As a creative director and artist, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of a world fueled by passion, politics, and the pursuit of recognition. The art and entertainment industries are dazzling on the surface, but beneath the glamour lies a structure designed to test your patience, resilience, and sometimes even your principles.

For anyone aspiring to break into these fields, I want to share my experiences—how I’ve dealt with diverse clients, faced the pressure to “kiss ass,” and found ways to thrive without losing my authenticity.

Clients: The Good, the Bad, and the Puzzling

Every client comes with their own story, expectations, and quirks. Some are dream collaborators who trust your vision and allow you to soar creatively. Others? Not so much.

There was the overly demanding client who wanted changes upon changes but didn’t want to pay for the extra time. Then there was the one who ghosted me after approving a project, leaving me chasing payments. And let’s not forget the clients who “know better” than you, even though they hired you for your expertise.

But here’s the thing: every client, no matter how difficult, teaches you something valuable. I’ve learned to establish clear boundaries, use contracts religiously, and communicate openly to avoid misunderstandings. Most importantly, I’ve realized that not every client is worth your energy. It’s okay to walk away from projects that compromise your values or drain your creativity.

The Game of the Entertainment Industry

The entertainment industry is like a game of chess—strategic and often manipulative. One unspoken rule? If you’re not careful, you’ll feel pressured to “kiss ass” to get ahead.

You’ll meet gatekeepers who expect you to stroke their egos, people who want to take credit for your work, and those who will dismiss your talent unless you align yourself with their agenda. It’s frustrating, especially when you know your art deserves recognition on its own merit.

But here’s how you beat their game:

1. Let Your Work Speak Loudly: Talent and excellence are hard to ignore. The more undeniable your work is, the less you’ll need to prove yourself through words or favors.

2. Build Your Own Platform: Don’t wait for the gatekeepers to give you a seat at their table. Create your own opportunities. Social media, blogs, and independent projects have leveled the playing field. Showcase your work to the world and let your audience find you.

3. Network Without Compromising Yourself: Networking doesn’t mean you have to kiss ass. Be genuine. Build relationships with people who respect your work and share your values. The right connections will appreciate you for who you are, not what you can do for them.

4. Stay Authentic: It’s tempting to play along with the industry’s politics, but authenticity will always win in the long run. Be true to your vision, and don’t be afraid to say no to situations that compromise your integrity.

Lessons for Upcoming Artists

Know Your Worth: Don’t let anyone undervalue your talent. Set your rates, stick to them, and don’t be afraid to walk away from clients or deals that don’t respect you.

Master the Business Side: Contracts, negotiations, deadlines—these are just as important as your art. Learn them well to protect your work and reputation.

Focus on the Bigger Picture: Not every opportunity is worth your time. Focus on projects that align with your goals and push your growth.

Be Patient, but Persistent: Success rarely comes overnight. Keep pushing, keep creating, and keep showing up, even when it feels like no one’s watching.

My Personal Takeaway

The art world and entertainment industry will challenge you in ways you never imagined. They’ll test your resolve, your confidence, and even your love for your craft. But they’ll also reward you if you stay true to yourself.

I’ve learned to navigate these spaces by staying grounded, finding joy in the creative process, and refusing to let external pressures dictate my path. To upcoming artists: play the game if you must, but play it on your terms. The world doesn’t need more carbon copies—it needs you.

Keep creating, keep dreaming, and remember: the industry may try to make you bow, but the real power lies in standing tall.