Rating: 
Summary: A Little Old, But Still On The Money
Review: A combination of common sense, inside knowledge, and courage bolstering; even though this book needs some updating for the computer age, Michels' observations are right on target. She tells the unvarnished truth about bad gallery practices and how to protect yourself, legal pitfalls, and the myth of not being paid "because you're doing something that you---looove." But most importantly, Michels strips away the silly notions that we artists must play the victim and give in to every unreasonable demand galleries and possible clients make. Being rolled is exactly how artists have gotten into the contemptible position we are in now, and it won't stop until we take control of our careers, make our own demands and learn to say things like "no" and "sorry, if you can't take digital images, then you aren't technically advanced enough to represent me on the level I deserve".
I am absolutely going to buy this book again when the new version comes out. One of the few "making it in the arts" books which isn't full of: New Age fluff, unworkable schemes, pompous pep talks, or half baked advice. Not for the cringing hobbiest who is willing to pay a $50 entry fee to be in a high priced street show, but very much for anyone who is serious and respectable.
Rating:
Summary: Useful & entertaining
Review: An excellent and readable reference book on a practical way to make a living in the impractical world of art.
Rating:
Summary: The stuff they should teach you at those art $chool$
Review: Artists: If you are serious about gettin' famous, makin' heaps of dough, havin' all of those ... critics write about your brilliant swag, and seducin' actresses or actors, you gotta start right here with this book. Otherwise, pack it up and become an art historian or janitor at the Getty.Seriously, this is the best book you can buy if you are considering hitting the "scene" with your goods. Sure, she has some "cliche" statements about "getting organized" (but in all fairness, what artist doesn't need to be reminded to get organized?!) and the like, but wow...the sections on how to price your art, marketing with a brochure, the importance of contracts (!!!), grant building, etc etc. are a veritable cornucopia of practical goodness. This book is so good that I almost burst with pleasure after reading it. I'll be willing to bet a Picasso that her consulting advise is beyond compliment.
Rating:
Summary: Still reading it after all these years........
Review: As an artist, I have been following Caroll Michels' work for the past twenty years and have just re-read her fourth edition. The resources on the internet alone are an indication of just how the author wants her readers to grow with the times. In the book, Michels begins wth childhood, stressing parental and educator support and addresses how if artists don't value themselves how then will the culture take them seriously. What helped me in particular is how to create presentation tools and how to develop public relation and good business skills. What was also helpful was how to deal with one's emotions and not play the victim. I use the book as a bible, refering to it whenever necessary. I look forward to the fifth edition!
Rating:
Summary: Honest and Bold
Review: By far, this is the best business art book I have read. Caroll Michels not only gives important and practical advice and suggestions but she also shares her honest and candid opinions about the art world--this is the best aspect about the book (she lists names and institutions, it's pretty bold). I can't say enough good things about the book. Buy it if you are a new artist or a seasoned one. You will learn a lot!
Rating:
Summary: Providing A Solid Perspective For Artists
Review: Caroll Michel's experience and understanding of the ins and outs of the art world is well demonstrated in this book. From her knowledge of a diverse range of topics to the thorough degrees to which she discusses them, her book covers all aspects of what every artist needs to know. When a topic is in need of further elaboration, she provides references to the appropriate sources, whether publications, web sites, or physical locations in the impressive 84 page up-to-date list of resources. This book is not only a great source for artist's early in there careers, but it also provides information on issues such as understanding grants, public relation tips and other concerns for more established artists looking to further their careers. Overall the book is well written and because it is packed with information, it is a fascinating read.
Rating: 
Summary: Fine Artist Guide to Marketing & Survival in Buisness World
Review: Caroll Michels is a life long art consultant who has written this book to share her experiences and expertise with the fine art community. Well written and with plenty of helpful references, Michels' book is an excellent addition to any artist's library.
Rating:
Summary: The Journey Begins
Review: I am supposed to be a painter. Famous? who cares. I just want to make a living doing what it is I was put here to do. Thank you Caroll for your book. I read it the first time three years ago. This time I'm taking notes and DOING it. One thing each day to get me to a point where I could transition careers and (pretty much) paint all the live long day. The most tragic thing in life is wasted talent. Because of this book, I won't have to TELL my children that they can do anything, I will have SHOWN them how its possible.
Rating:
Summary: THIS BOOK ROCKS
Review: I bought this book and read it cover to cover in one sitting. Ms. Michels tells it like it is and has a refreshing writing style. I walked away with key concepts and was inspired to send out several art project proposals immediately based on her suggestions. If I learned one thing from this book that was worth the price, it would be : Don't waste time and money on Juried Art Shows With Entry Fees. The other key point was about thinking outside of the Art Establishment box (we are supposed to be creative, after all, aren't we?) to promote yourself with brochures versus slide packages. The author gives statistics that prove the success (and failure) rate of both methods. In addition, the resource lists she provides are worth their weight in gold. I highly recommend this book and have sent 4 other artist friends out to buy it.
Rating:
Summary: A must-read for all aspiring artists
Review: I just got this book today and halfway through it, it has already paid for itself in terms of the advice and examples it gives. The best thing about this book is that it gives very practical examples of how to go about marketing your art, regardless of whether you are just starting out or very experienced. This should be required reading for all artists!
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