The Day I Made an Artist Cry: Essential Lessons for Your Art Career

Quick Answer

Many artists struggle to build sustainable careers because they often don't understand the art business system, as evidenced by gallery owner Crista Cloutier receiving hundreds of unsolicited submissions weekly that don't follow industry norms. Art schools frequently fail to teach students how to navigate the business landscape or sell their work, leaving a critical gap in their professional development. Beyond systemic issues, the biggest obstacles to an artist's success are often fear—such as fear of not being good enough or not making enough money—and a lack of self-confidence, which is built by consistently delivering on commitments.

Unsolicited artist submissions were often rejected because this method does not align with how the gallery system typically operates. The rejections were not due to the quality of the artwork itself, but rather the incorrect approach to seeking representation.

Written by Crista Cloutier, artist mentor + founder of The Working Artist. (learn more about Crista here)

Frequently Asked Questions

1 Why do many artists struggle to understand the art business system?

The article explains that art schools often teach how to make art but not how to navigate the business landscape or sell work. This leaves many artists unprepared for the realities of an art career, leading to frustration.

2 What is identified as the biggest obstacle to an artist's success?

The article states that fear is the biggest obstacle to success for artists. This includes fears of not making enough money, not being good enough, or not being 'enough' in general.

3 How can artists build self-confidence in their career?

Self-confidence is built by consistently doing what you say you will do, when you say you will do it. This includes meeting deadlines, being professional, and delivering everything at the highest quality.

4 What is The Working Artist and why was it created?

The Working Artist was created to help artists who feel frustrated by their art career and don't understand how the system works. It aims to provide the guidance that art schools often miss regarding navigating the art business.