Artist Life: Is It Worth It? | Author’s Perspective
- Author and professor Stephanie elizondo Griest explores this question in her new book, "Art Above Everything: One Woman's Global Exploration of the Joys and Torments of a Creative...
- Griest, who teaches at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, traveled to 10 countries to interview artists, writers, and performers about their commitment to their craft.From...
- The book draws from Griest's own experiences as a writer.
Stephanie Elizondo Griest‘s new book, “Art Above Everything,” confronts the central question: is the artistic life truly worth the sacrifices? Griest, a renowned author, spent years interviewing artists worldwide, from Mexico to Qatar, exploring thier dedication and the hardships they endure. Her exploration reveals the joys and torments inherent in choosing a creative path.Drawing on her own experiences and challenges, griest reflects on her journey as a writer, offering compelling insights into the ”art monk” concept.for a nuanced understanding of the primary keyword, artistic life, and its rewards, delve into this article. News Directory 3 presents a timely perspective on passion versus practicality in the pursuit of art. Discover what’s next in Griest’s explorations of creativity and resilience.
Stephanie Elizondo Griest Reflects on the Artistic Life
Updated June 29, 2025
Is a life dedicated to art worth the sacrifices? Author and professor Stephanie elizondo Griest explores this question in her new book, ”Art Above Everything: One Woman’s Global Exploration of the Joys and Torments of a Creative Life.”
Griest, who teaches at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, traveled to 10 countries to interview artists, writers, and performers about their commitment to their craft.From Mexico to Qatar, she investigated whether the artistic pursuit is truly worth it.
The book draws from Griest’s own experiences as a writer. Despite constant work, she lacked job stability, a 401(k), and health insurance. Her travels around the world contrasted with periods of living with her parents. She even lacked basic household items like cutlery well into adulthood.
Courtesy Alexander Devora
“I didn’t set out to live this life, but it has been my fate, a fate that I chose, but not one without serious consequences that become more obvious to me as I aged,” Griest said. She added that “Art Above Everything” serves as a source of hope and solidarity for those on a similar path.
Griest also introduced the concept of the ”art monk,” inspired by her time at a Catholic house of prayer in South Texas. Just as the residents took vows of poverty,chastity,and obedience,she recognized similar sacrifices in her own artistic journey.
“The writing life,” Griest said, “is like the ultimate hazing experience, because it tests you at every level.You are continually confronted with rejection – plus how are you going to pay the bills?”
Art became a grounding force for griest during challenging times like chemotherapy and COVID-19 lockdowns. She noted that while her artistic choices led to instability in her younger years, art ultimately became her primary coping mechanism.
“Somthing really deep, stunning and powerful about art is that it really, really teaches you that all we have is this moment,” Griest said. “So if art is the place that you feel the most fulfilled, then that is how you must fill it, to live your most creative life and make it glorious.”
What’s next
Currently on a national book tour, Griest champions art as a means to navigate fear, trauma, and uncertainty.