D.I.Y. Or die: How to Survive As an Independent Artist

Alternative title

D.I.Y. Or die: Burn This DVD

Synopsis

Contains interviews with nearly 30 artists, including many musicians as well as a few writers, filmmakers, painters, a sculptor and photographer and questions them in respect of their thoughts toward the nature of their art. The answers brim with artistic idealism, notably the concept of "suffering for one’s art". The main difference between the featured interviewees lies in their level of financial success - some are barely scraping by in life, and some have already become millionaires (Lydia Lunch and Dave Brockie of Gwar).

The documentary never focuses in detail on the nature of the artistic process, but intends instead to be a motivational piece for starving artists everywhere. The film sends the message that no matter how impoverished you are (which includes most of the musicians interviewed ), you owe it to yourself to keep plugging away to reach your goals - so don’t give up. For all of them the pursuit of art is a means of following their dreams (and avoiding working nine to five). Features interviews and performances by Lydia Lunch, Mike Watt, Ian MacKaye, J. Mascis, Jim Rose, Foetus, Steve Albini, Richard Kern, Gwar, Madigan Shive, Ron Asheton, Tribe 8 and others.

The DVD is copyright-free and actually encourages viewers to copy it and give bootlegged copies to their friends. It provides an unusual non-capitalistic perspective on art and on life.

Language

English

Country

Canada

Year of release

2003

Year of production

2002

Subjects

Arts and Humanities; Philosophy

Keywords

artists; business ethics; musicians; idealism

Distribution Formats

Type

DVD

Format

Region 2 PAL

Price

£15.99

Availability

Sale

Duration/Size

55 minutes

Year

2003

Production Company

Name

Music Video Distributors

Distributor

Name

Quantum Leap

Notes

The company ceased trading in 2018. It was previously a distributor and online retailer specialising in non-fiction DVD titles on a wide variety of subjects, particularly in the areas of music instruction, music performance, sport instruction, and health. Some titles also available through retail outlets.

 

Available from retail outlets