While success for an artist is often defined by the ability to quit their job and pursue art full-time, day jobs that provide financial stability can frequently spur creative growth by introducing artists to new sources of inspiration. Additionally, within their non-artistic work, artists can find new methods, new materials, and knowledge to influence their artistic creativity and sometimes provide a reliable paycheck that can initiate experimentation.
“Day Jobs” was initially presented in 2023 at The University of Texas at Austin’s Blanton Museum of Art and has now been expanded to include more than 90 works, including several from California artists. Margaret Kilgallen, a Bay Area artist known for collecting graffiti, painting, and installation art, has sought new outlets to support her artistic expression.
Similarly, Jim Campbell, a San Francisco-based artist, began his journey in artistic filmmaking and shifted his focus toward electronic sculptures. Campbell has since been able to showcase his perception of an LED matrix, which has influenced his film-focused career.
Instead of waiting for creativity to strike, these artists have bridged the gap between their original interests and artistic preferences to discover new methods of expression and industry knowledge.
By showcasing the works of these artists, the exhibition aims to clear up the misconception that art is made by people in studios who wait around for inspiration to find them. “Day Jobs” encourages us to acknowledge the ways that economic and creative pursuits are intertwined.
On view until July 21, visit the Stanford Cantor Arts Center to check out the exhibition for yourself, but if you can’t make it in person, take a look at some of the art down below, and challenge yourself: can you guess the artist’s day job based off of the art they produce (hint: you might not see some of them coming)?
Scroll down to check out the answers.
- Sandy Rodriguez: Museum educator, teaching artist, and education specialist
- Andy Warhol: Commercial illustrator and window display designer
- Barbara Kruger: Graphic designer for various magazine
- Chuck Ramirez: H-E-B Grocery, San Antonio
- Violette Bule: Restaurant server
- Violette Bule: Restaurant server
- Julia Scher: Cleaner and handywoman
- Emma Amos: Textile designer
- Lenka Clayton: Founder, An Artist Residency in Motherhood, Pittsburgh
- Jay Lynn Gomez: Nanny, Beverly Hills
