Introduction
In "Real Artists Don't Starve," Jeff Goins challenges the romantic notion of the struggling artist and presents a new paradigm for creative success. This book is a guide for artists, writers, musicians, and other creatives who want to turn their passion into a sustainable career. Goins argues that the starving artist myth is not only outdated but also harmful, and he offers practical advice on how to thrive in the modern creative landscape.
The Myth of the Starving Artist
For centuries, we've been captivated by the image of the poor, bohemian artist, sacrificing everything for their craft. However, Goins argues that this romanticized view of the creative life is both unrealistic and unnecessary. He challenges several common misconceptions about what it means to be a "real" artist:
Natural-born talent: Many people believe that artists are born with innate abilities. Goins debunks this myth, showing that success in the arts is more about hard work, persistence, and determination than raw talent.
Complete originality: Another misconception is that true artists must create entirely original work. Goins argues that great art often builds upon existing ideas and techniques.
Solitary genius: The image of the isolated artist working alone is another myth that Goins dispels. He emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in the creative process.
Suffering for art: Perhaps the most damaging myth is the idea that artists must struggle and suffer to create meaningful work. Goins shows that it's possible to be both successful and creative.
The Thriving Artist Mindset
Instead of embracing the starving artist mentality, Goins encourages creatives to adopt a thriving artist mindset. This approach combines passion and practicality, allowing artists to pursue their craft while also building a sustainable career. Here are some key elements of the thriving artist mindset:
1. Embrace Hard Work and Persistence
Success in the arts rarely comes overnight. Goins uses the example of John Grisham, the best-selling author who started his writing career while working as a lawyer. Grisham dedicated 30 to 60 minutes each day to writing, even if it was just one page. This consistent effort over three years resulted in his first novel, "A Time to Kill."
Even after completing his first book, Grisham faced numerous rejections. However, he persisted and began working on his second novel, "The Firm." Eventually, both books became bestsellers, allowing Grisham to quit his day job and focus on writing full-time. This story illustrates that success often comes from dedication and perseverance rather than innate talent.
2. Learn to "Steal" Like an Artist
Goins echoes Picasso's famous quote, "Good artists copy, great artists steal." This doesn't mean plagiarizing or directly copying others' work. Instead, it's about building upon existing ideas and techniques to create something new and unique.
The author uses the example of Jim Henson and The Muppets to illustrate this concept. Henson didn't invent puppetry, but he combined elements from various sources – such as the puppetry of Burr Tillstrom and the humor of comedian Ernie Kovacs – to create something fresh and innovative.
3. Be Both Stubborn and Humble
Thriving artists need to strike a balance between stubbornness and humility. Stubbornness helps artists persist in the face of rejection and criticism. For example, F. Scott Fitzgerald received 122 rejection letters before getting his first two books published. This stubborn determination eventually led to critical acclaim and financial success.
However, humility is equally important, especially when it comes to learning and growing as an artist. Goins emphasizes the value of apprenticeships and learning from masters in one's field. He cites Michelangelo's apprenticeship under the Renaissance painter Domenico Ghirlandaio as an example of how even great artists can benefit from humble learning experiences.
4. Join a Creative Community
Contrary to the myth of the solitary genius, thriving artists often benefit from being part of a vibrant creative community. Goins points to historical examples like the group of writers and artists in post-World War I Paris, which included figures like Ezra Pound, Ernest Hemingway, and James Joyce. These artists supported and inspired each other, leading to some of the most influential works of the 20th century.
In the modern context, Goins highlights how creative hubs like Silicon Valley foster innovation through collaboration. He also notes how contemporary musicians like Beyoncé and Kanye West collaborate with numerous writers and producers to create their albums, demonstrating that great art often emerges from collective effort rather than individual genius.
5. Cultivate Patrons and Collaborators
Thriving artists understand the importance of building relationships with patrons and collaborators who can support and advance their careers. Goins expands the traditional notion of a patron beyond wealthy benefactors to include critics, tastemakers, and anyone who can help promote an artist's work.
He uses the example of Elvis Presley and Sam Phillips, the owner of Sun Studios, to illustrate this point. Phillips recognized Elvis's talent and helped launch his career by ensuring his music was played on the radio. This relationship catapulted Elvis to stardom within just two years.
6. Share and Interact with Your Audience
In the digital age, artists have unprecedented opportunities to connect directly with their audience. Goins encourages artists to embrace these platforms to share their work and build a following. He tells the story of Stephanie Halligan, who transitioned from a financial consultant to a successful cartoonist by starting a blog and gradually introducing her artwork to her audience.
Goins also emphasizes the importance of "practicing in public" – sharing works in progress and interacting with audiences online. This approach not only helps build a fanbase but also improves an artist's skills through real-world feedback and experience.
7. Value Your Work and Maintain Ownership
One of the most crucial aspects of being a thriving artist is recognizing the value of your work and refusing to work for free. Goins warns against falling for promises of "exposure" or "opportunities" that don't come with fair compensation. He argues that by valuing their own work, artists also elevate the entire profession.
Maintaining ownership of one's work is another critical factor in long-term success. Goins uses the example of Jim Henson, who wisely refused to sell the rights to his Rowlf the Dog puppet early in his career. This decision allowed Henson to later use the character in The Muppets, contributing to the show's success.
The New Renaissance
Goins argues that we are entering a New Renaissance, a time of unprecedented opportunity for artists and creatives. This era is characterized by:
Diverse skill sets: Like the Renaissance men of old, modern thriving artists often excel in multiple disciplines. Goins uses the example of Mark Frauenfelder, an engineer who co-founded the popular website Boing Boing, became an editor at Wired magazine, published a book on magic tricks, and exhibited his artwork across the United States.
Accessibility of tools and platforms: The digital age has made it easier than ever for artists to create and share their work. From online marketplaces to social media platforms, artists have numerous avenues to reach their audience directly.
Blurring of boundaries: The lines between different artistic disciplines and between art and commerce are becoming increasingly blurred. This creates new opportunities for creative expression and entrepreneurship.
Self-patronage: Goins encourages artists to view making money as a means of becoming their own patron. By generating income from their art, artists can reinvest in their craft and continue to grow.
Practical Steps for Thriving as an Artist
Based on the principles outlined in the book, here are some practical steps artists can take to thrive:
Develop your skills: Invest time and effort in honing your craft. Remember that success often comes from persistent practice rather than innate talent.
Study the masters: Learn from successful artists in your field. Analyze their work and techniques, and find ways to build upon their ideas.
Seek mentorship: Look for opportunities to learn from experienced artists through apprenticeships or mentoring relationships.
Join or create a community: Connect with other artists in your field. Attend events, join online forums, or start your own creative group.
Build your network: Cultivate relationships with potential patrons, collaborators, and supporters who can help advance your career.
Share your work: Use online platforms to share your art and engage with your audience. Don't be afraid to show your process and works in progress.
Value your work: Set fair prices for your art and avoid working for free. Remember that by valuing your own work, you're supporting the entire artistic community.
Protect your ownership: Be cautious about signing away rights to your work, especially early in your career.
Diversify your skills: Consider developing multiple creative abilities or combining your artistic skills with other areas of expertise.
Embrace entrepreneurship: View your art as a business and look for ways to monetize your creativity sustainably.
Conclusion
"Real Artists Don't Starve" presents a compelling argument for rejecting the myth of the starving artist and embracing a more practical, sustainable approach to creativity. Jeff Goins challenges long-held beliefs about what it means to be a "real" artist and offers a roadmap for turning artistic passion into a thriving career.
By adopting the mindset of a thriving artist – one who is persistent, collaborative, and business-savvy – creatives can navigate the challenges of the modern art world while staying true to their artistic vision. The book encourages artists to value their work, build supportive communities, and take advantage of the unprecedented opportunities available in the digital age.
Ultimately, Goins' message is one of empowerment and possibility. He argues that with the right mindset and strategies, artists can create meaningful work, build successful careers, and contribute to a new Renaissance of creativity and innovation. By rejecting the romantic notion of the starving artist and embracing the reality of the thriving artist, creatives can forge a path that is both artistically fulfilling and financially sustainable.
As we enter this New Renaissance, the opportunities for artists to succeed on their own terms have never been greater. By combining passion with practicality, artists can not only survive but thrive in the modern creative landscape. The starving artist is a myth of the past; the future belongs to those who dare to see themselves as thriving artists and take the necessary steps to make that vision a reality.