The Modern Creative: A Practical Guide for 21st–Century Artists
By Kaye Kelly, Professor of Music at Berklee College of Music
A new kind of guidebook for a new generation of artists.
Whether you're a college-aged creator, a passionate educator, or a working artist seeking clarity, The Modern Creative offers the tools, inspiration, and structure needed to build a sustainable, purpose-driven artistic career.
Written by Berklee College of Music professor Kaye Kelly, this interactive guide blends honest conversations about the realities of artistic life with practical strategies for success—financially, creatively, and personally. From refining your artistic vision and planning your career, to building healthy habits, cultivating your creative space, and leveraging social media without burnout, each chapter includes workbook pages filled with reflective prompts and actionable exercises.
You’ll also hear directly from working professionals—like James Taylor’s background singer, the bass player for the band Chicago, a successful L.A. actress, a Broadway dancer, an award-winning author, and the Executive Director of the Mass Cultural Council—who share their unique journeys and hard-won insights.
Empowering, realistic, and refreshingly holistic, The Modern Creative is more than a guide. It’s a call to artists of all genres to invest in themselves, own their artistry, and forge a career where both creativity and well-being can thrive.
Praise for "The Modern Creative":
The Modern Creative by Kaye Kelly is essential reading for every young artist. Drawing on more than 25 years as a musician and music educator, Kelly offers both inspiration and actionable guidance. She reminds artists that their work has value, that believing in themselves is not naïve but necessary—and that it is possible to build a sustainable career doing what they love. Each chapter offers a blend of encouragement and practical strategies to help artists craft a life that is creatively fulfilling and financially viable. This book is a must-read for any emerging artist navigating today’s creative landscape.
-- Camille Colatosti, PhD, Provost, Interlochen Center for the Arts
This beautifully designed workbook is a powerful companion for any artist seeking clarity, inspiration, and direction. With thought-provoking concepts and engaging exercises, Kaye invites creatives to define, refine, and honor their unique artistic voice. A must-have guide for those ready to step boldly onto their creative path.
-- Danny Mo Morris, Professor of Bass, Berklee College of Music
The Modern Creative is an indispensable resource that masterfully guides emerging artists through every facet of building a sustainable creative career in the 21st-century. Kaye looks at the creative life realistically but also positively in the areas of finance, promotion, mental health, and artistic growth. The workbook’s exercises are especially insightful—practical tools for all students, teachers, and artists looking to define their vision, set goals, or establish positive creative habits. The Modern Creative will absolutely be required reading for my students!
-- Dr. Kate Reid, Director, Jazz Vocal Performance, Frost School of Music, University of Miami