The idea of the starving artist is romanticized, but true creativity thrives when artists understand that their work has value and pursue their art with persistence, humility, and a willingness to learn.
1. Artistic talent is not innate, but developed through dedication.
The myth that artists are born with an exclusive "natural talent" discourages many potential creatives from pursuing their passions. In reality, artistry comes not from inherent skill but from consistent practice and persistence. Anyone with a commitment to their craft can achieve greatness.
For example, John Grisham, who was a corporate lawyer, found time in his rigorous schedule to write one page a day. Over three years, he completed his first novel, which was initially rejected 40 times. Instead of giving up, he kept writing, resulting in the enormous success of his subsequent works.
Artistry thrives on effort more than talent. Dedication shapes artistry, much like Picasso's ethos: "Good artists copy, great artists steal." Building upon existing work in an innovative way proves that what's new doesn't have to be completely original.
Examples
- Author John Grisham committed small daily time slots to writing.
- Picasso emphasized learning from and expanding on pre-existing art.
- Jim Henson developed The Muppets by combining elements from other puppeteers and comedians.
2. Humility and stubbornness drive creative success.
Thriving artists balance humility with stubbornness. Stubbornness keeps them holding on to their dreams despite rejection, while humility makes them receptive to learning and growth through guidance and mentorship.
F. Scott Fitzgerald's determination amidst 122 rejection letters led to the publication of his first two books. Even though The Great Gatsby was initially criticized, his work later gained widespread acclaim. Similarly, Michelangelo's humility in apprenticing under Domenico Ghirlandaio expanded his skills and set the foundation for his legendary career.
Humble learning and fierce perseverance combine to overcome challenges. It's through this dual approach that artists strengthen their craftsmanship.
Examples
- Michelangelo improved his craft by apprenticing under a master.
- F. Scott Fitzgerald persevered despite repeated rejection letters.
- Psychologist Paul Torrance's studies highlight stubbornness as a trait common among successful creatives.
3. Communities and collaborations build artistic success.
Art doesn't flourish in isolation. Many artists achieve more when they join vibrant, collaborative environments. History demonstrates these creative clusters as fertile grounds for innovation and mutual support.
In post-WWI Paris, a community of writers including Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce stimulated each other's work. Similarly, today's music industry exemplifies collaboration, as artists like Beyoncé and Kanye West amplify their albums' brilliance by working with dozens of contributors. Michelangelo, too, directed others' efforts to complete significant works he couldn't manage alone.
By fostering connections, building networks, and seeking patrons, creatives multiply their opportunities and achieve far greater impact.
Examples
- Hemingway and Joyce lived among literary peers in Paris.
- Beyoncé's albums thrive on collaborative efforts.
- Elvis Presley gained fame with the help of studio owner Sam Phillips.
4. Sharing and interacting with audiences energizes growth.
Reaching an audience is essential for any artist. Today, online platforms offer unprecedented opportunities to connect with people authentically. Effective sharing doesn't require sleazy salesmanship; it invites engagement through transparency and interaction.
Artist Stephanie Halligan used a blog to share her knowledge and cartoons, transforming her passion into income. Musicians test their pieces through sites like Bandcamp, where listener feedback sharpens their craft. Sharing builds confidence, and performing publicly pushes artists to higher levels of mastery.
Artists expand their reach and improve their work by letting audiences see and respond to their creative journey.
Examples
- Stephanie Halligan grew her art business through blogging.
- Musicians share drafts and receive feedback via Bandcamp.
- Public performance improves self-confidence and skills.
5. Artists must avoid working for free to value their work.
Creatives are often tempted to work for free in exchange for "exposure" or "opportunity." However, to truly thrive, artists must recognize the value of their work and demand fair compensation.
Michelangelo fought for the recognition of artists as professionals, insisting they be treated with respect. Similarly, Jim Henson refused to sell the rights to Rowlf the Dog early in his career, enabling the character's integration into The Muppets. Writer Steven Pressfield advocates declaring yourself an artist as an essential first step toward valuing your craft.
By placing worth on their talents, artists inspire respect from others and protect their future opportunities.
Examples
- Michelangelo elevated the status of artists as professionals.
- Jim Henson retained ownership of his creations.
- Steven Pressfield champions the mindset of claiming self-worth as an artist.
6. Modern creatives thrive through diverse skillsets.
Artists no longer need to remain confined to one trade. The New Renaissance celebrates individuals who pursue a range of skills, blending crafts to create richer lives and careers.
Mark Frauenfelder exhibits this concept brilliantly. From engineering, publishing, and editing to visual art, his varied work showcases creativity unconstrained by singular focus. Today’s tools and platforms encourage artists to experiment across mediums, embrace interdisciplinary thinking, and forge unique paths.
Exploring multiple crafts enriches creativity and provides diverse avenues for earning a living, ensuring modern creatives don’t starve.
Examples
- Mark Frauenfelder combined engineering, editing, and art into his career.
- Renaissance men embraced broad skill development across disciplines.
- Modern tools allow artists to explore new mediums easily.
7. Persistence is the backbone of artistic success.
Every thriving artist deals with rejection or hurdles at some point. Persistence is what separates those who give up from those who succeed. Artists must embrace the long journey and accept setbacks as part of the process.
John Grisham's countless rejections before his breakthrough, coupled with F. Scott Fitzgerald's struggles despite initial acclaim, reflect the importance of perseverance. The Great Gatsby eventually became a celebrated classic years after Fitzgerald’s death.
No artist avoids adversity, but lasting success comes to those who keep going.
Examples
- F. Scott Fitzgerald faced rejection early in his career.
- John Grisham was rejected 40 times before attaining acclaim.
- The Great Gatsby was reevaluated as a masterpiece years later.
8. The path to success includes finding a mentor.
A mentor can elevate an aspiring artist by guiding them toward mastery. However, mentees must approach with humility, respect, and a willingness to learn.
Michelangelo’s career trajectory highlights the power of studying under a master. His apprenticeship under Domenico Ghirlandaio proved invaluable. By observing and practicing established techniques, newcomers develop insights and refine their skills.
Seeking mentorship offers an artist valuable lessons without reinventing the wheel.
Examples
- Michelangelo trained under established artist Domenico Ghirlandaio.
- Creative industries often depend on mentorship for transmitted knowledge.
- Apprenticeships allow artists to avoid common pitfalls.
9. Ownership equals control and freedom.
Great artists understand the importance of owning their work. Retaining rights lets them benefit from their creations long-term and preserve their creative freedom.
Songwriter Jim Henson could have sold Rowlf the Dog early for $10,000 but trusted in his vision. Owning that character proved essential later for The Muppets. Many artists surrender rights too early for short-term gains, only to regret losing control over their art.
Ownership protects artists’ opportunities to thrive on their terms.
Examples
- Jim Henson retained the rights to Rowlf the Dog.
- Ownership ensures integrity in artistic projects.
- Retained rights generate future opportunities.
Takeaways
- Commit to daily practice, no matter how small, and focus on developing your craft over time.
- Seek out a mentor by studying their work beforehand and approaching with humility and enthusiasm.
- Always retain ownership of your creations and never hesitate to place value on your artistic efforts.