Survival Notes: Life Lessons from Contemporary Artists

By Lydia Rachel Figes

Survival Notes is an inspiring narrative weaving artists' reflections on success with advice to aspiring creatives. Featuring direct quotes and exclusive interviews with internationally acclaimed artists such as Anish Kapoor, Shirin Neshat, Tracey Emin, Jesse Darling, and Shahzia Sikander, this book offers authoritative counsel on how to thrive in a highly competitive art world as well as thoughtful insights on what it means to be an artist in the twenty-first century.

Nine thematic chapters offer essential guidance on how to negotiate the practical realities of artmaking, with discussions relating to education, self-discipline, gallery representation, mental wellbeing, mentorship and more. In a climate where emerging creatives feel less empowered than ever, Lydia R. Figes provides a hopeful message about perseverance and perspective, while questioning whether the advice given by established practitioners can still be applied today.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0500297916
• ISBN13: 9780500297919
• Release Date: October 2025
• Publisher: Thames & Hudson
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.87 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.8" x 8.8"