Hello Everyone and Happy Monday,
I hope your weekend was restful and you’re feeling energized as we step into the new week.
Over the past few days, I’ve been reflecting on a conversation I had with a business coach I’ve recently started working with. We were discussing the notoriously low pay rates in world-renowned acting institutions, and she brought up a point that hit me hard: many talented practitioners are sacrificing their work-life balance for institutions that don't value them. The pay is so minimal that it feeds directly into the “starving artist” trope—a narrative that, frankly, we should be actively fighting against.
It got me thinking about the broader implications of this “starving artist” mentality. For too long, the creative world has romanticized struggle and financial instability as part of the artist’s journey, as if suffering were some sort of badge of authenticity. But this mindset is outdated and harmful. By glorifying the idea that artists should work for the bare minimum, we’re allowing institutions to exploit passionate creatives while normalizing the idea that artistic work is inherently less valuable than other professions.
The truth is, this trope doesn’t just hurt the artists; it damages the entire creative ecosystem. When we perpetuate the belief that it’s okay for artists to barely scrape by, we diminish the value of creative contributions in society. It sends a message that art and creativity are secondary pursuits—not something worthy of fair compensation, respect, and sustainable careers. And what’s worse, it keeps the industry exclusive, accessible only to those who can afford to live under such conditions.
What struck me during this conversation was how systemic the issue is. The institutions that should be nurturing and elevating talent are instead participating in a culture that demands sacrifice without reward. These low pay rates aren’t just a reflection of what institutions can afford—they reflect a deeper cultural belief that art and creativity should come with suffering. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
We need to challenge this narrative. As creatives, we deserve to thrive, not just survive. That means advocating for fair pay, better working conditions, and respect for the time and energy that goes into artistic work. It means recognizing the value we bring to the table and demanding that others do the same.
The starving artist trope has had its day. Now it’s time for a new narrative—one where creativity and financial stability coexist, and where the brilliance of artistic work is matched by the respect it’s given.
As I move forward this week, I’m taking this message to heart: it’s okay to want more. More balance, more support, and more recognition for the work we do. Because a thriving artist is a better artist, and a better artist makes a better world.
Wishing you a week full of creativity, clarity, and, most importantly, a sense of your own worth.
M x
Hi Molly, I couldn't agree more I think it's absolutely appalling that the people who are investing their heart and souls into developing the most important skills for young people and people entering both the entertainment and communications industries, are so poorly remunerated.
The rigour, energy, courage and assiduous pursuit of excellence amongst many of the practitioners that I've met at some of the leading institutions in this country and abroad are absolutely world class in many cases! These people should be valued and cherished as they are the key to future learning and understanding for the generations that come. There should be some sort of regulatory body a bit like Equity for actors that allows for proper pay!