"Promotion" (I prefer the term "promotion") has at least two essential aspects of the artist:
1. Elementary information "general public" that the
there is such an artist.
Strange is, if denied the importance of this aspect. As they say, no body - no case. Although this saying is related to an entirely different profession
2. Treatment of attention
of the unprepared audienceon the creative and investment "weight" of the author.
Here, of course, can take place "brainwashing." But, as elsewhere, strong minds take note of the information, but washing will not succumb.
I assert that both these aspects need the artist, if he is not opposed to commercial success. If opposed to - let him do in the cave, and immediately after the creation of the work of his burns. Commercial failure is guaranteed.
As for "artistic achievements", the promotion has to do with it.
P.S. Written and himself a little adjusting. All the same matter. From my own experience: the artist, who had no commercial success (in my opinion, very talented) just stopped writing, because materials cost money, but children must be fed.