The behaviour of artists appears to be influenced by non-pecuniary benefits that lead to employment choices inconsistent with traditional expectations of labour supply theory. The paper develops a model of employment in the arts with similarities to the Harris-Todaro model. Seemingly paradoxical results arise. For example, the model illustrates how an increase in wage rates for non-artistic activity may lead to a reduction in the amount of non-artistic activity and a commensurate increase in the amount of time devoted to artistic endeavours. Additionally, the model illustrates how individual work preferences of artists can lead to substantial underemployment in the arts