Art Market Monitor

Global Coverage ~ Unique Analysis

  • AMMpro
  • AMM Fantasy Collecting Game
  • Podcast
  • Contact Us

Vettriano Knows Value

August 14, 2009 by Marion Maneker

Scottish illustrator Jack Vettriano who became one of Britain’s most successful artists on the basis of his picture, The Singing Butler, which one of the country’s most reproduced images talks to the Telegraph about his finances, especially growing up poor in Scotland:

Singing ButlerDo you think your upbringing made you more cautious spending money?

Until my paintings started to fetch decent money, I didn’t have much disposable income. I had a mortgage and a car on hire purchase. I do tend towards being a saver, but now I have the money, it’s lovely to be able to go into Armani and not bother about whether you’re paying over the odds for a suit. I like a bit of a gamble on the horses, but only bet what I can afford to lose. […]

Does talking about money and royalties (reputedly more than £500,000 a year) embarrass you?

I find it vulgar to talk about my personal wealth with anyone who’s not a part of my life. The amount I make from royalties has dropped dramatically because the company that does the reprints went into liquidation and I’ve had to spend approximately the last 18 months to try to buy myself out of the contract. I’ve set up a company Heartbreak Publishing in its place.

Have you learned any difficult lessons through mistakes?

Yes, even if you work hard and get lucky, money is still quite difficult to make, but very, very easy to lose.

Is there anything you hate about dealing with money?

I hate the whole business of it! I’ve never been someone who’s craved wealth. When you do start making money, you start having more regular dealings with financial advisers and pleading letters. I’d rather do something with more personal meaning with my money.

Jack Vettriano: “I’ve Gone from hand-me-downs to Armani” (Telegraph)

More from Art Market Monitor

  • Understanding the Abu Dhabi Art FairUnderstanding the Abu Dhabi Art Fair
  • Not Interested in Naked BruniNot Interested in Naked Bruni
  • ABMiami: Toning Down & Spreading OutABMiami: Toning Down & Spreading Out
  • Gagosian: New York's Dominance WaningGagosian: New York's Dominance Waning
  • 2 x 200 Wants You to Own Art2 x 200 Wants You to Own Art
  • How to Make Your Art an InvestmentHow to Make Your Art an Investment

Filed Under: Artists Tagged With: Featured

About Marion Maneker

LiveArt

Want to get Art Market Monitor‘s posts sent to you in our email? Sign up below by clicking on the Subscribe button.

  • About Us/ Contact
  • Podcast
  • AMMpro
  • Newsletter
  • FAQ

twitterfacebooksoundcloud
Privacy Policy
Terms & Conditions
California Privacy Rights
Do Not Sell My Personal Information
Advertise on Art Market Monitor
 

Loading Comments...