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What does it mean to be an artist and who gets to call themselves one?

In this intriguing blend of research and self-reflection, artist and creative business coach Megan Auman unpacks the myths and legends surrounding the idea of artist and dives into the history behind prevailing art world boundaries.

Drawing on her own experience as an artist - and as the daughter of an artist - and backed by explorations into the dogma that still colors many people's perceptions, Auman encourages readers to break free from tired art world definitions and gives every person who calls themselves a creative, a maker, a designer, or a crafter permission to be an artist.

At 120 pages, this insightful little book is the perfect pick me up for any creative struggling with their identity of their worth. Published in 2023.

The digital version includes the book in PDF, ePub, and Kindle formats, as well as the audio version, read by the author, in MP3 format. Your file will be delivered automatically via email after purchase.

"I read the entire book in a day. It's a great and easy read, that is also motivating and filled with learning about the history of art and capitalism. This book should be read by people that call themselves artists, that want to call themselves an artists, that teach artists, and that love or care about someone that loves the arts." - Amber Kane

Featuring essays on the following topics:
  • Identity: How do we decide who gets to be an artist?
  • Value: What is the worth assigned to art?
  • Education: Do artists need to go to art school?
  • Location: Does it matter if you make art for the museum or the home?
  • Labor: Who makes the work and does that make it art?
  • Permission: What does being an artist allow us to do?

The book dives deep into the history of art world divisions while weaving in reflections and stories that any artist - or anyone who's struggled to call themselves an artist - can relate to!

 


Customer Reviews

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T
Tara
Asks good questions

This book manages to be both short and in depth, asking some good - and common - questions asked about art and being an artist, and exploring the possible answers in a variety of wider contexts, with solid and interesting research. As an artist myself I recognised - and of course related to - these questions, and enjoyed Megan's trademark feisty but thoughtful, and thought provoking, approach. If you're an artist who struggles with using that word for yourself, or with valuing your creations and placing yourself in the context of 'the art world' {and really I think there is more than one}, this book pokes at your assumptions, gets you thinking, and supports you on your path.

K
Kathleen, Jewelry Designer and Craftsman
Great Book for Artists

I love the frankness and direct thoughts about being an artist. I think so many of us feel the insecurities and even the affects of “elite” artists’ scrutinies. It’s great how Megan addresses this and more. I highly recommend reading this book to help gain insights about being an artist.