Hello esteemed colleagues! This blog is particularly targeted to those of you who are considering pursuing a career in an art/creative field and those of you who are in art school as well. If you're not doing either of those things, the concepts here are good general advice for anything you're striving for, so definitely hang around and read on!

These '10 Commandments' were formulated by curator/artist/designer/entrepreneur/amazinginlyawesomehumanbeing Sergio Gomez. I had the opportunity of going to a lecture of his a few months back and it was very inspiring. So without any further ado, here they are!

10. You shall be PATIENT and CONSISTENT

One of the biggest lies you can tell yourself is that you will be an overnight success. Like any skill set, developing your artwork will take time. This is the same when looking for ways to advance your career, it won't fall into your lap. You must be earnest in looking for opportunities to show and sell your work, you must be consistent in honing your skills. Take risks, and put yourself out there!

9. You shall not LIE on your resume or cv

That's basically good advice for any career choice. Just don't do it.

8. You shall take time in NETWORKING and community building

Who you know is equally as important as what you know. Branching out into your local art scene can open doors that you may never have known existed. Also, don't write dA off as a networking tool. There are many professional artists who use this website who you can connect with as well.

7. You shall not take rejection letters as PERSONAL ATTACKS

I'll add a bit more to that point: don't take critiques as personal attacks either! Rejection is something you're going to have to become comfortable with in this career, and it has nothing to do with you as a person. I've seen far too many sore losers when it comes to even things as simple as contests here on dA...and trust me folks, that attitude will not get you far. If you put yourself out there, no is one of two answers.

6. You shall have ALL your promotional materials ready

Marketing yourself is incredibly important even if you're not a self employed artist. Make sure to keep your website and business cards up to date every few months. If you don't have either, MAKE THEM. Potential employers will often want to see not only examples of your work, but an online portfolio.

5. Dry and "ready to hang" MEANS "dry and ready to hang!"

If you're submitting physical work to galleries, 90% of the time you will be responsible for making sure your work has the proper hanging hardware (d-rings, wire, french cleats, ect). Do not under any circumstances submit a wet painting anywhere!

4. You shall not assume the curator REMEMBERS all the details about your work

I've helped hang shows and it's a maddening process. Even the most seasoned curator will not be able to recall your specifications for showing your work. That is why it is IMPORTANT to have consistent contact with that curator. It's your responsibility to see that your work is displayed correctly and in the best possible manner. I tend to try to hang my own work if I can.

3. You shall be thankful for EVERY guest that comes to your solo show

Personally, I'm happy if only 3 people show up, but it can be a little bit of a let down if you don't have a huge turn out. Instead of feeling angry at the people who didn't come even though you went through the trouble of making postcards and a facebook event, be glad for those who decided to show support for your hard work.

2. You shall NOT expect a portfolio review from a curator, gallery owner or director during opening night

I'll also add: DO NOT send curators emails to meet with you either. That is very rude behavior and you should expect to be treated poorly if you decide to do any of those things. Galleries often have specific times set aside for considering new artist's work or submissions, so follow their guidelines. I will add, this also includes sending random emails to places like Disney and videogame companies. If you think you have the skills to work with them, go through the PROPER requirements to be considered for the job. Hamfisting it will just make you look juvenile.

1. YOU shall be responsible for your art career

You are completely responsible for advancing your career. Don't blame schools or galleries who turned you down for not going after your dreams. If you're getting turned down a lot, take a look at what you're doing. Is your quality of work as good as it can be? Are you limiting yourself? Take responsibility for what you're trying to do.


I hope this advice can help you along the way as you pursue your career in art!