The Collective IS OPEN! This space was created to help Artists, Photographers, Designers, Makers, Illustrators, Writers -- ALL CREATIVES -- thrive.

If you sell your beautiful work (or hope to sell more of it), this membership is for you. 

 

All the details HERE / $39 / Doors open through 9.12.24

The Artist's Path To Success // a FREE and super beautiful & reassuring workbook 

The Artist's Path To Success QUIZ // an adorable 2-minute quiz for you

 

And now, the 7 Sweetest Things Being "A Creative" Has Taught Me

1. Your creativity might first show up in your life as curiosity  — study, learn, read, take classes, courses
2. The thing that makes you good at creating your art is also the thing that makes you good at running a business
3. I am the most dependable person in my life, and as the one creating both my art and my business, I know that I can depend on BOTH because I know that I can depend on myself
4. The market for my creative work is infinitely larger than my ability to create the work
5. People want to see my work. In their homes. In their lives. Every day. Shocker. I know. Lol
6. Talking about my work to others does feel scary and makes my little introverted heart want to crawl into a little hole, but it’s also so extremely fun, rewarding, and fulfilling
7. I am capable of wearing 50 different hats — but which ones really look best on me? Aka fit my skill-set and desires best?  And how can I let go of the things that don’t fit me best?

It's time! Today, we’re having a conversation about goals. Yes, in the middle of the year. This is the best time to check in and see how your goals are progressing and what you want for the rest of the year (especially before the holiday season takes hold). 

In this episode, I'm checking in on my goals for 2024; many of which I have achieved, but many I didn't. We'll discuss what to do when you realize you're not reaching your goals or need to adjust some expectations. Enjoy, my sweeties! As always, please leave a rating and comment below!

The Collective // www.EmilyJefforsdsLearn.com (doors open September 5th) 

The Non-Toxic, Healthy Studio Guide // www.emilyjeffords.myflodesk.com/jme7kfx6fl  My art // www.EmilyJeffords.com Write a letter to be read on air //  https://www.emilyjeffordslearn.com/podcast 

Join the LIVE workshops and get all the conversation, Q&A, extra goodness, and worksheets HERE. They are available through March 21st! 

 

Today we set the foundation. The MOST important step of all. Falling in LOVE with your work, with the process, with the beautiful energy you feel while creating. That sweet sweet magic translates to the way you share your work with your (ever-growing) audience which connects to how you grow your studio and business. And it all starts with that love. 

 

IS YOUR VISION COMING THROUGH IN YOUR WORK?

 

>> Before you can expect to attract customers, you have to understand what your work is saying as it is active and living in the world. 

 

1 Understand why your work is worth being seen

2 Get clear on why your work matters to you

3 Look at your work from the outside; is it speaking in the way you intend?

4 How are you conveying the value of your work to others?

5 Define who your ideal audience is and where they feel most comfortable

6 How can you use empathy to share your work effectively?

This is where Making Art Work shines. Inside this Masterclass, I get to walk with you through every single area of running a creative business. Everything from web design to wholesale, branding to creating a collection, email marketing, running ads for your art, SEO for artists and SO much more!  Get all the details HERE

Have you ever thought about the psychology of an engaging Instagram account?  How about the aesthetic flow and community-centered conversation?  I'm getting a bit nerdy in this episode to bring you ALL the goodness and growth (and the exact method I used to grow my account from 0 to 70,000+). Get the PDF workbook "Instagram for Creatives" HERE.

PS. visit Emily_Jeffords on IG for a visual example of what we're discussing.  xo

Can creativity live alongside motherhood?  We address this question and delve into mindset shifts and practical tips to make this challenging task even more rewarding.  

 

"Allow your children to find space within your life --but don’t remove all other loves in the process.  Your heart is big enough for all of it." 

 

xo, Emily Jeffords

In this podcast, we discuss topics like

• overcoming fear
• embracing the bravery needed to share journey and work
• My journey from starving artist to 6-figure business owner
• the power of small consistent steps.

I'm your host, Emily Jeffords and I'm so glad you're here.  Welcome to #DoitfortheProcess

Creating a practice the keeps your heart and mind far from burnout and deep in your inspiration. This mantra, "do it for that process", Has deeply inspired my practice and that of thousands of other creators. Download the jet for the process creative practice guide here: "14 Tips for connecting with your creative process."

212 people answered this question openly and honestly on one of my Instagram posts recently.  Their replies are deep and heartfelt and DESERVE to be heard.  This is a random sampling of some of those comments read aloud.

 

Art is POWERFUL.  Art is change.  It is grace and peace and pain and passion.  

Welcome to the studio and to the Do It for the process Podcast. A Podcast for creatives, artists, and those who are creatively curious.

I’m Emily Jeffords. Artist, mother, & educator

 

Join the LIVE workshops and get all the conversation, Q&A, extra goodness, and worksheets HERE. They are available through March 21st! 

 

Today we set the foundation. The MOST important step of all. Falling in LOVE with your work, with the process, with the beautiful energy you feel while creating. That sweet sweet magic translates to the way you share your work with your (ever-growing) audience which connects to how you grow your studio and business. And it all starts with that love. 

 

>>>> When you deeply understand that your work is worthy you begin to treat it differently. You begin to elevate it.

When your work is elevated you VALUE YOUR WORK

And then your audience can also VALUE YOUR WORK.

This is where Making Art Work shines. Inside this Masterclass, I get to walk with you through every single area of running a creative business. Everything from web design to wholesale, branding to creating a collection, email marketing, running ads for your art, SEO for artists and SO much more!  Get all the details HERE

SHARE the WORK is beginning next Monday! This workshop is happening each day at noon next week and you need to join us! If you're hoping to begin to sell more art and increase your sales in 2024, then prioritize this.  Save your seat here! 

 

Ok, now on to our marketing prediction for 2024. I have 10 to share with you in this 3-part series. These predictions are based on my intuition, trends I'm sensing, and research I'm doing.  Experiment with them and see where they take you! 

• Automation > link in bio 
• Paid ads work so so well -- but make them niche and trust your voice to speak to the right people in the algorithm (again, be a genuine human) 
• Speak to your followers to encourage community. “People like us do things like this,” “you and I know” “If you've been here for a while” “Ok you already know this because of course you do…” “As we’ve talked about before” “Hi friends…” And then ask for the follow right up top in the caption 
• Educators are IN, influencers are OUT (algorithms are noticing a disinterest in posts marked with the mandatory #ad and are deprioritizing these posts — plus we’re bored of them)

 

WE BEGIN ON MONDAY!!! JOIN SHARE THE WORK! I can't say this enough. This 5-day workshop is going to change your business. So show up, get ready, and let's grow beautifully together.   MAKING ART WORK opens for enrollment next Thursday. This 9-week masterclass is ready to change and grow your business and your creative work for the better. Sustainable growth, higher sales, incredible clarity. Are you ready?

@Emily_Jeffords on Instagram and TikTok

SHARE the WORK is beginning next Monday! This workshop is happening each day at noon next week and you need to join us! If you're hoping to begin to sell more art and increase your sales in 2024, then prioritize this.  Save your seat here! 

 

Ok, now on to our marketing prediction for 2024. I have 10 to share with you in this 3-part series. These predictions are based on my intuition, trends I'm sensing, and research I'm doing.  Experiment with them and see where they take you! 

• Video > Photo (but photos are going to make a comeback and are definitely highly valuable -- however, prioritize video and video content) 
• Easy, natural, off-the-cuff, or "low-production" > high production (but high production will catch eyes and make a lasting impact)
• Personal contact > speaking to the masses (USE YOUR DMS, make connections -- more on this in the next episode!) There is SO MUCH more coming in this mini-series! Tune in tomorrow for part 3!

 

JOIN SHARE THE WORK! I can't say this enough. This 5-day workshop is going to change your business. So show up, get ready, and let's grow beautifully together.  

@Emily_Jeffords on Instagram and TikTok

Part 1 or 3: My TOP 10 Marketing Trend Predictions for 2024 for Artists and Creatives 

 

Before we get into this NERDY and life-giving conversation, I have to tell you that SHARE the WORK is beginning next Monday! This workshop is happening each day at noon next week and you need to join us! If you're hoping to begin to sell more art and increase your sales in 2024, then prioritize this.  You can save your seat here! 

 

Ok, now on to our marketing prediction for 2024. I have 10 to share with you in this 3-part series. These predictions are based on my intuition, trends I'm sensing, and research I'm doing.  Experiment with them and see where they take you! 

• Reach > following -- isn't that nice!! That vanity metric matters far less than the number of people actually SEEING and enjoying your content. So focus far more on that than on the number of followers. Don't get me wrong, attracting community members (followers) but if your followers aren't seeing your content either then what are we even doing here??
  • TRAIN THE ALGORYTHM with repetition, posting themes, and having a consistent brand aesthetic (more on this in Making Art Work). Get noticed by people engaging with similar content.
  • And even better than that >>> ENGAGEMENT MATTERS THE MOST!
  • Engagement > following (the algorithm will show your work to those people again and again whether they follow you or not) 
• Being a beautiful, real-life human > AI
  • Be as human as you possibly can be – funny, imperfect, honest, vulnerable, silly, soulful… we want to engage with people, not bots or computers so it's OK (good, even) to show your beautiful realness! 
• Create threads, themes, and stories, (for example, part 1, 2, 3, 4 style posts or pieces of content).
  • Give your audience something to sink into and feel safe in. I know that sounds a little *extra* to say that they want to feel "safe" in your content, but it's true. Series, multi-part content, and themes in your posts create a sense of known content -- that feels consistent and safe. So let us get cozy!  There is SO MUCH more coming in this mini-series! Tune in tomorrow for part 2! 

 

JOIN SHARE THE WORK! I can't stress this enough. This 5-day workshop is going to change your business. So show up, get ready, and let's grow beautifully together.  

@Emily_Jeffords on Instagram and TikTok (also mentioned: Anna Nunez and her beautiful color of the month series) 

MAKING art WORK early bird is open until Saturday! Don't miss this opportunity to learn and GROW your business within 9 short weeks. 

 

Remember, you are here because you create artwork that you LOVE. You are here because you long for your work to reach a wider audience and find your COLLECTORS! You want to create work and send it into the world and know that it will be well received by your people.

Selling my work directly to my collectors has allowed me to sell to people all around the world, create freedom in my work-flow, and share my vision and perspective directly with my audience.

 

Download the beautiful workbook that accompanies this conversation: The How to Attract Collectors Workbook

 

 

Some helpful links for you:

THE GOAL-SETTING WORKBOOK -- a beautiful guide to honoring your dreams and accomplishing your goals year-round. 

MAKING art WORK - a 9-Week Masterclass for Artists and Creatives looking to grow their business and studios 

The DO IT FOR THE PROCESS Affirmation Cards

 

Tune into more episodes HERE

Welcome back to the Do It For The Process Podcast! This episode is a little vulnerable and a sweet look inside of my dreams, goals, and hopes for 2024. 

Remember, your dreams matter. They are the source for all your goals. 

Work to only set goals over things you can control. You aren't in charge of anyone else's actions or behaviors so setting goals that expect someone to do something (like buy your work or follow you online) isn't fair to you! 

 

You are getting to hear an exclusive behind-the-scenes in The Collective, my membership for ongoing support for Artists and Creatives. If you're a member of the Collective, you can watch this session in our private member's space! 

 

Some helpful links for you:

THE GOAL-SETTING WORKBOOK -- a beautiful guide to honoring your dreams and accomplishing your goals year-round. 

MAKING art WORK - a 9-Week Masterclass for Artists and Creatives looking to grow their business and studios 

The DO IT FOR THE PROCESS Affirmation Cards

 

Tune into more episodes HERE

 

Get the (beautiful and FREE) workbook that accompanies this podcast here. And to check out more free resources for creatives visit emilyjeffordslearn.com. 

 

The holiday season is full of energy; and selling your work during this season can be one of the most thrilling things of all...

 

While it is full of cheer and festivity, these few short weeks can be super intense & stressful for small business owners (creatives especially)! The pace of the holiday season is out of step with the rest of the year, and marketing seems to happen at 10x speed. To make your presence felt online, you have to be SO LOUD. The energy is high, the sales roll in, and the generous energy is flowing. It’s thrilling (and also, quite draining).

Want to know the secret to a thriving Holiday season?

I’ll tell you right up front. HAVE A PLAN.

Not sure how to do that? Well, no worries, I do! Grab a pen, and let’s get to work! I know selling can feel uncomfortable sometimes. Trust me. But offering the beauty you create is an act of generosity. And this is the season of generosity. Remember, your work wants to be bold. It wants to be big & beautiful, and the holiday season is an amazing time to allow your work to shine!

My masterclass, MAKING art WORK, is opening again SOON! 

 

Listening to this episode while MAKING art WORK is closed? Be sure to sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when the doors open up again! 

 

Fellow artist and maker, be honest…

☑ Have you spent years making artwork, expecting to reach that next level, while your revenue remains stagnant?

☑ Do you know you have good work, but feel like you don’t know how to talk about it?

☑ Are you tired of leaving money on the table because you don’t have the knowledge and tools to sell your work?

☑ Do you keep hearing other artists selling out their collections, but you are left scratching your head as to what actually goes into them?

☑ Are you in a season of burnout and have no idea how to reinvigorate that creative energy in you?

I get it. Without the right tools and a clear roadmap, being a creative entrepreneur is isolating and lonely.

You might feel like your ideal collectors are just out of reach or feel like you’re scraping by. You notice your business isn’t working, but you aren’t sure how to fix it or where to start! But it’s not your fault! No one has told you how to confidently share your work and build a good business around your art.

 

 

 

Be sure to download the workbook that accompanies this 5-day event.

 

As an artist, we often hear that creativity isn't a real job -- it's not safe, it's not dependable, it's not lucrative... These thoughts are outdated and limiting at best. 

 

The world is thirsty for beauty and connection. We, as artists, are in the business of creating beauty and connection within our art and within communities. 

Your work deserves to be shared, seen, and appreciated. LET IT TAKE UP SPACE - especially online where it's voice can spread far and wide.

 

over the next 5 days, we're going to get very nerdy and practical as we begin to more boldly share our artwork online -- and GROW OUR ONLINE SALES!

 

Ready for this? 

 

Learn more about Making Art Work if you are truly ready to grow your studio into a profitable and sustainable business.

This 9-week masterclass will guide you through every single aspect of running a thriving studio in 2023 and will set you up for success for years to come. Read the stories of our many alumni here! Their stories are EVERYTHING. 

This episode is FULL and detailed. I highly highly recommend downloading the accompanying workbook. It's THOROUGH and beautiful. And join the next LIVE workshop too! 

 

In this episode, we begin thinking about the story your website is sharing. Where is it guiding your visitors? What are you directing them into? Does your website feel like a living thing?

Are you showing up as the guide? And how do you do that?

 

Ready for more? DOORS TO MAKING ART WORK opens TODAY! Are you joining us? 

 

Are you a Creative looking to grow a profitable career? If so, you are in the right place.

Let’s dismantle the idea of the “Starving Artist.” Join me in my 9-week masterclass, where I teach you everything I know about running a sustainable, professional art business. It's time to make a living with your art.

Learn more about MAKING art WORK here. And visit my artist website to see how I put these things in play HERE.

Join us in Joshua Tree // September 14-17th // just a couple spots left! 

All the details for the retreat can be found here.

 

This is a delicious talk about creativity, friendship, and what you can create when collaborating with someone you admire and trust. 

 

Tanya Val is an artist and plant shop owner living in Anchorage Alaska. She is one of the most WILDLY talented humans I know. Seriously, just visit her site to see. 

We have been working and traveling together for years, created some of the most beautiful retreats ever seen, and are writing a book together!   

But in this conversation, you are going to hear about SO much more than just our professional work. We share our heart, passion, and love for our creative work and our shared (and very deep) passion for creating with nature.

We're also hilarious. We think. :) 

 

Helpful links:

Creating With Nature Retreats: creatingwithnature.art Tanya's Instagram: @tanya.val Tanya's Website: TanyaVal.com  The Do It For The Process Website where you can submit a letter or question to be read "on air."

 

Please consider leaving a rating and review

This helps me keep going and flowing and I love them so so much. 

This episode is FULL and detailed. I highly highly recommend downloading the accompanying workbook. It's THOROUGH and beautiful. And join the next LIVE workshop too! 

 

In this episode, we begin thinking about your BRAND. How does your studio look and FEEL to others? What essence does it give off? How is it being felt by your audience and collectors? I offer tips for defining your brand and understanding your aesthetic. Your brand is far more than your logo or fonts or brand colors -- it's the essence of your business.

This is where it gets SO fun.

 

Ready for more? DOORS TO MAKING ART WORK open TODAY! Are you joining us? 

 

Listening to this episode while MAKING art WORK is closed? Be sure to sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when the doors open up again! 

 

Are you a Creative looking to grow a profitable career? If so, you are in the right place.

Let’s dismantle the idea of the “Starving Artist.” Join me in my 9-week masterclass, where I teach you everything I know about running a sustainable, professional art business. It's time to make a living with your art.

Learn more about MAKING art WORK here. And visit my artist website to see how I put these things in play HERE.

This episode is FULL and detailed. I highly highly recommend downloading the accompanying workbook. It's THOROUGH and beautiful. And join the next LIVE workshop too! 

 

In this episode, we're discussing the key questions you need to ask yourself so you can get to know your customers better, meet their needs more effectively, and grow a business that makes you happy AND them happy. 

 

REMOVING DOUBT, CREATING TRUST, AND GETTING TO THE ROOT OF IT ALL.

 

Ready for more? DOORS TO MAKING ART WORK open on Thursday! Are you joining us? 

 

Are you a Creative looking to grow a profitable career? If so, you are in the right place.

Let’s dismantle the idea of the “Starving Artist.” Join me in my 9-week masterclass, where I teach you everything I know about running a sustainable, professional art business. It's time to make a living with your art.

Learn more about MAKING art WORK here. And visit my artist website to see how I put these things in play HERE.

This episode is FULL and detailed. I highly highly recommend downloading the accompanying workbook. It's THOROUGH and beautiful. And join the next LIVE workshop too! 

 

In this episode, we talk about what makes an artist's website effective -- leading to higher sales and more thoughtful engagement by your visitor, audience, and buyers.

 

A Creative person's website has the chance to tell a story, take the visitor on a journey, but most importantly, ELEVATE YOUR WORK. 

 

Because you are connecting with your collectors online through a series of shiny screens and images, it is so important to connect with your audience. The passion and heart that come naturally from the artist may not translate as effortlessly online. Find a way to bring that extra passion and sincerity to your digital platforms.

 

Ready for more? DOORS TO MAKING ART WORK open on Thursday! Are you joining us? 

 

Are you a Creative looking to grow a profitable career? If so, you are in the right place.

Let’s dismantle the idea of the “Starving Artist.” Join me in my 9-week masterclass, where I teach you everything I know about running a sustainable, professional art business. It's time to make a living with your art.

Learn more about MAKING art WORK here. And visit my artist website to see how I put these things in play HERE.

Join the LIVE Share the Work workshop + community HERE

And be sure to download the workbook that accompanies this 5-day event.

 

As an artist, we often hear that creativity isn't a real job -- it's not safe, it's not dependable, it's not lucrative... These thoughts are outdated and limiting at best. 

 

The world is thirsty for beauty and connection. We, as artists, are in the business of creating beauty and connection within our art and within communities. 

Your work deserves to be shared, seen, and appreciated. LET IT TAKE UP SPACE - especially online where it's voice can spread far and wide.

 

over the next 5 days, we're going to get very nerdy and practical as we begin to more boldly share our artwork online -- and GROW OUR ONLINE SALES!

 

Ready for this? 

 

Learn more about Making Art Work if you are truly ready to grow your studio into a profitable and sustainable business.

This 9-week masterclass will guide you through every single aspect of running a thriving studio in 2023 and will set you up for success for years to come. Read the stories of our many alumni here! Their stories are EVERYTHING. 

 

Listening to this episode while MAKING art WORK is closed? Be sure to sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when the doors open up again! 

SHARE THE WORK begins next week! A Free 5-day workshop designed to help you sell more artwork online!

&

Even more exciting!! MAKING ART WORK opens on August 24th-31st! This 9-week masterclass is going to transform and evolve the way you run and grow your business. I can't wait to get a front-row seat!

 

Listening to this episode while MAKING art WORK is closed? Be sure to sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when the doors open up again! 

 

Let’s dismantle the idea of the “Starving Artist.” Join me in my 9-week masterclass, where I teach you everything I know about running a sustainable, professional Creative Studio.

 

In this episode -- 

Artists often get told that they are pursuing a job, a career, a craft, or a lifestyle... FULL of instability. But is there anything more dependable and sustainable than the generous, rich well of creativity and energy we can draw from within our own bodies and minds? 

In this episode, we talk about tapping into that deep well of inspiration and knowing that, because of that deep, rich well, your creativity and energetic reserves are GOOD.

 

The birthday email I mentioned is here. It's full and BEAUTIFUL. 

I read a poem by Oriah Mountain Dreamer at the end of this episode, and I want to share it here so you can read along. These words are powerful and sweet

The Invitation

It doesn’t interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart’s longing.

It doesn’t interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn’t interest me what planets are squaring your moon.

I want to know if you have touched the centre of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life’s betrayals or have become shrivelled and closed from fear of further pain.

I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it, or fade it, or fix it.

I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own; if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, be realistic, remember the limitations of being human.

It doesn’t interest me if the story you are telling me is true

I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself. If you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul.

If you can be faithless and therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see Beauty even when it is not pretty every day. And if you can source your own life from its presence.

I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand at the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the full moon, ‘Yes.’

It doesn’t interest me to know where you live or how much money you have.

I want to know if you can get up after the night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone and do what needs to be done to feed the children.

It doesn’t interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the centre of the fire with me and not shrink back.

It doesn’t interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you from the inside when all else falls away.

I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.

by Oriah Mountain Dreamer

Get the free workbook  that goes along with this episode! It's beautiful and full of practical advice. With your inspiration, brand, and highest work in mind, listen to this episode, go through the FREE workbook that accompanies this episode, and listen closely to your inspiration and intuition.

When an idea piques your interest, invest in it! Consider it! In this episode, we talk about assessing and deciding which ideas are worth your precious, valuable energy, which ones your audience is most excited about, and which to let go of. Diversifying your business is wonderful because you have the opportunity to A) delight your customers B) find inspiration in a fresh place.

 

DOWNLOAD THE WORKBOOK. I created a beautiful and super practical guide that accompanies this episode. It's very practical and even more clarifying.

JOIN SHARE THE WORK -- a free 5 day workshop designed to help you begin sharing and SELLING your work online!

 

LEARN MORE ABOUT MAKING ART WORK!

This 9-week Masterclass is designed to help you grow your studio, profit, and creative reach. It's time to start making a living with your art. Let’s dismantle the idea of the “Starving Artist.” Join me in my 9-week masterclass, where I teach you everything I know about running a sustainable, professional art business. Want to see my very sweet new bunny? We're rather obsessed. 

Get the Affirmation Deck -- each card is thoughtfully crafted with an affirmation and beautiful artwork to start you on your creative journey.

A thoughtful listener sent in a question that resonated deeply with this community: "How have you handled the different seasons of your life while maintaining your business?"

 

As we talk about play and creative freedom, paying attention to sustainability is also incredibly important. There’s a delicate balance that most artists need to find between creative freedom and emotional safety (which also includes financial security).

 

Listed to my five tips for growing a profitable business while also ENJOYING all of it!

 

• Making Art Work opens soon! JOIN US
• Check out the Artist Path to Success to learn about your unique creative journey and business growth
• Come see the art that's making me happiest on Instagram (the videos are BEAUTIFUL!)
• Visit my studio (virtually) :)
• The Poem I read by Mary Oliver can be found in this book 

 

The summer months are full of extra light, energy, joy, and warmth -- they are the perfect months to focus on creativity, but more than that, creative PLAY. 

In this episode, we discuss the importance of creating inspiration and energy overflow so that you can give from abundance and create work that is fulfilling in a deep and lasting way. 

Creativity thrives when we give ourselves the freedom to play. The studio is your haven, your playground. Let go of expectations, rules, and limitations. Experiment with different techniques, materials, and styles. 

Tip this same experimental, free-flowing, playful energy into your business as well! The most impactful offers and products I've created in my business came about because of PLAY. The ideas excited me, the challenge felt new and alive, and I found a joyful energy that made the work fully delightful. 

 

I can't wait to see what you create in this season! 

 

>> In this episode, I shared that Making Art Work is coming back this autumn! Doors open in late August. Let’s dismantle the idea of the “Starving Artist.” Join me in my 9-week signature class, where I teach you everything I know about running a successful creative business.

 

I also stayed in a beautiful Airbnb, The Forestry House, in Travelers Rest. Definitely a beautiful getaway!

 

The poem(s) I read in this episode came from the book "Inward" by Yung Pueblo 

 

---

Please take a second to leave a quick review and rate this podcast. I read each review, and they mean so much to me!

Also, SHARE THIS EPISODE with a friend or on Instagram Stories! Tag me so I can reshare! 

 

Want to see the artwork I was talking about in this episode? I shared it on Instagram! Come on over and join the IG Community! 

 

There’s this thing about “big magic” that I love – but also dislike – magic (inspiration) can come to you and change your whole life and work in the most powerful and beautiful of ways, but it can also leave if you are not prepared to honor it and use it. I don’t know if it’s true or not, but it feels true right now, and it’s adding a bit of scarcity to my mindset that doesn’t need to be present. 

 

As I choose to step into more abundance in my studio practice, there are some words of affirmation that have proven to be POWERFUL. Let me share those with you here: 

• I will create good work today.
• Inspiration lives inside of me. I can tap into it whenever and wherever. 
• It’s ok to create bad work. 
• Creative flow is easy for me to access.
• It’s ok to rest and come back to this idea.

I know these words are simple, and that is their magic. The simplicity of these mindset shifts means they are EFFECTIVE.

 

If this podcast has impacted you, please rate and review this show. I would be SO thankful!

 

Also, please screenshot and share this episode to enter to receive a book of poetry by my new favorite author and poet, Andrea Gibson. Do so by JULY 1ST, please! 🥰 

It's been a while. Let's catch back up. Many things in my life have changed, and many are still the same. One thing that has remained the same is that creativity is deeply generous, art has the power to HEAL, and empowering other artists is deeply meaningful and powerful. 

 

I read a poem by my new favorite poet, Andrea Gibson. Check out their work here. And read the poem I read in this podcast on their Instagram.

 

It is an honor to be back in this space with you!

If you're aching for a little more creative community and super valuable education and resources for running your business, join The Collective when the doors open! It's $34 and completely FULL of insight and value. 

 

Xox

Emily Jeffords

 

The Collective Opens on May 30th! This is the most transformative place for Artists to grow their studios and practices because we normalize the success of Creatives. There are so many training and lessons in there so you can find success in your work a little more easily and gently. 

 

Go visit the Nature and Silk Scarf Collection I mentioned at the end of this episode! It will be available Thursday at 2:00pm est. 

 

This episode is a bit vulnerable and took a lot of inner work to even get to the place where I can talk about this so confidently and from tried and true experience. Thank you for being the most generous and kind audience. It is a delight to share my experiences and story with you. 

This summer, work towards feeling safe, healthy, and whole in your creative practice. It will pay off in multitudes in your creative work and the output you are able to step into. 

I'm cheering for you.

 

xo,

Emily

emilyjeffords.com

 

 

I'm doing something brave - scary - generous - loving - needed - luxurious - important - countercultural... 

I'm RESTING. Not yet -- right now I'm diving headfirst into Making Art Work and I'm SO excited to nurture and empower the Creative Community in this way. My sabbatical will begin in 2023 and will be focused on creativity, inspiration, rest, writing, and nurturing the parts of my that have been patiently waiting for attention.

 

I'm so excited. 

 

If you're feeling thirsty for inspiration and creativity, maybe this is your nudge to think about prioritizing those things just a bit. 

You don't have to have a sabbatical year -- you could start by carving out 2 hours a week to nourish that part of you. Create a terrarium around your inspiration and walk in it as often as you can. 

This big dream is living in you for a reason. Creativity is blooming inside of you because it has found a home there. That's an honor. Elizabeth Gilbert has a theory about inspiration being a living thing that is looking for a receptive home to give it form – YOU are that form.  You are that home.  You have that ability.  And Creativity will never take from you more than it gives. It may give you joy, connection, purpose, money, impact, or a vehicle for change – I think it will give you ALL of the above. Trust it. Honor it. Empower it. 

 

My inbox and DM's have been spilling over with big-hearted creatives eager and nervous about taking the next step in their creative journey – trusting me to walk alongside them. What an honor! Making Art Work is open for enrollment through TOMORROW!   If you're feeling those same nerves, eagerness, readiness, but also a bit of uncertainty, please take some of my confidence. This work is GOOD. YOU can do it. I will help you accomplish big, beautiful things.    xo Emily   @Emily_Jeffords emilyjeffords.com 

Practical Tips to Grow Your Dream Career + Move Past the Lies

Welcome to the final episode in the Share the Work series! You can watch all the video trainings + access the workbooks + community here.

The more you value the deep creative work you offer, the more your audience will value your work as well.

As you progress through your journey, you might find a few “lies” creep onto your path — let’s talk about them and very practically move past them!

• Learn more about Making Art Work
• Go to the Share the Work Videos
• Join our private Share the Work Community
• Follow @Emily_Jeffords on Instagram 
• Visit Emily Jeffords' fine art website

Making Art Work is OPEN! Come join me in this transformative creative course. Making Art Work is a 12-week course where I teach Artists and Creatives how to build a soulful, profitable business. I’ve watched hundreds of Alumni sell their high-end creative work consistently, they create collections that are often purchased in minutes, launch products with their dream companies, grow their collector base (way more important than your IG followers), and run profitable, sustainable, multi-passionate events.

 

Today, we're going to dive into marketing effectively. 

Marketing Your Work Effectively and Sustainably Email Marketing

Make your studio emails a vibrant and exciting place. This is an intimate space — the perfect place to not only sell your work, but also share behind the scenes, your inspiration, peek inside your studio, stories and insights, and early access to artwork or collections.

Social Media

Show up on social media as a fine artist, designer, maker, and professional. Share your work beautifully and consistently: photograph it well, bring people into the studio, allow them to get to know your story and brand, and don’t be afraid to share/sell your work!

Use the Magic of Pinterest

Pinterest is one of the VERY best places to share your work as a visual creative! Users come to Pinterest as a way of gathering inspiration, ideas, aesthetics, and to find products — sounds perfect, right? Pin your work directly to Pinterest from your website, listing, social media, and/or blog post.

Work with Designers

Reach out to designers in your local community and offer them a trade discount (10-20% off). You can also request or barter for amazing photographs! I didn't mention this in the video, but you can also with designers to rent your artwork for staged homes. Some wonderful passive income! Commercial designers: restaurants, offices, hotels...

Go Offline

Find ways to share your work in real life – OFF the internet. This could be at art shows, galleries, craft fairs, wholesale your work in shops, and be known in your community. The connections you can make in-person are so much greater and more effective for both marketing and for sales. One in-person meeting is worth at least 10 online meetings. Be warm, welcoming, intentional, and get ready to welcome new people into your community!

 

• Learn more about Making Art Work
• Go to the Share the Work Videos
• Join our private Share the Work Community
• Follow @Emily_Jeffords on Instagram 
• Visit Emily Jeffords' fine art website

This is the third episode in the Share the Work Series and things are getting more practical by the day!

 

Remember, You bring the VALUE to your work.

 

Now we’re going to talk about all the aesthetic elements that surround your work and think through how they communicate your brand message.

As the creator, you also get to create an elevated brand. 

A brand is far more than a logo. It is far more than your website. It's not your icons, graphics, images, the tiny alligator on your shirt, the label inside of your coat.

YOUR BRAND IS THE FEELING PEOPLE EXPERIENCE WHEN THEY COME IN CONTACT WITH YOUR WORK. And now that you know you have a brand, let’s discuss how you can refine and elevate your brand.

 

• Learn more about Making Art Work
• Go to the Share the Work Videos
• Join our private Share the Work Community
• Follow @Emily_Jeffords on Instagram 
• Visit Emily Jeffords' fine art website

One of the first challenges we have as artists are finding "the right" audience for our work. Before you can expect to attract customers, you have to understand what your work is saying as it is active and living in the world.

In this episode, I'll help you DEFINE YOUR WORK

Outward expression & aesthetics of the vision

01/ Keep imposter syndrome to a minimum - honor the beauty and importance of what you have created.

02/ Get clear on why your work matters to you

03/ Look at your work from the outside; is it speaking in the way you intend?

04/ How are you conveying the value of your work to others? I recommend good photography, speaking about it well, consistently and effectively sharing your work in your soulful marketing, and making it easily accessible to your ideal audience.

05/ Define who your ideal audience is and where they feel most comfortable.

06/ Determine how to use empathy to share your work effectively.

 

Learn to evaluate your work honestly, treat it with respect, and elevate it so others can value it too! Honestly, this episode feels a little vulnerable to share, but I'm doing it because I trust that when creatives thrive, we ALL thrive.

• Learn more about Making Art Work
• Go to the Share the Work Videos
• Join our private Share the Work Community
• Follow @Emily_Jeffords on Instagram 
• Visit Emily Jeffords' fine art website

Welcome to Share the Work 2022! Each day this week, we're going to explore ways that YOU can honor your creative process and share your work beautifully and intentionally with the world.

The first step in growing a profitable creative business and sharing your work is: Creating work that you find valuable -- and then creating work that sells! 

As you begin to grow a business around your creativity, understanding the heart and soul of your inspiration and practice is so important. The beauty that comes out of you first begins inside of you — and that beauty (and by that I mean, meaningful work) is deeply valuable.

When you feel confident & empowered, you are able to SHARE YOUR WORK generously with the world.

Learn to evaluate your work honestly, treat it with respect, and elevate it so others can value it too! Honestly, this episode feels a little vulnerable to share, but I'm doing it because I trust that when creatives thrive, we ALL thrive.

• Learn more about Making Art Work
• Go to the Share the Work Videos
• Join our private Share the Work Community
• Follow @Emily_Jeffords on Instagram 
• Visit Emily Jeffords' fine art website

THIS IS YOUR YEAR TO SHINE! I know that sounds cheesy, but honestly, if you decide that it is true, then it IS. 

 

Look at the year as a whole and be open to all sorts of wild ideas. You KNOW you can overcome anything. Don’t allow any limiting beliefs in at this point. Projects, collections, collaborations, events…nothing is off-limits to you.

You have full creative control over your ambitions & efforts.

 

Download the Goal Setting Workbook HERE and begin transforming the year into something remarkable.

Ready to see some massive growth in your creative business? Join me in Making Art Work on March 3rd! Your creative work is about to grow into something even more beautiful. 

 

xo, Emily Jeffords

emilyjeffords.com

@Emily_Jeffords

Welcome to 2022! Being an artist is one of the most fulfilling vocations on earth, but, let’s be honest, it isn’t the easiest career (especially without clear a clear vision for how to accomplish your goals)!

HERE’S THE DEAL, YOUR DREAMS DON’T COME TO LIFE BY CHANCE. THEY COME TO LIFE WHEN YOU CLARIFY YOUR VISION, TRUST THE BEAUTY INSIDE OF YOU AND AIM TOWARDS A GOAL.

 

Download the Goal-Setting Workbook HERE and begin transposing your vision and dreams into reality! 

 

Ready to really take those dreams up a level? Join Making Art Work 2022! Learn more about the course and all the goodness it holds HERE. 

 

xo, Emily Jeffords

emilyjeffords.com

@Emily_Jeffords

Join me for a real and honest conversation about how to move through the creative process -- from inspiration to mastery. It takes some intentional care to grow a sustainable practice around your creativity. Understanding the very natural flow of ideas is so helpful on that journey.

 

Inspiration, learn, practice, perfect, improve, master, repeat.

 

• We also talk about goal-setting. Get the FREE Goal-Setting Workbook HERE.
• I offer tips for nourishing inspiration
• We discuss HOW to take a sabbatical -- practical tips and mindset shifts
• And why "doing it for the process" is crucial to success in your creative work.

I hope 2022 is full of creative flow and that you settle into your process and create some good work. 

In March of 2022, consider joining me in Making Art Work if you are ready to see your creative business grow along with your creative practice. Doors open on March 3rd! Learn more HERE. 

 

Please RATE and REVIEW this show if you have a moment. Thank you! 

 

Artists mentioned in this episode: Picasso, Willem de Kooning, and Tanya Val. 

----more----

Thank you for joining me today! As always, you can find me, Emily Jeffords, over on Instagram and my artwork on my website: emilyjeffords.com  Instagram: @Emily_Jeffords

Hello dear listener! Before we begin, would you please rate and review this podcast? TY BB!

 

This episode of going to be a bit raw and real. A lot has evolved in the studio since we last talked.

• I've hired a whole new team (including my husband!).
• We are continuing the things that work while doing our best to weave sustainability into the productivity.
• My creative practice has ebbed and flowed and I'll bring you behind the scenes on that process. 
• I'm opening the doors to The Creative Maven Mastermind tomorrow (October 21st)! I am SO EXCITED about offering this year-long mastermind again. If you are craving a space to nourish your dreams, grow your business, and step into greater success, then apply to join us! Applications are open for just under a month. 
• Traveling, resting, working on health...

Last summer we talked about burnout (episode 41, August 30th 2020) and the process of healing from Burnout has been slow and constant. A metaphor came to me while expressing how this process feels that I think is helpful. 

Our journey happens within a beautiful mountainous landscape. There are meadows, cliffs, valleys... When you "burn out" you are, essentially falling over the edge of a cliff -- you might fall incredibly far or just a few feet. The recovery time may look different depending on how far you fall and how much energy you have to tap into. Climbing back up the mountainside is just part of the healing process.

The other part is a bit sneaker. We know that falling over the cliff is less than ideal - right? that makes sense. However, we tend to flirt with danger just a bit. Maybe it's the hustle culture. Maybe it's the stack of shoulds and "musts" consistently in our orbit. Maybe it's poor habits formed early... regardless, learning that hovering near the edge of that cliff is not a sustainable way to live. I like to be close to that edge. I like the pace of it, the energy required, the "effort" of it all -- however, health (mental, physical, emotional, relational health) is not possible when near the cliff. People can't come near you. You can't make one wrong move. There is too much at risk. 

My focus for 2021 and 2022 is learning to take consistent steps away from the cliff edge and into the safe and gentle spaces of the meadow where I can dance and sing and create without risk or fear. Where there is space to move and take bolder actions because the risks are less extreme if they fail. There are a lot of layers to HOW we can do that as profitable entrepreneurs (we can't just play all day -- though that would be lovely).

Practically, this means hiring a team, establishing boundaries around my energy, setting expectations, being a bit more flexible/generous with deadlines and timelines, and (most importantly) respecting myself enough to care for myself. 

 

If you can resonate with this, you are in good company. We can grow and progress together -- away from the cliff. Just back away from the cliff a little more each day. We can do this. ;)

2020-21 has been exhausting. We're doing so, so well. Now it's time to allow a little ease and healing into our lives. 

This is important because when we are nourished we are able to create good and nourishing work. Let your work be big and bold in the world, dear Creative!

 

 

LINKS:

• The Creative Maven Mastermind (applications open tomorrow!)
• The Collective: a membership for Creatives Entrepreneurs
• The Collector's Club (for first dibs on the new studio holiday products)!

This episode is SO precious (stay til the end to hear my whole heart MELT). I sat down with two of the most beautiful parents/artists I know and we talked about balancing, blending, and maintaining your whole self and your studio practice while also being a mother. 

Hint: balance is a juggling act, everything comes back around, you are capable of SO much more than you imagine, and also you don't have to do anything at all but love yourself and love your kid(s). 

Please let me know what comes up for you as you listen! You can always reach me at learn@emilyjeffords.com 

 

Meet Cait and Skye!

Caitlyn Zarate is my Program Manager and keeps Making Art Work and The Collective (and so much more) running smoothly so that I can be an artist and mother! Visit Caitlyn on Instagram. 

Skye Como Miller is our Community Support Queen. If you've felt a warm glow from our community, emails, or social media, it probably had Skye's touch! Check out Skye's Instagram and Website

 

Want to WATCH this episode? Head to my YouTube

 

 

I have a VERY special episode for you today: a conversation with Morgan Harper Nichols.  Morgan is a writer, artist, poet, singer, and SO much more. She is deeply generous with both her art and in this podcast conversation.  

If you want to see Morgan's work, head here to go to her website, shop, and Instagram. 

Morgan recommended a song called "Constellations" by Brenden James which you can find here.

 

Go follow and say "HI" to Morgan -- she really generously showed up for this sweet community during a season that was especially tiring and I'm so grateful for that. 

 

And join The Collective!  This space is designed to enable Artists to thrive.  Your business is ready for growth. YOU are ready for growth.  Let's grow faster and more beautifully together!

DOORS CLOSE ON MAY 4TH.

 

The Artist's Path to Success workshop is available until tomorrow night (May 4th) as well!  It's totally free so go tune in today!

xo, Emily

Let’s cut right to the chase.  We’re here because running a creative business can be confusing.

 

We fill our studios with stacks of work, our hearts with big dreams, but are offered NO direction when it comes to turning those big dreams into a career.  

But NOT anymore.  We have big dreams for our creative work and -- GOOD NEWS -- they are valid and totally attainable.  

 

Inside of this episode (which is WAY MORE like a workshop -- get your notebook out), we're going to walk through the exact steps needed to grow your BUSINESS.

 

LINKS: 

• The Collective is OPEN!  Just for a few days though.  Join us.  This space is designed to intentionally empower Creatives to grow.   emilyjeffordslearn.com/collective 
• The Artist Path to Success Book-- a gorgeous, FREE, 38-page book that will clearly walk you through each step in your progress.  You are not walking this path alone. 
• Want to WATCH this workshop (we're visual people, right?) Well, you can!  This workshop will be live through Tuesday, May 4th, so tune in ASAP! 

 

Let's take a look at The Artist’s Path to Success

 

STEP 01/ ASPIRATIONAL ARTIST

Ground yourself in creativity. Dedicate your energy to pursuing art. Develop your signature style and vision. Profit:

Making Art Work is open through tomorrow!  Join us if you're ready for some massive growth in 2021

 

But first, let's take it back.  In 2010 when I officially began my fine art career I did NOT have an aspirational brand. I didn’t even know I had a brand (though, yes, I did — we all do). I was deeply undervaluing my work, my voice, my efforts, and, in doing so, I was also undervaluing my collectors.

Think about it this way — if someone buys something for their home or themselves, they want to enjoy that thing. It matters to them.  They find pleasure in it. 

In order to enjoy something, we have to VALUE it.

When you know what you create and WHY it matters, you can easily and naturally share that love with your audience. So HOW do you elevate your work? Head consistently in the right direction.

Know WHY you create and why that matters

Understand your works value and aesthetic merits

Recognize the overall impact your work is creating as a whole (this is your brand)

Consistently raise your expectations for what your work can be in the world.

THIS IS A LIFELONG PROCESS I began my business by selling a $1 painting. I grew from that deeply undervalued place to a creative practice with collectors on every continent, consistently sold-out collections, and a practice that offers me financial and emotional freedom. LET’S START THAT JOURNEY Sharing, writing, and talking about your work is never truly easy. It is a vulnerable act of bravery! But, without that bravery, your work is mute. Your work is hidden. And that’s not what it was designed for! With your why and your vision in mind, think of how to translate that to the world. If this feels overwhelming right now, DON’T WORRY. This is the focus of Making Art Work and I will coach you through this process. View your brand from the outside.  How does your work objectively feel to your ideal customer or collector? When you share your work with your audience online is your work being elevated and valued? How about in-person? There are ALWAYS ways to continually elevate and build-up, and REFINE your work, marketing, and presentation. This is a good thing! It means you get to keep creating and refining! As you go through this process, don't be too hard on yourself.  Remember, you are just finding paces to play inside your business! When needed, give yourself a COMPLIMENT SANDWICH. (it works on others and it works on yourself)

• Give yourself a two compliments + with an improvement in the middle

 

Remember, sustainability = satisfaction + progress. If you don’t find joy in your work you are going to be burnt out.

 

Making Art Work is open through tomorrow!  Join us if you're ready for some massive growth in 2021 IF YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL TO SHARE, YOU HAVE ALSO BEEN GIVEN THE CREATIVITY, ENERGY, KNOWLEDGE, & RESOURCES NEEDED TO SHARE IT.

Let me see if I've got this right: You create good work (check!) You know your buyers are out there (somewhere…?) You know you can sell your work more effectively, but there's something missing. Something isn't working quite right yet, but you can't quite put your finger on it. I'm going to say a dirty word. You ready? It's your BRAND. Yep. You. You have a brand. I know… It's weird. And feels gross at first. And also kind of fancy! BUT, hear me out! Let's talk about what a brand is before we get all bristly and closed off. A brand is far more than a logo. It is far more than your website. It's not your icons, graphics, images, the tiny alligator on your shirt, the label in your coat… Your brand is the feeling people experience when they come in contact with your work. How cool is that! Now, allllll the things mentioned above absolutely matter and help to convey your brand, but they are not the brand. In fact, your brand is anything but stuffy or snobby or slimy. Your brand is beautiful And now that you know you have a brand, we can work to make it so much more impactful and meaningful!

 

And now, GO CREATE A BRAND MOOD BOARD!  You can share it in our private Facebook Group too! 

 

MAKING ART WORK is opening tomorrow!  Check out all the course details and goodness here.  Is it right for you?  Feel free to reach out with any questions!   learn@emilyjeffords.com 

What does it mean to share your vision with your audience?  

How can you trust that your art can speak clearly and effectively in the world?

How can you build up your work so that it is VALUED by the right people?

1. Get clear on why your work matters to you
2. Look at your work from the outside — is it speaking in the way you intend?
3. Learn to convey that value to others
4. Define who your ideal audience is and where they feel most comfortable
5. Use empathy to share your work effectively

This episode is long, but I recommend grabbing a notebook and settling in!  We uncover SO MUCH mindset work and practical advice for you as you GROW.

Links: 

Making Art Work -- a 12-week course design to help your creative career THRIVE

Share the Work Video Series -- a free mini-course

Download the free work page for this episode 

 

Want to WATCH this episode?  You can!  Click here to see me live in my studio!  CLICK HERE

 

 

Today is the first day in the Share the Work Challenge!  5 days of LIVE training (recapped here on the podcast) to help you create a firm foundation for your creative business.

 

Day one: Clarify your vision and why your work matters Day two: Conveying that value to your audience Day three: Up-level your brand vision  Day four: Evaluate + Share + Elevate + Repeat  -- And Making Art Work OPENS!  Woohoo! Day five: Do a beautiful, brave thing!

 

Today we're taking it back to the heart and soul of the matter - Why does your creative work matter TO YOU?  Why do you show up in the studio?  What meaning is your work bringing into your life?  

When you deeply understand that your work is worthy you begin to treat it differently. You begin to elevate it.

When your work is elevated you VALUE YOUR WORK And then your audience can also VALUE YOUR WORK.

 

Download the worksheet for today's prompts here.

And join the LIVE Share the Work trainings here.  I'll be live each day this week at noon eastern time! 

 

There are a lot of lies that rattle around our heads and sink into our hearts -- some are chosen (limiting beliefs we think will keep us safe), some are given to us. 

In this video, we dispel these common lies so fast and so completely that their hold on our community will be massively diminished.  

 

Before we dive in, here are a few links you might want!

Join the Share the Work CHALLENGE!  It's happening here and in Facebook!  Facebook will be the home-base for the content, but I'll also be sharing the prompts here as well.  

 

Want some extra-pretty graphics and images to share on your IG Story?   Here ya go!

 

Ok, and with that, let's start busting some lies!

 

Lie No. 1: Your worth as a human is directly tied to the success of your work Nope.  Don't listen to this sneaky, toxic lie.  You are always worthy and beautiful. The success of your work does not play any part in your value, however, I understand why it might feel that way at times. Let’s get to the heart of THAT longing: You want your work to be valued. And it hurts when it’s not. I get it. And again, let’s get to the heart of the issue: Any lack of “success” you might be feeling in your work can be very strategically tied to one of three things An issue with the offer Is the work good? Is it resonating with your viewer? Does it resonate with you? go back to episode 2 and listen with your whole heart if you sense this might be the issue) An issue with your AUDIENCE Are there enough eyes on your work? Are they the right eyes? If this area is the issue, work to get your art in front of your idea collectors! An issue with your marketing Are you speaking to them in a way that inspires them? Is the messaging around it effective? Are your calls to action inspiring and attractive? If this is the area is the issue, then go back to the 4th video and massive up-level you marketing! You are the best representative your artwork will ever have in this world. Allow your work to the radiant. Lie No. 2: The artworld is too noisy and my work will not be seen What makes you different? The fact that the art world is getting busier is a GOOD THING for creatives We are reshaping culture — the more artists thriving and active online and offline, the more comfortable and receptive the collector community will be! Lie No. 3: My creative work could never fund my lifestyle anyways Back it up: How much money do you need to live? 40k? 100k? 200k? How many pieces of art or designs or products do you need to create to meet that goal?  Break your year down into seasons - how much do you need to create in order to meet your income goals each season

Download The Artist's Year of Growth and simply work out the math, glad the goals, and let your gorgeous work do the rest!

 

Lie No. 4: My audience is tired of seeing what I’m making Then why are they following you? My audience is following me BECAUSE they want to see what I’m creating How are they showing up when you share your work online and in-person? They are freaking in love with you!

 

Lie No. 5: This isn’t dependable The main reason this lie get’s into our hearts is because we are unsure if we can depend on ourselves.

TRUST ME I KNOW THIS FEELING

Once you learn to trust yourself, your inspiration, your habits, and your goals, you are able to trust your audience as well.  They’re here for you — but they want you to lead them into a more beautiful path.  SHOW UP FOR YOURSELF but also SHOW UP FOR THEM

 

 

Want to make sure you get notified?  Join my the Creative's Club Email List and add learn@emilyjeffords.com to your contacts so you're sure to see the email!  xox

 

 

Welcome back to the Share the Work Series!

Welcome back!  Want to WATCH this podcast episode?  Well, you can!  

 

So far we’ve talked about The 3 things you must know to sell art online, how to know if your art is worth selling, and TODAY, I’m sharing 5 super practical, actionable tips that you can use to support your work in the world.

Marketing your art in 2021 is very different than marketing in 2010, 1980, 1800, 1600...  We have had to evolve exponentially as Creative Entrepreneurs.  We have SO much freedom and creative control over our work and careers.  The ability to meet collectors on our own -- the ability to grow and expand our work as we would like...  it's all very exciting!

 

Wondering where you can go to meet all these amazing, elusive collectors? 

Let's talk about marketing your work in 2021!   

 

If I were to choose only 5 areas to market, it would be these:

 

Email Marketing

Make your studio list a vibrant and exciting place.  Share behind the scenes, your inspiration, offer a peek inside your studio, stories, and insights...  This is an intimate space! 

Create a “studio email list” of people that are interested in you + your work

Nurture those people with a beautiful “welcome sequence” — a collection of 2-10 emails that are automatically sent to your subscribers sharing:

Send early access to artwork or collections

 

Show up on Instagram as a fine artist

Understand why you are there and why you are posting.

Share your work beautifully and consistently: photograph it well (more on this in the Share the Work Challenge — then a LOT more in MAW)

Share your work regularly (1/6 at least)

 

Pinterest

Pinterest is one of the VERY best places to share your work as a visual creative!

Pins tend to mature over age and offer benefits to your work 1-12 months after they are pinned.

Pinterest ads are also something to consider if you're ready to invest some $$ and thought into marketing.

Pin your work directly to Pinterest from the listing or blog post.  Also, pin your Instagram posts!  Why not reuse that glorious content?

 

Work with designers

Reach out to designers in your local community and offer them a trade discount (10-20% off).  You can also request or barter for amazing photographs!  

I didn't mention this in the video, but you can also with designers to rent your artwork for staged homes.  Some wonderful passive income!  

Commercial designers: restaurants, offices, hotels...

 

Go Offline

Find ways to share your work OFF the internet (art shows, galleries, craft fairs...) as we are able moving forward in 2021. 

One in-person meeting is worth at least 10 online meetings.  Be warm, welcoming, intentional, and get ready to welcome new people into your community!

I hope this video has spurred so many ideas and points of clarity.  

 

If you have enjoyed the Share The Work series, please take a moment to share it on IG!  

 

SHARE ABOUT "SHARE THE WORK" IN YOUR INSTAGRAM STORIES!  

I've put together a beautiful bundle of images and graphics for you!  Check it out here. 

Come back tomorrow for our final video in this mini-series: Breaking the mold: The 5 most hurtful lies artists believe (and 5 ways we can overcome those blocks). Want to make sure you get notified?  Join my the Creative's Club Email List and add learn@emilyjeffords.com to your contacts so you're sure to see the email!  xox

How do you know if your work is "worth selling"?  In this video, I break down exactly how I evaluate my work, my collections, and my voice in the world.  

While this title might sound intimidating, keep listening!  I think you're going to find that your creativity WANTS TO REWARD YOU.  It wants you to be successful.  It wants to live boldly and beautifully in the world.  

 

10 tips for evaluating your work

1. Does it resonate with you?
2. Does the concept excite you?
3. Can you sit with it in peace for a few moments?
4. Did it feel good to create on an emotional and physical level?
5. Did you enjoy the creative process?
6. Were your motives pure in the creation phase?  If you are creating from a place of peace and abundance, the work will reflect that.
7. Do you enjoy living around the work? If I can spend time with the work then I am proud to sell it
8. Does it feel true to your vision, worldview, and voice?
9. With all the history you have accumulated as an observer, how does this match up? Is it a rough first attempt? Is it a masterpiece? Something in the middle?
10. Does it feel different from everything else you've seen?  We’re all drawing from the same big, beautiful pot of inspiration. However, draw upon that inspiration from your own perspective.  Pursue originality! It is worth the struggle, learning curve, and the pursuit of purity!

 

WHEN YOU FEEL CONFIDENT IN YOUR WORK YOU CAN TAKE GREATER RISKS

 I would love to hear how you have taken risks in your studio!  Some days, just showing up feels risky enough -- other days creating something new or larger or a different subject matter can feel like a heroic act.  ;) 

 

Need more support as you grow your creative work AND your creative business?  Making Art Work opens on the 18th!  

"This course [Making Art Work] was so unbelievably comprehensive, it really didn’t miss the mark on anything. My website is new and stunning and I feel like I have all the tools to kickstart this adventure immediately. In fact, a few weeks into the course I decided to quit my day job. Thanks to the course I have a plan and I’m feeling confident in myself in a way I never did before." -- Maria Wigge

 

Want to make sure you get notified?  Join my the Creative's Club Email List and add learn@emilyjeffords.com to your contacts so you're sure to see the email!  xox