Now What?: A Field Guide for Working Artists

Now What? A Field Guide for Working Artists is a practical, real-world guide to the moments that shape an artist's career-the unexpected opportunities, difficult decisions, and everyday situations that rarely come with clear answers.

Instead of offering abstract theory or one-size-fits-all advice, this book is organized around the situations artists actually face: being invited to exhibit, setting prices, handling commissions, evaluating online platforms, responding to collectors, navigating gallery relationships, and more. Each section breaks down what the situation means, why it matters, what to do right away, and what to consider before making a decision.

At the core of the book is a simple idea: success as an artist is not built on a single breakthrough, but on a series of thoughtful responses to real-world moments. The goal is not to tell you what path to follow, but to help you think clearly and act with confidence when something happens-because something always does.

Drawing on decades of experience in both the art world and the publishing industry, Evan Stuart Marshall offers a grounded, practical perspective that respects the complexity of creative careers. The guidance is direct and actionable, with checklists, examples, and common mistakes to avoid, all designed to help you move forward without overthinking or second-guessing yourself.

This is not a book about becoming famous, and it is not a rigid system to follow. It is a working manual for artists who want to build a sustainable practice on their own terms-one decision at a time.

Whether you are just starting out or already exhibiting and selling your work, Now What? meets you where you are and helps you navigate what comes next.

Evan Stuart Marshall is a New Jersey-based abstract painter and author whose work explores layered surfaces, structure, and color through mixed-media techniques. His paintings have been exhibited in galleries and group exhibitions and are held in private collections in the United States and internationally. In addition to his work as a visual artist, Marshall spent many years as a literary agent, representing authors across a wide range of genres. His experience in both the creative and professional sides of the arts informs his practical approach to building a sustainable artistic career.