Artistic Grant

My commercial work has allowed me to spend a lot of time photographing financial advisors. I always ask how many artists are in their client roster. The answer typically ranges from few to none.

That’s a pity because the greatest tool for creativity is financial security. Not worrying about paying the rent, frees the mind to focus on making great art.

Sure there are stipends and financial awards that a select number can tap, but they’re few and far bewteen. It’s also an establishment game that has an ever-changing set of rules.

That means an artists needs to have some revenue channels that will self-sustain. In short, figure out how to sell your own work.

I can’t help but smile a bit when I hear the phrase “artistic grant” because it means something completely different to my ears.

I immediatly think of Grant Akiyama, the Tulsa pottery artist. He’s the best and truest artistic Grant I’ve evey met. This session took place in his studio and gallery where the work is for sale.

About the author: I am Stephen Kennedy, an experienced photographer with more than 2500 completed sessions in all 50 US states.