Success in the Arts: What It Takes to Make It in Creative Fields [Paperback]

A Michael Shumate (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 1, 2007

Talent is not enough, sometimes it's not even the most important quality to promote success in the arts, says author A. Michael Shumate. His new book, Success in the Arts encourages straight thinking and professional attitudes in aspiring artists. He means artists in the broadest sense: musicians, visual artists, actors, dancers, filmmakers and writers. Each page contains an essential tip, entertaining illustration or pointed quote to guide any would-be artist. Shumate shoots from the hip with real-world advice plus realistic counsel and encouragement.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

For 19 years Michael Shumate has been Professor of Graphic Design and Illustration at St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ontario where he has taught Color Theory, all levels of Illustration, Branding Design, Art History and Beginning Web Applications. Shumate has been a graphic designer and commercial illustrator for over 35 years. Before becoming a teacher, he was Senior Designer/Illustrator for a mid-sized design studio and advertising agency. Michael's illustration work has been used for such clients as British Airways Magazine, Kelley Services and Macmillan McGraw-Hill publishers.

Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: Elfstone Press (February 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0973933356
• ISBN-13: 978-0973933352
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 0.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,951,019 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A valuable resource for any aspiring artist (whetever their field)., February 1, 2007

By 

David Ambrose "Author: 'Your Life Manual: Pra... (Calgary, AB, Canada) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Success in the Arts: What It Takes to Make It in Creative Fields (Paperback)

I found "Success In The Arts: What it Takes to Make It In Creative Fields" to be an entertaining, interesting and informative book which should help any aspiring artist, whatever their chosen field in the arts, to avoid the pitfalls that have swallowed the less fortunate.

With a wealth of experience as a creative illustrator and graphic designer, Michael has paid his dues, and reaped the rewards in his creative field.

He makes it abundantly clear in his book that talent alone is no guarantee for success in the arts. Indeed, latent talent may not even be the most important requirement. The book is divided into three parts, each of which cover the three major components necessary to make a success in creative fields - these are: talent, heart, and smarts. Each is very clearly explained in detail, with pearls of wisdom on just about every page.

"Success In The Arts: What it Takes to Make It In Creative Fields" will make a valuable resource for anyone with ideas of using their creative ability to survive in the demanding world of artistic endeavour; but it goes a lot deeper too. This book certainly is a valuable guide for life in the arts, and in the process, Michael wrote a guide for the art of life, too.

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Shortcut to Success, July 8, 2007

By 

Maureen C. Rauscher "Maureen R" (St. Louis, MO) - See all my reviews
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Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Success in the Arts: What It Takes to Make It in Creative Fields (Paperback)

This is a witty, easy-to-read book, with practical advice for those trying to break into the arts. It's well worth the investment.

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars If you don't have a mentor, get this book, March 23, 2007

By 

L. Whitehead - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Success in the Arts: What It Takes to Make It in Creative Fields (Paperback)

What a great mentor Michael Shumate would be for anyone planning a career in the arts! It is quite clear that he has good advice developed over a long and successful career. I especially liked the part about "the Grand Poo-Bah": a bit whimsical, but it gets the point across with humor. If he can't be your mentor in person, then his book is next best. He is always clear, down-to-earth, and honest. You can read the book in an afternoon. It's a great investment for anyone in the target audience.