The concept of an “emerging artist” is obscene! You’re telling me that the 24 years experience I have in studying, playing and composing music is only just enough experience to qualify me for the title of “emerging artist”….but I can go and do a 1 year post-graduate diploma of education and be a fully qualified and respected teacher? Or study a 3-year Bachelor of Commerce and graduate as a serious contributor to society, who is respected and certainly not called “emerging”.
So, why is it okay for highly trained, experienced and educated artists, musicians and creatives to be labelled as “emerging”, in most cases until the day they die. Only then are we viewed as successful and having “made it” in our professions. Too bloody late by then….I don’t need to pay rent for my little patch of ground at the cemetery…or maybe I will? Who knows. Point is….what the hell is an “emerging artist?”. I’m not emerging from anywhere people….I’m here and have been for 27 years! Read this article if you’re keen and if you’re an “emerging banker” or “emerging accountant”, I’d love to hear from you!!