When Kent Nerburn received a letter from a young woman questioning a life in the arts, the writer and artist was struck by how closely her questions mirrored the doubts and yearnings of his own youth. So Nerburn resolved that he would write his own letter: one of welcome and encouragement to all young artists setting out on the same strange and magical journey, sharing the wisdom of a life spent working in the arts.

From struggles with money and the bitterness of rejection, to spiritual questions of inspiration and authenticity, On Making Art & Being an Artist offers insight, solace, and courage to help young artists on the winding road to creative fulfilment. Tender and joyous, it is a celebration of art's power to transform the human experience.