In this piece, the author reflects on two decades of their artistic career and the various attempts made to create a collective structure for independent theater artists in Croatia. While no successful legal entity has yet been established to significantly improve working conditions, these efforts have raised awareness about the necessity for better work conditions and networking among artists. The discussions and brainstorming sessions have fostered a sense of community and the importance of advocating for improved circumstances within the independent arts scene.

The precarious nature of independent artists' lives is a focal point of the article, characterized by the constant blur between personal and professional time, significant unpaid overtime, and chronic underpayment. This situation not only hampers the quality of artistic work but also stifles long-term growth and development for artists in a business sense. The lack of financial stability leads to a vicious cycle where artists are unable to invest in their own professional development, thus perpetuating the cycle of precarity.

Ultimately, the call to action is clear: independent artists need to unite to form structures such as associations or unions that can effectively advocate for their rights and working conditions. The author emphasizes that raising awareness about these issues is crucial for fostering a more sustainable artistic environment, where artists can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the cultural landscape of Croatia without being weighed down by financial insecurities and precarious labor conditions.