Thursday, June 22, 2017

Real Artists Don't Starve, a review


In this latest book by Jeff Goins, subtitled "Timeless Strategies for Thriving in the New Creative Age", the author opens with new research that breaks apart a myth.  That being that Michelangelo was not a starving artist.  In fact, the new research shows he became quite wealthy in his work as an artist.

This is just the beginning as he challenges other myths creative people tend to believe.  In story after story, he shares how creatives from all over the world were able to make a living doing what they love.  Whether we use a pen or a paintbrush, whether we sculpt or we make jewelry, whatever talent we have been given can be an occupation.

This book is one you will probably want to read through quickly and then keep on hand for inspiration, perhaps marking favorite sections to come back and reread later.  The sections include:

Part 1: Mind-set
You Aren't Born an Artist
Stop Trying to Be Original
Apprentice Under a Master
Harness Your Stubbornness

Part 2: Market
Cultivate Patrons
Go Join a Scene
Collaborate with Others
Practice in Public

Part 3: Money
Don't Work for Free
Own Your Work
Diversify Your Portfolio
Make Money to Make Art

Conclusion: Join the New Renaissance

I highly recommend this book for anyone who needs inspiration, whether to read stories of people with your same passion or just the reminder that making art is a real career.

This book was provided by the publisher for the sake of review but the opinions are my own.

Further information can be found... here.

Disclaimer:  Most links to Amazon.com are Associate links.

2 comments:

Vee said...

My niece who does make her living as an artist had most professors of art teach her in art college that artists often starved and to work for the joy of art and not worry about money. She rather bought it hook, line, and sinker. So did I. Glad to know that that is often a myth. Now I wonder how often.

Deanna Rabe - Creekside Cottage Blog said...

Interesting.

Does the author talk about where that myth originated?