The life of an artist is a bit of a mystery to most people. The truth is it's a full life, where one often works very long hours. Most crafts do not come easily and the perfecting of skills takes many unproductive hours.

The fact that one is doing something one loves does make it happier, but doesn't make it easier. The hardest part is watching craftsmanship  slowly decline in value as most things can be made cheaper and easier by machines.

Also, it is important to remember, artists don't just create they are also their own administrators, advertising agents, accountants, and graphic designers.

I have also devoted some time to organizing exhibitions, and trying to improve people's understanding of the value of craftsmanship