After last week's post contemplating the idea of la rentrée créative (a creative return to normal after the summer break) I thought I'd continue with the theme of reflection and review ready for the end of the year ahead.
I have a few book recommendations which I've been meaning to share and they offer opportunities for thinking holistically about your creative practice, your creative business and your work/life balance. First up:
What they didn't teach you in art school: what you need to know to survive as an artist. By Rosalind Davis and Annabel Tilley
In the spirit of new beginnings it seems appropriate to highlight a book which has been gathering lots of positive attention since it was published at the end of last year. You may have even spotted it in art bookshops, like at Tate Modern. This is a guide written by artists, for artists. It covers every aspect of establishing your artistic practice after graduation and all the elements that you will need to learn or develop when you set out on your own. Its focus may appear to be for fine artists, but the practical tips and advice are just as relevant to craft makers at the beginning of their creative careers.
What I like most about the book is that it is stuffed full of practical advice, things you can actually use or need to know. It asks lots of questions and really gets you to consider what it is you are doing. There are helpful case studies and examples from artists who are making a living and who are fully engaged with the process of working as an artist. It's the sort of book that you flick through and think 'that's really useful, and that, oh, and that too!.' You will read it from cover to cover, feel empowered about what you need to do, and then keep it on your bookshelf handy for those moments when you know the answer will be right there ready for you.
What they didn't teach you in art school: what you need to know to survive as an artist. By Rosalind Davis and Annabel Tilley, published by ilex.
Continuing Professional Development with Rosalind Davis
I can't recommend Rosalind enough. Whether you are looking for guidance with your social media, and how to promote your work, or if you need advice on making it as an artist or curator, Rosalind offers inspiring and motivating talks/workshops. I have found her Social Media Marketing courses and masterclasses invaluable in helping me find the right social media platforms and understanding how I want to communicate with my audience in a way that aligns with my values. Rosalind is incredibly knowledgeable and offers fantastic advice to emerging artists whether in one of her seminars 'Surviving and Thriving as an Artist' or in 1:1 Mentoring sessons. You can find out more on Rosalind's website and London College of Communication is currently running 8 slots for the Social Media Marketing short course this academic term.
