The Best Advice From Ten Creatives

The Best Advice From Ten Creatives

We believe that creative minds offer an endless well of inspiration. When we profile interesting people on The 10,000, one of the questions we always ask is: “What advice would you give to up-and-coming creatives?” Below, ten creatives share their responses.

Michael Elmgreen, visual artist (left): “Don’t listen to your teachers. And do the wrong thing.”

Ingar Dragset, visual artist (right): “Get out of wherever you grew up. You need to go out and see other things. Break up with your friends and family. They’ll always be there for you when you come back.”

Tom Fruin, sculptor: “Wake up early and just hit it hard. It’s mostly about luck; that’s probably the unfortunate reality. But if you wake up early and hit it hard, then you’ve got a chance.”

Lili K, singer: “Be patient and don’t compare yourself to other artists. Your career path is going to be different from everyone else’s.”

Theo Kottis, producer: “You only get one chance to make a first impression, so take your time and be patient. Learn your trade first, then start networking.”

Ryan McNamara, performance artist: “The only thing you can do is just be prepared. So just make work. Even if you think no one’s paying attention, make work. There’s no secret. You just have to make stuff and keep making it.”

Ben Pearce, DJ/producer: “Try and understand the industry a little bit to gain insight from experienced people. Oh, and don’t be a dick to people; be nice.”

Lauren Clay, visual artist and sculptor: “Follow your own interests to their extreme conclusion. There’s a lot to be said for trusting yourself.”

Zach Walker, multidisciplinary video artist: “Make things that you enjoy and make things that are interesting to you. Have a day job to keep your passion alive on your own terms.”

John Varvatos, designer: “Be a sponge. Wherever you are, don’t ever think that you know it all. Take in as much information as you can.”

Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset
The Best Advice From Ten Creatives
John Varvatos
Ben Pearce
Ryan McNamara
Lili K
Theo Kottis
Tom Fruin
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