It’d be naïve to think that being an artist is an easy career. The demanding workload, the struggle to make a name for yourself and always running out supplies, it can be a bloody nightmare.
At Now Then we’ve had some wonderful artists grace our front covers with their work over the years, and seeing as they’ve been there and done it we asked them the simple question, what advice would you give to other artists?
Here are some of the best responses we’ve received and now and again we’ll go through the catalogue, entertaining, inspiring and hopefully passing on words of true wisdom. Enjoy.
Now Then Issue 21: Mick Marston, December 2009
“Be nice to your siblings.”
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Now Then Issue 22: Michael Krueger, January 2010
“For young artists, I think it is important to find the artists from history and today that truly inspire you, really get to know their work, and lean on those artists when you need them the most. We have to have role models and specific inspirational individuals. Conversely, I think that no artist should model his or her career on another. There is no one way and you have to find your own path.
Another bit of advice – put everything that you have into every show. Don’t hold back and don’t slack off. Know that no one show is going to make or break your career, so don’t put all of your hopes and dreams into one exhibition. Your hopes and your dreams should remain firmly grounded in your studio.
Also, a lesson that took me a while to learn is to never save your good ideas. Proceed forthwith with your best ideas, because more are always on the horizon.”
Now Then Issue 28: Downtimer, July 2010
“Honestly, there isn’t anything I wish I’d been told. I never went to art school, so every experience was a learning experience and I enjoyed growing as I went along. I’m appreciative of every opportunity I’ve been given, and if I had the chance to do it all over again I’d do everything exactly the same.”
