The Artist

While "the artist" is no particular person, s/he is the main character of the book. The authors are writing for the artist, the one in search of how to best engage in her profession, how to navigate obstacles inherent in artistic practice and how to create great artwork that reflects the personality, ideas and world of the artist. The artist faces numerous challenges throughout the book, but they can be generally divided into two classes—internal and external challenges. Internal challenges are those within the artist herself. The artist can often be the victim of her own fear. These fears are made possible by her expectations, uncertainty, imagination and the gap between her vision and execution. Even her materials can limit her in ways that cause anxiety and apprehension.

The great fears, however, are fears about herself and fears about others. The artist often fears...