Book Review: Living the Artist's Life by Paul Dorrell

At one time, artists were a respected group in society. They were sought after by kings and emperors for their unique talents. Artists gave to the world, and, in that regard, defined what the world meant to them. Even now, we use art to define historic periods. To give us a peek into what the artist, as representative, was going through. Today artists, especially writers and visual artists, are considered among the lowest of the low in society. We are the joke. Our value is bankrupt. Anyone who has dared to venture into this world knows what I am speaking. It is a harsh, cut-throat, and wholly unstable existence.

So, when I had the opportunity to review the book Living the Artist's Life, I jumped at the chance. I was hoping that this book would offer some inspiration, insight, and even consolation, and to that end, I was not disappointed.

Paul Dorrell, the author, is not your average failed artist who turns to feeding on other artists' insecurities to make a few dollars. No. Paul has been through the wringer, several times. When you read this book, you come to understand, through Paul's conversational manner, that he has laid everything on the line for the sake of promoting the art and artists he believes in.

Paul mortgaged his home in order to achieve his goal of opening an art studio, only to have the studio burn down. That may sound bad, but the worst part is that he let his insurance expire only a few days before due to lack of capital. He was ruined. But this part of the story is only the begining of his journey throught the world of art. Living the Artist's Life is Paul's journey, a journey Paul details with a warmth, and humor, that is inviting and completely interesting. I read the entire book in one sitting.

Article Author: T Stoddart

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