The Unexpected Side Hustles of Artists: John Cage's Mycological Ventures

In the late 1950s, American avant-garde composer John Cage turned his passion for mushrooms into a profitable side hustle. Initially foraging for non-psychedelic varieties to supplement his meager diet as a struggling musician, Cage developed a deep interest in mycology. By the time he embarked on a six-month tour of Europe, he had amassed a wealth of knowledge and resources on the subject, including an extensive collection of books and memberships in various mycological societies.

The Guardian

Cage's opportunity to monetize his hobby arose when he became a contestant on the popular Italian television game show, Lascia o Raddoppia (Double or Nothing), in 1959. He participated in five episodes, answering questions about mushrooms, and ultimately won 5 million lire, equivalent to approximately £70,000 today. This windfall allowed Cage to purchase a Steinway piano and a Volkswagen campervan for his partner Merce Cunningham's dance company, marking a significant moment in his financial journey as he described it as “the first consequential amount of money I’d ever earned.”

The Guardian

While Cage's experience highlights a successful side hustle, not all artists have enjoyed similar outcomes. Many have found that side jobs can detract from their creative energy. For instance, abstract-expressionist painter Grace Hartigan documented her frustrations in her journal during the early 1950s, expressing despair over her temp jobs that left her feeling uninspired. On March 5, 1952, she lamented, “A whole month gone and I haven’t even lifted a brush,” reflecting the struggles faced by artists trying to balance financial needs with their creative pursuits.

The Guardian

Cage's story illustrates the complex relationship between art and financial stability. While some artists successfully leverage their passions into profitable ventures, others face the harsh reality of financial strain that can hinder their artistic output. This dichotomy raises questions about the sustainability of artistic careers in a society that often undervalues creative work.

The Guardian

Cage's success on Lascia o Raddoppia has been celebrated as an example of how artists can creatively navigate financial challenges. However, the contrasting experiences of artists like Hartigan serve as a reminder of the broader struggles within the artistic community, where financial pressures can stifle creativity.

The Guardian

Critics argue that the necessity for side hustles can dilute an artist's focus and authenticity. The tension between financial survival and artistic integrity remains a contentious topic within the art world, prompting discussions about how to better support artists in their creative endeavors without compromising their work.

The Guardian

• “the first consequential amount of money I’d ever earned” — John Cage, Composer

The Guardian

• “A whole month gone and I haven’t even lifted a brush,” — Grace Hartigan, Painter

The Guardian

Cage's journey from foraging to financial success exemplifies the potential for artists to find innovative ways to support their work, even as many continue to grapple with the challenges of maintaining their artistic integrity amidst financial demands.

The Guardian