“The reason we create is to make a legacy that will outlive us, to reach those who might never meet us,” writes artist Jaša in his debut work, an earnest reference guide for aspiring professional artists. With the help of art historian Charney, Jaša touches upon a wide range of subjects, including where to find inspiration, how to exhibit work, and the mindset one should have when deciding to seriously pursue a career in art. Along the way, a number of maxims are doled out. Concerning art school: “Do not mistake life and success at art school for life and success outside of it.” Another grounding lesson is how the medium will always be lucrative, if only for a select few. “The market is ruled by those with big bucks... almost all of that money goes to a tiny percentage of artists.” As a general how-to guide, the work offers indispensable advice; however, its wisdom is still highly subjective. The real strength resides in the autobiographical accounts, as when Jaša recounts the personal highs and lows he’s encountered in an industry that only offers “just a few minutes to demonstrate that you’re worth more.” Written with a dry wit and heartfelt emotion, this will appeal to Jaša’s fans and those dreaming of a career in art.

Publishers Weekly

A smashing story of how an artist never stops working, always keeps moving, doesn’t allow rejection to define him, and who makes art that finds large audiences against all odds. An every-artist story.

Jerry Saltz, senior art critic New York Magazine, and author of How To Be an Artist

Making It: The Artist Survival Guide is a book every true artist cannot but love. It is, of course, impossible to condense the complex process of creativity into the form of “making it” guides which provide ready-made formulas for success, love life, getting friends, etc. – but for this very reason one should do it. This book gives you the freedom to follow its proposals or to mock them – to mock the rules, the rules should be there. If you do not need a “making it” guide for your work, you are not an original creative genius, you are an idiot.

Slavoj Žižek, philosopher and best-selling author

Wittily written as an autobiography, this book is a useful guide for any aspiring artist looking to navigate and engage the professional artworld. Through the conceptual lens and story of an acclaimed performance artist, it provides valuable insight into the machinations of the business, critical and social implications of this career path, leaving no stone unturned.

Mitra Khorasheh, director, Signs and Symbols Gallery, New York

Part Kurt Cobain, part Charles Bukowski, part Art school confidential, a 1990s journey through legend and reality from the Venice canals to the gutter and back again. JAŠA is Virgil to the Dante that is any young artist: guide and sage.

Hamja Ahsan, award-winning artist, activist and author of Shy Radicals

JAŠA's book has perfect timing as we emerge from a kind of historical hell where art and metaphysics now have a restored powerful role to play. The promising young need all the wit and support that they can muster to continue the pleasures of the great journey of modernism.

David Gothard, CBE, artistic director