HOW MUCH MONEY DO YOU HAVE TO MAKE IN ORDER TO BE QUALIFIED TO SPEAK TO STUDENTS AT A JOB FAIR ABOUT ART AS A CAREER?

            I was just asked to speak to students at a job fair about making a living as an artist.  Unfortunately, I am not yet making what I consider to be a full time salary as an artist.  Shall I speak to the kids about my experiences or find someone who is making a living at art?

            In fairness to me (and full disclosure), I’ve only been a full time artist for the last three years.  I first showed my art at the Art Students League of Denver’s summer show, the Summer Art Market, in 2008.   I was successful at that show beyond my wildest dreams – I sold over 10 pieces.  I was encouraged by that success to launch my art career.  My attitude after that show was: “Watch out Art World – here I come!!!”  

            Or not.

            By the end of 2008, we all know what happened; the bottom fell out of our economy, leading to the worst recession since the Great Depression in the 1930’s. 

            Super.  Just super.  I thought I would start a business selling a product that is not “needed” (in the ordinary sense of the word) during the worst economic time of the last 80 years.

            Brilliant.

            I have persevered – and loved every minute of my life since.  I have sold my art and sold well.  Just as importantly, I love the whole art “thing”.  I love the better footwear of artists.  I love the blue jeans and casual lifestyle.  I love creating something that is new and never seen before on Planet Earth.  I love the social media part of art, especially the wonderful comments of both actual friends and facebook “friends” when I post a new piece.  I love being selected by a juror to participate in a show.  I love the Blue Ribbon I won for best Mixed Media at the Colorado Artist Guild Show.  I love the friends I have met on my art journey.

            But making a living?  Not really.  At least I’m not making enough money to entirely support all of my basic needs (mortgage, utilities, health care, etc., etc.)

            Perhaps even more importantly than the amount of money I make each year is the fact that I am still am in the process of finding my way, wending my way slowly down the path of art as a career.  I do not feel that I am qualified, competent or capable of advising students on an art career.

            So, should I speak to the students about art as a career?  Or should I find someone who is making a living (i.e., paying all of their basic expenses) by creating art to speak to the students?