Ayn Rand and things.
I have had an email from a student at a local (ish) university asking me about my blog over the weekend. They were quite concerned that I was giving away a lot of my knowledge/strategies away for free. Wasn't I worried that other people would use my thoughts to further their own careers?
There is so much advice and career development out there, I hardly feel like my blog is going to be the thing that shows people the way to a glittering career. I also believe that people can read all they liked, but it will only make a difference if they act upon it.
In the Simpsons last night (it was a bank holiday people!) Maggie went to the Ayn Rand Nursery, laden with slogans such as 'Helping is futile!'. Two of my favourite books, Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand purport her philosophy, which is a particularly selfish brand of capitalism. Although the stories are gripping in both books, the characters are bizarre (especially the female protagonists, presumably her) and they have dubious moral values to say the least. It has beens shown that Ayn Rand's philosohpy, Objectivism, as well as her institute all receive more attention and followers during a recession. Often celebrities are fans, with Angelina Jolie starring in the remake of Atlas Shrugged soon I believe. The rich want to stay rich, but more importantly, believe that they are entitled to be and to be jealous of all they have.
I always think artists can be a little bit like this in their behaviour. Okay, so it's a harsh comparison, but you know what I mean; looking after number one. Something I do keep wittering on about is the fact that artists do not help each other enough, (I don't mean painting pictures for people, or calling galleries on their behalf, just a little generosity with time or advice). A lot of this industry is extremely personal and artists need to find their own way of doing things and learn from experience. But telling someone not to bother hiring a gallery, or offering advice about a residency that would be perfect for their work takes no effort and doesn't hurt you. Helping is not futile: it strengthens networks and you may find that links you make come back to reward you.
Take care of yourself, and each other – right?
