I MAKE ART TO GET RICH QUICK

by Istvan Kantor Monty Cantsin Amen?! (May 09 2016, Toronto)

The solution (to the "Starving Artist" stereotype who is successful after death) would be that we would all get our fair share, while still alive of course, you know, a slice of the pie.

But today art is one of the most capitalistic businesses in the Western world, the supreme measure of art is money. The starving artist idea is of course an outmoded model romantic ozone bohemian lifestyle that became highly publicized in books written about historical art movements and those who struggled through those times.

My lifestyle is not luxurious so I can survive easily even if I don't make much money. I often had hard times paying my bills and expenses but I always took it as a challenging experience that inspired me in my struggle. I rather sing about expenses and bills then cry into my soup. I rather drink my own blood than let the bloodsuckers consume my spirit. I survived independently most of my life only making art, playing music, producing videos, doing performances, writing books, collecting information, organizing Neoist events, etc. All my money went into the production what is now an archive and includes my whole life production, accomplishment. I invested everything into my creative work including of course my three kids who also contributed a great amount to my work in progress.

I'm no bohemian thinker and yes I need money. The problem is that the institutional art world and art markets are run by banks and corporations and they don't want to share the pie. They just want to capitalize on artist slaves and control the system according to their need.

But i strictly refuse to let them have all the fun! I refuse to leave the technology of art in the hands of those who control it for their own profit only! Yes, I have fun, like right now writing these notes over a coffe at my favorite cafe the Common on College street in Toronto.