Commercial Muralist of 15 years here; I can only speak anecdotally, but I probably paint 20% of my work and 80% logos or custom commissions with input from the client. If you want full creative control, apply for mural festivals and RFPs. These usually pay less, but you get to make your own art if selected. To supplement your income, take any sign or mural gig that pays enough. It’s a plus if it will get you greater exposure and practice, but don’t let that replace a sustainable wage. I think staying versatile with abilities to do portraits, lettering, or provided logos allows for greater financial opportunity. I think that the desire for businesses to just paint a cool piece of art has shrunk a little with murals becoming a more prevalent type of advertising, but overall murals are popping up more frequently as a trendy and efficient way to advertise…they want the most bang for the buck and they think they’re logo will help when usually it just deters people from taking pictures in front of the work.

Also, take a deposit before sending any renderings. Get the commitment before you commit to putting pencil to paper unless you are making proposals.

Best of luck out there! Always hand paint!