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 33: Sheffield Photographers – Shaun Bloodworth, Andy Brown, December 2010
Shaun Bloodworth “Don’t talk about projects or ideas too much or you’ll talk your way out of them. Just do them. “
http://www.shaunbloodworth.com/
Andy Brown: “Look at as much good photography as you can. The Magnum website and a blog called Conscientious are good places to start. Don’t expect everyone to get what you’re trying to do. Try and learn from photographers whose work you admire.”
Now Then Issue 39: Alison Lambert, June 2011
“As a student I had been told that working with the human figure and particularly with horse images was dated and clichéd. This didn’t put me off, but I wish in those early days when I was trying to find a personal ‘vision’ as an artist I had been told not to worry about what was ‘contemporary’ or ‘fashionable’, to simply be confident in pursuing my own chosen medium and imagery. Having said that, I did have some excellent tutors and, after I left college, I worked with a community of practicing artists who gave me a lot of moral support. This kind of support and encouragement is important. Without it, young artists can easily lose confidence and give up.”
http://www.jillgeorgegallery.co.uk/main_pages/frameset.htm
Now Then Issue 40: Geo Law, July 2011
“Let your work speak for itself and keep on top of your admin.”
