You probably know about the struggles of starving artists who are waiting for their big break.
They have poured so much time, energy and emotion into their art.
Most people will not consider these artists as real, and their work as art.
Gorodenkoff - stock.adobe.com
When something seems too market-driven, we often call it over-commercialized.
Admittedly, we all belong to some sort of tribe.
Some tribes are affluent and look for art that reinforces their notions of beauty.
But an artist who is driven by rage and anger will probably be anti-establishment.
To that artist, not belonging is what makes his/her art commercial to the tribe being appealed to.
We see something in the art we buy; thats why we like it.
We respond to nice musical rhythms and harmonies.
We respond to emotions that looking at a painting creates in us.
Or there is something in the artists life that creates resonance for us.
It can be one or several of these reasons.
Having a well-known benefactor or mentor who talks or endorses our work certainly does not hurt.
It will only hurt us if we let it.
We can create some artworks that sell, and some that are only for us.
We have to create great works of art, but we also have to eat.
There is no dissonance in having both.
