Creatives are measured by what they create

Creatives are measured by what they create, not by the power of their patrons.

Leonardo da Vinci is remembered for his notebooks and paintings. His list of powerful patrons are a footnote.

Avoid status games. Value status only insofar as it helps you gain creative range-of-motion and a network of collaborators. Focus on creating things of value.

Creative capital is not money capital or power capital. Creative capital is having the resources and freedom to create, and a network of collaborators to create with. Find co-conspirators.