Living the Artist's Life 
asked by learner on November 16, 2006 3:12 PM
Written in a conversational tone that resonates with energy and wisdom, Living The Artist's Life is a unique work. Drawing on a lifetime of experience, Paul Dorrell touches on virtually every aspect of what it is like to be an artistwhich is to embark on a journey without maps. He has made that journey, and has drawn many maps.
Relying on passion, sage advice, and a host of enlightening anecdotes, Dorrell keeps you engaged through each chapter. Whether instructing on how to photograph your work and get it into a gallery; or whether discussing subjects such as inspiration and self-doubt, Dorrell knows his ground. He also relates the rigors of his own gallery's shaky start, his failures, his successes, and his dealings with New York agents and publishers, Dorrell being a novelist as well as an art dealer. Regardless of your discipline, you will benefit from the real-life guidance of this work.
Reviews
Mr. Dorrell offers a personable, inspirational guide to personal success as an artist, using a self-deprecating, humorous, and sincere memoir of his own journey as an art dealer and writer. This book was insightful and truly conveyed the author's love for his work and his artistic clients, as well as his desire to assist aspiring artists.
reviewed by bigdv on November 17, 2006 1:12 PM
Paul's book is written with style and humor. This career we've chosen is not an easy one, and this book gives practical advice and "insider information" about how to deal with critics, rejection and snobbery. He doesn't dwell on the negative, but gives inspiration and great advice on how to be succesful as an artist.
reviewed by macfan on November 18, 2006 3:53 AM
I wish I had found this book when I was a student; it's profound in its basic approach. I now have a modest reputation as a painter, however, the preamble suggested in the book was not suggested when I was younger. This should be a must-read for every art student and made available in every library. I was particularly interested in the discussions of depression, perseverance, and marketing one's work with dignity. I thought I would never read another "how-to" book, but this work changed my mind.
reviewed by ronmiller on November 29, 2006 1:53 AM
There are how-to books on breaking into the art world, then there's Paul Dorrell's 'Living the Artist's Life.' In an inviting colloquial style, Dorrell offers both practical advice on 'getting yourself out there' and provides an almost unimaginable personal testament to the unbeatable blend of heart and perseverance. He has a perspective as the prospective exhibitor that is no less empathetic toward the aspiring artist. This reader could taste - from Dorrell's own travails as an aspiring (and successful) author and gallery owner - that he WANTS us to succeed! As an artist, prepare yourself for a welcome challenge . . . and an indelible change through this book.
reviewed by nutshell on November 29, 2006 9:46 AM
I just finished reading this book, and must admit how much I LOVED it!! This is the first art-related book I've ever read that was totally inspiring, honest, and thoughtful! As a person who is pursuing a career in fine art, I was moved by how Dorrell so honestly shared his experiences, both the failures and the successes. It made me realize that I must never give up on my own journey.
reviewed by localhost on November 29, 2006 1:25 PM
