Statistics like these reflect the challenges faced by artists like Sayle who are trying to balance a creative practice and survival in London – a city slowly suffocating its creatives. A study carried out by Luminate Prospects in 2018 showed that just over 20% of UK fine arts graduates actually go on to work as artists. You’re f****d unless you’re rich really.” Having a studio and a flat – you’ve got to take home a lot of money to do that and if you’re taking home enough to do that then your job is pretty much your life.

“Unless you live a completely illegal life – shoplifting all your food, living in a squat – how the f*** do you make art? Traveling across London costs enough. Using her own experiences as an artist as well as the experiences of her clients, Michels crafts a must-read guidebook for anyone interested in embarking upon a successful career as an artist.Most people just stop making art after art school, because you have to work your arse off in London to just live here,” says artist and designer Graham Sayle, his soothing Liverpudlian tone peppered with concern. How dealers find artists, how to negotiate with dealers, and how to understand a dealer's agenda Neighborhood gentrification and the growing challenges of securing a reasonably priced live/work space New suggestions for establishing and calculating prices for artwork

The confusion between the 'art-buying public' and the 'general public' and their differences

The use of social media and website development as marketing and publicity tools and what does and doesn't work New business models for artists: Going to the extreme In this newly revised edition, Caroll Michels continues to demystify the inner workings of the art world and challenge the status quo. Written for fine artists ready to launch their careers as well as experienced artists who wish to relaunch their careers, How to Survive and Prosper as an Artist, Seventh Edition, an acclaimed guide, empowers artists to take control of their careers to create a fulfilling life and earn a decent income. 'Michels explodes the romantic notion of the starving artist.' -The New York Times

How to survive and prosper as an artist