Talent is not enough, sometimes it's not even the most important quality to promote success in the arts, says author A. Michael Shumate. His new book, Success in the Arts encourages straight thinking and professional attitudes in aspiring artists. He means artists in the broadest sense: musicians, visual artists, actors, dancers, filmmakers and writers. Each page contains an essential tip, entertaining illustration or pointed quote to guide any would-be artist. Shumate shoots from the hip with real-world advice plus realistic counsel and encouragement.
For 19 years Michael Shumate has been Professor of Graphic Design and Illustration at St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ontario where he has taught Color Theory, all levels of Illustration, Branding Design, Art History and Beginning Web Applications. Shumate has been a graphic designer and commercial illustrator for over 35 years. Before becoming a teacher, he was Senior Designer/Illustrator for a mid-sized design studio and advertising agency. Michael's illustration work has been used for such clients as British Airways Magazine, Kelley Services and Macmillan McGraw-Hill publishers.