Erica van Zon says creatives don’t have to fit the starving artist mould
The successful art creator Erica Van Son talks about not having to be a starving artist in New Zealand and how students can get noticed.
No one should be a starving artist in New Zealand, says successful art creator Erica van Zon.
“I think being an artist is a privilege. I don’t think we should feel sorry for ourselves.”
Van Zon talked about the importance of developing your brand and practice, so the public know who you are.
In order to not be a starving artist in New Zealand, she said you must manage your money, don’t let it manage you.
Along with this, she encouraged exploring a hobby, so you can take a break from your practice, no matter how much you love it.
When asked how she made her career flourish she said: “I think it’s with that idea of your signature.”
Van Zon graduated from AUT in 2001. Since then she says the creative industry has treated her well and that she was lucky to have made good relationships along the way.
She knew she wanted to be an artist from the age of 13 when a student at Long Bay College.
During her Spark workshop, she said the first couple of years after art school are crucial.
“It’s really self-managed,” said Van Zon.
Her tips for current visual art students were: “keep going, keep making, just enjoy it and enjoy your friends.”
