A Global Journey to Find Meaning in Art
Artist’s life worth it? That’s the question Stephanie Elizondo Griest explores in her new book Art Above Everything. A decade in the making, the book blends personal memoir with global reporting—featuring conversations with 70 creatives across ten countries.
From ballerina Wendy Whelan to author Sandra Cisneros, from Rwanda to Qatar, Griest traces the highs and heartbreaks of artistic devotion.
The Cost of a Creative Life
Elizondo Griest pulls no punches about her own journey. A nomadic writer with no stable job, no insurance, and no home of her own, she often lived with her parents and didn’t own basic household items until her 40s.
She claims that “the writing life is the ultimate hazing experience.” “It puts you to the test on all levels.”
Her job necessitated significant personal sacrifice, such as postponing family obligations and suffering unstable finances.
Introducing the “Art Monk”
In a powerful metaphor, Griest compares her life to that of an “art monk,” a term inspired by time spent in a South Texas house of prayer. Like the monks, she took vows—of poverty, solitude, and full artistic commitment.
“If I were going to continue down this ascetic path,” she writes, “I needed to find other chanters in the dark.”
Stories from Around the World
Art Above Everything features:
- Hope Azeda, leading Rwandan playwright
- Surupa Sen, acclaimed Indian dancer
- Artists in New Zealand, Iceland, Romania, and beyond
The book becomes a tapestry of global voices echoing one message: Art demands everything, but also gives everything.
Showcasing Female Artists
Griest focuses on women since they are underrepresented and undervalued in the art world. In 2025, systemic disparities still impact women artists’ participation in galleries and leadership roles.
She is reminded by Cisneros that it takes courage to break gender and cultural standards.“We have to invent our own camino (road).”
Art as Survival and Salvation
Art became a lifeline for Griest during her darkest moments: a cancer diagnosis, the COVID-19 lockdown, and her father’s passing.
“Thank God I chose this life,” she reflects. “I had zero regrets.”
Writing and note-taking became therapeutic tools. Today, she’s a professor, a published author, and finally—yes—owns her own cutlery.
What Other Artists Say
Actor Orlando Rios (CSI: Vegas) calls the creative life “a rollercoaster.” Sheryl Oring, known for the I Wish to Say project, emphasizes that political and financial pressures only make art more essential.
Despite dwindling public funding and rising censorship, artists persist.
“There is reason. There is hope. You are not alone,” Griest promises her readers.
Source: NBC News
