More info: www.mashable.com

The starving artist is such a cliche, and fortunately, it might become a thing of the past. Using social media tools and platforms, visual artists have new ways to market their work and connect with buyers far and wide. And because these websites are free to use, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram are quickly becoming as important to an artist as the paintbrush and palette.

Mashable spoke with a few artists who are using social media to promote their work and who have made a sale or two by connecting with buyers online. There are also some tips for those of you looking to get it on the action.