3 Pillars for a Sustainable Artist Life: Create, Connect, Thrive

I’ve been thinking a lot about what makes a fulfilling life for a working artist, and I came up with three pillars. Tell me if you agree:

1. Creation

2. Connection

3. and Inhalation

How is creation bigger than we think for artists?

Why is connection the real currency for artists?

It’s the digital presence that you’re shaping
It’s the choices that you make in your environment, too

Why is inhalation not optional for artists?

These things don’t have to be distractions from your “real work” when they’re approached with intention.

They are creative acts, and that’s what makes an artist.

The intention and the authority that you bring to everything, not just to gallery walls.

Okay connection

That one’s really important because I believe that connection is the real currency,

In fact, I believe that connection is more valuable than money.

Yes, connection is answering emails
and it’s showing up at events
and it’s showing up on social media
but it’s also about listening fully to the person in front of you.

Whether that’s a colleague, a curator, a client, or the postman, we underestimate the threads of relationship

But in truth what I’ve observed is that they’re what hold creative lives together and creative communities, too.

Now, let’s look at the third pillar

Did that one surprise you? Inhalation

Inhalation is not optional yet our culture worships the exhale:

producing
posting
performing
delivering
showing up
doing working

But one cannot exhale forever.

You must take the time to inhalem especially as an artist.

Inhalation is rest
It’s reflection, it’s nourishment
It’s inspiration, it’s curiosity
It’s artist walks with your Muse
It’s how ideas arise it’s how we stay open
It’s how we stay human

So I’m gonna ask the community here, what does this balance look like in your creative life right now?

Creation, connection, inhalation: where do you need more balance?

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

Quick Answer

Crista Cloutier, founder of The Working Artist, proposes Creation, Connection, and Inhalation as the three essential pillars for a sustainable working artist life. These fundamental practices are crucial for artists to build a fulfilling and long-lasting career, moving beyond traditional views of art. Creation extends beyond studio work to encompass all intentional acts, while Connection is highlighted as the real currency for building relationships. Inhalation, often overlooked, emphasizes the vital role of rest, reflection, and inspiration in sustaining creative output.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What are the three essential pillars for a sustainable working artist life?

Crista Cloutier identifies three core pillars: Creation, Connection, and Inhalation. These elements are presented as fundamental practices that contribute to a fulfilling and long-lasting career for artists, moving beyond traditional views of artistic work.

2 How does the article broaden the definition of 'creation' for artists?

Beyond studio work, creation encompasses the stories artists tell about their work, their digital presence, environmental choices, and even daily acts like cooking dinner. The key is approaching all these activities with intention and authority, recognizing them as creative acts.

3 Why is 'connection' highlighted as more valuable than money for artists?

Connection is described as the 'real currency' that weaves together creative lives and communities. It involves actively engaging with colleagues, curators, clients, and even everyday interactions, fostering relationships that sustain an artist's journey.

4 What does 'inhalation' mean for an artist, and why is it crucial?

Inhalation is the often-overlooked practice of rest, reflection, nourishment, and inspiration. It's essential for artists to allow ideas to arise, stay open, and remain human, counteracting the constant pressure to produce and perform.