to be talking specifically on character, fan-made/ original art by US/Europe artists. And money-flow in these art can be somewhat limited to their own community.
Firstly, the people who actually draw in the community. Less than 1% of people draw for a living although the anime community probably have more since it's technically art-based. Apart from selling merch in artist alley and conventions (which is actually a popular income source), there is not a lot of ways to sell. As for commissions, not all anime fan care if art is human-made nor willing to pay for a custom piece, which is understandable as most art is still considered luxury and leisure. As a results, the ones that care about art quality and the human touch often end up being other artists, making the commission scene "artists hiring artists".
Secondly, to the external clients out of the community. They are here for very specific reason, either the artist have a large fan-base that they can tap into, or as merchandise/marketing materials. For example, cafes working with artists to create their brand and also mascots. And as a result, most artist will not be reaching these clients unless their work are often considered "master piece" or "poster-worthy" (with them also popular enough to get known).
So, where should we artists starts earning? In this day and age, I would say you have to grow an audience. A.I. can replace you in early stage skills, but it can't copy your personality, nor those crazy ideas exclusive to the human mind. From the audience, start offering commissions since the art is not product-level of quality, then slowly move to a product business when the art is quality enough.
At last, I wish you the best in your art journey and please gimme a commission QAQ (It's on discount rn!) If not, click on my twitter please.