Neil Gaiman 2012 Commencement Speech "Make Good Art"

Neil Gaiman's commencement speech to the University of the arts graduating class of 2012 Philadelphia

• Category

  Education

[Katie McGee]

This has inspired me so much to make good art of my exploded cat.

[roaringout]

Wow, this was fantastic. As a young artist really delving into a freelance career, this advice was really what I needed to hear. Thanks for posting!

[Barbara Gwen]

I was there a year ago, having gone to see my sister graduate. I had just come from my own incredibly dull graduation, and I was prepared to settle in and zone out for a couple of hours. Then this man started talking, and I suddenly found myself holding on to every word. I'm not even an artist, and yet this speech found its way into soul. I think at its core, this speech is just about finding what you want to do, doing it, and doing it well.

[octiiXpies]

or, you know, he could be saying fuck up until you do something right. he didn't say ALWAYS make good art. and you can't get better without making mistakes. try listening.

[carshamar]

Fantastic speech and storyteller! Charming man! BUT His words leave my mind with a huge contradiction of thoughts. How can the internet world of full exposure work with the words "'Go out and make a lot of mistakes' mixing with 'Make GOOD art'"??? If like this generation, Neil had put his raw unedited Stardust out their for the public, say on fan fiction, before it was perfected, would we ever see it as good art??? Further discussion needed about what makes something "Good Art".

[SahLence UASR]

"The old rules are crumbling, and nobody knows what the new rules are, so make your own rules." Spectacular commencement speech!

[christine hauser]

Great speech. Lots of wisdom in his words. And he speaks in a light hearted, relaxed and comical manner about some of the most important bits of wisdom any of us hope to learn... Really enjoyed it :)

[Jose Ortiz]

MAKE GOOD ART :D

[Diana Acuna]

Brave, genuine, authentic soul. Total admiration for this man!

[mistresspav]

questioning is always a good thing :D

[hewttehdewb]

Altho I feel bad for anyone who can't listen to Neil, his voice makes me question my sexuality

[LeHammockRider]

Noooooooooo! Just as I was about to resign myself to a career as some kind of healthcare provider, THIS had to come along.