Don’t bother studying art, you only make money after you die!!
Editorial — Sept 2026
An aisle at FairPrice, and a myth that refuses to fade.
“Don’t bother studying art, you only make money after you die.”
Recently, we overheard a conversation at FairPrice.
Child: “I want to be an artist when I grow up!”
Mum: “You know artists only earn money after they die right?”
Child: “Huh?”
OUCH!!! Because this is probably one of the biggest misconceptions about pursuing art. Being an artist today is about much more than selling paintings.
A creative career can lead to many paths, from being an artist, art teacher or illustrator to working as a curator, arts manager, designer or creative producer. And even if your child doesn’t eventually choose art as a career, learning art develops skills that go far beyond the canvas.
They learn to:
• Turn an idea into something real • Plan and manage a project from start to finish • Solve problems when things don’t go as expected • Make their own creative decisions • Think ahead instead of simply following instructions • Build patience, confidence and independence
Studio Reflections
What children actually build when they paint.
When children learn to navigate a blank surface, they aren’t merely learning to draw lines. They are acquiring six essential lifelong habits:
01. Independent Thinking
Trusting personal intuition and making confident decisions without needing immediate validation.
02. Project Management
Taking a vague concept from initial spark through material preparation, iteration, and completion.
03. Patience & Resilience
Embracing unexpected paint smudges, pivoting mid-process, and staying curious through trial.
04. Creative Confidence
Expressing original viewpoints openly and discovering their unique voice in a safe, unhurried space.
A small shift at home: Changing the conversation
So the next time your child says:
“I want to be an artist.”
Maybe don’t tell them they have to die first. 😅
Ask instead:
“What kind of artist do you want to be?”
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