Welcome to the Fine Arts Industry: Where Your Dreams Come to Die (But, Hey, It’s All About the Journey, Right?) by Khairul Ehsani Sapari

Photo by Pang Yuhao on Unsplash

        Congratulations, fresh graduates! You’ve survived the sleepless nights chasing deadlines for your FYP submissions, endured last-minute critiques from people who don't quite understand your exquisite "taste," and participated in your fair share of pretentious art discussions that somehow always end with someone quoting Duchamp or the Mystical Reality exhibition (as if they're still revolutionary). You probably bombed your SPM exams but thought you had rewritten your destiny by graduating with a degree certificate. But guess what? Now you’re stepping out into the “real” world, and I hate to break it to you—but the journey from campus hero to real-world zero is about to begin. Let’s paint a picture, shall we?

1. Your First Job… Oh Wait, There Isn't One

So, you thought that little degree scroll was the golden ticket? Oh, you sweet summer child. The fine arts industry isn’t waiting for you with open arms. It’s more like a void you’ll be screaming into while hoping for a gallery assistant gig, where your primary duty will involve handing out pamphlets or catalogues (without your name on them) at exhibition openings. Sure, your meticulously curated portfolio—if you were taught at university how to make one, that is—might land you an interview, but likely for unpaid internships and full-time “toyol” roles for established senior artists, because "exposure" is the new currency.

2. "Exposure" is the Art World’s Shakespearean Language

Speaking of "exposure," get used to hearing that annoying word. People will try to pay you with it. Yes, your blood, sweat, and tears (plus a heavy dose of caffeine or ketum, pick your poison) were all poured into that piece, but someone out there will still think paying you with “Instagram and TikTok shoutouts” is ideal compensation. Don’t worry; in a few years, you'll be able to feed your family with "Likes," "Retweets," and "Shares."

3. Networking is the New Talent

Remember how you thought being good at art was the whole point? Nah. AI can generate better artwork than you. It’s not about skills; it’s all about who you know. In a nutshell, the art world is more about makan-makan at gallery openings, awkwardly complimenting some "artist's" dubious work, and hoping someone important notices you. Oh, you’re an introvert? Tough luck, lad. The louder, more shameless, and better at schmoozing you are, the better your odds of getting a foot in the door. They won’t care about your art (yet), but they might care if you know the right buzzwords and can throw out a half-baked philosophical rant. So you’d better start reading those obscure liberal studies books as soon as possible.

4. Criticism: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Remember how your ego was delicately massaged during critiques in your studies? Multiply that by a hundred and add a dash of public humiliation. Critics, curators, and random onlookers will tear your work apart as they see fit—often without understanding it. One of these days, you’ll encounter a budak kampung exclaiming, "Eh! Nenek aku pun boleh buat gambar ni!" as they squint at your abstract painting that took months to complete. Get ready to smile like Arthur Fleck as you clench your fists, suppressing the urge to pummel the innocent kid.

5. Success is Subjective (and Rare)

That overnight sensation you dream of becoming? It happens about as often as Jho Low getting caught. Most artists take years to build up to what the world considers “success.” And even when you do get there, you might not recognize it. Success might mean being featured in a group exhibition with 50 other artists, being a finalist in Bakat Muda Sezaman or UOB Painting of the Year, or landing a commission that pays enough to cover a fraction of your rent. What a time to be alive.

6. Oh, and Don’t Forget to Keep “Creating”

Through all the financial instability, emotional breakdowns, and self-doubt, don’t forget the most important thing: keep making art. No matter how many times someone says, “Apa kata kau buat graphic design je. Lagi untung,” you must fight the urge to scream. Your passion for art is the only thing that’ll keep you going—and maybe a side job or two (or five) to pay the bills.

        So, dear graduates, welcome to the jungle. It’s a beautiful, chaotic, and often cruel place, but it’s also where you’ll find your voice. The world of fine arts is treacherous and frustrating, but if you can survive it—and still create—you might just carve out a space for yourself. And if not? Well, there’s always the next trend to chase. Enjoy the ride. See you in 10 years!

 

P.S. For those who read my previous article, yes, this one may look contradictory, but eh, give me a break. You don’t want me breaking these young'uns’ spirits, do you? At least not yet... :')