Do or Die List for Artists

Here's a little common sense wisdom for us artists from the Art News Blog.

• Learn to like noodles from packets as you probably won't have much spare cash to buy real food for at least a few years.
• Have at least a couple artist friends so that you're not always the only weird creative person in the room.
• Find a psychologist or a good shoulder to cry on before you start creating art as it will bring up a lot of stuff.
• Inspiration is found in the studio while you are working. If you sit around waiting for inspiration before you start creating you will have about 15 paintings finished when you're 60.
• Never listen to the criticism of family and friends, especially if they're not an artist or gallery owner.
• Don't take criticism personally. It's not an attack on you as a person (unless it's from a petty little person that needs to put others down to feel important).
• Don't expect to be "discovered".
• It's OK to steal from other artists, as long as you don't remain a parrot.
• Learn about business, marketing, taxes, media, and start your own website.
• Work with the best quality art materials available and don't expect art collectors to buy your cheaply made art that will only last a few years before falling apart.
• Being an artist is a privilege. Don't feel sorry for yourself or other artists that are "struggling".. feel sorry for people working in jobs that they hate.

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