The 'Starving Artist' Origin Story

If you’re familiar with the mission statement here at SAEN, or you’ve spent time in or around the art scene, it’s likely you’ve heard the term ‘starving artist’. Certainly it’s a concept that drives the work we do here at SAEN, but it’s also an exceptionally prevalent idea that generates artistic aesthetics, fuels myths and stereotypes and, most detrimentally, acts as a repellent that keeps aspiring artists from pursuing their dreams. But where did it come from? And why does it still have such a stranglehold over our conceptions of creative work? That’s what we’ll be exploring today. 

The language of the starving artist first came to fruition in the mid -19th century,

Illustration by Joseph Hèmrad from Scènes de la vie de bohème, 1921

when French author Henri Murger wrote his groundbreaking novel Scènes de la Vie de Bohème, featuring characters who portrayed the conventional ‘starving artist’ lifestyle. This prompted other creatives, from fellow authors to playwrights, to adopt this trope, turning a genuine societal affliction into a romanticized style choice. Since then, the idea of being a full time artist has become synonymous with struggle; the inability to make money seems a caveat artists are expected to endure if they hope to be seen as truly dedicated to their craft. 

And in a way, this has always been the case. In the early Renaissance, artists didn’t require a stroke of luck to be successful; it was a trade, as utilitarian as woodwork or gilding. Skills were honed in workshops. Artistry was regulated by supply and demand, just like any other commercial industry we’re familiar with today. Works were commissioned through contracts and controlled by patrons in every aspect, from subject to composition to the exact hues in their color palette. And even then, economic success wasn’t assured. In fact for many artists, living in their workshops with other practicing artists was the most feasible way to ensure a roof over their heads. So while the term ‘starving artist’ didn’t come about until the 1800's, the lifestyle it describes is an age-old affliction. 

Over time, the concept has been reinterpreted in a variety of ways. Some embrace it,

incorporating it into their creative practices and letting it maintain their conviction to be an artist. Others fear it, and see it as an unmaneuverable barrier between themselves and their ideal life. And of course there are those who supersede it, and become successful despite the seemingly insurmountable odds. And us at SAEN? We dispute it. It’s our goal to prove that being an artist doesn’t mean you have to struggle, that there’s no reason a narrative created centuries ago should dictate the quality of your life if you decide to live it the way you want. The art we create has changed dramatically since the 15th century; the attitude around it should too. 

If this sounds like a change you want to be a part of, we encourage you to explore our website. Whether it’s joining the Readiness Program, signing up for a bootcamp, or simply donating what you can, you’re just a couple clicks away from becoming a part of something great! Help us rewrite the artist’s story by letting us help you write yours.