Jeff Goins – Real Artists Don’t Starve: Timeless Strategies for Thriving in the New Creative Age

Thanks to the power of the myth that real artists starve for art, live in poverty, are recognized and valued after their death, many of us have a distorted view of artistry. Aspiring artists take the safe route in life and don’t dare to stand out. Enter myth buster Jeff Goins who in Real Artists Don’t Starve: Timeless Strategies for Thriving in the New Creative Age replaces this paradigm by that of a thriving artist. The goal of this book is to help you build a life that makes creating your best work not only possible but inevitable. Examples like Michelangelo, Ernest Hemingway, Vincent van Gogh, J.R.R. Tolkien, the Brontë sisters, but also contemporary ones such as moonwalker-became-painter Alan Bean, Gordon Mackenzie (Hallmark), Sam Phillips and Elvis, Steve Jobs (Apple, Pixar), Dr. Dre (DEP, Beats), Michael Jackson, and Beyoncé serve to illustrate the real genius, the real artist.

Goins identified twelve principles for his Thriving Artist paradigm. You’re not born an artist but become one. Better than striving to be original it’s better to steal from others and build upon their work. Collaborate, but apprentice first under a master. Cultivate patrons, practice in public, and don’t work for free. Own your work, make money to make art, and master many crafts.

We are used to seeing artists struggle and suffer for their art. Throughout history, there have always been daring individuals who were unwilling to accept that false depiction of an artist. Goins showcases them and hopes you’re inspired to use your creativity to harness success. A convincing book!

About the author

Jeff Goins is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and popular blogger with a reputation for challenging the status quo. In three years, Goins built a million-dollar business, published four books, and became an online marketing expert, using his skills in writing and business to help others succeed. He is the author of four books, including The Art of Work, which landed on the bestseller lists of USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly, and Washington Post. He lives with his family near Nashville, TN.

I received a free review copy from the publisher Thomas Nelson through Booklookbloggers in exchange for my personal, unbiased review upon reading.