Real Artists Don’t Starve

If you had a freeway billboard, what would it say?

Have you ever been told that pursuing a career in art is impractical, that it’s more of a hobby than a legitimate profession? I can certainly relate, having carried that misconception for a massive part of my life. However, my perspective is starting to slowly but surely change… I think.

For years, I bought into the idea that being an artist was a pipe dream, a passion that could never translate into a sustainable livelihood. The myth suggested that creativity could only be a side pursuit, a part-time engagement while we chased more “realistic” career paths. The idea of making a decent living solely through art was a fantasy.

However now the gatekeepers who once controlled access to success in the art world are no longer as relevant. The digital age has democratised opportunities, allowing artists to showcase their work, build audiences, and monetise their work how they want, where they want. Pretty much the only thing that stands in the artists way is themselves, which is actually a massive thing. I’m constantly self sabotaging my efforts to make money from my art, I think it’s something that artists are naturally good at.

So creating a billboard stating “Real Artists Don’t Starve” is my way of flipping the bird to the outdated myth that an artist’s life is destined for financial struggle. It will hopefully motivate those who share this passion to break through the barriers of doubt and embrace the reality that pursuing art as a full-time career is not only possible but could actually be fun. Even if it is going to be extremely difficult and require a lot of dedication and commitment. But if you love art, you love art.

Today, success as an artist isn’t solely determined by gallery representation or approval from traditional institutions. The avenues to recognition and financial stability are diverse, from online platforms and social media to crowdfunding and direct sales. It’s about creating your unique voice online, and using all the tools available to build a sustainable artistic career.

I believe the opportunity to make a living from your art is within reach. Even though I’m currently still a long way off… but to keep it positive I think It’s time to embrace the truth: real artists don’t starve; they flourish when given the chance to create, innovate, and share their unique perspectives with the world. We just gotta do it.