artists today

A big part of my work has been focused on a new type of career-opportunity which is in its infancy.

This is the career of the impresario, the artist, the undefined, unique path that has no ceiling, no structure and is based around expression at scale across multiple mediums, using the internet's leverage to piece together gigs simultaneously.

It's an unstructured, emergent career.

As more people become their own boss, we need products and communities that support the uncertainty and challenges that come with self-management.


No Mold.

There’s no mold to fit, and no two paths look the same. Each person builds their career along the way, weaving together opportunities.

Therefore learn from these artists based on how they do, not based on what they do. And If people try and give you a template to follow for success, run.

What worked today will not work tomorrow.

Opportunities change, and sub-cultures are hyper-attuned to where things are and where they’re going. You've got to stretch the medium forward, otherwise, you will always be playing catch up.

The more mainstream the field you're playing in, the more you'll want to find a niche.

Or, discover a conversation or question that burns you up inside and pursue it despite the feeling of risk you feel leaving the masses to follow your own path.

Focus.

Contradictory? No. You juggle multiple gigs because of your focus.

It doesn't have to be all of the time, but when the heat is on can you shut off social media and menial tasks to make it happen?

Failure is not an option.

Sure, you fail plenty of times along the way, but these aren't viewed as failures.

It's less start and stop and more a process of evolution and of growth that is taking you towards where you want to go. One thing is for sure, you are making this project come to life regardless of the setbacks or budget.

Success is defined by you.

Success won't look like what you imagined, and ultimately the goal posts keep moving. It's ok to decide to bring things to an end. You can change your name, change paths, pick up a new direction or skill, but you can't rest on the old mantle. It's always about the next big project or push.

Leverage.

Do you have it? Media as leverage. Community as leverage. Collaborators as leverage. But this leverage is not to use and abuse. Instead, to connect and scale. The web is stronger the more nodes in there are. So be generous and build bridges by putting yourself out there on behalf of the crew.

If you make an ask, do it infrequently. Most actions should be taken in service and support, whether it's a client or a community.

Because when you need it, they will be there for you...


As always, let me know if I can help...

xx David

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