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How To Become A Successful Artist
The must-have business guide for visual artists, written by the leading specialist in the global art trade
Written for artists of all levels, the latest book from bestselling author Magnus Resch explores how artists can have a career in the field they love. It answers the most important questions including: How do I find gallery representation? How do I write an artist statement? How should I price my artworks? And what's the best Instagram strategy? Case studies are drawn from interviews with leading experts and practitioners, including artists, dealers, and curators. It's an invaluable international art-world resource.
Participating experts include: Georgina Adam, Tim Bengel, Katherine Bernhardt, Mr. Brainwash, Simon de Pury, Jeffrey Deitch, Chris Dercon, The Haas Brothers, Peter Halley, Gregor Hildebrandt, Zhang Huan, Rashid Johnson, Jitish Kallat, Yue Minjun, Marilyn Minter, Tyler Mitchell, Oscar Murillo, Shirin Neshat, Hans Ulrich Obrist, Raymond Pettibon, Bill Powers, Daan Roosegaarde, Mera & Don Rubell, Kenny Schachter, Kenny Scharf, Lisa Schiff, Paul Schimmel, Julian Schnabel, Sean Scully, Stefan Simchowitz, Laurie Simmons, Lucien Smith, Salman Toor, Amalia Ulman, Jorinde Voigt, Jordan Wolfson, Heidi Zuckerman and many more.
Written for artists of all levels, the latest book from bestselling author Magnus Resch explores how artists can have a career in the field they love. It answers the most important questions including: How do I find gallery representation? How do I write an artist statement? How should I price my artworks? And what's the best Instagram strategy? Case studies are drawn from interviews with leading experts and practitioners, including artists, dealers, and curators. It's an invaluable international art-world resource.
Participating experts include: Georgina Adam, Tim Bengel, Katherine Bernhardt, Mr. Brainwash, Simon de Pury, Jeffrey Deitch, Chris Dercon, The Haas Brothers, Peter Halley, Gregor Hildebrandt, Zhang Huan, Rashid Johnson, Jitish Kallat, Yue Minjun, Marilyn Minter, Tyler Mitchell, Oscar Murillo, Shirin Neshat, Hans Ulrich Obrist, Raymond Pettibon, Bill Powers, Daan Roosegaarde, Mera & Don Rubell, Kenny Schachter, Kenny Scharf, Lisa Schiff, Paul Schimmel, Julian Schnabel, Sean Scully, Stefan Simchowitz, Laurie Simmons, Lucien Smith, Salman Toor, Amalia Ulman, Jorinde Voigt, Jordan Wolfson, Heidi Zuckerman and many more.
216 pages, Paperback
Published May 26, 2021
40 people are currently reading
475 people want to read
About the author
Magnus Resch
19 books28 followersMagnus Resch is an art-market economist, serial entrepreneur, and bestselling author. Magnus is a Professor for art economics, lecturing at Yale University. He holds a Ph.D. in economics and studied at Harvard, the LSE, and University of St. Gallen. His career has been portrayed in a Harvard Business School case study and in various articles, in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Vanity Fair and the Financial Times. Magnus lives in New York City.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 9, 2021
There are three great things about the book.
First, the design does a great job filling the gaps of an otherwise sparse content
Second, the author’s data analysis on the global art market is rather compelling, it doesn’t however justify it turned into a fullblown book
Third, it does a good job collecting all “buzzfeed” type articles one would come across googling things like “What do art critics do”. So if you’re in your first year of art school then I guess this book would be perfect for you
All in all it comes across as if the book serves as a teaser for the author’s expensive online artist mentorship course. It is however a very easy read, so I guess why not 🤷🏻♂️
First, the design does a great job filling the gaps of an otherwise sparse content
Second, the author’s data analysis on the global art market is rather compelling, it doesn’t however justify it turned into a fullblown book
Third, it does a good job collecting all “buzzfeed” type articles one would come across googling things like “What do art critics do”. So if you’re in your first year of art school then I guess this book would be perfect for you
All in all it comes across as if the book serves as a teaser for the author’s expensive online artist mentorship course. It is however a very easy read, so I guess why not 🤷🏻♂️
June 16, 2021
“How to Become A Successful Artist” – If you ever wondered why some artists with astounding creative merit don’t make it, this one is for you.
This book is your personal guide for artists big and small, experienced and inexperienced. The author, Magnus Resch, takes a quantitative as well qualitative approach to his research and writing, which clearly explain the core business principles of how to make it in the art market. This one is not about fluffy guidance and ideas but based on a thorough analysis of the art market with the integration of superstars such as Hans Ulrich Obrist, Julian Schnabel and Johann König, just to name a few.
As a gallery co-owner and Business School graduate, I can discern the incredible, insightful and tangible work that Magnus has brought to the art market. I highly recommend this one to any art-lover out there.
This book is your personal guide for artists big and small, experienced and inexperienced. The author, Magnus Resch, takes a quantitative as well qualitative approach to his research and writing, which clearly explain the core business principles of how to make it in the art market. This one is not about fluffy guidance and ideas but based on a thorough analysis of the art market with the integration of superstars such as Hans Ulrich Obrist, Julian Schnabel and Johann König, just to name a few.
As a gallery co-owner and Business School graduate, I can discern the incredible, insightful and tangible work that Magnus has brought to the art market. I highly recommend this one to any art-lover out there.
May 27, 2021
A pragmatic field map to the art world, yes, reality bites in some instances, however the author has given some encouraging options to alternative routes and creative pathways to have a sustainable career as an artist.
The book demystifies many of the complexities and nuances of the global art market with solid data, interesting case studies and a practical breakdown of key players and their modus operandi.
Complete with an address book of who’s who in the art world on Instagram, I’ve really enjoyed this book and look forward to giving it to my accountant for his end of financial year present as it’s the first art book that speaks both our languages.
The book demystifies many of the complexities and nuances of the global art market with solid data, interesting case studies and a practical breakdown of key players and their modus operandi.
Complete with an address book of who’s who in the art world on Instagram, I’ve really enjoyed this book and look forward to giving it to my accountant for his end of financial year present as it’s the first art book that speaks both our languages.
December 12, 2023
The fact that he continuously refers to art market success as The Holy Land makes my skin crawl.
April 25, 2023
This resource helped me reconstruct my mindset on being an artist while also attaining financial success. It is extremely hard to bridge the gap between creativity and entrepreneurship, but Resch lays out a digestible execution.
June 2, 2021
This book gives artists a “business” perspective, which is really important for practicing artists but usually not paid enough attention by artists.
As for raising awareness, analyzing the situation, Magnus quickly gives us a clear picture of what’s happening in the art market objectively and clearly. Most appreciated, Magnus has spent lots of effort doing deep research and data analysis and presentation with facts, statics, numbers, and case studies. When providing solutions to the problem and situation, Magus also pointed clear clues and methods for artists about how to be successful financially. They are clear, strong, and convincing.
A small critiques: these methods are not practical and specific enough to me. That’s to say, when I finished the reading, I am really clear about the big image of the art market and briefly what I should do to gain financial success such as “go out and build connections ”, but I am looking forward to reading more about those part such as “How I can get connections”. Well, guess I am looking forward to a Volume 2!
As for raising awareness, analyzing the situation, Magnus quickly gives us a clear picture of what’s happening in the art market objectively and clearly. Most appreciated, Magnus has spent lots of effort doing deep research and data analysis and presentation with facts, statics, numbers, and case studies. When providing solutions to the problem and situation, Magus also pointed clear clues and methods for artists about how to be successful financially. They are clear, strong, and convincing.
A small critiques: these methods are not practical and specific enough to me. That’s to say, when I finished the reading, I am really clear about the big image of the art market and briefly what I should do to gain financial success such as “go out and build connections ”, but I am looking forward to reading more about those part such as “How I can get connections”. Well, guess I am looking forward to a Volume 2!
November 25, 2024
I just finished "skimming" this book, and it's really only worth picking up from a library and fishing for a few insights. I'm also not surprised he's trying to portray himself as an art guru through online courses; he's constantly showing off his credentials, bragging about his accomplishments and entrepreneurial endeavors, and his case studies are shallow and incomplete. The only thing in that book that was interesting was his paper about predicting artistic fame and success through elite galleries using network graphs.
It's an easy read, but not worth the money even if you were interested in pursuing a career in gallery art.
It's an easy read, but not worth the money even if you were interested in pursuing a career in gallery art.
July 10, 2021
Very informative on how the art world works and the different stakeholders.
It is very focused on the artists who wants to be at the top of the pyramid, however not every artist wants to be at the top, some just want to have a sustainable practice, sell for feed themselves without selling for 50k a piece.
There are many artists I follow who have a 6-figure art business, some 7-figure and they aren’t working with the top level galleries at the top of the pyramid, and I think it would have been best to have a lot at the way they work as well.
There are some very good tips. I was specially interested to see how to approach galleries. Basically the book says Network, Network, Network. I had 3-4 interviews as well on this with artists and a curator and they told me that network is not the only door… so I guess I still will try with building my currently inexistant network.
The book ends very abruptly. A nice conclusion of some sort would have been great.
The last words are « Don’t write more than 100 words » for an artist statement when on the previous page, the example is way more than 100 words.
Very tips on contracts!
Overall it’s a very book and gave me a clear picture of the art world and how to approach it!
It is very focused on the artists who wants to be at the top of the pyramid, however not every artist wants to be at the top, some just want to have a sustainable practice, sell for feed themselves without selling for 50k a piece.
There are many artists I follow who have a 6-figure art business, some 7-figure and they aren’t working with the top level galleries at the top of the pyramid, and I think it would have been best to have a lot at the way they work as well.
There are some very good tips. I was specially interested to see how to approach galleries. Basically the book says Network, Network, Network. I had 3-4 interviews as well on this with artists and a curator and they told me that network is not the only door… so I guess I still will try with building my currently inexistant network.
The book ends very abruptly. A nice conclusion of some sort would have been great.
The last words are « Don’t write more than 100 words » for an artist statement when on the previous page, the example is way more than 100 words.
Very tips on contracts!
Overall it’s a very book and gave me a clear picture of the art world and how to approach it!
February 4, 2023
If you're an artist looking for serious, research based advice – this is it. 6 stars.
Admittedly, I bought this book while rolling my eyes because the title is audacious and I've been here before. Read so many books about the business and insights of being a "successful artist". Very few people actually give any solid advice. I could not praise this book enough. You can trash all your other "how-to" books for artists because this is the real deal.
This book is mildly depressing in parts and very American-centric. But it is BY FAR the most insightful, well researched, facts based book about the art world. If you are sick of fake promises and want to get the insider info without sugarcoating or any feel-good fluff, buy this book!!
I am an emerging artist and Resch's book is my new go-to reference for information. I could not recommend it enough. But only if you are serious about your career and about getting your foot into the elite art world. Although, maybe if you read this book and find it off-putting then all the better. This industry is not for everyone.
Admittedly, I bought this book while rolling my eyes because the title is audacious and I've been here before. Read so many books about the business and insights of being a "successful artist". Very few people actually give any solid advice. I could not praise this book enough. You can trash all your other "how-to" books for artists because this is the real deal.
This book is mildly depressing in parts and very American-centric. But it is BY FAR the most insightful, well researched, facts based book about the art world. If you are sick of fake promises and want to get the insider info without sugarcoating or any feel-good fluff, buy this book!!
I am an emerging artist and Resch's book is my new go-to reference for information. I could not recommend it enough. But only if you are serious about your career and about getting your foot into the elite art world. Although, maybe if you read this book and find it off-putting then all the better. This industry is not for everyone.
June 15, 2021
The best advise I’ve heard yet!
There are so many “experts” out there proclaiming that they have the answers to your problems and how you can have the carrier you dream of. After reading many of these kinds of guides they tend to overlap and blend together, not really offering advice that seems very useful.
Many artist guides focus on the online aspect of the artist carrier. As an artist who’s lived in a small town her whole life, one that has very little opportunity for artists, the gallery system has been a mystery to me. One I am eager to learn about.
That’s why I was drawn to Magnus’s research. He not only explains the online aspects but also the art market/gallery scene throughly. His research is giving artists the information they need to plan there carriers. His book is useful and thorough and is helping me plan the path I will take. I recommend it to any aspiring artist.
There are so many “experts” out there proclaiming that they have the answers to your problems and how you can have the carrier you dream of. After reading many of these kinds of guides they tend to overlap and blend together, not really offering advice that seems very useful.
Many artist guides focus on the online aspect of the artist carrier. As an artist who’s lived in a small town her whole life, one that has very little opportunity for artists, the gallery system has been a mystery to me. One I am eager to learn about.
That’s why I was drawn to Magnus’s research. He not only explains the online aspects but also the art market/gallery scene throughly. His research is giving artists the information they need to plan there carriers. His book is useful and thorough and is helping me plan the path I will take. I recommend it to any aspiring artist.
July 12, 2022
Start with an appreciation for realistic expectations and an open mind, and you won't be disappointed.
Magnus presents eyebrow-raising stats for the fine art community. I developed a deepened sense of respect for artists out there in New York and Europe and everywhere, networking and being true business people. Looks like being an introvert and making money off art do not coincide.
In the latter half, Magnus provides concrete tools to assist the rookie artist, like guides on managing inventory, and written agreements for commissions, invoices, and gallery partnerships. He even discusses how to get featured by the press. I wish I found these tools earlier in my art journey because it could make an art business sound and feel more legitimate and tangible. This helped me visualize what a day in the life of a serious artist would be like.
Also, the case studies, titles, and stats are a pleasant shade of red or pink. Keeps the eyes interested. Definitely recommend.
Magnus presents eyebrow-raising stats for the fine art community. I developed a deepened sense of respect for artists out there in New York and Europe and everywhere, networking and being true business people. Looks like being an introvert and making money off art do not coincide.
In the latter half, Magnus provides concrete tools to assist the rookie artist, like guides on managing inventory, and written agreements for commissions, invoices, and gallery partnerships. He even discusses how to get featured by the press. I wish I found these tools earlier in my art journey because it could make an art business sound and feel more legitimate and tangible. This helped me visualize what a day in the life of a serious artist would be like.
Also, the case studies, titles, and stats are a pleasant shade of red or pink. Keeps the eyes interested. Definitely recommend.
May 31, 2021
The book gives a thorough overview how the art world functions and what it takes to be a successful artist. I truly appreciate the detailed research followed by really good examples. This information should be taught in art universities and academies. Unfortunately the majority of art education today is not very concerned with practical matters related to building a successful art career. I am really glad such book exists! Every artist should definitely have it, as it is a very valuable guide.
May 29, 2021
This book is absolutely giant. As an emerging artist I will be adopting many recommendations proposed in this colossal bank of informations. Statistics, case studies, takes on interviews with the people that matter in the industry…it’s all there. I mostly liked the advices after every subject matter, the do's and don'ts. This book is an encouragement for artists wanting to get ahead, It spoke to me. Written in a no nonsense style it goes to the subject without staggering on long and on. It has become my reference book. A keeper!
June 2, 2021
I LIKE THE BOOK !!
very catching read, with lots of information , where you can feel, it has been thought through and well researched. an eye opener for dreaming artist to be famous and rich within the art life, nonetheless not discouraging to continue to do art - because that s what all it is for an artist - i guess.
i probably will make few birthday and christmas presents out of it to my artist friends.
very catching read, with lots of information , where you can feel, it has been thought through and well researched. an eye opener for dreaming artist to be famous and rich within the art life, nonetheless not discouraging to continue to do art - because that s what all it is for an artist - i guess.
i probably will make few birthday and christmas presents out of it to my artist friends.
March 20, 2024
For any artist already familiar with how the art world works in general, this book will not teach you anything new. If this is the first book you read on the art world then perhaps it’s insightful. I learnt nothing new and felt the book was constantly referring to the author’s other business ventures in a not-so-subtle marketing scheme. I appreciated the section on writing to journalists and I’ve used Larry’s List for research hence the 2 stars.
May 22, 2021
The title is the million dollar question for most artists to know how to 'make it' in what appears to often be a fickle world.
There are several good books on this topic but what this book adds is the statistics to back it up, with breakdowns of what galleries help artists succeed and what part online sales play in the art market.
It's very much targeted at the New York market, though he has the stats to back it up as the place to be. Having said that the practical tips could easily apply to artists in London and Berlin.
The mix of statistics and handy tips make it a must read for any artists trying to break into the ultra competitive art world.
There are several good books on this topic but what this book adds is the statistics to back it up, with breakdowns of what galleries help artists succeed and what part online sales play in the art market.
It's very much targeted at the New York market, though he has the stats to back it up as the place to be. Having said that the practical tips could easily apply to artists in London and Berlin.
The mix of statistics and handy tips make it a must read for any artists trying to break into the ultra competitive art world.
Read
May 29, 2021Highly recommended book for artists. The most fascinating part of this book is how it emerges the reader into the realities of being an artist, yet is encouraging while being realistic. It also explains the nuances of a career in art, giving specific advice on making an earnings while having a satisfying career.
June 25, 2021
I found this book revealing. As a Mexican artist, I'm working in a system that does not offer the infrastructure to build the global Art System requirements. This guide is super important if you want to help your local system to start collaborating (galleries, institutions, artists, audience, media, social media, etc) in order to mobilize onto the "bigger" picture.
October 30, 2021
Where I was very disparaging of The Business of Being an Artist, this book is the exact opposite. Well written and well thought out. Every chapter has useful, timely information. For the visual artist, I would go so far as to call it a must-read. Full of amazing information. I can't speak highly enough of this book.
June 18, 2022
This is the book I needed when I wanted to focus on art but at the time I had nobody to help me on my pathway. I really think any young person in the High school ready to graduate range and those going into college with art as their focus will benefit from this book, it's updated for today and really gets you to understand the world of the career artist.
June 1, 2021
A very thorough, helpful and well-written book which offers a lot of data, case studies and useful "insider" advice for becoming a successful artist. It's the much-needed left-brain guide for right-brained people!
December 12, 2021
Wonderful breakdown
This book does a phenomenal job breaking down the ins and outs of the widely misunderstood art market. If you’re new to Art or looking for a new way to better understand what’s going on in the art world this book is for you.
This book does a phenomenal job breaking down the ins and outs of the widely misunderstood art market. If you’re new to Art or looking for a new way to better understand what’s going on in the art world this book is for you.
December 15, 2024
There are some interesting studies and facts. There are a lot of inspirational artists mentioned however most of the advice is easily found with a quick Google search.
I'd probably recommend it to absolute beginners who have no idea about the art world.
I'd probably recommend it to absolute beginners who have no idea about the art world.
May 28, 2021
this book is excellent, I highly recommend it
August 2, 2023
I enjoyed reading this book full of factual information and I especially liked the case studies in each section of the book.
April 17, 2024
Poor title, but very well researched.
August 29, 2024
Adored it. Well written, straight to the point, very helpful. I wanna read it all over again and take many notes. This book is the equivalent of a Masterclass.
June 3, 2025
Finance bro teaches you how to be an artist
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews