Analogies are powerful tools, allowing us to draw connections between seemingly disparate fields, and apply their principles to our own areas of interest. Looking at successful figures in other industries can provide valuable insights for creative artists to better understand what it takes to build a sustainable and rewarding career.
One such example is Jerry Seinfeld, creator of the hit TV series Seinfeld. While many may not immediately associate Seinfeld with the world of art, his micromanaging approach to success holds valuable lessons for artists of all disciplines.
I recently revisited this interview between Seinfeld and the Harvard Business Review.
MICROMANAGING: IS IT GOOD FOR CREATIVES
Seinfeld's attributes his success to the art of micromanagement style. This idea made me reflect on my own approach to exhibitions. Some artists are very meticulous about details ranging from artwork placement to press releases, while others, like myself, take a hands-off approach. We let the curator handle certain aspects. It begs the question: is micromanaging healthy for creatives?
The show was successful because I micromanaged it—every word, every line, every take, every edit, every casting. That’s my way of life.
Micromanaging can certainly provide benefits for creative individuals, but it may not be the right fit for everyone. Here are some of the potential benefits and drawbacks of micromanaging for creative artists:
Benefits:
Attention to detail: Micromanaging can help ensure that every aspect of a project is carefully thought out and executed with precision. This can lead to higher-quality work.
Control: For some artists, having full control over a project can be empowering and help them achieve a desired outcome. This also increases they mythos of the artistist as “creative genius”.
Consistency: Micromanaging can maintain consistency in an artist's style, making it easier for audiences to recognize and connect with your work.
DRAWBACKS
Time-consuming: Micromanaging requires a lot of time and effort, which can be exhausting and takes away from being creative and handling big picture ideas.
Limitations: Over-focusing on details may actually limit creativity and spontaneity, stifling the artist's ability to explore new ideas and experiment. Some of the best ideas are crowdsourced.
Stress: The pressure of micromanaging every aspect of a project can be stressful and take its toll on the artist's mental health and well-being.
Micromanaging can be beneficial for artists who thrive on attention to detail and control over their work.
However, it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Some artists may prefer a more hands-off approach, delegating tasks to others. Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a balance allowing an artist to create their best work while staying true to their own unique style and vision.
LONGEVITY OF STYLE
Another interesting tidbit from the Seinfeld interview is his observation on the Longevity of Style.
This is incredibly relevant to the art world, where artists also face the challenge of keeping their work fresh and engaging over time.
First, research shows us that it takes about 2 years to build a brand. So that’s our baseline. However, past the two-year point, there might develop a sense of stagnation when an artist's style becomes predictable or repetitive over the years.
Of course, everything is thrown out the window when looking at art in a historical context. A lifetime commitment to a singular body of work can be seen as a powerful testament to an artist's dedication and passion. A lifetime commitment to one's art may only be fully appreciated in retrospect.
You’re making this TV show, and it gets really popular, and you have to stop at a certain point or it loses the magic. I’m not comparing myself in any way, shape, or form to the Beatles, but they ended after nine years when I was a kid, and there was something about that single-digit number. Once a TV series is in double digits, it’s like, “God, is this thing ever going to end?”
It's also worth noting that Seinfeld's idea of a 10-year run may align more closely with the concept of art as a product or entertainment - a concept more and more emphasized by institutions and the art market today.
CONCLUSION
At its core, Seinfeld's approach to success centers on consistency, discipline, and knowing when to stop.
These simple insights helping artists build rewarding and sustainable careers in the arts.
Seinfeld’s emphasis on micromanagement and attention to detail, as well as his observations on the challenges of maintaining a style over time, can help creative businesses navigate the complex and often unpredictable artworld. By taking inspiration from Seinfeld's approach and staying true to our passion, we can build successful and fulfilling careers that thrive under the spotlight AND stand the test of time.