As an artist I have encountered a lot of “interesting” reactions to what I have chosen to do with my life. People do not respect the arts. Fine Arts majors are constantly ridiculed for their career choices. Here are eight things Fine Arts majors never want to hear.
1) “So… is this a hobby.”
Do you really think I would be paying college tuition for a hobby? No this is not just something I thought would be fun to do one day. It is something I have been passionate about my whole life. It’s something have worked on for years. Something I have invested time and money into. So no it is NOT a hobby.
2) “Majoring in art is a waste of money”
Did I ask you to pay my tuition? Didn’t think so.
3) “You’re never going to find a job”
I have been working (and getting paid) in my major since I graduated high school. I also have a steady flow of freelance work and commissions, and have found internships and jobs all in my field at the age of nineteen. My friends that aren’t art majors work at places like Starbucks….. But ya know according to society they’re the ones that chose the right career path.
4) “All you can do is be a teacher”
First of all what is wrong with being a teacher? Second I have plenty of options. If you took the time to actually learn about artistic careers you’d see I more option than you.
5) “This isn’t very practical”
I wish you could see me rolling my eyes. Again if people would just take the time look at how art is used “practically” (graphic design, illustrator, instructional design etc.) all around them maybe they wouldn’t be so rude.
6) “Art isn’t hard; you just draw pictures all day.”
Yeah I just spend hours studying technique’s to renderer a likeness on to a blank canvas…. That’s not hard at all. Matter of fact if it’s so easy why don’t you try it.
7) “You won’t actually be successful”
So in ten years when you realize your practical major led you to a dead- end nine to five that you hate. And I am successfully self-employed AND doing what I love…. Then we can talk about who’s successful.
8) “You’re just being lazy. The only reason your and artist is because you don’t want a real job.”
No…… I just would like to enjoy what I do for a living.
I think we all can agree, if you don’t have anything nice to say then just don’t say it at all.
