How to Survive and Prosper as an Artist, 5th ed.: Selling Yourself Without Selling Your Soul 
asked by bigchad on November 20, 2006 6:54 PM
How to Survive and Prosper as an Artist is the preeminent guide to taking control of your career and making a good living in the art world. Drawing on over three decades of experience, Caroll Michels walks artists through the complicated process of balancing grants, gallery representation, private dealer sales, and a personal studio to ensure a public profile and a steady income. Included is a wealth of insiders information on getting into a gallery, being your own PR agent, and negotiating prices, as well as innovative marketing, exhibition, and sales opportunities for various art disciplines.
Reviews
I really am finding this book to be chocked full of valuable information on gettings ones art career in motion. I recommend this one for anyone thinking of moving past the hobby stage of their career.
reviewed by kmf on November 26, 2006 4:38 PM
WOW, WOW, WOW. Get this book! This has (just about) everything you need to be professional. The only thing I didn't like is that most of the resources listed were geared to NYC residents, but there was good direction as to how to locate similar services in your area. I especially liked the opening that deals with how artists are helping to perpetuate their own "starving artist" myth, and the ways to stop that. It made me realize that I am the one standing in the way of my own success! Well, no more--thanks to Caroll--I am taking all of the steps listed. I wish my graduate school had this information available!
reviewed by mattisboss on November 29, 2006 11:27 AM
this book was really helpful in understanding how much marketing work is involved with doing art. it's a little intimidating to think that you will need to write press-releases for everything you do. but thats' the truth i guess if you want to play the game. that is if you want to play by and set your own rules instead of just being a tool for the whims of gallerists and dealers.
reviewed by bookworks on November 29, 2006 4:34 PM
I have never been one to read self-help books, but, as an artist just beginning to market my work, I felt helpless and uninformed. I am so glad I bought this book - Ms. Michels demystifies the business process in a pragmatic and often humorous way. I now feel I have a clearer picture of where I'm going and how I'm going to get there, as well as having more confidence in myself and less awe of the art world.
This book will be well-used as I move forward.
This book will be well-used as I move forward.
reviewed by cannoli on November 29, 2006 7:29 PM
