How the Modern Artist Rises to Fame

If you read this blog, you know that I am semi-obsessed with becoming a famous artist. As a part of this effort I recently purchased a book subtitled "How the Modern Artist Rises to Fame". It was written in 1989 by an art crtic and buyer named Alan Bowness. Bownes studied the history of how various artists became famous, and he has some interesting ideas. I don't know if I agree with them all. Here's a summary of his ideas:

Fame is not arbitary. Fame comes to special, "genius" artists.

Paintings from artists who eventually become famous "stick out like a sore thumb" when compared to other artists. Bownes says their paintings are clearly much better, to almost any viewer.

Talented artists don't really "die in obscurity". If they live long enough (25+ years after they start painting), all talented artists will become rich and famous.

Art critics know what they are talking about, and become very good at spotting great art, after looking at so much art all the time.

Artists almost have to be part of a larger group/scene to become great; they need the competition.