Maintaining Relevance: Strategies for Artists
Artists often face the challenge of remaining relevant in a rapidly changing world. Some succeed, and some, like Lou Christie, evolve to maintain a broad audience over a long span of time. This article explores what artists can do to stay relevant, whether in terms of public recognition or continuing to attract attention in artistic circles.
Public Relevance: A Broad Perspective
Public relevance is not only about current recognition and notice within the art world; it also involves continuing to display the ability to attract attention, particularly in avant-garde or fashionable circles. An artist may achieve this by staying ahead of trends in taste or by producing controversial output. This article delves into the broader implications of relevance for artists, examining how maintaining a meaningful connection to an audience is essential to long-term success.
Relevance Through Continuity and Evolution
A western artist, for example, may NOT prioritize being relevant in terms of current social norms. Instead, an artist's work can remain meaningful by resonating with a broad audience, whether it be the public, a niche audience, or even other artists in avant-garde circles. This topic examines how an artist's work can remain meaningful and enduring.
Visual Artists and Their Relevance
Visual artists, like any other form of artist, can stay relevant through two main strategies: successful use of visual art symbols and refreshing them through a unique style and personality. Additionally, expanding one's life experiences to reflect in the art they create is crucial. This helps the artist's work remain alive, responsive, and available to viewers, fulfilling a core mirroring function.
Personal Development and Emotional Health
Sustaining a meaningful relationship with an audience requires not only artistic growth but also personal development and emotional health. Just as in any relationship, an artist must remain mentally and emotionally healthy to create meaningful and enduring work. This involves continually expanding one's life experiences and maintaining a unique style that resonates with viewers.
Examples of Maintaining Relevance
Lou Christie's journey serves as an excellent example. Despite not achieving the same level of success in subsequent decades, he maintained relevance by branching out into various musical genres, such as country music, and forming bands. Over a 60-year career, he remained an entertainer, ensuring his presence in the entertainment industry without bowing to the pressures of constant commercial success.
Conclusion
Being relevant as an artist is not just about being popular or trendy. It is about maintaining a meaningful connection with an audience through originality, personal growth, and emotional health. Whether you are a visual artist, musician, or writer, staying relevant requires a deep engagement with your subject matter and a commitment to your unique voice.