If there is one certainty in the art world, it's that it is hard, and not forgiving. While history embellishes the lives and careers of dead artists, those of us living today know it is much more of a, "what have you done for me lately," kind of career. Which is good. I don't want to make it on half an effort and I want to be celebrated for my best. Though connections etc will move you forward towards success, it is the persistently hard working, talented artists that come out on top once they're dead. My aspirations are to be that famous dead guy.
How does one reach that career goal of postmortem celebration? By trying to make it over and over and over and over. Talent and luck (of course) also help out the mix. But great exhibitions can be missed, celebrations forgotten and achievements fade. And for each one of these high points, one must be ready for countless disappointments.
I recently applied for a grant which could really give my career some momentum. And I believe that I will win. Yet history shows that there are plenty of "honorable mentions" for each winner, and many of today's winners will never be heard from again. So while I anticipate the glory of today and tomorrow's victories, I keep my eye on the prize. Till death do I paint.
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