How to Be Take Seriously as an Artist

Lisa Vogt

2 years ago

It’s Not a Hobby!

To this day, after 43 years as a teaching professional, people still don’t take my job seriously. They think because I call myself an artist, I don’t actually do any real work. Recently a distant aunt said, “It’s so nice you’re doing something with your hobby.” She’s old, she meant well, and she lives far away. She doesn’t get it. I understand. But I still felt compelled to validate my career choice by rattling off the numerous tasks I do to keep my business going and my career relevant.

I’m guessing a lot of you have experienced the, deer in the headlight look from someone after revealing that you’re an artist. “Oh. That’s cool,” they say. Then they panic and look for the easiest escape route. Then, while you’re punching your password, they ditch you before you can prove your worth with the pictures stored on your phone. I get you.

We’re artists. We’re proud. We’re a strong, viable community. And we work hard.

Just because we love what we do doesn’t mean we’re not business minded. Our attitude about our trade is just more abstract.

With our plight in mind, I’ve compiled some tips you might use to assert your profession.

5 Tips: How to be Taken Serious as an Artist

1 Wear flamboyant clothes. Billowy and bright make the best statement. Finding flashy garb is easy. Head to the back of the store; it’s hanging on the deep, deep discount rack.

2 Think like an indecisive squirrel crossing the road.In conversation, don’t be shy. Speak your creative ideas and random thoughts freely, uncensored. Having two sentences follow the same train of thought is for geeks. (No offense to geeks; I respect their straightforward approach to fixing my computer.)

3 Have crazy hair. The wilder the better. Let it go. Give your straight iron to your accountant.

4 Explain to friends, in detail the deeper meaning of a wet lump of clay.

5 Surround yourself with original art that speaks to you. Don’t fall prey to mainstream home decor picked by an interior designer from a catalog for the masses. If you really want to make a statement and show how invested you are to your profession, display your own colorful art with pride.

You got this!