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Are all artists too egotistical to work together?

It was put to me today that as all artists are egotistical and so they cannot truely work together for the common good as their egos get in the way. Any comments or experiences people would like to share?

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Permalink Reply by Bronagh Lawson on October 6, 2011 at 17:16

I noticed no one wants to take this one on. So I'll get it started.. I think when artists get together there are particular issues that have to be considered that some other sectors do not have to think about. One of them is that as artists we othen spend lots of time on our own considering are own creativity and work and this might be very different from other artists perception of creativity and work and when these artists are then brought together there is a clash. We are usually pretty strong willed otherwise we would not be artists so this is added into the mix as well and can be a cocktial for diaster. However mant artists work well together and can compliment each other with skills sharing and can achieve much by joining together, either for a short while or something more longer term like Gilbert and George.

But the lessons are pick wisely and honestly. Know your annoyance buttons and go for someone who doesnt push them unless of course you need that for your best work. After all it takes all sorts.

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Permalink Reply by Anna Donovan on October 14, 2011 at 19:10

I suppose its like any relationship - it works best if there is a natural connection, mutual respect, similar interests and a spark.

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Permalink Reply by Lee Boyd on November 7, 2011 at 12:10

It is possible for artists to work together and for different reasons I think the basis for good working relationships is honesty, If one knows what one wants to put in and get out and feel comfortable that that level of commitment is reciprocated or you can atleast accept the differences in others that you are working with, then it can prove to be a very exciting and stimulating process.

Communication and a level playing field knowing where each others strengths lay and utilising them are far more productive than forcing people to do things they dont want to. Building in a flexible approach and understanding the common goal, how you get there can be as interesting and exciting as the finished outcome.

Deal with issues quickly and stop them from becomming bigger problems that in reality dont exsist. Some people wont get on and thats ok we are human. its foolish to think everyone loves and likes each other. Points of view and approach to life is different and individual the key I think is to find those who may not neccessarly always agree with you but can respect your diference and you theirs.

Bronagh you have wise words

"But the lessons are pick wisely and honestly. Know your annoyance buttons and go for someone who doesnt push them unless of course you need that for your best work. After all it takes all sorts."

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Permalink Reply by Bronagh Lawson on November 7, 2011 at 21:39

Lee I like the way you say "dont pick someone who pushes your buttons unless you need that" for your best work" some people need something to push against.

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Permalink Reply by Neil Dickson on June 7, 2012 at 15:39

I find true artists - good ones that are good people, can work together no problem - just look at musicians. Egotistical geniuses are, in my humble opinion, few and far between. Egotistical mediocrity however is rife! Well, mabye that's a bit over the top but if you're good at what you do you gotta be able to work with like-minded people and appreciate the talents in others too. Saying all that, I AM an egotistical genius and hate working with anyone, people are just awful.

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Permalink Reply by rik peel on June 7, 2012 at 16:21

Egotistical mediocrity however is rife! - That is my new favorite statement....

I think what Lee is saying is pretty much on the money. The problem as I see it is that it's hard for artists to leave there Ego at the door when dealing with other artists, an artists Ego is an important tool for the creative process to work, and a level of self belief must be used to even show someone your work... a lot of the time the ego is so fragile that if you percieve (rightly or wrongly) that someone is better than you it can shatter your confidence and lead you to retreat - or worse - attack.

the best thing would be If we could all utilise our ego to be creative, but then put it away again when we go out, and move around hoping to be inspired and in turn to inspire.

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Permalink Reply by James Mercer on June 12, 2012 at 17:11

I have come across egocentric artists a lot but may be thats because i am self taught. I have experienced this when i was asked by a council gallery to show along with a better known artist than myself. I had agreed but asked if the other artist was ok with this they did not return their answer.