<p>I really thought long and hard about posting this, but here goes. I absolutely agree that a degree in the arts can take one to wonderous places and careers. And, often to careers that one didn’t plan on persuing. I firmly agree that we, as parents, should encourage our children (notice that I said children) to pursue their dreams realistically and confidently. </p>
<p>I come from a family that is (with the exception of my husband) in the business. I know what success is because I have seen it. The esoteric of “success” in the arts has to be defined broadly…not so much. We live in an area with many people in the arts. There is nothing more pathetic than a 60 year old male (or older) living off the fame of a parent. They often “assisted” their parent. They sometimes have the name with the Junior. The feeling of accomplishment dissapates when there are bills to be paid. There are unsold masterpieces just waiting…almost…whatever.</p>
<p>There is a life in the arts. But nothing is as pathetic (as happened in our case several times) for an aunt or an uncle cousin or friend of family to come to my kids (age 22 and one, 24 at the time) begging my kids for help. Yes, we all help each other. What’s good for them is good for my kids…blah blah…Reality trumps the feeling of accomplishment done by oneself for one’s own ego. Go into the arts with your eyes wide open.</p>