(1/2) “ When they come out to work, they demand a salary of RM4000 to RM5000. Obviously, bosses wouldn’t pay.
And, whenever customers ask them to do a painting job, they will put a price almost like a renowned artist. Of course, that puts the customer off.
I asked a few of the artists: ‘why don’t you put the price lower?’
They say: ‘Cannot! I studied so much!’
This is like Lee Chong Wei. When he started playing badminton, he kept on losing. Only when he started to win tournaments, people started to sponsor him.
So I guess badminton players and artists are pretty much the same?
Can you imagine a young Lee Chong Wei asking for a lot of sponsorship? The companies will be like ‘Wah, who do you think you are? Why should I pay so much?’
This is what I think young artists need to understand about the market.
When I first joined an agency (graphic design), my pay was RM1300. Today, I draw caricatures, its only like RM20 to RM35 and though graphic design pays more, much more; at my age, I’m not looking for more money.
People at my age aim to be a senior manager, drive big cars, entertain clients… But to me, I told my friends I’m pulling the handbrake. I want to slow down and be with my kids. I want to be close to my family.”
Photo and story by Samantha Siow
Edited by Christine C
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(This post was first published on April 11th 2018)
