As the economy and job market continue to suffer, we are looking for any signs of hope we can find; especially those who dream of being a professional artist but are scared to take the leap for fear of becoming the dreaded “starving artist”. The good news is, there are recent studies that prove there is such a hope!

In the article, “Sorry: Art Is a Business” by Professor John M. Eger, he lists impressive statistics regarding the success and satisfaction of arts alumni. But, it did become clear that the success and satisfaction would be even higher if these artists had business savvy. While many schools do offer degrees that incorporate both art studies and business/entreprenuerial skills, these types of well-rounded curriculums are becoming a necessity. For example, at the Institute For Arts Entrepreneurship in Chicago, “there is clearly recognition that the artists in society can and must play a larger role in societal and economic affairs.” Creativity and innovation are necessary for improving our economy, and arts education is where it can all begin.