Why Brian Eno doesn't want to hear from you

[vostoklake]

I'm afraid to say that admirers can be a tremendous force for conservatism, for consolidation. Of course it's really wonderful to be acclaimed for things you've done - in fact it's the only serious reward, becasue it makes you think "it worked! I'm not isolated!" or something like that, and it makes you feel gratefully connected to your own culture. But on the other hand, there's a tremendously strong pressure to repeat yourself, to do more of that thing we all liked so much. I can't do that - I don't have the enthusiasm to push through projects that seem familiar to me ( - this isn't so much a question of artistic nobility or high ideals: I just get too bloody bored), but at the same time I do feel guilt for 'deserting my audience' by not doing the things they apparently wanted. I'd rather not feel this guilt, actually, so I avoid finding out about situations that could cause it.

Full version here. I must say the guy has a point that the problem with having fans is that you feel the pressure to keep doing what those fans like. Luckily I only have one real fan and I never take her advice. :)

Comments

[cactus-cat.livejournal.com]

Hmm... that gives me an idea for an exhibition format - a post-it pad and a suggestion box next to every painting, and the punters can write down what a painting means to them, what it makes them feel or think, etc. Of course, you might just get juvenile comments, but it could be fun!

[mundens.livejournal.com]

That's cool idea. Would work well on LJ or other similar sites that allow comments too!