Entrepreneurs: the artists of the business world

Abstract

PurposeThis paper relates the connection and influence of arts‐based training and practical experience to entrepreneurial endeavors.Design/methodology/approachThe paper was based upon anecdotal examples as well as author‐performed surveys and inquiries examining entrepreneurs who have arts backgrounds and use arts practices in their businesses.FindingsMany entrepreneurs have backgrounds in the arts and apply those practices in their businesses. Universities separately teach related arts practices and business practices in their respective departments but rarely combine the efforts in an interdisciplinary manner.Practical implicationsBy creating interdisciplinary approaches between arts and entrepreneurship, benefits can be achieved in both areas in the universities, small businesses and large‐scale corporate arenas.Originality/valueThis paper is possibly the first to suggest a direct correlation between arts training and entrepreneurial endeavors. Businesspeople may be inspired to examine the arts world as a resource for training in entrepreneurship and initiative. Entrepreneurs may be inspired to explore the arts for training.