I?ve got a mail from editor and publisher Peter Russu with an invitation of submit materials for selection to become published in Masters of Today 100 Contemporary Artists global art book edited by WOA Publishing. First I was very flattered, and then I thought I might not be the right artist for them so I e-mailed back to the publisher with some pictures of mine. Today I?ve got a replay from Peter and he welcomed me an inclusion in their global art books, two pages in Masters of Today and also one page in Art of Excellence a collective art book in editing.


I called Peter today to really confirm that he was serious about his e-mails and invetation. And yes he was. I told him that I had to ask because I have started with photography two years ago and he said that doesn?t matter, only wich matters is that my work is worth to be published in their books.

As contemporary global art editor and publisher, WOA develops titles in cooperation with the world?s most prestigious art institutions, museums and galleries including Guggenheim Museum in New York, MoMA in New York, Getty in LA, TATE MODERN in London, the Venice Biennial and may others (click the links than search inside the publications).

The only thing is that it cost me 990 euro, but it might be worth it when the book will be printed in 25,000 copies and will be distributed through 5500 large bookstores, eCommerce channels in America and internationally including Barnes & Noble, Borders, also Amazon Canada, Amazon France, Amazon Germany, Amazon Great Britain, Amazon Japan, Australia, New Zealand and others.

My wife doesn?t think it?s worth it. Should I listen to my wife? Or should I get a sponsor? What would you have done?

http://www.mastersoftoday.com/

hmmm. paying to get yourself published sounds kind of fishy to me. However I guess if you look at it as paying for and advertisement it might be worth it. It will certainly look good to your potential clients etc...

Curious to hear others input on this one.

Cris...

Hi Robert,

Sorry but I was waiting for the "other foot to drop." Personally I'd run in the opposite direction [which would be an interesting feat as those of you who know me understand!]. I'd look into Workbook or one the other very well known source books if you want to pay that kind of money for a spot. Bottom line...listen to your wife!

Thanks a lot for your input, that helps. The Finnish goverment support art and I will apply for a scholarship for the book. I let them pay and I take the credit

Thanks again!

Which book do you want the scholarship for? Who is going to see MOT and how will it help you?

Good Luck with the scholarship.

To be honest, it sounds a bit like what many businesses have experienced:

They are approached by a company wanting to include them in a business directory, for which there is a substantial fee. Sometimes they even get an invoice for inclusion without even being asked.

I just did a quick google on Peter Russu, look at the following thread:

http://rhizome.org/thread.rhiz?thread=22899&page=1#44096

Other people are less than impressed...

Check the guy on google, check the web site, try to talk to other people who has done business with him.

Your wife will probably be thinking what you could get HER for 990 Euros

Regards
Michael