This is my last podcast episode—at least for now.

In this goodbye, I reflect on what this podcast journey has taught me and share 5 creative lessons every artist should remember. These aren’t tips about algorithms or visibility—they’re the deeper truths that shape how we show up to create.

From trusting your intuition to choosing focus over noise, from crying in the car after a tough call with a hero, to realizing how hard it can be—especially as women—to say no and protect studio time… these stories are raw, honest, and full of the questions we all face as artists.

One of the biggest gifts of this podcast was the people it connected me to.

Aine Divine opened a door that helped me see myself more clearly.

Christian Hook may have closed a door, but in doing so, he anchored me to the one thing that truly matters. That clarity, even through rejection, helped me cut off distractions and devote more time to painting.
But if I hadn’t started this podcast, I wouldn’t have had the chance to even speak with him. For that alone, I’m so glad I began this path.

If you’re curious about Christian Hook’s work, you can explore it here: https://www.christianhook.com

Whether you’ve been listening since episode one or just dropped in recently, thank you. I hope this final episode gives you something to carry forward in your own creative life.

Mentioned:

Letting Go, Moving Forward: Lessons from a Bird on Starting Over| #NatureLessons Ep. 013

Listening In: Aine Divine on Art as Catharsis, Following Sparks, Surrendering to Creative Blocks, and Fully Occupying Your Body in the Creative Process| Ep.19

Kelogsloops: On Art, Storytelling & Why Your Style Is Always Evolving| #Chasingdreams Ep. 035

Artist Lessons from Agnes Cecil, Aine Divine, Kelogsloops, and More: On Rejection, Letting Go, and Growth  |  #ArtistLessons Ep. 042

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Art fear doesn’t always scream — sometimes, it loops quietly in the background. In this episode, I share how my ENFP stress loop of ideas and over-action led me straight into burnout… and how my friend Eli, an INFP, shut down completely after a painful creative experience. We both had to find ways to come back. If you’ve ever felt stuck, resistant, numb, or unsure what step to take next — this episode is for you. I walk through how MBTI loops play out under stress and how simple, honest shifts can help bring you back to creative alignment.
Ask yourself: what’s your art fear? And what helps you find your way back?

MBTI Test: https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test

Episode with Eli “When Art Hurts: Selling at Nontraditional Venues & Meta Ads Frustrations | #ArtistStruggle Ep. 025”

Episode with Eli “Finding Your Flow: Creative Routines, Rituals, and Making Space for Art | #CreativeFlow Ep. 037”

Eli’s website: https://www.elimiklavcic.com/

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I sit down with my artist friend Alexandra — a fine art craftsperson and doula whose work revolves around the theme of birth.
We talk about creating art that honors life’s beginnings, the vulnerability of naming a piece, and the quiet strength in letting work unfold naturally.
As someone who loves painting toddlers and babies, I found unexpected common ground with Alexandra’s birth-inspired practice.
We also explore our very different rhythms — Alexandra, who protects her sacred creative process, and me, who shares as I go — yet we meet in a shared love for reflection and meaning-making.
This episode is for artists walking a slow or intuitive path — or anyone seeking a thoughtful moment of connection through creativity.

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

🔗 Find Alexandra's work:
Website: https://www.aceartsanddoula.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aceartsanddoula?igsh=MW5nbnNyY2g3enVmYw==

What happens when your child’s behavior mirrors something unspoken in yourself? In this episode, I share a tender, raw journey that started with a daycare conversation and ended with one of my most meaningful paintings yet—Child, Blossom, inspired by Van Gogh’s Almond Blossoms.

From reflections on parenting guilt and public judgment to the power of subtle emotions, this episode explores how our children shape us just as much as we shape them. Whether you're a creative parent or an artist navigating emotional depth, I hope this story makes you feel a little more seen

Miwa’s website: https://www.miwagardner.com/
Masters reimagined series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfzUlxz-F0e8Z09vTfjbV3ihLB9KuC76M

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

How much of creativity is structure, and how much is intuition? Is it better to carefully plan a piece, or should we follow the flow and see where it takes us? In this episode, Eli and I explore how we each approach creative balance—when to trust a plan, when to let spontaneity take over, and why keeping momentum is essential. I also share my recent reflections on studying Van Gogh for my ‘Masters Reimagined’ series, how I realized only a fraction of my own paintings truly stand out over time, and why I believe the key to growth is simply to keep creating. If you’ve ever struggled with over-planning or not planning enough, this conversation is for you.

Miwa’s website: https://www.miwagardner.com/
Masters reimagined series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfzUlxz-F0e8Z09vTfjbV3ihLB9KuC76M

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Eli’s website: https://www.elimiklavcic.com/

How do you build a creative routine that actually works for you? Do you need a structured plan, a clear space, and a calm mind before you can create? Or do you dive straight in, letting the act of making art come first? In this episode, Eli and I break down our creative rituals, how we navigate resistance (a.k.a I call it creative flow;)), and why small habits—like making tea, wearing a ring, wearing your painting jacket or even spinning a top—can be the key to unlocking creativity. We also explore whether creative blocks are real, how to protect our mental space, and why “the way we do anything is the way we do everything” like Rick Ruben says.

Miwa’s website: https://www.miwagardner.com/

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Eli’s website: https://www.elimiklavcic.com/

In a world where social media seems to determine success, how do we, as artists, find a path that truly feels right? In this episode, I share a raw reflection on the frustration of seeing others grow faster, the struggle of balancing content creation with actual painting, and the realization that social media is just one way—not the only way—to thrive. Whether you're questioning your own creative path or feeling the weight of comparison, this conversation with me and Eli is for you.

My youtube video mentioned is: https://youtu.be/JhEQCBCV2SY

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Eli’s website: https://www.elimiklavcic.com/

In this special episode, I talk with watercolor artist Kelogsloops (Hieu)— known for his dreamy, ethereal portraits, masterful control of watercolor, and down-to-earth honesty about the artist’s journey. Even as a full-time artist with a million fans and a newly released book, The Art of Kelogsloops: From Sketch to Finish, Hieu reminds us that the creative path is always evolving. We talk about storytelling, style, burnout, and why it’s okay to still be figuring things out.

We cover everything from how Sailor Moon influenced his artistic journey, to why he still struggles with finding time to paint — even as a full-time artist with a book deal and over a million fans.

This interview is full of heart, humor, and grounded advice. Whether you’re an artist navigating your style or a fan of Hieu’s work, I hope this feels like a conversation between friends — because that’s exactly how he made me feel.

🎧 Music :

Mentioned Songs: "Hide and Seek" by Imogen Heap, and Kung Fu Panda Soundtrack.

Video Snippet of this interview with Kelogsloops https://youtu.be/w8qE-SjUTc8

Find more about Kelogsloops Hieu at https://www.kelogsloops.com/

Kelogsloops Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/kelogsloops

Kelogsloops Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelogsloops/

Book hes released: The Art of Kelogsloops: From Sketch to Finish

Blog on my experience at Kelogsloops Workshop: https://www.miwagardner.com/blog/kelogsloops-workshop-2023

Podcast on my experience at Kelogsloops Workshop: https://www.miwagardner.com/podcast/029

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I’m sharing 10 crucial tips for artists just starting with commissions. From pricing to contracts and communication, I’ll walk you through the steps to handle commissions like a pro and avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re new to the process or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with advice to help you navigate your art business with confidence.

My youtube video mentioned is: https://youtu.be/JhEQCBCV2SY

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Composition in art can feel like a mystery—why do some paintings just work? In this episode, I share my long journey of trying to understand composition, from studying books and using golden ratio tools to my partner’s photography advice. But nothing quite clicked until I attended Kelogsloops' watercolor workshop in Munich. He shared simple yet powerful composition principles that transformed how I see and create art. I also reflect on how this lesson now shapes the way I notice composition everywhere—including in children’s books while reading with my son.

Plus, exciting news—I’ll be interviewing Kelogsloops on this podcast in April 2025! Tune in to hear about composition, art journeys, and creative breakthroughs.

Episode Notes:

Composition struggles: Books, tools, and learning the hard way

The moment it clicked: Insights from Kelogsloops' workshop

Seeing composition everywhere: From painting to children’s books

The power of a great teacher: Why certain lessons resonate more than others

Upcoming interview with Kelogsloops in April 2025!

Links are affiliate links, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you :) It will help me create more content;) Thank you*

The golden ratio acrylic tool I used:

The Artist Guide to Composition by Frank Webb: https://amzn.to/4h57RH4

Blog on Kelogsloops workshop experience: https://www.miwagardner.com/blog/kelogsloops-workshop-2023

Youtube on Kelogsloops workshop experience: https://youtu.be/ZWewFW3ZLWY

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

For years, I didn’t sign my paintings—because I didn’t think I was worthy of a signature. That changed when a client asked a simple question: Does it come signed? This episode dives into my journey of embracing my identity as an artist, designing my own signature inspired by the masters, and marking my work with confidence. If you’ve ever hesitated to claim your art, this one’s for you.

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Have you ever wished you had more time to paint? I get it. Life is busy, and it’s easy to push painting aside. But what if painting became as automatic as brushing your teeth? In this episode, I share how I built a painting habit that sticks—why it feels strange not to paint now, how I structure my time, and why consistency matters more than the perfect moment. Whether you have 20 minutes or two hours, let’s make painting a part of daily life.

I also have a Youtube video covering this here:

31 Days of Kai: How Daily Painting Transformed My Art Journey

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I’m opening up about something deeply personal:
how I’m still figuring out my artistic voice —
and why that process is probably more about returning than discovering.

I share my own winding path,
from quitting art school for survival reasons,
to reigniting my practice thanks to my partner’s encouragement,
to hitting moments of “wait, where am I going?” even after setting clear goals.

You’ll hear how a conversation with Kelogsloops,
and reflections on my old IB Visual Arts training,
brought me back to the power of observation and reflection —
and why I believe your artistic voice is already inside you,
waiting to be noticed and nurtured.

If you’ve ever felt lost, scattered, or unsure of your style,
this episode is for you.

Blog on: How to Find Your Artistic Voice (And Keep Coming Back to It)

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Art thrives on experimentation.

In this episode, I dive into the joy of playing with materials without expectations—a process that led to a surprising creative breakthrough. Inspired by Rick Rubin’s idea of “seeds” in creativity, I revisited Bombay inks, Ecoline inks, and Gelli plate printing to see what I could create when I let go of control.

Along the way, I mixed 45 new colors, tested unexpected textures, and experimented with layering techniques, all while reflecting on how play and curiosity fuel creativity. I also discuss how the animated film Flow sparked my inspiration, why keeping a “Secret Book of Colors” and reference photos helps store creative ideas for the right moment, and how the most rewarding part of the creative process is often the exploration itself.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, uninspired, or afraid to make a mess, this episode is for you.

The Art Supplies I Bought (And Why I'm Conflicted): Not All Regrets: https://youtu.be/fKivNxBqL8k

*Links are affiliate links, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you :) It helps me keep creating content, thank you;)

Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink: https://amzn.to/4gUY0ne

Ecoline Liquid Watercolour: https://amzn.to/3Da09O0

Gel Press Monoprinting Print Plate: https://amzn.to/4bjYzWs

Movie I got inspired: Flow

Midjourney, the AI tool I use to create images: https://www.midjourney.com/

The Episode on Ophelia Painting: Capturing the Feeling: The Urgency to Create

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

What happens when you finally get to learn from one of your biggest artistic inspirations, and it doesn’t go as planned? In this episode, I reflect on my experience attending Kelogsloops’ workshop in Munich, how our contrasting styles challenged me, and the unexpected lessons I took away. From redefining composition to blending styles, this journey was more about finding my artistic voice than perfecting techniques.

I also have a Youtube video covering this here: https://youtu.be/ZWewFW3ZLWY
Blog here: https://www.miwagardner.com/blog/kelogsloops-workshop-2023

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I share the story of attending Agnes Cecil’s workshop in Munich and how it became a turning point in my art journey. From conquering my fear of sketching portraits to embracing the beauty of loose brushstrokes, this experience reshaped how I approach watercolor and creativity. Join me as I reflect on the lessons learned, connections made, and the freedom of trusting the process.

I also have a Youtube video covering this here: https://youtu.be/SgfVoW6ARwo
Blog here: https://www.miwagardner.com/blog/agnescecilworkshop2023

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Inspiration doesn’t always strike all at once—it arrives in fragments, waiting for us to notice. In this episode, I share how a quiet, sacred encounter with a deer in my garden transformed into a watercolor painting, a meditation on presence, and a lesson in creative flow.

I also have a Youtube video covering this here:

Where Inspiration Strikes: From Deer Encounter to Watercolor

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I sit down with my artist friend Eli to unpack the challenges of 2024 and the creative struggles they revealed. I realize my fear of her stepping away from painting was shaping our conversation, while she simply needed space to heal and reconnect on her terms. We explore creative burnout, balancing spontaneity with intention, and using guiding words for 2025. Listen to Part 1 for more context on Eli’s break from art.

Questions we tackled!

In what ways did creativity help you during tough times?

What changes or realizations about yourself emerged in 2024, and how do you plan to carry them forward?

     5. Have you thought of what your “guiding word” this year will be?

Marketing Experiments & Lessons Learned

Success and challenges with free gift campaign

Managing unexpected subscriber growth

Balancing generosity with business sustainability

Depression, Art & Recovery (00:34:41 - 00:41:08)

Personal experiences with different types of depression

How creativity can be both healing and challenging

The importance of reconnecting with our artistic voice

Looking Forward: 2025 Plans Moving from quantity to quality in creative work

Finding purpose and intention in each painting

Balancing spontaneity with conscious creation

Setting Intentions & Guiding Words

Choosing authenticity as a guiding principle

Creating focused missions for the year ahead

• Supporting each other's creative recovery journey

Mentioned:

Eli’s Website: https://www.elimiklavcic.com/

Wanting to choose your guiding word? This episode will help! Word of the Year: Emerge to Mission | #ArtGoals Ep. 020

I also have a Youtube video covering this here: https://youtu.be/9m04kkaKKaU

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this vulnerable conversation with my artist friend Eli, we unpack our most challenging moments of 2024: her painful experience with an interior design store exhibition and my social media marketing roadblocks after moving to the US. We discuss how sometimes the art world can deeply wound us, yet these experiences shape our path forward. This episode is for every artist who has felt small in the face of rejection or lost in their creative journey.

Meeting Eli & Our Artistic Journeys

How Eli and I met through a shared love of watercolor

The bond we've built as artists navigating ups and downs

Looking Ahead: 2025 & Creative Uncertainty

Will Eli return to painting? (I really hope so!)

Reflecting on 2024’s struggles and setting creative intentions for the new year

The Exhibition That Broke Eli

Behind the scenes of an interior design store exhibition

The emotional toll, miscommunications, and lessons learned

Transitions & Social Media Burnout

My move to the U.S. and its impact on my art

Losing access to my Facebook and Instagram—what that meant for my work

• The bird metaphor: learning to let go what no longer serves us

Questions we tackled!

What was the most challenging moment for you in 2024, and how did you navigate through it?

How have your personal relationships shaped your year, and what lessons have you drawn from them?

Mentioned:
Eli’s Website: https://www.elimiklavcic.com/
Eli’s Moon Paintings mentioned during the podcast can be seen here: https://www.elimiklavcic.com/portfolio/moon

Letting Go, Moving Forward: Lessons from a Bird on Starting Over| #NatureLessons Ep. 013

Wanting to choose your guiding word? This episode will help! Word of the Year: Emerge to Mission | #ArtGoals Ep. 020

I also have a Youtube video covering this here: https://youtu.be/9m04kkaKKaU

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I share my journey with Instagram art communities—the highs of creative collaborations and the challenges of navigating engagement. From joining Ali Cavani's Patreon group to painting Perchta for a winter-themed project, I explore how these communities can inspire, connect, and sometimes divert your energy. Discover if they might be the right fit for your creative path.

I also have a Youtube video covering this here: https://youtu.be/nqecznJ2d80?si=WUN9uq5GdC1OWPtR 

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this heartfelt episode, I reflect on my emotional journey back to Japan to say my final farewell to my grand aunt. The decision to fly back to Japan or not was a struggle for me since it meant taking my 3 year old with me, having to pause everything and financially. But there was few key things that happened that made me make a decision. 

 I also have a youtube video that I share the whole story while painting Obachan.

The final painting was placed in her coffin with 96 roses. 

In this episode #22, I dive into the importance of experimenting with different painting surfaces, sharing my personal journey with various watercolor papers and other surfaces like Yupo, canvas, watercolor ground primed canvas and aquabord. I talk about how each surface affects technique and style, and encourage you to find the one that best suits your creative process. 

Mentioned:
"Professional Watercolor Papers: A Performance Comparison I" by Jill Poyerd Fine Art on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DZhswCAM32Q?si=dCHNkrthbmFCuRJb

In this episode, I explore the moments when parents open up their worlds to their children, sharing not just spaces and tasks, but meaningful parts of their identities. Through three stories—an artist inviting her children to lay a single brushstroke on a magazine cover, a pilot who secretly brings his child into the cockpit, and my own experiences of being in my mother’s workspace and now with my son in mine—we’ll reflect on why so many parents naturally want their children to feel connected to their work. Is it just about showing them what we do, or is there a deeper purpose, a desire for belonging, pride, and shared legacy? Join me as I unravel these intimate moments and the universal drive to invite our children into our worlds.

Mentioned:

Ali Cavanaugh: Painting of Taylor Swift

A Frog Invitation: https://www.miwagardner.com/buyart/p/frog

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I’m opening up about the deeper, less-talked-about side of goal setting for artists.
It’s not just about writing down what you want —
it’s about learning how to stay tuned in, adjust, and realign your goals as you grow.

I reflect on my own journey — from painting every day after an inspiring workshop,
to launching toddler portrait commissions even though my partner urged me to focus on refining my skills,
to facing the deeper realization that no goal ever feels truly “final.”

If you’ve ever struggled to balance ambition, craft, and self-compassion,
this episode is a gentle, honest look at how we can stay connected to the work that truly matters.

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this reflective episode, I reflect on 2024, guided by Laura Horn’s approach to setting intentions and asking meaningful questions about what worked, what didn’t, and what to let go. My word for 2024 was emerge, inspired by both wanting more growth as an artist and from the intuitive nature of watercolor with how it seems to always emerge from the paper. For 2025, my word is mission—a way to stay grounded while allowing room to explore. What will your word for the year be?

Mentioned:

Laura Horns Podcast Episode on planning and trello guides! https://www.laurahornart.com/thepodcast/115

Medusa Painting Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/m1BPlW8a-FA
Myerrs Briggs: https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, Aine Divine shares how trusting your inner voice can guide you through creative challenges, from embracing pauses during blocks to following sparks of inspiration. She reflects on transforming dark times into cathartic art, staying true to her instincts, and finding joy in the process. Talking to Aine makes me feel better that even renowned artists face obstacles. Her advice to focus on what we authentically feel reminds us that 'bodily listening-in' can be a powerful source of meaningful and inspiring creativity.

Topics covered:

Navigating Creative Blocks

Emotional Connection to Art

Staying True to Inspiration

Artist Friend. An Uninteded Collaboration

Parenthood & Creative Energy

Power of Movement

Intentionality in the Creative Process

Surrendering to Imperfectionin Art

Finding the Flow in the Creative Process

Exatitude is not Truth

Space/Order for Creativity

Balancing Chaos and Order

Carving out time for Creativity

Schedule of Workshops

Qs from listeners

Lighting rounds!

Images from the interview below :
https://www.miwagardner.com/podcast/019

Mentioned:

Podcast on the Summer School Experience

Youtube Video on the Summer School Experience

Blog on My Summer School Experience

I’ve also was given the privilege to interview:

Aine Divine: Listening In: Aine Divine on Art as Catharsis, Following Sparks, Surrendering to Creative Blocks, and Fully Occupying Your Body in the Creative Process| Ep.19

Join me in my art journey!: MiwaGardner.com

Imagine 5 days of JUST PAINTING—learning and rediscovering creativity with Aine Divine. Set in the inspiring Willow Room at Cockenzie House in Edingburgh, this summer school new ways of approaching watercolor, from embracing bold brushstrokes to painting live models. I’ll share the challenges, breakthroughs, and what I will be taking with me forward from this unforgettable experience. Don’t miss my explanation of Aine’s unique teaching style and what it means to truly let go and let intuitive creativity guide you!

Mentioned:

Aine Divine Website: https://www.ainedivinepaintings.co.uk/who-i-am.html

Youtube Video on the Summer School Experience : https://youtu.be/u9vcHlGjrN8

Blog on My Summer School experience: https://www.miwagardner.com/blog/aine-divines-summer-school-in-edinburgh

I’ve also was given the privilege to interview: Aine Divine: Listening In: Aine Divine on Art as Catharsis, Following Sparks, Surrendering to Creative Blocks, and Fully Occupying Your Body in the Creative Process| Ep.19

Join me in my art journey!: MiwaGardner.com

In this episode, we explore what it means to be an artist and the journey of owning that title. Inspired by my own experiences and the story of a close friend, we dive into questions around identity, self-worth, and the desire for validation. I share insights on the distinction between “artist” and “professional artist,” as well as the armor we sometimes wear to feel secure in our creativity.

Mentioned:

Rick Ruben: The Creative Act: A Way of Being

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardnerart

*Links are affiliate links, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you :)

In this episode, I share my journey of how I first started making money with my art back in April 2023. From my first commissioned work with mothers in a Singapore-based WhatsApp community, to my first Etsy sale, and even launching a Kickstarter campaign, I reflect on the lessons I’ve learned about pricing, communicating with clients, and building a brand.

I also talk about how I’m now rebuilding my art business from scratch in the U.S. after moving and how I’m using my podcast, YouTube, and Instagram to build a new community. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m learning, and I want to encourage others who are also struggling to build their creative careers.

Mentioned:

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardnerart

Mentioned:
Sky Portrait Artist of the Year

Aine Divine

My youtube video on how to make painting a ritual

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardnerart

Mentioned:

Eli Miklavcic

Agnes Cecil

A good resources on what defines style: https://massart.edu/app/uploads/legacy-files/Principles%20and%20Elements.pdf

Pablo Picasso not pink period, Rose Period
Landscape artist mentioned by Eli is Allie Dattilio.

Lisa Congdons Book Here

*This is an affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you :)

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Mentioned:

Birds: https://www.miwagardner.com/buyart/p/ill-take-my-time

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I share my experiences of spending quality time with my three-year-old son, focusing on our recent foray into origami. Through the delicate art of folding paper, I discover valuable lessons about patience, creativity, and the importance of balancing persistence with enjoyment in my artistic process.

Mentioned:
16 Personalities Test MBTI

Matt Gabler's blog, which discusses how overcoming challenges can lead to thriving in artistic pursuits .

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I explore the challenges of transitioning between my artistic pursuits and administrative duties amidst significant life changes. Drawing from my personal experience of moving from Munich to Washington State, I reflect on the emotional complexities of balancing creativity with everyday responsibilities. I share insights into practical strategies such as time blocking, mindfulness rituals, and setting boundaries to help ease these transitions and find equilibrium in our lives.

Mentioned:
The Laura Horn Podcast: The Art vs. Admin Battle - Managing Overwhelm and Tricky Transitions

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I dive into the fears that all artists face — and the role fear plays in shaping our creative identity. From fears of failure to the struggle of imposter syndrome, I explore how these emotions don’t have to stop us. Instead, I share how I’ve learned to embrace them as part of the journey, using them to push through moments of doubt and continue evolving. If you've ever wondered if you're "good enough," or felt stuck by fear, this episode is for you.

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I share a deeply personal moment of opening up to a close friend before leaving Munich. What started as an honest conversation about past suicidal thoughts unexpectedly led to practical support in the form of a unique, grounding technique: spicy candy. I reflects on how vulnerability can bring unexpected help and connects this experience to grounding techniques for emotional regulation. The episode ties these ideas to parenting and creativity, exploring how openness can foster support in both areas.

Mentioned:

On Grounding Techniques: Here

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode of Art, Parenthood, and Beyond, I reflect on the power of 'noticing' and how it's shaped my creativity and life. After my recent move from Germany to Washington, I found myself embracing a 'last time' mentality, which helped me see the beauty in everyday moments—from cycling through familiar streets to sharing final moments with friends. I'll share how this mindset impacts my creative process and how noticing small details can fuel both your art and your life. Stay with me as we explore the beauty in these fleeting moments and how they can inspire us.

Mentioned:

The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity -book by American author Julia Cameron.

The Skillshare class on Enso: Enso: Create Japanese Meditative Watercolor

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode of Art, Parenthood and Beyond, I explore how my childhood memories, fears, and insecurities have influenced my parenting and artistic expression. I share a personal story about the transition to a new daycare for my son and how it revealed my instinct to protect him. Through the process of painting, I discover that he is more capable than I ever realized, and I learn valuable lessons about balancing protection with independence.

Mentioned:

The blog on the painting here.

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Mentioned:

The blog on the painting here.

The statistic about parents taking time for their creative pursuits being 35% less likely to experience severe burnout comes from a study conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA).https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42761-020-00028-4

"The study published in The Journal of Family Psychology found that parents who maintain personal hobbies report a 25% increase in overall life satisfaction. Source." https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/fam/

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Mentioned:

The blog on the painting here.

Why "What the Heck Moments" are Important in Our Creative Lives-The Laura Horn Podcast I love listening to!

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode of Art, Parenthood and Beyond, join me, Miwa Gardner, as I explore the fascinating—and sometimes surreal—experience of gazing into the eyes of a newborn. With a mix of humor and heartfelt stories, I share my journey through the sleep-deprived nights of early parenthood and the surprising moments that made me feel like I was living with a little alien. From breastfeeding struggles to those precious gazes that connect us on a deeper level, let’s celebrate the wonder of infancy together.

As I navigated those surreal early days, I found inspiration in my son’s captivating gaze. His wide-eyed wonder and mysterious expressions sparked a desire in me to capture that unique, almost otherworldly look on canvas. Join me as I reflect on how these moments not only deepened my bond with my son but also inspired my artistry in ways I never expected.

Mentioned:

The blog on the painting here.

What babies first see: Incredible gif reveals transformation from black-and-white eyesight at birth to full focus color within 12 months 

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

Welcome to Episode 4 of Art, Parenthood and Beyond! I’m Miwa Gardner, and in this episode, I dive into those unexpected moments of parenthood that can catch us completely off guard. I share a touching story about my son, who surprised me by expressing empathy in a way I never expected. It made me realize how deeply connected we are and how those little moments can inspire our creativity as artists.

I also explore how my experiences as a parent influence my artwork and vice versa. I want to hear from you, too! Have you had those surprising moments with your kids that made you stop and think? Or as an artist, has an unexpected emotion ever shaped your work? Let’s celebrate those precious moments together, reminding ourselves to embrace the chaos and find joy in it all.

So grab a seat, relax, and let’s reflect on these beautiful connections between art and parenthood!

Mentioned:

The Blog On This Painting
The Song is "“It Hurts Now That You’re Gone” by I Don't Like Mirrors
My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I dive into the urgency we feel as artists when inspiration strikes—like a bolt of lightning—and how that led me to paint a piece deeply connected to a friend's heartbreaking story. I reflect on whether great art always has to come from pain, or if we can find just as much power in joy, beauty, and the simple moments that make life meaningful. Join me as I explore what it means to create from a place of raw emotion and the importance of seizing those fleeting opportunities to express ourselves.

Mentioned:

The blog on Ophelia painting here.

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, How Can I Protect You? Exploring Parenthood's Challenging Feelings, I dive into the complex and often bittersweet emotions that come with parenthood. I reflect on the delicate balance between joy and sadness that many of us experience after welcoming a child into our lives.

I'll share personal anecdotes from my journey as both a parent and an artist, and how creative expression has become a powerful tool for self-reflection. You'll hear how each challenge we face can open up new opportunities to appreciate the joyful moments that often follow.

Join me as I explore the dualities of parenthood and creativity, and pose the question: 'How do the challenges you face help you appreciate the joyful moments in your life?' Let's tune in together for a conversation that reminds us that joy can only exist because of pain.

Mentioned:

Check out my blog where I share the painting here.
School of Life Youtube channel (I couldn’t allocate the exact post on their community board within youtube as it only has posts up to a year ago and I am talking about at least 2-3 years ago!)

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode of Art, Parenthood, and Beyond, I dive into the often-frustrating world of creative blocks. I’ll share my personal journey of overcoming self-doubt and rediscovering my passion for painting after not painting at all for 2 weeks. You’ll discover practical strategies that helped me break free from a creative block, like revisiting what I love and embracing playfulness in my art. I’ll also share insightful quotes from renowned artists that remind us that creative challenges can lead to transformative breakthroughs. Join me as we navigate the ups and downs of creativity together!

Mentioned:

Get Unstuck Creative Block Discover Ideas by Danielle Krysa

&

The Creative Act: A Way Of Being by Rick Rubens

My website: ⁠MiwaGardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I open up about my first applications to art fairs here in Washington — and the rejections that came with them. I share what those moments brought up for me, how I reframed the experience, and why I’m still moving forward with more clarity. If you’ve ever felt discouraged by “no,” this is a reminder that rejection is part of the path — and sometimes, all it means is not yet.

Go The Episode to check images here

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I share how I learned to work with the time I have — not the time I wish I had. From carving out studio structure as a parent to using even small windows intentionally, this episode is for anyone who’s juggling life and still wants to show up for their art in a meaningful way. I’ll also walk through how I split my creative hours, why that changed everything, and how you can do the same without pressure or guilt.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re truly growing or just going through the motions, this episode is for you.

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I reflect on a shift I’ve been feeling — from just producing paintings to deeply focusing on improving my skills. Inspired by a quote from Christian Hook, I explore the difference between passive and deliberate practice, what counts as “study” versus “finished work,” and how redefining what a “good painting” means can reconnect you to your deeper artistic goals.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re truly growing or just going through the motions, this episode is for you.

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

This episode is extra special because it marks the anniversary of when my partner and I met. He’s a big podcast listener (and honestly way smarter than me), and I’ve been nudging him forever to come up with his own questions to interview me. Well — it finally happened!

I was pretty nervous right before we started because I had no idea what he was going to ask. I thought maybe it would be deep questions pulling out all my subconscious art fears (like a counselor or something), but nope — that’s not where it went, lol.

Instead, we ended up talking about the artists who’ve shaped me, like Agnes Cecil, Aine Divine, Kelogsloops, Gustav Klimt, and Van Gogh. We cover rejection, letting go, playing with color and materials, and how all of it has shaped how I paint today. I hope it gives you something to reflect on for your own art practice, wherever you are on your creative path.

Website: https://www.miwagardner.com/

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art

In this episode, I’m sharing a quiet turning point in my creative path — the moment I realized I was burned out. Not just tired, but truly stretched thin from creating too much content and not enough art.

I talk about how I recognized the signs, what helped me shift, and how I’m now reshaping my creative life to focus less on output… and more on depth. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to keep producing or wondered how to protect your energy while still showing up for your art, this one’s for you.

Miwa’s website: Miwagardner.com

Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@miwagardner_art