Helena Hunter

The Soothsayer

(Advice to young artists)

Welcome!
Cross my palm with silver...
So you're an artist looking for advice.

It is better to conceal one's knowledge than to reveal one's ignorance.
It is better to weep with wise men than to laugh with fools.
They say the best advice is found on the pillow.
Learn how to manage money well.
Learn how to ask for and get things for free.
Never be afraid to ask for more.
Don't speak of secrets in a field of little hills.
Heed your ideas and your imagination.
Be true to your vision.
Trust your instincts.
Don't let reality limit your dreams.
Kick ass ! Grow horns of steel.
An empty can makes a lot of noise.
Create the circumstances around you in which you can create work.
Give ideas time.
A smooth sea never made a skilled mariner.
Always see through limitations or better still just don't see them at all.
A wise man makes his own decisions. An ignorant man follows public opinion.
To the mediocre, mediocrity appears great.
Good fences make good neighbours.
Don't think there aren't any crocodiles because the waters are calm.
Better to light a candle than curse the darkness.
Great oaks grow from little acorns.

Good luck!

The Soothsayer, a whispered performance by Helena Hunter, was recorded for a collective research project “Everything you still wanted to know about live art but were afraid to ask.” (2009) Queen Mary University of London / Live Art Development Agency.