In a recent Dallas Morning News article (https://www.dallasnews.com/arts-entertainment/2024/06/20/4-tips-on-how-artists-can-be-successful-entrepreneurs/), CCPA Professor James Hart offered his expert advice on helping artists move from job seekers to job creators. Hart’s objective as SMU’s director of social innovation, creative, and arts entrepreneurship is to teach artists how to think like entrepreneurs so they may grow their careers.
Hart’s teachings promote self-reliance. “We teach artists to be the principal drivers of their professional careers,” he says. Hart stated this idea during an Arts Access funding fair in April.
1. Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Identify your “superhero powers” (talents, interests, passions, and skills) and “kryptonite” (tasks you struggle with) in order to stay focused on your strengths and delegate other tasks.
2. Provide Value to Your Audience
Artists should strive to address market gaps and meet community needs, which promotes loyalty and customer loyalty.
3. Utilize Existing Resources
Hart recommends not starting from scratch. Instead, use available tools and models, such as those found on strategyzer.com and YouTube, to create an effective and successful business.
4. Embrace Action and Adaptation
Taking the initial step is critical. Begin with what you have, learn from your mistakes, and adapt accordingly. “Until you’re committed to action, you only have inertia,” Hart explains.
Professor Hart’s guidance encourages artists to incorporate creativity and enterprise, resulting in long-term employment. Artists can achieve long-term success by utilizing their abilities, adding value to the community, making use of existing resources, and constantly evolving.