You have an inner critic blocking or interfering with your ability to fully trust in yourself and your art. That harshly critical internal voice thinks it’s doing you a favor. It thinks it’s protecting you. Yet, it says things to you that you wouldn’t dare say to a loved one or friend.

So let’s take the microphone away from your inner critic and hand it to the higher self that’s been patiently waiting to speak through you. It’s time to trust in your creative process and yourself as an artist.

In this episode of The Savvy Painter podcast, you’ll hear part two of this four-part live event series as I guide you on how to cultivate trust in your artistic voice. I’ll discuss the signs of trust or mistrust, give you the three steps to cultivating trust, and much more!

4:52 - The lesson that our inner critic can learn from The Stoics and their Memento Mori

9:22 - How to start to get more familiar and friendly with the voice of your higher self and build trust

13:45 - What it looks like when you don’t trust your voice and your process

17:54 - What it looks like when you do trust your own voice and process

23:30 - What trusting your voice means, how it (or the lack of it) might feel to you, and the first step to obtaining it

26:21 - Three starts to questions you can use to start enabling curiosity (step two) and the third step to cultivating trust

31:31 - What arrogance is and how it differs from your inner voice when analyzing your art

33:20 - The importance of seeing yourself as an amazing artist

38:41 - The power in always having full trust in yourself and the common thread that runs through all of your work

Mentioned in How to Cultivate Trust in Your Artistic Voice

Join Growth Studio

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

As an artist, you might have been taught (implicitly or explicitly) that your work doesn’t matter. Many artists I’ve worked with have heard it in school, at home, and in the media.

Yet, your work as an artist does matter. It can help others feel, connect, and demonstrate the beauty of the world and the human experience. But only when you’re centered, present, and confident in your creative process do you allow that potential impact to flourish.

In this episode of The Savvy Painter podcast, you’ll hear the first part of a live event I gave a while back that covers what creative confidence is, what it looks like, where it comes from, and how to curate it for yourself. You’ll also hear coaching examples with a few attendees as I help them work through fears that have resulted in a lack of progress, self-sabotaging habits, and a feeling of invisibility.

4:58 - What creative confidence in your artistic abilities looks like

8:15 - The two types of confidence you can lean on as an artist and how they differ

13:51 - What usually stands in the way of creating what you want and how to overcome it

18:33 - How you can curate self-confidence and examples of thoughts that get in the way

23:19 - How Nancy’s thoughts have hindered her progress, the fears they’ve exposed, and their impact on her physically

36:08 - How Carol’s fear and familiar thoughts have led to habits of self-sabotage

42:59 - What happens in your brain when it offers you the worst-case scenario and more thoughts that can help you create self-confidence

46:22 - Why Ekaterina feels invisible despite creating all kinds of things and where to focus to begin to push past it

Join Growth Studio

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Amy Scherer is a contemporary painter who works out of her home studio just outside of Seattle.

In this episode, Amy and I talk about making art even when the people around you don't quite get what it is you do. Ever have any one come into your studio and ask - "Wait, where's the TV?" 🤦‍♀️ IYKYK, right?

Amy lives in the suburbs and most of the people she's around just don't understand what she does, and that yes, there really is an actual artist living among them!

For Amy, what helps her stay sane is teaching other artists how to paint. She absolutely loves the chance to geek out on art with other artists! It gives her the opportunity to share her ideas on color theory, composition, and all the nuances that make a great painting.

So OF COURSE in our conversation, we geeked out on ALL THE THINGS:

• how to arrange subjects in a painting.
• why seeing the world as an artist matters.
• tips on how to manage time between making art and daily life.
• why making mistakes is important for growing as an artist.
• the challenges of being seen as a real artist when you live in the suburbs.
• being true to yourself in your art.
• how being kind and understanding can help people love art even more.
• how Amy keeps her passion for art alive.
• how she balances creativity with her other responsibilities.

Hope you enjoy this episode! If you do, let me know your biggest takeaway at @savvypainterpodcast

And while you're there, check out Amy's work: @A_Scherer_

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What type of magic happens in the artist’s studio? Is there some special formula that “Successful” artists use that helps them maximize their creativity and studio time? 

I wanted to take this opportunity to explore this critical topic with the vast spectrum of artists we have represented in the Savvy Painter community. From all over the country and the world, artists like you have shared their struggles, successes, and helpful tips when it comes to making the most of their time at the canvas. 

Make sure you have a pen and paper close by, you don’t want to miss a minute of this powerful exploration of the artist’s studio! 

Let’s face it, at some point in your career, you’ll face resistance. I focused a whole episode dedicated to this important topic: How to Beat Resistance (Advice for Painters)

“If you’ve read Steven Pressfield’s book, the War of Art, you’re familiar with Resistance. Even if you have not read his book, I’ll wager you are familiar with Resistance, you just didn’t know it had a name, a proper name with a capital “R.” It’s real. It’s powerful. It’s a sneaky little bastard who’s not always easy to spot.

Pressfield uses a lot of war analogies in his descriptions of Resistance, and he’s right to do so because it’s serious business. Resistance is at war with you, it can destroy you. Resistance wants to take you out, so I do see Resistance as an enemy. If I let him have his way, I’d stop showing up for you. Don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere – I want to help artists like you find your way to beat Resistance and do the work that matters most to you!”

After that episode, I heard from a ton of artists like you who were eager to share similar challenges and helpful strategies they’ve deployed to help them beat Resistance in their lives. As I stressed on that episode, the first step to beating Resistance is recognizing how it shows up - and for many of you, Resistance shows up before you even step into the studio. From surges of anxiety to even building a physical wall of objects that prevent you from getting your studio, we all face Resistance differently. 

The one thing that will help you combat Resistance in your personal and professional life is by setting an intention, it doesn’t have to be big but it does have to move you in the right direction. What have you found work for you as you combat Resistance in your career? 

When you think of your studio, do you consider it a sanctuary or somewhere that is fraught with pain and anxiety? To say it another way, do you have a healthy relationship with your studio right now or is it a bit more complicated? 

Cody, an artist from Indianapolis, described his studio space as a “Refuge where stressful things can sometimes happen.” This description speaks to the struggle of facing deadlines or starting shakily on a new project but that it always happens in the confines of a creative

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

When you approach the canvas do you find yourself trying to tell a story with your artwork? Do you think you are telling a story with your art whether you like it or not? Here to explore these questions and many more is my guest and fellow artist, Rob Rey. 

Rob’s artwork is often inspired by his interests in both natural sciences like astronomy and physics as well as social sciences like psychology and sociology. These interests commonly influence his work, as do a multitude of inspiring artists from classical art to golden age illustration and contemporary representational art.

In our conversation, you’ll hear how Rob approaches his creative process, what he has learned from his career over the years, which artists have made the most impact on him, and so much more. I can’t wait for artists like you to learn from Rob’s fascinating journey!

Have you ever watched a scene in a movie that said a thousand words without using a single line of dialogue? What about an instrumental song that evokes feelings of joy or dread without using any words? From paintings and sculptures to music and movies, artists have been using their medium to tell stories since the beginning of time. What are the resonant, positive, and awe-inspiring stories of today? How can our expanding scientific knowledge drive our enchantment with the natural world and grow our empathic interests toward our fellow humans? Exploring these questions visually, Rob Rey hopes to promote or create the stories that best help us to achieve these goals. Make sure to check out images of Rob’s artwork located at the end of this post. 

Do you ever find yourself struggling with the tension between chaos and order on your creative journey? What do you do to cut through all of the noise and focus on what really matters? According to Rob Rey, he found a good balance between chaos and order in his artwork through trial and error. After years of practice and persistence, Rob feels like he has a good handle on the balancing act required to navigate chaos and order. What do you think of Rob’s response? What has worked well for you on your creative journey?

Listening to Rob describe his approach to the creative process and how stories have captured his imagination gets me thinking about what I love about my life as an artist. If you’ve been around the Savvy Painter community for very long, you know that I am always looking for ways to improve as an artist and I hope you never stop learning either. I wanted to get Rob’s take on what advice he would pass on to fellow artists. Rob is a huge fan of taking time to practice your craft - log in the hours! Let’s face it, the only way to learn how to avoid making the same mistakes is by practicing a new approach. What can you learn from Rob’s story? 

• [0:40] I introduce my guest, Rob Rey.
• [2:30] What led Rob to his career as an artist? 
• [6:15] Rob talks about his interest in stories and storytelling. 
• [13:15] Telling a story with an image. 

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Webster’s Dictionary defines Resistance as, “an act or instance of resisting: opposition. b: a means of resisting. 2: the power or capacity to resist.” 

What comes to mind when you think about resistance? Do you start thinking about all the things that are giving your resistance in your life? Do you have a resistant family member? What about that project that keeps giving you a headache? Imagine what it would be like to clearly identify and manage the resistance you face both personally and professionally. I’d like you to join me as I share some insights about my journey with resistance and some tips I’ve picked up along the way. If you are ready to make 2020 a more productive year - you’ll want to pay close attention! 

I first learned about resistance when I read Steven Pressfield’s book, “The War of Art” in 2005. Before then, I had a hard time understanding why painting, writing, or any other creative endeavor was so hard. 

Since then, I’ve re-read that book at least once every single year. Each time I read it, I have a different insight. If you’ve read Steven Pressfield’s book, the War of Art, you’re familiar with resistance. Even if you have not read his book, I’ll wager you are familiar with resistance, you just didn’t know it had a name, a proper name with a capital “R.” It’s real. It’s powerful. It’s a sneaky little bastard who’s not always easy to spot.

Pressfield uses a lot of war analogies in his descriptions of Resistance, and he’s right to do so because it’s serious business. Resistance is at war with you, it can destroy you. Resistance wants to take you out, so I do see Resistance as an enemy. If I let him have his way, I’d stop showing up for you. Don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere - I want to help artists like you kick this jerk to the curb!

Resistance will encourage you to overthink, over analyze and over research to the point that your mind is so filled with data, you’re immobilized. I am the queen of overthinking and self-inflicted analysis paralysis. Since I know that is my tendency, I’m learning to make action my default. Over the years, I found a few helpful ways to combat and even overcome Resistance’s influence in my life.

Here are a few rules I’ve made for myself, in time I may adjust them but for now, they’re working for me:

• Given the choice between consuming and making, I will always choose making.
• I can only research for 20 minutes at a time.
• After I research I ALWAYS take action. That means if I’m researching a technique, I can only spend 20 minutes before I try the technique.
• I only need to know enough to take my next step. Most of the time, that baby step is enough to get me going.

So there are a few examples of rules I have created for myself and I’d like to challenge you to make your own. You may not be prone to analysis paralysis, but you’re prone to something, and Resistance will find it and use it against you. Take the time to identify Resistance’s power in your life and plot steps to mitigate and e

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

As you look at your career as an artist, do you notice how much you’ve grown and changed over the years? What led to the big moments of growth and change for you? It was a joy to sit down with my guest and fellow artist, Shana Levenson. In our conversation, Shana opens up about her experience as an art instructor, how her children have influenced her art, how she’s grown over the years, and much more. I know that artists like you will get a lot out of Shana’s helpful and unique perspective! 

Who was it that helped you along in your growth as an artist? Did you have a family member who took special interest in your creative development? Were others in your family supportive of your creative and artistic pursuits? Following in her brother’s footsteps, Shana Levenson had wanted to pursue a career as an artist from a young age. As she slowly carved out time to go to art school over the years - Shana fell in love not only with art but also with teaching. Shana got into teaching as a necessity but found that she really enjoys empowering others as they develop creatively. 

As she finished her Master’s degree, Shana was also dealing with the end of her marriage. Not only did Shana have to navigate the challenges of life as an artist, but she also had to figure out parenting and life as a single mother. Juggling both parenting and painting wasn’t easy for Shana - especially when her ex-husband said that she could not continue using their children in her artwork. I couldn’t imagine facing the challenges that Shana has faced as an artist and a parent - I hope artists who navigate both find Shana’s story inspiring!

How do you respond to criticism and critique? Let’s face it, criticism and less than positive feedback are the worst part of putting something out there for the public to consume. In spite of the challenge that facing criticism can cause - doing so confidently is a key area of growth for most artists. Shana is the first to admit that she has had to strengthen her muscles over the years when it comes to dealing with criticism. Don’t assume that criticism won’t come - it will! You need to decide right now, how you plan to respond when negative feedback comes your way. What can you learn from Shana’s story? 

Do you have a habit of pushing yourself creatively? Does a new challenge thrill and excite you or do you find yourself running in the opposite direction? As I got to know Shana over the course of our conversation, I really wanted to get to the heart of what makes her tick. Considering my question about her positive habits, Shana was quick to point out the fact that she loves to push herself beyond her limits. A good example of Shana’s desire to push herself is her desire to work with lace in her paintings - something she had never done before. You can find images of Shana’s artwork located in the resources section at the end of this post. 

• [0:40] I introduce my guest, Shana Levenson. 
• [9:00] Shana talks about her exp

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

If you are anything like me, you find yourself fighting back the feeling of overwhelm from time to time. What do you usually do when you start to feel overwhelmed? How do you cut through the usual complexity that life brings and find clarity? As we start the New Year, I wanted to take some time to go over some helpful tools and insights that I've gained over the years through experience and learning from my peers. I hope that artists like you will find something of value as I share some useful practices and lessons that I've gathered over the years. 

If you want to start finding clarity in your life, it can be helpful to begin with, the end in mind. Too often, people get overwhelmed with the idea of significant change that they give up before they get started. To make big change more manageable, try breaking it down. 

Author Annie Dillard once wrote, "How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives. What we do with this hour, and that one is what we are doing. A schedule defends from chaos and whim. It is a net for catching days."

How do you want your year to look? Why not set some goals and start to work your way backward from there? If you're going to make a trip to another country, start planning out what you need to do each day, week, and month leading up to the trip. What works for trips can work for your art projects as well! 

One of the hardest lessons that I've had to learn over the years is to disappoint the right people and to say "No" to the right things. Let's face it, you can't make everyone happy, and you can't do all of the things! Part of ordering your life and your career is learning how to prioritize your time, energy, and relationships. You may want to take every opportunity that comes your way, but the truth is, that is not sustainable. If you're going to keep a healthy work-life balance, you need to decide on your priorities and stick to them. 

One of the worst aspects of getting overwhelmed can be finding yourself frozen with inaction. How do you react when you feel overwhelmed? If you want to make some positive changes in your life, you need to start somewhere. Even if you need to make a small step toward change, take it! I challenge you to write down the one thing that you will do today that will make you feel accomplished. Here are a few examples that you can use: 

• Knock out a small painting like an 8x10 or even a 3x5. 
• Set your studio up for tomorrow, so you are ready to go. 
• Open your sketchbook up and sketch for just 15 minutes. 
• Prepare canvases for the weekend, so you are ready to paint. 
• Choose one small section of that large painting that you will resolve today. 
• Write that email that you've been avoiding. 
• Make that decision that you've been agonizing over. 

These examples are just intended to get you started. Pick an action step that makes sense for you - but don't put it off!

• [2:30] I give a shoutout to a few

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

It is difficult to honestly talk about the most painful places of life - the times when cannot avoid facing our mortality or need to come to grips with our value as human beings. But in this conversation, Erin McGee Ferrell spoke about those issues with such ease that I was grateful. The ease with which she deals with those subjects is a testament to the healthy way in which she's faced those issues herself.

Erin lit up my day with what she shared and the way she shared it, and I know that you’ll be inspired and encouraged as well. A few jewels you can look forward to from this episode:

• Erin’s current studio: in a church rectory, overlooking a cemetery
• How Erin got involved in healthcare-related work - and the difference she’s making
• The relationship of art to the deeper things we all experience in life
• A South American experience where Erin discovered a culture losing its artistic history
• How Erin’s art serves as her personal diary

Amazingly, as Erin and I recorded this conversation she had just passed the 1-year anniversary to the discovery that she had breast cancer. Throughout that year she had experienced all the emotions and procedures you might imagine and many that you can only know if you’ve been in those shoes.

She says that the experiences of the last year pushed her to a new place of expression, a place where she had to release the thoughts and feelings that were bubbling to the surface from the deepest places in her soul. She wrote bad poetry in the middle of the night and she created art related to the things she was experiencing.

She says…

“When you tap into those really deep places of facing your death - stuff just has to bubble up. When you go that deep, you hit something and it has to bubble out of it.”

Even before her own experience battling cancer Erin was deeply interested in the impact art could have on those fighting life-threatening diseases. She was awarded a research grant from the state of Maine to do an 8-week study which was called, “The Effects of a Live Painter in a Chemotherapy Treatment Facility.” The project was designed to provide exactly what the name implies - and measure the results.

With the help of a friend who is a Social Psychologist, they conducted the study and published their findings in the Journal for Oncology Nursing. What did they discover? There were four primary findings...

1. The presence of the artist lowers anxiety
2. It changes the feeling of the environment
3. It creates a spontaneous community among the patients
4. As a side-benefit: the project lessened the degree of compassion fatigue experienced by the nurses

Clearly, art and the creation of it matters in life and death contexts, making not just the experience of those undergoing treatment better but also helping those who care for them to provide even better care.

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Do you ever find yourself wondering why you feel like a square peg forced into a round hole when it comes to following art “Rules?” Is there something wrong with you, the system, gatekeepers, or all the above? I was thrilled to sit down and discuss this topic and much more with my friend, Michael McCaffrey. In our conversation, we also touch on his work inspired by his father, the difference between figurative and abstract work, why putting in time matters, and so much more. I can’t wait for you to learn from Michael’s fascinating perceptive and expertise! 

Are you a rule follower or a rule breaker? Most people who see that question will automatically know which category they fall in. Have you always been on one side of that question, or have you shifted over time? For Michael McCaffrey - permission to break from certain art “Rules” evolved. Practically, Michael had to change is approach to painting his father because he simply wouldn’t sit still for portraits. Even when he took photos of his father and brought them to the canvas for a reference point - Michael still had to give himself permission to push the boundaries and create his own set of “Rules.” 

When I first visited Michael’s website, I was like a kid in a candy shop, seriously! Taking a look around at all the different subjects and perspectives he paints is truly inspiring. Most notably, I wanted to hone in on Michael’s work with his father. Michael and I both have parents in their 80’s, and I was curious to hear how Michael’s experience has been spending time and incorporating his father into his artwork. As he observed his father in his home of nearly 40 years, Michael started to notice how his father would pay particular interest and care to one part of his home while neglecting other parts for years. Make sure to check out the images of Michael’s work located at the end of this post - I know you’ll find it as fascinating as I did! 

If you’ve been around the Savvy Painter community for very long, you know that one of the big mantras that we often hear from seasoned artists like Michael is to put in the time at your canvas. It’s tempting to succumb to apathy or indifference, but the truth is, nothing can get you out of a funk quite like time in your studio. It’s also in the studio where you begin to refine and hone your skills as an artist - you can’t microwave skill and success. Think of your time growing and developing as an artist like slow cooking a good meal - you have to give time for those flavors to work together! 

While Michael is quick to point out the “Rules” that don’t work for him as an artist - he’s also quick to explain that tearing down inevitably leads to building something in its place. Facing the institutional challenges and personal struggles of life as an artist isn’t easy, but don’t forget that there is a community of peers who can help spur you along. Michael found that through the process of tearing down rules, ideas, or even hi

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Can you think back to a point in your career where you started to appreciate the transformative power of art? Maybe for you, it was the first time you went to an art museum or that one art class that opened your eyes to a whole new world of possibilities. From early childhood experiences to forging his own path in the art world - my guest, Dean Mitchell, came prepared to explore the whole spectrum in our wide-ranging conversation. I know that artists like you will really appreciate Dean’s valuable and seasoned perspective!

As you look back on your start as an artist, was there an individual who encouraged you along the way? How did your early influences shape your journey as an artist? For Dean Mitchell, two key influences changed the course of his career and his life. The crucial first influence for Dean was his grandmother - not only did she raise Dean, but she also encouraged and empowered him on his journey to becoming an artist. The other key influence for Dean was his junior high school art teacher who wouldn’t let him drop out of art competitions. While we often shrug off these early influences in our lives, the truth is, they matter more than we care to give them credit for!

One of the most amazing aspects of art is the ability to evoke an emotional reaction out of the viewer. From sculptures that draw you closer to watercolors that transport you to another place entirely - art has the power to take you on a deep and personal journey. In our conversation, Dean was kind enough to open up about what he hopes to accomplish with his art. Beyond painting what most people want to see, Dean has been able to position his career in a way where he can challenge people with his art in ways they never thought possible. When was the last time artwork on an emotional level moved you?

Dean Mitchell will be the first person to tell you that the road hasn’t been an easy one throughout his career. From growing up poor and isolated from many of the opportunities, his peers outside of the south had to institutional roadblocks that are all too real for many black artists - Dean knew he was in for a challenge. To overcome these challenges, Dean needed to take some risks that most people would shy away from. Facing rejection and defeat at an early age would crush most budding artists, but Dean was determined that all these risks would eventually pay off - and he was right!

What hope do you have for our society? Do you think things are getting better or are they getting worse? Let’s face it - headlines and news stories often push and pull us toward confirming our biases and keeping our culture compartmentalized. Imagine what it would look like if we started peeling away and tearing down harmful social constructs like the idea that one group of people is inherently superior to others. Dean Mitchell is convinced that art exists to play a definitive role in growing our imaginations and our expectations of how the world should work. What can you learn from Dean’s fascinating

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

When was the last time you found yourself moved deep in the core of your being by a work of art or natural beauty? As an artist, you can appreciate the power that we have to draw on people’s perceptions and emotions. It was a pleasure to speak with the talented Nashville based landscape artist, Adam Hall. In our conversation, Adam was kind enough to open up about his connection to the ocean, how his time working in the music industry influenced his artwork, challenges he has faced along the way, and much more. You’ll want to pay close attention, Adam has some helpful insights and suggestions for fellow artists and parents. 

Do you remember that moment when you realized that you needed to commit yourself to become an artist? Was it a decision to go to art school? Or did you find yourself slowly realizing that you needed to start drawing out your creative side? For Adam hall, the turning point in his career came when he went with his musician friends to volunteer for the Red Cross.

In the wake of a massive tornado storm that impacted the Nashville area, Adam and his friends decided that they wanted to help the situation. In a twist of fate, Adam and his friends found themselves at the home of renowned Nashville artist, David Wright. Seizing on the opportunity, Adam peppered David with questions and sought his advice on how to move forward in his budding career as an artist. 

Fast-forward many years later, and you’ll find Adam thriving as a landscape artist in the Nashville area. Adam’s journey hasn’t always been an easy one; he has experienced his fair share of stress, creative struggles, and moments of overwhelm. Do you think that feeling overwhelmed could ever be a good thing? What if you could draw on the enormity and scale of an image or scene that was so powerful that it elicited an emotional response? 

When Adam was faced with a particularly busy season of his life, he found himself going for an early run one morning. His mind was weighed down by the stress and frantic energy that seemed endless. Reaching the end of his run at the beach - Adam was moved to tears as the sun crested over the horizon. At that moment at the ocean, Adam experienced something that transcended all the chaos in his mind - it was almost like hitting the reset button. In Adam’s experience, feeling overwhelmed can lead to a positive outcome. 

I love to take the opportunity to explore the insights and lessons that my fellow artists have for their peers who also happen to be parents. Having explored this facet of life with many of my guests over the years, it never ceases to surprise me that while there are many similarities, everyone has their own unique take on parenting as an artist. For Adam and his wife, they found that their creative and professional lives thrived when they were able to plan and schedule their time effectively. Instead of a combative and haphazard approach to parenting - Adam and his wife were committed to carving time to their creative pursuits. What can you learn from Adam’s stor

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Normally when I do these question and answer episodes, I get anywhere from 20 to 30 questions to ask my guest - for this topic - the questions numbered in the 100’s! Thankfully, Jake Hawley from Picture Salon was willing to take time out of his schedule to answer many of your questions here on the podcast. In our conversation, Jake touches on file sizes, how to take the best pictures of your art, tips for pricing your fine art prints, and much more. If you’ve ever considered selling prints of your artwork - this is the episode for you! 

Finding a good print shop to work with can be difficult, and you may be tempted to invest in a large format printer to take care of it all yourself. While buying a large format printer might work for some artists, the truth is - unless you are planning on using the printer regularly - it’s a poor investment. Instead, consider taking the time to research and explore some of the print shops in your area or even using a service like Picture Salon.

One of the challenges of getting good fine art prints is taking a high-quality picture of your artwork. Many artists think that snapping a photo on their iPhone will suffice - unfortunately, there are many additional factors to take into consideration. Jake encourages artists like you to use a tripod when taking a photo of your artwork; he also stresses the value of paying close attention to your lighting and how it impacts the image. Ultimately, if possible, Jake suggests connecting with a professional photographer who has experience photographing fine art for reproduction. 

Did you know that the material you choose to have your art printed on can make all the difference? It’s true! In our conversation, Jake’s answers to various material questions took us on a tour of papers, metals, and more. I’ve had first-hand experience working with Jake and his team while I agonized over which type of paper I wanted to use when printing my art. If you are wondering what type of paper to use with your art - consider giving Jake a call. At Picture Salon, they’ll help you figure out what paper works best with your art and they’ll even send you some free samples. 

If I had one, I had a dozen questions about pricing fine art prints. I get it, putting a number on your art can be challenging - especially when it comes to prints of your artwork. In our conversation, Jake was kind enough to share several tips on accurately pricing your fine art prints. Jake suggests pricing a print between 3 and 5 times the cost it took to produce the print. Make sure to factor into your price the time the original took you to create as well as the time it took to get the captures. Follow up with Jake and his team at Picture Salon to get more helpful information like this!

• [0:50] I welcome my guest, Jake Hawley. 
• [2:00] What do I need to know about setting up a print shop on my website? 
• [5:40] Should I buy a large format pr

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Ever felt like you're in a rut with your work?This week we I share practical strategies for boosting your creativity.

In this episode, you'll learn three ways to make creative thinking part of your everyday practice. It's quick and easy but highly effective.

The more you practice creativity, the more effortlessly it appears in your painting.

We'll talk about how to think about other artists work so that it inspires unique ideas in your own (without copying their ideas). Letting your mind wander - yep DAYDREAMING is your best friend for creating unique ideas and tapping into your authenticity.

Listen to this episode for some straightforward tips on revitalizing your artistic practice in a relaxed and simple way.

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

As an artist, one of the hardest things you can do is to push past your limits and dive right into exploring creativity. Do you find pushing the boundaries of your abilities exciting or nerve-racking? My guest, Andy J. Pizza, is ready to explore this question and a whole lot more. In our conversation, Andy opens up about his creative journey, what it’s like to embrace his ADHD, the challenge of copyright laws, and more. I know artists like you will get a ton of value from Andy’s valuable and unique perspective!

Why in the world would someone start a podcast? I get that question a lot! While every podcaster will have their own unique spin on this question - I wanted to hear from Andy J. Pizza. According to Andy, the reason he started his podcast was to help more creative people like him! Too often, Andy saw podcasts and books written by creatives who looked a certain way and acted a certain way, but no one quite like him. Banking on the fact that there were others out there who wanted a fresh take on the creative journey - Andy launched his podcast, Creative Pep Talk. Make sure to listen to Andy’s podcast; you can find the link in the resources section at the end of this post.

Have you ever felt like you were a square peg that was forced to fit into a round hole? That’s what Andy felt all those years as a creative who couldn’t quite fit in. After years of introspection and reflection, Andy finally concluded that he shouldn’t minimize what set him apart from others but that he should embrace it. How do you feel about Andy’s take? Are you ready to take on the challenge and let your freak flag fly high, or are you more comfortable playing it safe? Let’s face it; we need both bold leaders and pragmatic individuals who are ready to put in the work - which one sounds more like you?

I am so honored to get amazing questions and comments every day from artists like you - some just want to ask a simple technical question, and others want to dive right in with challenging ones. Over the years, I’ve learned a healthy balance between my work on this podcast and my own artwork. Have you found the right balance in your career? Andy encourages artists like you to jump at every opportunity you can get when you are young and inexperienced. He also urges more seasoned artists to slow down and find the right pace as they become more experienced in their careers. What do you think of Andy’s advice?

What is at the heart of your desire to create? Do you love to push the boundaries of your abilities, or do you simply enjoy the process? Maybe for you, it’s the ability to go at your own pace and follow your own inspiration that draws you to your work as an artist. Whatever your unique offering to the world is - discover it and embrace it! You are the only you that has ever been made - the world needs your voice and your creativity. Don’t be content to sit on the sidelines, learn from Andy’s helpful advice, and leverage your unique abilities to make the world just a little bit brighter.

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Do you ever find yourself fascinated by the stories of artists who paint from sketch drawings? What do those artists look for when they sketch? How do they remember the right colors or where the light was coming from? Hoping to get some answers to these questions and a whole lot more, I was pleased to sit down with the artist, Tom Hughes. In our conversation, Tom opens up about how he found his path as an artist, what it was like working for the Christian Science Monitor, and more. I can’t wait for you all to get a peek into the world of Tom Hughes! 

Can you remember that moment when you decided you wanted to pursue your career as an artist? Or maybe for you, the draw to an art career was more of a gradual revelation. Slow or sudden, each artist has their own version of realizing their unique path as an artist. For Tom Hughes, the decision to embrace life as an artist was more along the lines of answering a “Calling.” If you are religious, spiritual, something in between, or nothing at all, I’m sure you can relate to what Tom talks about when he describes his draw to art as a “Calling.” For some reason, I’ve found that language to resonate with many artists, does it resonate with you? 

As you’ve grown as an artist over the years, do you attribute it to practice or learning new skills along the way? While some artists love to explore new methods and push the limits, others like to hunker down and become proficient at one particular approach. Tom Hughes did not receive formal art training at a university for college; he took the route that included self-education. As you can imagine, Tom’s journey hasn’t always been easy. He has had significant moments of confidence, like his time at the Christian Science Monitor, and he’s had periods where he had to take a break and step away. 

Through all of the highs and lows of Tom’s career, the one constant that gets to the heart of Tom’s career is his willingness to adapt and discover the right process. Rarely do artists get described as process-oriented. We artists often get painted with a broad stroke and labelled as flighty, inconsistent, and emotional, just to name a few! Tom worked hard for years to hone in on the process that would work best for him. One of the ways Tom likes to work is by sketching his subjects before he goes to the canvas. Are you drawn to a more process-focused approach in your art? 

I am still blown away when I look back to the start of this fledgeling little podcast and the few friends I knew who would listen to see the massive following we enjoy today - it’s incredible! There are a few elements from those early episodes that you’ll still notice as part of the podcast today, but there have been many changes. If you don’t learn and adapt over time, what is the point? Too often, I find my fellow artists are more adverse to change and evolution then I had expected. We are the ones who get the opportunity to push the envelope and help the public look deeper - it’s OK to change over time

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

When was the last time you really took a moment to slow down and notice your surroundings? Do you find that you are easily distracted by your cell phone notifications or the million other things demanding your attention? You aren’t alone! I’ve struggled with managing my distractions for years, so I was thrilled to hear my guest, Michelle Dunaway address this critical topic. In our conversation, we also discuss Michelle’s oil painting, her recent arm injury, how to be honest with yourself, and much more. I know that artists like you will get a ton of value from Michelle’s thoughtful perspective, enjoy! 

What was your childhood like? Did you have a ton of expectations placed on you from an early age or were you free to find your own path? While many parents have nothing but the best of intentions - the truth is - a carefree childhood can quickly get pushed to the wayside. Thankfully, Michelle was given permission and encouragement to explore her creativity. Looking back, she is especially fond of the moments where she would get lost in a daydream or playing in a field. Michelle also points to a critical influence in her life, Richard Schmidt - he also took time to invest in Michelle and encourage her abilities both professionally and as a peer.

Don’t you hate it when life throws you a huge curveball that you never saw coming? Maybe for you, it was an unexpected expense like a car repair or the illness of a loved one, or maybe your story is a lot like Michelle’s and you’ve experienced a personal injury that you have to overcome. After recovering from a misstep that caused an injury to her arm, Michelle started to get back into the swing of things. Before long, she realized that she wasn’t able to put in the hours painting as she had before the accident. It turns out that Michelle had re-injured her arm and now has to undergo surgery and an extensive recovery process. 

The experience with her arm injury highlighted an important aspect that Michelle had been working to focus on for years - managing distractions. From her cellphone to the news and everything in between - Michelle’s life felt like it was full of distractions. As a spiritual person, Michelle looks to prayer and meditation to help her find her center. Cutting through all the noise of daily life is no easy task! The injury to her arm has forced Michelle to become more aware and present - she still struggles with the distraction of her cell phone, but she’s making progress. What can you take away from Michelle’s story? 

Have you had a moment in your art career that made you pause in gratitude? Let’s face it; gratitude is not an easy attitude to cultivate. We can get so focused and caught up in what we don’t have or what isn’t going right that we fail to reflect on the good things in life. Michelle will be the first person to tell you that her life is filled with things to be grateful for. Looking back on her career - Michelle points out one person’s reaction to her oil painting of Richard

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Have you found artists who paint Americana inspiring? Are you drawn to the romanticism and grandeur of the genre? How do artists who focus on painting Americana feel about their genre of work? I was thrilled to sit down with the talented and generous artist, Susan Lyon. In our conversation, Susan opened up about what led her to her career as an artist, why she decides to change things up, her dream of mentoring young artists, and much more. I can't wait for you to get to know Susan's inspiring story! 

When you look back at your start as an artist, who do you point to for inspiration? Was your imagination captured by the likes of Georgia O'Keeffe and N. C. Wyeth? Susan Lyon's imagination was ignited by a whole range of artists, including O'Keeffe and Wyeth. Today, Susan finds herself encouraged and inspired by her peers who paint Americana. Susan also enjoys studying and painting the faces of people she loves. Listening to Susan, you really get the sense that her heart is poured out into her artwork. 

How do you deal with all the stress and challenges of life as an artist? What practices help you focus and unlock your creativity? For years Susan Lyon would practice meditation, but it wasn't until the last couple of years when everything started to "Click." By practicing meditation, Susan has learned how to calm her nervous system and ask open-ended questions. Meditation has given Susan the gift of perspective and peace - key elements for a healthy career as an artist! What can you learn from Susan's story? What practices have helped you in your career? 

Have you been caught up in the perfection game? Some artists learn quickly how detrimental the pursuit of perfection can be - for others, it can take years. We've all been there - you have a particular idea of how you want your artwork to turn out but reality jumps in and messes everything up. It's at that point where you need to decide if you are going to keep pouring in your time and energy or cut your losses and start something new. Susan recalls how challenging it can be to realize that you've sunk way too much time into a project that needs to end. I hope you find her advice and insights as helpful as I did! 

When was the last time you got so caught up in the electric energy and positive influence of your fellow artists? Some artists love to get alone with their canvas and explore the depths of their creativity while others feed off of and thrive in a more communal environment. Beyond personal preferences - Susan makes an excellent point about the power of group energy, especially when it comes to artists. In her experience, when like-minded artists gather and encourage one another - powerful energy is unlocked. Have you experienced that time group energy?

• [0:53] I introduce my guest, Susan Lyon. 
• [3:05] What led Susan to her career as an artist. 
• [12:00] Susan talks about changing things up. 
• [17:15] Reverting back to a safety

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What does it take to branch out from traditional practices and sell your art on platforms like Etsy? Can you make a living off of an Etsy business? What should you look out for? Good news! I put all these questions and more to my returning guest, Jenni Waldrop. 

In our conversation, Jenni opens up about realistic expectations, why it’s not enough to just build a shop on Etsy, how to plan for seasonal changes, and much more. If you’ve ever wanted to know how to build a presence on a platform like Etsy - this is the episode for you! 

The last time I had Jenni on as a guest, we had an excellent discussion that resonated with a lot of Savvy Painter listeners. Just recently, I received a message that had some pointed criticism for Jenni and the numbers she shared regarding her Etsy earnings. In our conversation, Jenni breaks down why she shared the numbers that she shared and why she had to split up her shops to increase her earning potential. After our conversation, I’m confident that you’ll have a greater understanding of what to expect when it comes to building a presence on Etsy. 

What is the best product to sell on Etsy? For each artist and seller, the answer to this question will change - especially depending on the season! While small prints will sell well for one artist - large prints will sell better for another. The key is to give yourself permission to test the market and find out what works. When it comes to selling your art - there is no one size fits all solution you’ve got to be willing to make adjustments and learn as you go. Jenni encourages artists to look around at what is selling, especially given the season. 

Remember that old Kevin Costner movie, “Field of Dreams?” Wouldn’t it be nice if your business were as simple as setting it up and waiting for the customers to flock to your doorstep? Unfortunately - as many of you know - selling your art isn’t easy. Just like nurturing relationships with a gallery - you’ve got to nurture a relationship with your audience on platforms like Etsy. Consider sharing part of your story or starting a blog to feature artwork and projects you’ve worked on in the past. 

How do you feel about starting your Etsy store? Does it sound daunting and overwhelming? If so - you aren’t alone. There are so many artists out there who want to begin selling on Etsy and other platforms, but they don’t know where to start. I get it - I’ve been there! Don’t think that you need to have everything up and running right away - you don’t! Listen to Jenni’s advice and start one step at a time - break it down into manageable steps that you can accomplish at your own pace. For more information on how to start an Etsy shop - make sure to check out Jenni’s website!

• [1:10] I introduce my returning guest, Jenni Waldrop. 
• [5:00] Jenni addresses some criticism from our first episode together. 
• [12:30] Setting realistic expectations. Jenni shares some helpful examples.

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

I still can’t believe that it’s been five years since I started the Savvy Painter podcast. Back when I first started, there were hardly any podcasts about, by, or for artists. Today, there are a ton of options out there, and I’m happy to call many of them friends! On this episode - I decided to do something different - I sat down with a handful of fellow podcasters to answer three questions. 

1.  What is one common thread you noticed from speaking to so many artists? 
2. What advice would you give to an emerging artist who sometimes questions their resolve? 
3. What is the worst advice you hear given to artists? 

Not surprisingly, each of my guests had varied answers that kept me engaged and curious. I can’t wait for artists like you to dig in and hear from their unique and fascinating perspectives!

What would you say is the common thread that ties artists together? As I asked this question to my guests, I was encouraged by their answers. Again and again, the common thread that binds many artists’ seems to be freedom and autonomy. Each person that chooses the path of an artist will follow the call to creativity by creating their own path. I love the boldness that each of my guests tapped into when they answered this question - they weren’t afraid to get it wrong! I hope you get a lot of helpful insights from their unique perspectives and make sure to check out their podcasts.

There are so many things that I wish I would have heard when I first started out as an artist. What are some of the tips and insights you wish you could have heard? Many of my guests stressed the value of putting in the work - and hard work at that! Too often artists get portrayed as struggling and starving or esoteric and whimsical - but what about the hard-working artist? At the end of the day - if you aren’t working hard and creating - do you really want to be an artist? Another one of my guests encouraged their peers to give yourself permission to call yourself an artist - yes, you can wear that title. 

Sometimes the best advice is to avoid bad advice. What are some terrible pieces of advice that people have given you over the course of your career? I can think of one person who decided that it was their calling to make sure I knew how unbelievably hard it would be to make it as an artist. Yes, it is hard to succeed as an artist, but it’s also hard to succeed as a doctor or a business leader, but we don’t go out of the way to highlight the difficulties of those professions! My guests have a ton of bad advice that you should avoid - let me know which ones resonated with you.

• [0:20] I introduce the three questions I ask fellow podcasting artists. 
• [3:00] Amanda Adams and Nicole Mueller (Beyond the Studio) answer question #1. 
• [6:10] David Sherry (Creative Caffeine) answers question #2. 
• [8:00] Kaylan Buteyn (Artist/Mother) answers question #1. 
• [11:10] Marissa Huber (Carve Out Time for Art) answers questio

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

When was the last time that you found deep and abiding joy in your artwork? Have you explored the joy of painting animals and pets? Most of you know how excited I am about Trekell’s new Pet Portrait Competition. Guess what? I’ve got the judge for that competition joining me for this episode of the podcast! 

Jennifer Gennari is a classically trained figurative artist. She graduated in 2005 from Ringling College of Art and Design and in 2008 left for Italy to study at the Florence Academy of Art where she spent three years abroad studying classical realism. In our conversation, Jennifer opens up about her time at the Florence Academy, how she trained herself to see colors differently, how she views commissioned paintings, and much more. 

I don’t know about you, but for years I dreamt of attending the Florence Academy - so I jumped at the chance to get Jennifer’s insights from her time there. While she was overwhelmed by many aspects of her time at the Florence Academy - drawing was not one of them. Jennifer was able to pull from her rich childhood memory of obsessively drawing the same Disney characters over and over again. When the time came to drawing with charcoal - Jennifer was out of her element - but thankfully that didn’t last long.

How did you develop your feel for using color? Did it come easy for you, or did you find the work challenging? I remember one torturous assignment I was given in school where I had to match the color of this massive collage that I had created - the result? I can now match just about any color I encounter! Jennifer’s story is a little bit different - but she also struggled with finding the right way to incorporate color into her artwork. Looking back - Jennifer notices that while the Florence Academy was great for many valuable lessons - color development wasn’t one of them.

Some of you love painting animals and pets in particular - if that is you - you’ve got to check out Trekell’s new Pet Portrait Competition. Jennifer got started painting animals when she got tired of painting people. Still wanting to improve her skill at painting skin - Jennifer came up with a great solution - painting hairless cats! From there - Jennifer branched out and starting painting animals with fur and then she started dabbling in commissioned paintings of animals and pets. If you are interested in entering Trekell’s Pet Portrait Competition, make sure to check out the link in the resources section! 

Speaking of commissioned paintings - what is your take? Have you created a commissioned painting? Do you feel like creating commissioned paintings is selling out? I know that many of you have strong feelings about commissioned paintings - but I’d love for you to hear Jennifer out. In her view - commissioned paintings are only as good as the joy and fulfilment you experience creating them. Creating a commissioned painting for someone who has a special connection to animal or pet is what makes the endeavour worth i

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

If you are anything like me - you’ve struggled with how to deal with your inner critic over the years. There are a few things that have helped me deal with my inner critic, but I am always excited to hear what my peers have done to address this common issue in the art community. Here to share his unique and valuable perspective is the artist - Danny Gregory. 

Danny is an artist, and he has written nearly a dozen internationally best-selling books on art and creativity. He is also the co-founder of Sketchbook Skool with tens of thousands of students worldwide. In our conversation, Danny opens up about how he got started as an artist, why he loves working on “Zines,” how he deals with his inner critic, what it takes to stay creative, and much more. I know you’ll get a ton of benefit from Danny’s thoughtful perspective. 

If you’ve been around the Savvy Painter community for any stretch of time, you know that I am passionate about encouraging artists like you to find your people. Let’s face it - life as an artist can be a lonely existence - but it doesn’t have to be! Even back in the ’90s, artists like Danny Gregory found a way to connect with peers who would encourage and challenge them in their creative pursuits. Discovering an artist from eastern Oregon by flipping through a “Zine” at Tower Records in New York City changed Danny’s life. He quickly befriended this artist via correspondence, and the two went on many trips together. Have you found your people yet? 

Speaking of “Zines,” have you ever encountered one before? When Danny mentioned reading zines in Tower Records back in the 90’s I had a total flashback to my college years. For my millennial followers - zines or fanzines are publications produced by enthusiasts of a particular niche interest. Traditionally, zines are circulated free of charge, or for a nominal cost to defray postage or production expenses. There are so many amazing things you can do with the zine medium - and according to Danny, they are starting to make a comeback!

A few years ago, Danny wrote a book called “Art Before Breakfast.” I love that title by the way! His book explored several small ways he incorporated his drive for creativity each day. From keeping a sketchbook next to the kettle in the kitchen to sketching an image while waiting for his wife to finish shopping - there are a ton of helpful ideas that artists like you can use. At the heart of Danny’s message is this - you can fit creativity and art making throughout your day if you just redefine what that means. For many of you - Danny’s approach will be a bit of stretch - after all, we are conditioned to think of “Art-making” as a structured and specific time we set aside. 

Another book Danny wrote is called, “Shut Your Monkey: How to Control Your Inner Critic.” In this book, Danny explains how he’s dealt with and learned to live with his inner critic. Do you still struggle with silencing your inner critic? If so - I can’t recommend Danny’s book enough!

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What does it look like to see your career take off as an artist on Instagram? Is it a sustainable model or has Facebook’s acquisition taken all fun and profitability out the platform? I put all of these questions and a lot more to my guest, Kate Zambrano. 

Kate is a fine artist based in California specializing in realistic portrait art and figurative art, made up mostly of females. Sometimes described as dark art, her work is a personal study of human psychology and complexity. Kate creates melancholic body languages and expressions, capturing the nuanced truth. 

I can’t wait for you to learn from Kate’s unique perspective - I know you’ll find what she has to say is knowledgeable and entertaining!

Sometimes it can take a while to find that medium that you love and there are some artists like Kate who fall head over heels in love with their medium quickly. While Kate enjoys painting, she really comes alive when she uses charcoal. Kate says that charcoal fits her because of her very “Black and white” way of viewing the world. She also loves color and vibrancy, and she loves to express that when she paints but at the end of the day - charcoal is Kate’s one true love. Kate has incorporated some of the skills she developed as a painter into her work with charcoal, and you can tell!

Sometimes it can take a while to find that medium that you love and there are some artists like Kate who fall head over heels in love with their medium quickly. While Kate enjoys painting, she really comes alive when she uses charcoal. Kate says that charcoal fits her because of her very “Black and white” way of viewing the world. She also loves color and vibrancy and she loves to express that when she paints but at the end of the day - charcoal is Kate’s one true love. Kate has incorporated some of the skills she developed as a painter into her work with charcoal and you can tell!

Instagram - do you love it or hate it as an artist? Have been able to grow your audience and deepen your connection to your followers? Kate enjoyed a huge boon to her business and her career as an artist once she began posting on Instagram. Quickly, Kate became quite the force as a popular artist on Instagram - then the bottom fell out.

A year and a half ago, everything changed with Instagram’s algorithm - small businesses that were thriving on the platform started shutting down left and right. Since they reworked the platform, artists like Kate have noticed that their content hasn’t been getting nearly as many likes or engagement as years past. Instagram’s change has had a huge negative impact on Kate and her business. She thought the decline in support was attributed to her skill and ability as an artist. Today, Kate is doing a lot better - she found a new way forward and shifted her view of success. 

What does success look like for Kate today? With all the instant validation of Instagram no longer factoring into her view of success - Kate has had to rethink her personal definition

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Imagine living on a boat in the San Francisco Bay area - doesn’t that sound AMAZING? How would you optimize your working area? What materials would you use? Instead of guessing the answers to this beautiful scenario - I got to ask my friend Kaethe Bealer all about it!

Kaethe is a long time listener of Savvy Painter and she’s participated in several of my workshops over the years. I have been so impressed with Kaethe’s growth as an artist. From life on a boat to her process using acrylic paint I know Kaethe’s unique insights and reflections will help artists like you in a number of ways.

Seriously though - what is it like living on a boat near San Francisco? Don’t you want to know? Apparently, it is not always as romantic as it sounds. As you can imagine space is at a premium. Forget leaving a studio space set up - if space isn’t being used - then things have to be put away. Thankfully, Kaethe has a supportive spouse who encourages her and supports her in her growth as an artist. While life on a boat sounds challenging - Kaethe also has some stellar work to show for it - which she has to store off boat at her father-in-law's house.

Speaking of Kaethe’s artwork - I was interested to hear what type of paint she uses on her boat and why. Kaethe uses acrylic paint and works mostly on pannel - her subject matter is all over the place - she loves to explore whatever catches her interest. With her life on the boat - Kathe has found acrylic paint to be the best material to use - it’s easy to clean up! She has a little evaporation bucket outside that she uses to discard her dirty water. Kaethe also uses Open Golden which is an extended drying acrylic paint.

“Just keep painting” is one of the mantras that has impacted Kaethe’s on her journey as an artist. She experienced a significant period in her life where she stopped painting and it took her while to get back into the rhythm. These days Kaethe is committed to putting in the time and logging those hours at the canvas. She wants to encourage her artisitc peers to keep at it and stay in the game. Selling her work on the internet was a huge turning point for Kaethe - that experience also buoyed her spirits and emboldened her to get her work featured in art galleries.

Have you heard the term, “Workshop junkie?” I would consider myself a workshop junkie - I LOVE workshops. If money wasn’t a factor I’d fill up my days in workshops with fellow artists honing my skills and learning new techniques and insights. In our conversation - Kaethe and I also discussed the danger of using workshops as a crutch. Attending too many workshops can lead to thinking too little of your abilities and hamstringing your growth. Finding the balance is not an easy task but it is crucial - you need to have a healthy mindset!

• [0:45] I introduce my guest, Kaethe Bealer.
• [3:15] What led Kaethe to her current work with acrylic paint?
• [5:15] Living on a boat, is it as romantic as it sounds? How does Kaeth

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Getting your work out there is scary for a lot of artists. Sometimes it’s because we’re afraid no one will like it, but more often it's because we are so worried about whether or not the paintings will sell.

That creates a ton of pressure.

This episode is for you if you want to show your work but secretly resist taking actions to get it out there.

I give you 3 ideas to make it easier:

Showing your work makes you a better painter: you get to see how people react to your work. Art is communication, part of communication is listening to the response.

Putting your art out there helps you find the people who will truly love and appreciate your unique voice. These are the collectors who will support you as an artist. Help them get to know you.

Sharing your work, even if it’s scary (especially if its scary) boosts your confidence. The more you do it, the easier it gets ( I promise!)

Start small, go slow until you build your confidence. Sales is just one of the byproducts you get when you purposefully practice sharing your work with other humans.

@savvypainterpodcast

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

I’ve got a special episode in store for you all this week including questions and answers to a few select topics. I wanted to experiment with a new format, and I’m glad to have you along for the ride! On this episode - I cover how artists like you can navigate art competitions, I give an update about my move to Argentina, and I go over some productivity tips. I’m so thankful to all of you who have been so supportive and encouraging as I’ve made the transition back to Argentina - I excited to roll out some exciting new interviews and innovative episodes like this one!

I know it might feel that way, but here is the truth - not all art competitions are shady. It is also unfair to lump them all into the same category, some art competitions will be a great fit for one artist, and they’ll be a terrible fit for others. Here are my four tips for finding the right art competitions.

1. Understand your goal.
2. Do your homework.
3. Celebrate when you get in!
4. Just move on when you don’t get in.

You are responsible for your own career - so act like it! Don’t get upset about the cost of entering into an art competition, if you think it’s a right fit and that you have a shot then go for it. As you can tell, I’ve got a lot to say about this topic, and I know it’s not an easy one. I’d love to hear from you - what tips do you have to share about finding the right art competitions?

We did it! We’ve made it to our new home in Villa Carlos Paz in Argentina. It’s been great to hear from many of you as you’ve patiently waited to hear from me during this whole transition process. My new studio is all set up, and I am ready to jump back into my routine. One thing that is a bit of a love/hate factor of life here in Villa Carlos Paz is all the mom and pop stores. I love that I get to directly support the local economy with my purchases - I hate that it can take weeks and weeks to get something as simple as binder clips. All-in-all life is good, and I’m glad for this new chapter of life!

As an artist, you want to create worthwhile art, and that’s great! Let’s be honest - when you fail to create the stellar art you have envisioned in your mind - you let yourself have it. We are notorious at holding ourselves to such high and lofty standards that when we fail, we are our own worst critics. Self-reflection is great! Beating yourself up is not so great. Think of it this way - you wouldn’t let your friend beat themselves up - so don’t do it to the person in the mirror! I firmly believe that you cannot create from a place of frustration or negativity - if that sounds too fluffy - too bad :)

• [0:15] I introduce this special question and answer episode.
• [2:20] My tips for navigating juried art competitions.
• [8:00] What is a reasonable price to expect for entering an art competition?
• [10:00] I give an update on my move to Argentina.
• [12:20] How do you keep moving forward when life keeps getting in the

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

When was the last time you decided to quite all the voices and just focus on your desire to create art? Is it hard for you to carve out the time in your life or have you found the right formula to make it work? Wherever you are at in your journey, I know you’ll appreciate hearing from the amazing Jacksonville based artist - Kristin Cronic.

In our conversation, Kristin opens up about how she got started as an artist, what it was like navigating life as a Navy officer, how she recovered when her whole world was flipped upside down, and so much more. Don’t forget to check out images of Kristin’s artwork located at the end of this post.

Do you remember when you were first given permission to paint? Remember the joy you had? What happened to that joy? Have you fanned those flames over the years or are you just now starting to re-light the fire?

Kristin Cronic looks back to the early years of her life when her mother would allow her to paint and explore to heart's content. Her mother still has a paint-covered floor in her room at that house to this day! Kristin also received early encouragement from her aunt, Kathy Strauss who is also an artist.

Several years ago in 2017, Hurricane Irma struck the Florida coast, the Florida Keys, and the Caribbean. Irma also happened to strike just as Kristin and her family were planning a major shift in their lives - Kristin was resigning from the Navy to pursue her career in art. Also - Kristin was six weeks pregnant with their second child.

As crazy as that time was, thankfully, Kristin and her family made it through the whole ordeal safely. In the ensuing months, Kristin and her family went to work picking up the pieces as they began to rebuild. Two months after the chaos - Kristin started to really struggle with all the challenges that were building up. Thankfully, her husband stepped in with some helpful advice.

In the middle of trying to bring order to chaos, Kristin followed her husband’s advice, and she started painting again. He knew, even when she had forgotten that taking the time to create art would help her find peace. It’s wonderful when you have people in your corner who help you follow your gut even when you can’t hear it speaking up!

As Kristin started to follow her gut and get back into what brought her joy, she found herself struggling with a direction. Listening to the Savvy Painter podcast helped Kristin reconnect with her inner artist and begin the path toward creating art again. Listening to the podcast wasn’t the silver bullet for Kristin, she also reached out to a local artist, and she enrolled in the Savvy Painter Growth Studio.

Hopefully, you’ll find Kristin’s powerful story of finding her way and following her gut inspiring - I know I did! What I want artists like you to know is this; it’s never too late. You aren’t too old or too out of touch with the art community. No excuse is big enough to keep you from creating art.

The world needs your story and you

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Do you have questions about oil painting and the best materials to use? Look no further, it’s here! Robert Gamblin, Mary Weisenburger, and Pete Cole join me to answer your biggest questions about oil painting and more! I’m so excited for you to hear their helpful insights into some really great topics. You’ll hear them go over questions about pigments, stories about pigment sources, why some paints have more oil separation, some great information on oil paints and toxicity, and much more! This will serve as a great resource for artists like you to keep in your back pocket. Learn how you can connect with Gamblin and utilize their great resources!

You’ve heard that old phrase, “Jack of all trades and master of none” right? That’s what comes to mind when I hear Robert Gablin talk about why his company solely focuses on oil painting instead of branching out to provide water colors, acrylic paints, and other materials. Instead of being a jack of all trades, Robert and his team have decided to focus on being a master of one, oil paint products. Their narrow focus has paid off, they have displayed an amazing passion for detail and improvement on their niche subject. Just hearing from Robert, Mary, and Pete I could tell that they really know their field – they are the experts when it comes to oil paint!

If you follow news about pigments and breaking developments around that subject like I do, then you’ve heard of the new “YInMn Blue” that was discovered at Oregon State University. This new color was discovered in 2009 as a byproduct of an experimentation. Since this news has recently been making the rounds on social media again it led me to get Robert Gamblin’s take on the new color and if they’ve found it worth it to start producing the color themselves. Robert explained that they found that it is not effective to produce the color for a few reasons. Their primary reason is the enormous cost it requires to create the color. This is due to the fact that the color requires three compounds and two of them are rare earth minerals. Robert’s vast knowledge was on display during our conversation and I know that artists like you will find his insights very helpful.

Do you find yourself concerned about your health when it comes to your time in the studio? Are you nervous about how your lifestyle as an artist will impact your health in long run? What would it mean for you to have supplies that are responsible, not only for the environment but for artists like you? My guests from Gamblin are happy to share with artists like you that their line of high-quality products are free of toxins. They want to see more artists use products that are sustainable and health conscious. Don’t let your time in the studio get clouded by concern for your health. Hear from the Gamblin team and how their products could be the best fit for you!

Don’t you hate it when you are in a creative flow and you have to make the decision to pause and let your paint dry before you can proceed? Wh

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What is that people look for when they invest time and money into collecting art? Are they looking for a particular style? Is it for their personal enjoyment or do they want it to serve as a conversation starter? Here to give us a great peek inside the world of collecting art is art advisor, Tracy Kinnally. In our conversation, Tracy explains how she got started as an art advisor, where the art market is headed, advice for artists and collectors, and much more. I know that artists like you will really appreciate our conversation especially the turn it takes toward the end.

Have you ever wondered how someone gets started as an art advisor? Did they dream of helping people find art from an early age? Tracy Kinnally studied at Christie’s in London and then went on to intern at the Chelsea gallery in New York and the Guggenheim in Venice. These days, Tracy is hard at work on her business helping people all over the world find the right art to feature in their home or workplace. You can connect with Tracy by going to her website; the link is located in the resources section.

As many people can attest to, collecting art can become a sort of obsession. What is it that these collectors are looking for? Do they get connected to a particular artist or a style? Tracy has found that each person is looking for something a little bit different and that is why she enjoys meeting people in their homes to get a sense of what would fit for that individual. She even finds that what a collector says they want and what they really want are two different things. I found Tracy’s perspective fascinating and helpful, and I know that you will too!

If you are going to start collecting art, you should connect with someone like Tracy Kinnally, seriously. Art advisors can help you make the right decision and even expose you to options would have never otherwise considered. If you don’t want to connect with an art advisor, Tracy says that you should follow your gut. When you see something you like, go with it, don’t buy a painting that you are unsure about.

As for artists, Tracy says that they should make their work as easily accessible as possible. She encourages artists to build up a body of work and to have contact channels easy to find and responsive. The worst thing you can do is to ignore or never follow up with a collector who is interested in your artwork!

Without a doubt, the art market is headed into an exciting period. Even right now, there are so many possibilities open to artists and those collecting art. Gone are the days where you could only sell your art in a gallery or at an art show, the internet has made it so much easier than it was in the past. Yes, there are challenges that come with this new direction for the art market, but there is no going back, you have to adapt. What is your take on this topic? Do you agree with Tracy’s take, let me know!

• [5:20] I introduce

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Last week I sent out an email to my subscribers asking them, “What does success mean to you?” I received over two hundred responses from Savvy Painter followers! People have a lot to say about this topic and as you can imagine each answer was different and had a unique perspective.

I want to take this opportunity to highlight some of those responses and engage in a larger conversation about life as an artist trying to attain “Success.” I want you to join the discussion about success, and I want to hear what other topics you’d like me to showcase.

Let’s face it; the answer to this question is not an easy one. As many of you noted, a quick definition might pop into your mind, but upon further consideration, you struggle to come up with a definition that fits. Ultimately, I believe that each person has to answer this question for themselves, but they do need to answer it. Don’t trick yourself into believing that you can leave this question unanswered and still somehow become “Successful.” How can you achieve something that you haven’t taken the time to define?

An action step, if you dare, come up with a working definition of success that fits you. Once you’ve got that definition, write it down!

I know it’s a “Dirty” word, but we are going to talk about money. So many of you, and rightfully so, are concerned about the financial side of the success conversation. I know that you didn’t get into your career as an artist for the money, nobody would choose this profession with that goal. Unfortunately, our society often propagates the idea that our income level is tied to our worth or value. There is no way around it, the financial aspect is part of the success conversation, but I’m so glad that many of you know that it’s not the only factor defining of success. Here is the truth, you need money to live and deserve to get paid for your hard work!

Whatever your definition of success is, the fact is, you won’t succeed if you don’t stay in the game. It’s not easy to stay in the habit of working on your artwork; this is why I ask so many of my guests to give us a peek behind the curtain and let us in on their process when it comes to time in the studio. Every day that you choose to paint, you are choosing in your favour. Are you putting in the time? Do you have a process that works for you and keeps you on track? If so, let me know!

Thank you to everyone who joined the conversation by responding to my question, I read all the replies, and I was so encouraged to hear all your perspectives! I’d like to leave you with my definition of success.

Success is continued growth; it means continually expanding my horizons. For me, success means staying true to my values and staying curious.

This whole art journey for me is about the process. The process of painting is more important to me than the outcome. I don’t mind failing; I don’t see failure as the opposite of success. I can learn from fa

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Have you ever wanted to grab your materials and head for the mountains for a plein air painting session? While that specific scenario may not resonate with every artist, I know the desire to change things up and get out of a creative slump will. My guest, Therese Morgan along with her friend and fellow artist, Mark David took off for the adventure of a lifetime backpacking the John Muir Trail.

In our conversation, we discuss what led Therese to embark on this crazy expedition, challenges she faced along the way, how the trip impacted her artwork, what she learned from her journey, and much more. Caution, this episode may cause you to pack your bags and head for the hills (in a good way!)

If you’ve been an artist for very long, chance are you’ve hit a wall, creatively. If you haven’t yet, consider yourself extremely lucky! What should you do when you hit a wall, find yourself in a slump, experience a creative block, or whatever you want to call it? Many artists have a unique take on how to get past a creative block. Some will say, to keep your head down and stick to your schedule while others will encourage you to take a break and pick up a book. Then there are crazy people like Therese Morgan who pack up their studio and go for a hike, and not just any hike, a twenty-seven-day hike along the John Muir Trail in California!

Have you experimented with plein air painting? Where have you explored and enjoyed the outdoors with your artwork? Have you ever done something as crazy as a twenty-seven-day hike with your shelter, clothing, food, water, and painting supplies strapped to your back?

To some, plein air painting while on a multi-week hike might sound crazy, and to others (like me) it sounds like fun! Therese Morgan and her friend Mark David came to this idea one night over dinner. Their idea seemed great on paper, but they both wondered, could they pull it off? You might be under the assumption that Therese and Mark are avid and experienced backpackers; they were not. You also might assume that they had just received a generous grant or they had some other means of financial security; they did not.

Lacking experience and the requisite finances, Therese and Mark forged ahead, convinced that their dream would be worth all foreseen and unforeseen challenges they’d face along the way. After some careful planning, the pair decided to embark on an almost month-long journey on the John Muir Trail. The John Muir Trail is a long-distance trail in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, passing through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. The trail's length is 211 miles long with an elevation gain of approximately 47,000 feet. For almost all of its length, the trail is in the High Sierra backcountry and wilderness areas, not exactly a “relaxing” experience.

As you can imagine, Therese and Mark’s journey was challenging, to say the least. Hiker after hiker in the backcountry would pass them by, surprised that they’d take on such an adventure with their

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

How do you create a body of work that displays your abilities and passions as an artist? What thought process is required to curate and develop your own body of work? Artist Constance Mallinson was kind enough to join me to discuss this important topic.

Constance is a California based artist. Her most recent exhibitions include Pomona College, UC Riverside, The Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery, and Angles Gallery in Los Angeles. She was the recipient of a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship as well as a City of Los Angeles Artist’s grant. She has also taught every aspect of art at all the major universities and colleges in Southern California including UCLA and Claremont Graduate School.

Throughout our conversation, Constance shared her early artistic influences, what led her to consider a career as an artist, how her art has evolved over the years, why we need to pay attention to moments of transition, and much more. I can’t wait for you to learn from Constance’s fascinating and thoughtful perspective.

Every artist at some point agonizes over the thought of creating a body of work that captures both what they are good at and what they love to create. Do you have a curated and developed body of work? What has helped you develop your body of work over the years? For Constance Mallinson, it all comes down to letting her skillset and her intuition guide her. As she looks back on her career, Constance remembers her early work with minimalistic landscape paintings and how she transitioned from that to her work with the pattern and decoration movement. What can you learn from Constance’s journey?

When do you get to the point where you’ve “Arrived” as an artist? Does it ever really happen or is it just a made up ideal of fame and fortune? Instead of looking at a pinnacle moment of fame or glory, Constance decides to look at her life and art career as building blocks or steps taken on a journey. Each step is valuable because they build upon each other. You can’t take away the step of minimalistic landscape work because it contributes to her work with the pattern and decoration movement. You also can’t take away motherhood without taking away the new perspectives that aspect of Constance’s life brought to her work. Constance is passionate about helping artists not only enjoy the moments of prestige, but she also wants to help us value in-between moments as well.

When was the last time you gave yourself permission to do what you want to do as an artist? Seriously! Too often we can get caught up with the idea of what we “Ought to be doing” or what people expect us to do that we fail to consider what we want our body of work to look like. If money wasn’t a factor, what would you be working on right now? I loved putting this question and the whole idea of following your desire to Constance Mallinson. She was quick to light up when we talked about shirking the expectations of others to focus on what we feel like we need to do. I hope you get as much enjoyment out this convers

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Can you really capture emotion in art? Is there something that you can convey on the canvas that transfers to the viewer? Emotion is such a complicated and complex human experience that the effort to capture it on canvas seems like an impossible task. My guest, Linda Christensen is proving that notion wrong with her amazing artwork.

Linda is a Northern California based artist who paints a moment in time in women’s lives, she looks for the emotional connection and tries to capture it. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree and her Graduate Certificate from the University of California, Santa Cruz.

In our conversation, Linda opens up about how she got started as an artist, habits and rituals that keep her in a creative flow, how a David Park painting influenced her, why she is ok with “getting it wrong,” tips for connecting with a gallery and pricing artwork, and much more. I know that artist like you will get a lot out of our wonderful conversation.

Have you ever had that moment in your career where you finally found someone who expressed themselves creatively as you do? Who was that artist for you? What was it in their work that resonated with you? For Linda Christensen, that moment came when she was viewing a painting by the figurative artist, David Park. When she saw one of his paintings, Linda had an immediate and emotional connection that she’d never experienced before. That encounter with the David Park painting told Linda that emotion could be captured in a painting.

What is your process like in the studio? Do you have a checklist you go through so you can get into your creative flow? Some artists love to work with music playing or after they’ve spent time in an art book, but everyone has to find their groove. I’ve found it helpful over the years to hear from my peers like Linda Christensen who are more than willing to share what they’ve found useful as they approach the canvas. Linda likes to knock out all of her errands and personal tasks before she steps foot into her studio. She also loves to have an old black and white movie playing in the background that she’s seen before so she can have a contrast to her painting process. I loved hearing all about Linda’s studio process and her love for Catherine Hepburn movies; I hope you enjoy it too.

Do you ever find yourself jumping through hoops and trying to please someone else or working fulfill some idea of what you “ought” to be doing with your artwork? Do you give in to those voices and let them shape your art or do you try to silence them? Artist Linda Christensen has embraced the idea of “getting it wrong” because she knows that she’ll never “get it right.” Someone will always have a critique ready but Linda is ok with that, and she encourages other artists to embrace this mindset as well. At the end of the day, none of us are, as Linda says, “movie-ready” we all have flaws, why not embrace them?

• [2:30] I introduce my guest, Linda Christensen.
• [4:00] What led Linda to a

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Do your dreams impact your creative process? Have you ever explored this aspect of intersection between your imagination and your art? Does your approach to starting a painting differ from your peers? My guest, Suzanne Unrein took the time to explore these fascinating topic and much more throughout our conversation.

Suzanne is a California native and current New Yorker. Her paintings and works on paper explore a vibrant world of humans and animals. Her work is characterized by vibrant colours and expressive gestures.

In our conversation, we discuss intuition and how dreams influence her paintings from time to time. We also touch on some differences in how we start painting. I can’t wait for you to learn from the fascinating insights and unique perspective that Suzanne brings to the table.

Where you ever taught that there was a “right way” and a “wrong way” to start painting? Did that direction cause you to have a dogmatic approach? Suzanne Unrein explained to me that she doesn’t have a set pattern that she goes back to when she approaches the canvas. She wants to put herself in a position to hear from the canvas in a new way each time she goes to start painting. As she explained her process, Suzanne did confess that she occasionally slips into some technical patterns but that emphasis to listen to the canvas is always in the back of her mind. What approach has worked for you as you’ve developed as an artist?

Dreams are such a fascinating topic, from poetry and song to film and artwork, as a species we’ve long tried to understand and come to grips with what our minds process while we sleep. Have your dreams seeped into your creative process or vice versa? Suzanne shared with me that she once dreamt that she was getting eaten by a lion. She shared this with me in the larger context of her exploration of animals and the influence they have on our imagination and our society. Animals also play a huge role in Suzanne’s artwork. Have you played with the concept of dreams or animals in your artwork?

What does it take to get past a creative block? Do you have any tips or tricks that have worked for you throughout your career? I’ve been stuck plenty times creatively, and I am always eager to hear from my peers to get their perspective on getting unstuck. Suzanne says that she gets stuck from time to time due to her perfectionist nature, she’ll focus on one aspect for too long that she can’t see anything else. When that happens, she’ll just pull back and remove the section that has her stuck, and she’ll start fresh the next day. I hate getting stuck but hearing from artists like Suzanne can be helpful in developing different remedies to this common occurrence.

• [2:30] I introduce my guest, Suzanne Unrein.
• [4:15] What led Suzanne to her career in art?
• [7:30] Suzanne talks about getting her start in LA.
• [10:30] How does Suzanne describe her artwork?
• [17:30] Is there a good “way” to start pai

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What comes to mind when you consider the phrase, “Truth in art?” Do you think of artists who have a bold message in their artwork or do you think of more subtle approaches? It was my pleasure to speak with the artist, Vincent Giarrano. Vincent received his BFA from the State University of New York at Buffalo and his MFA from Syracuse University. In our conversation, we touched on the vital role of truth in art and how that concept has shaped him as an artist. We also discussed what it means to leave a legacy, how writing can fuel the creative process, what it looks like to create a business plan, and much more. I know that artists like you will enjoy hearing from Vincent’s wonderful perspective.

Does writing play a role in your creative process? If not, have you ever considered taking up the practice of writing? I’ve seen writing impact my artwork over the years, so I love taking the opportunity to explore this important practice with my peers. Vincent Giarrano also enjoys the practice of writing; he says that writing helped him as he transitioned from his work in illustration to fine art. He also credits his writing for helping him work out ideas for various projects, staying focused and organized, and with his research. If writing doesn’t help you in the ways that it has helped Vincent, what is it that fuels your creative process?

When you think about your legacy as an artist, what is it that you want to be known for? Do you want to be known for your excellent technique? Your innovative style? Your bold message? Or do you want to be known for something completely different? After surveying the landscape of the art world, Vincent Giarrano yearned to create art that communicated truth and sincerity. Vincent isn’t after complexity for complexity’s sake; he wants to produce a body of work that is true to his convictions. Make sure to check out images of Vincent’s artwork located at the end of this post.

Let’s face it as a community; artists aren’t known for their business acumen. How have you fared when it comes to the business side of your art career? Have you found certain practices and strategies that have helped you succeed? For artist Vincent Giarrano, it all came down to taking the time to develop a business plan. In this particular area, Vincent says that he approached building his business plan logically. Step by step, he thought through how he’d promote his artwork, how he’d sell it, who his ideal customers were, and what level of craftsmanship he’d need to commit to. While this process wasn’t easy for Vincent, looking back, he is glad that he took the time to put together a cohesive plan.

It is the dreaded decision that every artist has to face, what price to place on your art. Do you still struggle with this aspect of your career? Some artists figure out this aspect of their business easily while some struggle for an extended period. According to Vincent Giarrano, the best practice is to take a look at the marketpla

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

In this special episode of the Savvy Painter podcast, we're celebrating an incredible milestone: 10 years of being part of your art journey! Over the last decade, I've had the joy of connecting with so many amazing artists, sharing stories, struggles, and, most importantly, lessons. So, I thought, what better way to celebrate than to share my top 10 lessons from 10 years of Savvy Painter? These are the gems I've gathered from talking with hundreds of artists and diving deep into the art world. Let's dive in!

1. What's on Your Canvas Reflects What's in Your Mind: The biggest game-changer for me was realizing how directly our thoughts shape our art. It's all about noticing how your feelings and thoughts come alive on your canvas through your brushstrokes.
2. Be Intentional with Your Work and Time: Having a plan isn't just about avoiding distractions; it's about setting intentions for your art and focusing on them. Even something as simple as a sticky note with your goal can make a huge difference.
3. Your Work Matters: Always remember that your art makes a difference. Even when doubts creep in, know that what you're creating has value, both to you and to the world.
4. Perfection Isn't Good Enough: Chasing perfection can actually hold you back. Connect with people through your art instead of getting caught up in making every detail flawless.
5. Be Selective About Who You Let into Your Studio: Not every voice deserves a say in your creative space. Keep out the negativity and focus on the positive influences that help you grow as an artist.
6. The Four Stages of Your Practice: Embrace the cycle of making art, showing it, selling it, and then resting. Recognizing and honoring each stage is key to a fulfilling art practice.
7. Community Is Key: Never underestimate the power of being part of a community of artists. It's comforting to know you're not alone in your artistic journey.
8. Advocate for Your Work: Believing in your own art is the first step to getting others to believe in it too. Learn to talk about your work with confidence and love.
9. Stay Out of Your Collectors' Wallets: Pricing your art isn't about guessing what others can afford; it's about valuing your work appropriately and letting the buyers decide for themselves.
10. Love the Art and the Artist Who Creates It: This journey is all about love—loving the process, the creation, and, most importantly, yourself as the creator. Your art is a love letter to yourself, so cherish it and the person who brings it to life.

Celebrating 10 years with you has been such an honor. Your stories, feedback, and the community we've built together have made Savvy Painter more than just a podcast; it's a shared space of inspiration and growth. Here's to many more years of painting, learning, and growing together.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey!

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Happy Holidays!

Last week we celebrated over 2 million downloads of the Savvy Painter podcast!

None of this would be possible without you. I'm so grateful that you choose to tune in, that you share your stories, and continually support this podcast.

This is a recap of just a few of the behind the scenes highlights of the year and what that means for 2019.

If you're in the L.A. area, hopefully we can meet :)

And if you've been curious about painting in Italy with JSS in Civita... I have some news! I hope to see you there in 2019!

Enjoy your holidays with your family and friends, may 2019 bring you loads of love, laughter, and painting bliss!

Talk soon,

~Antrese

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Have you ever seen encaustic art and found yourself drawn in? There is something about encaustic artwork that grabs the viewer in a way that is different from other techniques. My guest, Lisa Kairos is an accomplished encaustic artist who was kind enough to open up about her process. In our conversation, we also touch on the positive impact that motherhood has had on her development as an artist, why she loves to write, books that have helped her grow, and much more. I can’t wait for you to learn from Lisa’s refreshing perspective!

Over the years as I’ve interviewed artists who are parents, I usually get a mixed bag of responses. While they’ve all said that they enjoy family life, there tends to be more of a focus on the challenges that parenting brings to the profession. When I broached this topic with Lisa Kairos, we kept the discussion on the positive impact that parenthood has had on her career. One particular aspect that Lisa honed in on was the fact that she is quicker to dive right into her creative flow since she has become a parent. She used to take her time and ease into the work at hand; now she jumps in with vigor!

When was the last time you genuinely let your curiosity guide your creativity? Has your interest taken a back seat to some of the more goal driven aspects of your career? For Lisa Kiros, the two thankfully melded into one expression with her recent Periphery Project. Chasing her curiosity, Lisa began walking 400 miles of the San Francisco Bay Trail sketching and taking photos along the way. She started his project as a way to connect to the memory of her father who has passed away. It was fascinating to hear Lisa talk about this deeply personal and beautiful project, make sure to check out images from this series located at the end of this post.

Do you get the chance to view encaustic art very often? I found myself enamored with this technique as Lisa Kairos opened up about her studio time and how she creates her artwork. If you need a refresher, encaustic art is also known as hot wax painting and involves using heated beeswax to which colored pigments are added. Lisa Kairos has been working with the encaustic technique for the last 15 years. She works hard to embed layers of imagery into each layer of wax meaning that each painting has between 15 and 25 layers. As you can imagine, this particular method is not for the impatient or timid.

Have you discovered different avenues and channels that deepen your abilities as an artist? Maybe for you, it's your rockclimbing hobby that enhances your creative process. Artist Lisa Kairos can trace a direct link between her growth as an artist and her growth as a writer. Learning from the likes of Anne Lamott and Ted Orland, Lisa says that she has learned more about the creative process from writers than her fellow artists. She has found so much encouragement and growth by reading these authors talk about the creative process in ways that few artists have. Wh

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

How often do you get the chance to do a deep dive into the creative process? Sure, you may have enjoyed the ability to do this when you were in school or early in your career but have you thought about it lately? It was an honor to sit down for a wide-ranging conversation with the artist, Cecil Touchon as we explored the creative process. Cecil creates collage and paintings out of typographic elements; his paintings are called Post-Dogmatic paintings. I know that artists like you are going to a lot out of our in-depth conversation.

One of the primary responsibilities of the artist is to look closer at the aspects of the world around us and through their work, help others to do the same. While this responsibility is a great one, the skill of looking closer takes time to develop. Observing the artwork of various artists, you can see this skill or lack thereof in full effect. Cecil Touchon is one of the most thoughtful and detailed artists that I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing. He takes the shapes, angles, and patterns he studies very seriously and does his best to convey this passion in his artwork.

How has your creative process evolved over the years? Do you approach your canvas or your medium the same way today as you did when you first started? What has caused you to change and improve your process over the years? Looking back on his career, Cecil Touchon says that he has remained committed to the process of excellence. Through all the highs and lows of his career, the one constant focus for Cecil has been this strive to produce artwork that can compete with those at the top of his field. The challenge for many artists is staying committed to a certain level of creativity while evolving and adapting their process along the way.

Can you think of a primary way you’ve been impacted as an artist by the digital revolution? Has your artwork improved or has it been negatively affected by the technological advancements of our society? According to Cecil Touchon, we are still in the middle of sorting the impact of the technological and digital revolution out. When you consider how quickly everything has changed in the last 20 years or so, you can see what Cecil is referring to. As the rise of the internet has impacted so much of our lives, it seems that many sectors including the art community are still trying to find their bearings.

Given the high-speed environment that the digital revolution has ushered in, many artists find themselves looking for ways to stabilize their process. What habits and routines have worked for you? Do you have a set place and time to practice your craft? Cecil Touchon is convinced that the best way to quiet all the noise that surrounds us both audibly and visually is to stay committed to a schedule. Throughout his career, Cecil has enjoyed the consistency and predictability of his set time and place to work on his art. Do you thrive in that type of environment or you

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What does it look like to explore the language of painting? How do you understand the language? What does it take to become fluent in it? I had the incredible honor of sitting down and discussing this fascinating topic with the artist, Maggie Siner. Maggie grew up in New Jersey and currently resides in France. She began her studies at the Art Students League of New York in 1968, graduated from Boston University (BFA) in 1973 and from American University (MFA) in 1976. I can’t wait for you to learn from Maggie’s fascinating and unique perspective!

Do you have certain habits and lessons you learned early in your career that shaped you as an artist? What made those habits stand out in your mind? For Maggie Siner, those early habits came from her time at Boston University. There she learned the value of a steadfast work habit and working through the challenges and hurdles that life puts in the way. Maggie also discovered profound respect for the materials of her craft that has stayed with her all these years later. Maggie stresses that she is the artist she is today due to the valuable lessons that were instilled in her during those formative years.

What comes to mind when you hear the phrase, “The language of painting?” Does it take you to a place of deep intellectual contemplation or does the phrase bounce off of you with little meaning? Maggie Siner says that the language of painting is not merely about color, it's about the transformation of materials. She goes on to explain that it also has to do with the abstract structure and arrangement of color and shape that creates the meaning of a painting. I was thrilled to hear Maggie’s compelling explanation of this beautiful phrase; I hope you get value from it too!

When I asked Maggie to describe her artwork, she was quick to tell me that she doesn’t like classifications because their meanings change so often. I was able to get her to open up about her artwork and what she tries to accomplish when she approaches the canvas. Maggie pains from life, meaning she is looking at her subject as she paints it. In her approach, Maggie doesn’t like to use photos or her imagination, the subject in front of her is of the utmost value. Ultimately, her goal is to extract meaning from the chaos of the world around her.

Let’s face it, our line of work isn’t the easiest or most forgiving. We all struggle with self-doubt and bouts of creative block. What have you found to help you through these challenges? For Maggie Siner, it all comes down to staying committed to the process. Much of her tenacity and determination harkens back to those early days and lessons learned at Boston University. She says that persistence and hard work are the secret weapons that keep her focused on her work through the good and the bad.

• [3:15] I introduce my guest, Maggie Siner.
• [4:45] What led Maggie to a career in art?
• [11:30] Work habits that Maggie learned early in her caree

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Have you ever viewed a landscape painting that stayed with you for days after your viewing? Many people have had that type of response to Marie Thibeault's amazing artwork. In our conversation, Marie opened up about the inspiration for her artwork, what she wants people to take away from viewing her paintings, her process when approaching the canvas, and so much more. I was thrilled to dive deep into the topic of landscape paintings with an artist like Marie and I know you will get a lot out of her insights too.

While many landscape artists can tend to paint serene settings, Marie Thibeault takes her landscape paintings in a less common direction. Marie is interested in evoking a striking contrast that shows the beauty of the landscape in the midst of turmoil. Her early inspiration for this type of landscape painting came from plane crashes and other various disasters involving a landscape scene. Marie also created a fascinating series of paintings that centered around the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Make sure to take a look at images of Marie’s artwork located at the end of this post.

Don’t you hate it when you get stuck creatively? Do you have any good tricks or tips that help you find your way out of that funk and back to doing what you love? Over the years I’ve had my fair share of creative block and I’m always eager to hear what has worked for my peers. Marie Thibeault says that her best method for getting back on track is to simply go through the motions. In her experience, Marie has found that time in the studio and patiently waiting for inspiration to return does the trick. She also notes that getting stuck creatively is a normal part of the artist’s experience, which is an important reminder for us all!

What is the role of painting in the art community, today? Has it changed or shifted significantly over the years? Through her role as an educator, Marie has seen many of her students experiment with painting only to veer off into other mediums. Marie is very supportive of this process as her students learn to find the right channel for their message to take its form but she remains adamant that painting is that medium for her. She has found through her career that painting is the best way for her to explore the concepts and images that she is drawn to creatively. How did your medium capture your imagination?

Do you really believe that you have a unique and valuable perspective to share through your art? For many artists, the voices of doubt and worthlessness tend to creep up and rob precious time that could be spent basking in the light of creativity. What do you do when that happens? How do you remain focused on the work at hand? Marie is convinced that each artist has a valuable perspective to contribute to the community at large. In many ways, what she describes is a mosaic. While we aren’t all coming together to form one massive piece, we do suffer when one piece is missing from the collective.

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

It can be a challenge in the art world to stand out and appeal to art collectors and stay true to who you are as an artist. Have you faced these struggles in your art career? My guest Nicolas Uribe is familiar with this challenge in his career and was kind enough to explore the topic in our conversation. Nicolas graduated with Honours from School of Visual Arts in NY. He has had numerous solo exhibitions both in the US and South America and has exhibited his work in Mexico, Spain, Egypt, among other countries. We cover a wide range of topics in our conversation including the path to finding your artistic voice, exploring your technical limitations, what it takes to contextualize the prices for your paintings, and much more. I can’t wait for you to get a glimpse of Nicolas’ fascinating perspective!

One of the universal experiences of an artist is the journey of finding your voice as an artist. Many of my guests over the years have opened up and shared their story of finding that unique creative voice within. In my conversation with Nicolas, it took a bit of a different direction as we discussed the technical aspects of forging your own path. Nicolas says that it was a challenge for him to clear the voices of his instructors from his mind as he sought to understand the uses of color in his artwork. While he is thankful for the amazing education he received, he acknowledges that part of growing as an artist is not only finding your unique creative voice but finding your own technical understandings as well.

As artwork becomes increasingly accessible to the public via the internet, there seems to be a renewed focus on the immediate and the surface value of artwork. Let’s face it, much of the general public struggle to see the layers and complexity of the artwork that we labor over. What is the solution? How do we move past the surface and help the public to look deeper? Nicolas doesn’t just lay this at the feet of the public, he says that artists are looking deep enough too. He encourages fellow artists and his students to force themselves to dive deeper and ask the tough questions that make them go beyond initial impressions.

When you consider your unique abilities as an artist, do you factor in the emotional element? How do you bring forth your unique knowledge of your subject through your artwork? Nicolas is convinced that the primary advantage artists have is the unique way they know their subject, especially when they know the subject intimately. Don’t let yourself fall for the trap of creating something that anyone could make. Let your unique perspective shine through! What can you learn from Nicolas’ perspective? How do you view your subject matter in a way that no other artist can?

What is your artwork worth? That can be a stressful question to answer for many artists. How have you set your prices over your career? Do you hope to sell one piece for a large sum or do you want to sell multiple pieces for a more modest amount? Nico

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What role has your intuition played in your development as an artist? Have you always followed it or has it been a struggle to give yourself that permission? My guest, Jordan Wolfson has embraced his intuition and followed it down some fascinating creative corridors. In our conversation, Jordan opens up about how he got started as an artist, what his process looks like, the contrast between language and art, how he honed his skill set, and so much more. I can’t wait for you to get a glimpse of Jordan’s fascinating perspective!

Can you think back to the start of your career in art? Did you have a clear moment when you knew that this was what you wanted to dedicate your life to or was it more of a gradual awakening? The way Jordan Wolfson tells it, his path into an art career was more of a discovery than an actual experience or decision. For the longest time, Jordan had a deep desire to spend time painting and he’s kept following that desire which led him through college and into his career today. Looking back, Jordan speaks fondly of the studio classes he took during his undergrad at UC Santa Cruz. During that time, Jordan felt like he had fallen in love with the craft of painting. Do you have a similar story, what set you on your path?

As an artist you are constantly honing and refining your craft, let’s face it, you never truly, “Arrive.” This process can look different for each of us and a lot of benefits can be found when we take the time to hear each other's stories. Jordan Wolfson’s story is no different, he has several stories to tell of renowned artists like John Walker and Andrew Forge who entered his story at critical times in his development to challenge and encourage him in his work. Listening to Jordan, you really get the sense that he knows that he has a lot to learn even though he’s quite accomplished!

Which is more important to follow, your training or your intuition? Do you have to choose between the two? In my experience, if you want to follow your intuition, you’ve got to develop an ear for it as you progress in your career. If you are constantly ignoring your intuition, eventually it’ll fade into the background. Jordan Wolfson describes following his intuition as tracking down a glimmer of light or thread to see where it came from and where it’s leading. While Jordan is quick to emphasize the influence of his art school training, he also points to this cultivation of listening to his intuition that has had a huge impact on his artwork over the years.

What are some of the most important aspects of your creative process? Do you have certain rituals that you follow when you enter your studio space and approach your canvas? For Jordan Wolfson, his process starts with a morning practice of sitting and meditation. He places a lot of value on being present in mind and body before he proceeds with his work at the canvas. Its Jordan’s hope that this deliberate practice of presence and centering h

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What does an artistic director do? How do they curate and plan a multifaceted event like an art fair? I had the pleasure to sit down with renowned artistic director, Christina Steinbrecher-Pfandt. In our conversation, Christia opened up about how she got started organizing art fairs, what the whole planning process looks like, what artists can expect when they get featured in an art fair, how digital images are impacting the art scene, and so much more. I can’t wait for you to get to know Christina and see things from her unique perspective as an artistic director!

Can you imagine getting the offer of a lifetime? It doesn’t happen to everyone! Christina had been enamored with art since she was a child growing up in Cologne. As an adult, she found herself working in an art gallery when she was approached by the organizers of the Moscow Art Fair, Art Moscow. They presented her with a challenging and unique opportunity to join them as the artistic director of the fair. From that point on, Christina has been honing her skills and putting in the time curating and crafting unique experiences for the public to enjoy the beauty and creativity of various art installations.

How do art fairs work? What is the process like for artistic directors like Christina? It turns out that artistic directors have to be incredibly patient and able to plan for a long-term approach to their events. It’s not just six months ahead of time or even a year, it takes several years to properly plan and execute a successful art fair! Beyond the long-term logistics, Christina also helps to facilitate an atmosphere of collaboration and networking between artists, collectors, galleries and the public. I couldn’t imagine having that enormous perspective and patience but I am thankful for dedicated and passionate directors like Christina.

As an artist, what should you expect if you get to be featured at an art fair? According to Christina, one of the most important things an artist can do is to show up and be available with their artwork if possible. Not only is an art fair an opportunity to expose your art to the public, but it’s also a selling opportunity! If you get featured at a fair, do what you can to support the gallery that features you there, collectors will notice. Have you been fortunate enough to participate in an art fair during the course of your career? What tips or perspectives do you have to add?

As many of my regular followers know, I am always interested in hearing from my guests about their take on the relationship between art and the internet. While there are many helpful aspects of viewing art online, there are also many drawbacks and challenges. I was thrilled to hear Christina’s helpful and fascinating perspective on this topic. Christina takes a hopeful view of the future between art and the internet, she believes that exposure online will lead people to go and view the art they are moved by in person. I loved Christina

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Does literature have an influence on your artwork? Where do you draw your inspiration? How can we tell stories through our art in a compelling and engaging way? My guest is Susan Lichtman, an accomplished artist and educator who has been shaped by her love of literature. In our conversation, Susan opens up about how she got started as an artist, the role storytelling plays in her artwork, how she constructs a painting, projects she is currently working on, and much more. I can’t wait for you to get a glimpse of Susan’s amazing artwork and her fascinating perspective!

Do you have a favorite observational painter? I’ve been exposed to so many wonderful observational painters throughout my career that I could never choose just one! Susan Lichtman is an immensely talented observational painter who has dedicated the last 30 years of her career to painting various rooms and angles in her home. Susan is an absolute inspiration for her ability to tell a compelling story through her work and keep the subject matter engaging after all those years. Make sure to check out the images of Susan’s artwork located at the end of this post!

It is really amazing how much literature and painting are so closing linked through the ages and even today. As an avid reader, I find myself continually inspired and drawn to literature, in fact, I believe it makes me a better artist. In our conversation, Susan Lichtman was kind enough to open up about her love for literature and how it’s influenced her career. The authors that Susan zeroed in on in her early career were Marcel Proust and Fyodor Dostoevsky. Fusing her love for literature and art, Susan currently co-teaches a course with her friend and Dostoevsky expert, Robin Feuer Miller. After they study the literature, Susan leads the class to make art in response to their reading. I loved hearing about this innovative approach to art and education and I know that artists like you will enjoy it too!

As you progress through life you realize that with each passing year start to become more and more comfortable in your own skin. Does this same logic apply to your role as an artist? Don’t think of it as a zero-sum game, it’s not a yes or no question, your development as an artist takes time. Give yourself room to breathe and experiment, cut yourself some slack! As you evolve and change over the years, allow that same fluidity and sense of discovery to apply to your art career too. At the end of the day, listen to your gut and follow your intuition!

What is the role of the artist in our culture today? Have you ever really stopped to consider this question? It seems that now, more than ever, challenging artistic voices are needed to create a contrast to some of the darker corners of society and politics. Embracing creativity and disruption are political activities that need to increase. Does every artist need to have a political opinion and message? No. I find it immensely hopeful that as arti

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What does the process of creating gouache portraits look like? Where did the idea come from to create these portraits alongside the #MeToo stories of women who have survived sexual harassment and assault? I can’t wait for you to get to know the talented artist, Diana Corvelle! In our conversation, Diana and I discuss what inspired her to start this series on #MeToo stories, how she grew up encouraged to pursue a career in art, why she loves working with gouache, how politics can shape art, why we need more diverse voices in the art community, and much more!

Have you ever worked with gouache before? What was your experience? Did you love it or find it challenging? For artist Diana Corvelle gouache was something that she fell in love with in art school. While everyone else around her pushed through their gouache work begrudgingly, Diana took to it like a fish to water. Looking back on that moment in her early career, Diana is so happy that she got to experiment and explore the medium that she would end up utilizing in some of her most experimental projects. Take a look at what Diana has been able to do with the gouache medium by checking out images of her work located at the bottom of this post.

Have you ever felt marginalized or silenced? Have you ever felt like your perspective was worthless? If so, you can stand in solidarity with countless women who have risen up all over this country to speak the truth of their encounter of sexual assault or harassment through the #MeToo movement. Many of these women have hidden their stories deep inside for years and some, even longer, decades. Diana Corvelle is taking the bold step to highlight this movement through her artwork. She paints these amazing gouache portraits of women who have been subjected to sexual harassment and abuse alongside text describing their experiences. While it is a somber subject, Diana is grateful for the role she gets to play in empowering these courageous women.

Art has a powerful way of conveying and often times critiquing political topics and messages. Since the 2016 election, many artists are searching for a way to push back against the current administration through creative and artistic means. While many artists opt for a more visceral message of attacking the head of this administration, there are those who look for a more subversive approach. Diana Corvelle counts herself among the more discreet but opinionated subsection of those artists. She is not afraid of a sending a political message but she wants to convey it on her terms. Understanding this aspect of Diana’s perspective, you can see a whole new layer of meaning and depth behind her current series.

Like any segment of our society, the art world would only benefit from more diverse and unique voices getting a seat at the table. Have you seen any trends toward embracing more minority voices in your corner of the art community? How can you be part of the change? Artist Diana Corvelle is con

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Let's chat about embracing experimentation, playfulness, and bringing a childlike sense of curiosity into your creative process! In this episode, Antrese Wood shares her experiences and insights on how fear of failure and perfectionism stifles creativity, and offers strategies to overcome these obstacles.

How do we do that? Bring back play and experimentation into your creative process.

Play and experimentation leads to authenticity, growth, and learning. Our fear of failure and perfectionism blocks creativity, so we discuss concrete techniques to recognize and work through these fears. Embracing mistakes and imperfections as part of your process, and maintaining a sense of curiosity and joy, are keys to creating meaningful and emotional art.

Here's what you learn how to do today in this episode:

• Embrace experimentation and playfulness in your creative process to unlock authenticity and growth.
• Recognize when fear of failure or perfectionism is driving your actions and stifling creativity.
• Name and acknowledge your fears, then paint your way through them by reconnecting with your purpose as an artist.
• Remind yourself that "perfection is not enough" – technical mastery alone does not create emotional connection.
• When you make a "mistake," say "how interesting" to shift into a mindset of curiosity and exploration.
• Check out the teachings of Benjamin Zander (composer/teacher) for inspiration on embracing imperfection and connecting with audiences.
• Keep your adventurous, childlike spirit alive in your artwork.
• Create space and habits that allow for joyful, uninhibited creative expression.

Show notes and links are here

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

Where does the inspiration come from to explore embroidery artwork? What is the process like going from the canvas to the embroidery and back again? How do the two mediums complement and contrast? I put all these questions to my talented guest, Cayce Zavaglia. In our conversation, Cayce opened up about how she got into embroidery artwork, what led her to the theme of family portraits, what it was like returning to Australia, how failure is a close link to success, and much more. I know artists like you will get as much joy as I did hearing from Cayce’s intriguing perspective.

You’ve heard the phrase, necessity is the mother of invention, right? That saying really rang true for artist Cayce Zavaglia. During a period of creative flux, Cayce was also pregnant. This reality forced her to look for ways to continue to create in a non-toxic studio. After experimenting for a whole summer with various mediums, Cayce still hadn’t found what she wanted to work with. Back in the recesses of her mind, she kept coming back to this embroidery work she had done as a child. Tugging at this thread, Cayce decided to start experimenting by sewing a portrait. Little did she know, that this experiment unleashed a new creative endeavor that would stay with her for years to come. Make sure to check out images of Cayce’s embroidery artwork located at the end of this post.

It seems to be an unwritten rule in many circles that you can’t be both a parent (oftentimes more specifically, a mother) and an artist. These two roles in society are often pitted against each other, you have to choose one or the other. Is that really accurate, do you have to choose? While some may choose to devote themselves to parenthood or their art career for a period of time, artists like Cayce serve as a prime example that you can embrace both! If you are struggling with navigating these two roles, I hope you see Cayce’s story as an encouragement!

What is your relationship like with failure? Do you fear it and avoid it at all costs or do you lean into it? What if I told you that failure has a closer link to success than you may have thought? Artist, Cayce Zavaglia says that she goes out of her way to look for mistakes, accidents, and failures in her artwork. Sounds crazy, right? Cayce has learned to view failure as the closest link to creativity and then to success. In her view, if you are putting yourself out there creatively, that means you are taking a risk and that’s where the greatest opportunity for success thrives! Do you agree with Cayce’s perspective?

While the draw of instant recognition and reaction to your artwork is enticing, Cayce Zavagila urges caution. Let’s face it, Instagram can serve as both a blessing and a curse. It can be a wonderful resource for inspiration but it can also serve as an unhelpful sounding board. Cayce says that one of the best practices that an artist can get into is the habit of spending time alone

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What does it look like to stay put and get to know a location inside and out? What insights and lessons can you learn from this helpful discipline? How does staying in one location impact your growth as an artist? It was my privilege to explore these questions and a lot more in my conversation with artist, William Kocher. We also touched on how William got his start as an artist, why it’s important to connect with a community of artists, what colors William enjoys using, why we need art as a society, and so much more. I know artists like you will enjoy learning from William’s interesting journey and unique perspective!

Have you had the chance to connect with a community of artists? What value have you found in spending time with people who share your profession? In my personal experience, connecting either in person or online with a community of artists has helped me in countless ways! Artist William Kocher says that making similar connections with artists in the Cape Cod area had a huge positive impact on his growth and creativity. Whether you can find one and plug in right away or if you have to create one yourself, I highly encourage even the most introverted artists to take the risk to go out there find a group you can contribute to.

Many artists love to be constantly on the go looking for new and exciting places, people, or objects to inspire their creativity. Does that sound like you or do you find yourself of the more stationary variety? It was refreshing to hear from an artist like William Kocher who seemed less interested in finding new locations to spark his creativity as he was more concerned with getting to know a particular place inside and out. For William, that place is his family's farm near Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Due to his relentless study of the farm, William knows which trees the birds perch in, how the sunlight falls at just the right time of day, and so many additional hidden secrets and gems revealed only to the most astute observer. How does William’s approach strike you?

As our society continues to evolve there are some who question why we need art in schools, public spaces, and sometimes as a profession altogether. How do you respond to these questions? Are you able to engage or do you feel your blood pressure start to rise because you find it insane that people question the value of art? I love the way that William Kocher puts it, he says that “Art elevates life, it is a vital form of communication.” I completely agree! Especially in our society today, we must continue the work to emphasize the value and beauty that art brings to our culture in a myriad of ways.

Do you struggle with finding depth in your art? Are you ever intimidated by artists who have all these wonderfully complex and philosophical motivations and messages in their artwork? What if that’s just not you? Is that ok? The truth is, art doesn’t have to be complex to have value! I was thrilled to hear a simil

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️

What does it look like to create accessible art? How does that topic become a passion project for an artist? What comes to mind when you think of “Accessible art?” My guest, artist Bartosz Beda is working on a project that centers on this very topic! In our conversation, Bartosz opens up about what led him to his career as an artist, where his residencies and fellowships have taken him, the role themes play in his artwork, why he started Execute Magazine, and much more! There are some many wonderful paths that our conversation takes, I can’t wait for you to get to know Bartosz!

On a quest to create accessible art, Bartosz Beda started the $7.25 project during his summer residency at GoggleWorks in Reading, PA. Bartosz started this project to engage with the issues and challenges that minimum wage workers face every day. Inspired by immigrants from Mexico and Puerto Rico who are settling in Reading at record numbers, Bartosz wanted to represent their struggle and that of many people in the area who strive to meet the demands of daily life while working position that pays minimum wage. With this in mind, Bartosz decided to paint one hour per day throughout his residency at GoggleWorks. Each day, the resulting painting, produced in one hour of work, will be offered for sale at $7.25, or Pennsylvania’s minimum wage.

As an artist, you know that your relationship to certain colors can take on an almost personal relationship. Have you ever thought about your use of color in terms of seasons of life or different geographical locations? I was really impressed with Bartosz’ unique take on his particular relationship with various colors in his artwork and how he sees color as it relates to the different countries that he’s visited. For instance, Bartosz says that blue is the primary color that he thinks of when he considers America. This perception comes from the blue in our national flag, the uniforms of police officers, and the general sense of adventure and creating something new that our country represents. I found Bartosz’ take on the perception and use of color absolutely fascinating and I have a feeling that you will too!

Which one comes first, recognition or work that deserves recognition? The chicken or the egg? In some ways this question seems like an easy one to answer, the artwork comes first and then the following/recognition. But be honest, which one are you chasing? I’m not trying to give you a hard time but let’s face it, there are too many voices out there telling us to go after a following or chase recognition when we should be focused on creating artwork that we are passionate about! Artist Bartosz Beda shares a similar perspective, he isn’t too worried about who will connect with his work - he’s focused on creating projects that come forth from his passion and creativity. I hope you can catch a bit of Bartosz’ passion and perspective, I found it really helpful!

On a s

Do you spend more time thinking about making art than actually making it? Start things you never finish? Make work and then stack it against the wall, facing inward, so you don't have to look at it?

If any of that sounds familiar, I'd love to chat.

Click here: savvypainter.com/survey to tell me what's going on. If it seems like I need more info, I'll reach out to schedule a call.

Thanks so much!

Support the show

And hey - if this episode hit home, do me a favor, leave a review on Apple Podcast or come say hi on Instagram: @savvypainterpodcast
I’d love to hear this episode resonated you. ❤️