On Being an Artist

by Michael Craig-Martin (Artist)

Few living artists can claim to have had the influence of Michael Craig-Martin (born 1941). Celebrated internationally for his own art, he has also helped nurture generations of younger artists, among them Julian Opie, Damien Hirst, Sarah Lucas, Liam Gillick and Gary Hume. Often described as the godfather of the YBAs, he taught by combining personal example and individual guidance, offering students practical advice and insights gained from his own professional highs and lows. Part memoir and part instructional guide, On Being an Artist mixes reminiscence, personal philosophy, self-examination and advice for the budding artist. In a series of short episodes, Craig-Martin reflects with both wit and candor on the many ideas, events and people that have inspired and shaped him throughout his life, from his childhood in postwar America through his time as an art student at Yale in the 1960s and subsequent work as a teacher, to his international success in later years.

Genres: Art, Autobiography, Art History

304 pages, Hardcover

First published April 20, 2015

Reviews

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

These short writings “on” different topics gleaned from Craig-Martin’s life and experience were entertaining and interesting to read. Easy to pick and put down as the sections were short.

[Aurelie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well worth the read. I hesitated between 4 stars and 5 stars for most of the book (it is probably a 4.5 star read) but I liked the mix of insights he shared about the art world, the Tate Gallery, making it as an artist and the reproduction of his paintings and sculptures. People hoping for a gossipy book will be disappointed. People hoping for a fail-proof recipe to succeed as an artist will be disappointed as well. He doesn't say much on his personal relationships and focuses on his education and art in a series of short texts that may be too shallow for some. I think he is trying to be helpful to the next generation of artists while recognizing that success can be quite random. You are likely to enjoy this book more if you are not so keen on finding nuggets of wisdom you can directly apply to your career path as an artist and just want to genuinely learn more about the author's view of the art world.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've no recollection of seeing Craig-Martin's work before, so it's not a prerequisite for reading the book. Definitely some valuable insights into a certain era of art, an interesting cross-continental perspective (American and British), and down-to-earth thinking about contemporary art.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. I happened to sit next to the artist one night at a restaurant in London. Didn’t know who he was but found out later that night. He seems incredibly genuine, very intelligent and down to earth.

His book reflects the same. What a gift to hear his perspective on art, creating, passion and purpose.

So grateful I had that chance encounter!

[Rhona · Rating 1 out of 5]

I tried to read this once more in case I was just in the wrong headspace last night, but it was perhaps more disappointing the second time round. Writing things bluntly like they’re revolutionary does not MAKE them revolutionary. Probably not as bad as one star but Jesus I was disappointed