Goal setting is an important part of any artistic journey. However, we often think goals are about achieving the thing and getting to the end rather than treasuring the gold that can be found along the way. On this episode, I want to share how setting goals is the way to mastery and how missed goals can be the path to creating the art practice of your dreams. Outline of This Episode  [0:01] The real power of goals [4:48] Unpacking the gift of resistance  [14:10] Exercising the skill of overcoming doubt [28:43] Lessons learned from goal setting  Resources Mentioned on this episode  The Savvy Painter Growth Studio The Savvy Painter Community  The War of Art (Book)  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Goal setting is an important part of any artistic journey. However, we often think goals are about achieving the thing and getting to the end rather than treasuring the gold that can be found along the way. On this episode, I want to share how setting goals is the way to mastery and how missed goals can be the path to creating the art practice of your dreams. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:01] The real power of goals</li> <li>[4:48] Unpacking the gift of resistance </li> <li>[14:10] Exercising the skill of overcoming doubt</li> <li>[28:43] Lessons learned from goal setting</li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>The Savvy Painter <a href="https://savvypainter.com/growth-studio-enrollment-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Studio</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://community.savvypainter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Savvy Painter Community</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/1936891026/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=616931649982&amp;hvdev=c&amp;hvlocphy=9029023&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvqmt=e&amp;hvrand=12505528607389098450&amp;hvtargid=kwd-12727008147&amp;hydadcr=24656_13611721&amp;keywords=the+war+of+art+book&amp;qid=1680729194&amp;sr=8-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The War of Art</a> (Book)</li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

The Hidden Gold in Your Artistic Goals - EP 304

Humans are pretty generous when it comes to loving other artists. It’s loving ourselves as artists with the same intensity that often needs some work. On this episode, I’m sharing insights from my recent and wonderfully unexpected time off around expectations, identifying when and why previously successful thought processes are no longer working, and leaning into appreciation to find and strengthen your inner voice. Outline of This Episode  [3:15] When helpful thoughts no longer serve you  [7:56] Identifying unhealthy expectations [15:36] Leaning into appreciation  Resources Mentioned on this episode  The Savvy Painter Growth Studio The Savvy Painter Community  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Humans are pretty generous when it comes to loving other artists. It’s loving ourselves as artists with the same intensity that often needs some work. On this episode, I’m sharing insights from my recent and wonderfully unexpected time off around expectations, identifying when and why previously successful thought processes are no longer working, and leaning into appreciation to find and strengthen your inner voice. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[3:15] When helpful thoughts no longer serve you </li> <li>[7:56] Identifying unhealthy expectations</li> <li>[15:36] Leaning into appreciation</li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>The Savvy Painter <a href="https://savvypainter.com/growth-studio-enrollment-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Studio</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://community.savvypainter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Savvy Painter Community</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Trading Expectations for Appreciation - EP 303

As artists, we know the feeling of putting our heart and soul into a piece of work, only to second guess ourselves and worry about what others might think. It's a common struggle we all face! But it's important to remember that art is subjective, and the only opinion that truly matters is our own. On this episode, we will explore the struggle of staying true to our vision, how to overcome it, and other ways to embrace our authenticity while creating without fear. Outline of This Episode  [2:01] The pressures of needing others’ approval [9:13] The negative impacts of seeking external validation [12:19] The role of self-doubt in the art-making process [25:03] Recap and final thoughts  Resources Mentioned on this episode  The Savvy Painter Growth Studio The Savvy Painter Community  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

As artists, we know the feeling of putting our heart and soul into a piece of work, only to second guess ourselves and worry about what others might think. It's a common struggle we all face! But it's important to remember that art is subjective, and the only opinion that truly matters is our own. On this episode, we will explore the struggle of staying true to our vision, how to overcome it, and other ways to embrace our authenticity while creating without fear. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[2:01] The pressures of needing others’ approval</li> <li>[9:13] The negative impacts of seeking external validation</li> <li>[12:19] The role of self-doubt in the art-making process</li> <li>[25:03] Recap and final thoughts</li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>The Savvy Painter <a href="https://savvypainter.com/growth-studio-enrollment-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Studio</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://community.savvypainter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Savvy Painter Community</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Staying True to Your Own Vision (Regardless of What Other People Think) - EP 302

The holidays are a time filled with both magic and chaos. It’s the most wonderful, and often most stressful time of the year. Especially if you’re an artist torn between staying productive in your studio and enjoying the season’s festivities. On this episode, I’m going to breakdown why this time of year can feel so hectic to artists, how to be kinder to yourself when the holidays get overwhelming, and how to plan ahead to make the end of 2023 merry and bright! Outline of This Episode  [3:39] Why are the holidays so hectic? [7:06] Giving yourself the gift of breathing room [17:17] Planning the holidays around your goals [22:38] Navigating unexpected holiday surprises   Resources Mentioned on this episode  The Savvy Painter Growth Studio The Savvy Painter Community  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

The holidays are a time filled with both magic and chaos. It’s the most wonderful, and often most stressful time of the year. Especially if you’re an artist torn between staying productive in your studio and enjoying the season’s festivities. On this episode, I’m going to breakdown why this time of year can feel so hectic to artists, how to be kinder to yourself when the holidays get overwhelming, and how to plan ahead to make the end of 2023 merry and bright! Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[3:39] Why are the holidays so hectic?</li> <li>[7:06] Giving yourself the gift of breathing room</li> <li>[17:17] Planning the holidays around your goals</li> <li>[22:38] Navigating unexpected holiday surprises </li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>The Savvy Painter <a href="https://savvypainter.com/growth-studio-enrollment-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Studio</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://community.savvypainter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Savvy Painter Community</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

How to Stay Sane and Productive When There Is So Much Going On - EP 301

Most artists struggle to sell their work at some point. Even Van Gough! But what if I told you it's not because your art isn’t good enough, or that your prices are too high? What if I told you that you're sabotaging your offer before you even give it? On this episode, I’m going to discuss why limiting beliefs undercut our ability to sell our work and how awareness and self-love can turn it all around. Outline of This Episode  [0:07] I’m moving!  [4:24] Stereotypes, assumptions, and the pitfalls of adopting other people’s opinions [12:20] How limiting beliefs undercut you’re ability to sell your art [18:05] The power of YOU and how self-love creates connection  Resources Mentioned on this episode  The Savvy Painter Growth Studio The Savvy Painter Community  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Most artists struggle to sell their work at some point. Even Van Gough! But what if I told you it's not because your art isn’t good enough, or that your prices are too high? What if I told you that you're sabotaging your offer before you even give it? On this episode, I’m going to discuss why limiting beliefs undercut our ability to sell our work and how awareness and self-love can turn it all around. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:07] I’m moving! </li> <li>[4:24] Stereotypes, assumptions, and the pitfalls of adopting other people’s opinions</li> <li>[12:20] How limiting beliefs undercut you’re ability to sell your art</li> <li>[18:05] The power of YOU and how self-love creates connection</li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>The Savvy Painter <a href="https://savvypainter.com/growth-studio-enrollment-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Studio</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://community.savvypainter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Savvy Painter Community</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Why You’re Not Selling Your Paintings - EP 300

The Power of Connecting With Other Artists

Your creative habits are the small things you do today and every day that will determine the results in your art practice next year. If you want something different in your art practice a year from now, start paying attention to the creative habits you practice today. On this episode, I want to focus on how celebrating small wins can rewire our brains for a healthier and more productive art practice. Resources Mentioned on this episode  The Savvy Painter Growth Studio The Savvy Painter Community  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Your creative habits are the small things you do today and every day that will determine the results in your art practice next year. If you want something different in your art practice a year from now, start paying attention to the creative habits you practice today. On this episode, I want to focus on how celebrating small wins can rewire our brains for a healthier and more productive art practice. Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>The Savvy Painter <a href="https://savvypainter.com/growth-studio-enrollment-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Studio</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://community.savvypainter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Savvy Painter Community</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Creative Habits - EP 298

So much of what we do as artists requires an intense level of mastery. Not only with the skills we use every day in our studios, but over how we think about our work, how we show up as artists, and how we perceive ourselves. On this episode, I want to help you develop creative mastery by changing your relationship with resistance, expanding your tolerance for uncomfortable feelings, and practical tips for getting more in touch with your emotions. Outline of This Episode  [0:07] Shoutouts and the joy of new music [7:39] Keeping promises to ourselves and changing our relationship with resistance [21:28] Expanding our tolerance for uncomfortable feelings [27:43] The key to expressing emotion in your work and the journey of mastery  Resources Mentioned on this episode  The Savvy Painter Growth Studio The Savvy Painter Community  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

So much of what we do as artists requires an intense level of mastery. Not only with the skills we use every day in our studios, but over how we think about our work, how we show up as artists, and how we perceive ourselves. On this episode, I want to help you develop creative mastery by changing your relationship with resistance, expanding your tolerance for uncomfortable feelings, and practical tips for getting more in touch with your emotions. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:07] Shoutouts and the joy of new music</li> <li>[7:39] Keeping promises to ourselves and changing our relationship with resistance</li> <li>[21:28] Expanding our tolerance for uncomfortable feelings</li> <li>[27:43] The key to expressing emotion in your work and the journey of mastery</li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>The Savvy Painter <a href="https://savvypainter.com/growth-studio-enrollment-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Studio</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://community.savvypainter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Savvy Painter Community</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Creative Mastery - EP 297

Have you ever wished you could wipe your mental slate clean and start fresh? Are you in desperate need of a do-over on your latest project? On this episode, I’m going to show you how to develop emotional awareness, identify and break bad mental habits, and fight overwhelm by testing your capacity as an artist healthily and sustainably. Outline of This Episode  [0:07] Spinning plates and developing emotional awareness  [6:04] Finding the reset button [13:07] How I give myself a fresh start  Resources Mentioned on this episode  The Savvy Painter Growth Studio The Savvy Painter Community  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Have you ever wished you could wipe your mental slate clean and start fresh? Are you in desperate need of a do-over on your latest project? On this episode, I’m going to show you how to develop emotional awareness, identify and break bad mental habits, and fight overwhelm by testing your capacity as an artist healthily and sustainably. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:07] Spinning plates and developing emotional awareness </li> <li>[6:04] Finding the reset button</li> <li>[13:07] How I give myself a fresh start</li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>The Savvy Painter <a href="https://savvypainter.com/growth-studio-enrollment-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Studio</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://community.savvypainter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Savvy Painter Community</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Giving Yourself a Fresh Start (My Antidote to Overwhelm) - EP 296

Is it wrong to be proud of the work you are creating? Does incorporating pride into your art practice make you an arrogant artist? On this week’s episode, I’m taking a deep dive into why pride can be one of the most helpful emotions in our art practice. We’ll dispel myths about pride and look at why choosing to be proud of your art is an incredible catalyst for growth. Outline of This Episode  [0:00] Recapping Growth Studio Week [3:00] The best feeling in the world [7:59] Balancing pride and the need for improvement  [13:33] The power of pride in your art practice  Resources Mentioned on this episode  The Savvy Painter Growth Studio The Savvy Painter Community  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Is it wrong to be proud of the work you are creating? Does incorporating pride into your art practice make you an arrogant artist? On this week’s episode, I’m taking a deep dive into why pride can be one of the most helpful emotions in our art practice. We’ll dispel myths about pride and look at why choosing to be proud of your art is an incredible catalyst for growth. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:00] Recapping Growth Studio Week</li> <li>[3:00] The best feeling in the world</li> <li>[7:59] Balancing pride and the need for improvement </li> <li>[13:33] The power of pride in your art practice</li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>The Savvy Painter <a href="https://savvypainter.com/growth-studio-enrollment-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Studio</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://community.savvypainter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Savvy Painter Community</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Choosing to Be Proud - EP 295

Savvy Painter is the podcast for artists who mean business. Antrese Wood talks about the business of art and how it gets created. Artists spend enormous amounts of time alone in their studios. It's easy to believe their challenges are unique when in fact they are not. Fortunately, others have been there before, and by sharing our stories with other artists we all win.

Love the positivity and range of passionate artists interviewed.

Very inspiring

Thought provoking interviews. Engaging Artists.

Wonderful podcast

Savvy Painter is the podcast for artists who mean business. Antrese Wood talks about the business of art and how it gets created. Artists spend enormous amounts of time alone in their studios. It's easy to believe their challenges are unique when in fact they are not. Fortunately, others have been there before, and by sharing our stories with other artists we all win.

Savvy Painter Podcast with Antrese Wood

Jake Hawley

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!  Should I buy a large format printer?  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. How to get the best lighting 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.  Materials matter 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.  Tips for setting a price on fine art prints 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! Outline of This Episode  [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 printer or just use a print shop?  [8:40] What are the minimum requirements for a photograph of a painting for reproduction? [15:00] Is there a difference between flat color images and something that is more textured when it comes to file sizes?  [19:45] I share a story about trying to ship some of my paintings.  [26:45] Dealing with an under-exposed print.  [30:10] Why it’s a good idea to get paper samples before printing.  [34:50] Why lighting is so important when photographing artwork.  [43:30] What is the best way to take a picture of a painting with a glossy finish?  [52:50] How large should my photo capture be? What about file sizes?  [56:40] What does it take to keep an art reproduction safe in high humidity?  [59:30] Do you include an invoice when shipping to customers? What about dropshipping?  [1:06:30] What is the best way to sell your art?  [1:10:20] When blowing up an image 10 times the size, what is a good approach?  [1:17:00] Why it’s a good idea to keep in mind how your customers will hang your art.  [1:21:00] Jake shares some helpful tips for pricing your art prints.  [1:23:00] How to connect with Jake.   Resources Mentioned on this episode  www.picturesalon.com use coupon code: SAVVY20 for a special discount  Info[at]picturesalon.com   Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

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!  Should I buy a large format printer?  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. How to get the best lighting 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.  Materials matter 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.  Tips for setting a price on fine art prints 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! Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:50] I welcome my guest, Jake Hawley. </li> <li>[2:00] What do I need to know about setting up a print shop on my website? </li> <li>[5:40] Should I buy a large format printer or just use a print shop? </li> <li>[8:40] What are the minimum requirements for a photograph of a painting for reproduction?</li> <li>[15:00] Is there a difference between flat color images and something that is more textured when it comes to file sizes? </li> <li>[19:45] I share a story about trying to ship some of my paintings. </li> <li>[26:45] Dealing with an under-exposed print. </li> <li>[30:10] Why it’s a good idea to get paper samples before printing. </li> <li>[34:50] Why lighting is so important when photographing artwork. </li> <li>[43:30] What is the best way to take a picture of a painting with a glossy finish? </li> <li>[52:50] How large should my photo capture be? What about file sizes? </li> <li>[56:40] What does it take to keep an art reproduction safe in high humidity? </li> <li>[59:30] Do you include an invoice when shipping to customers? What about dropshipping? </li> <li>[1:06:30] What is the best way to sell your art? </li> <li>[1:10:20] When blowing up an image 10 times the size, what is a good approach? </li> <li>[1:17:00] Why it’s a good idea to keep in mind how your customers will hang your art. </li> <li>[1:21:00] Jake shares some helpful tips for pricing your art prints. </li> <li>[1:23:00] How to connect with Jake. </li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.picturesalon.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.picturesalon.com</a> use coupon code: SAVVY20 for a special discount </li> <li>Info[at]<a href="http://picturesalon.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">picturesalon.com</a> </li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Fine Art Prints Q&A, with Jake Hawley from Picture Salon

Maria Brophy

Like most artists you’ve probably wondered how you can sell your art at some point along your journey. Some artists pick it up quickly or partner with someone who can help this navigate the business side of making a living as an artist. Then there are others who really struggle with this aspect of surviving as an artist. Where do you land? Wouldn’t it be great to get some helpful professional insight on this topic? Then you’ve come to the right place! My guest, Maria Brophy has spent the last decade and a half, acting as agent and brand manager for her husband, artist Drew Brophy. In our conversation, Maria opens up about the process of moving to a full-time career as an artist, when to say no, how to position yourself as a high-value artist, and much more. I know artists like you will get a ton of value out of our fascinating and wide-ranging conversation! Know What You Want What do you want out of your career as an artist? Really!? For too long, we have been trained by society to think that what we want isn’t realistic or right. Maybe you find that you’ve pushed what you want aside for so long that you found yourself spending energy and time doing what others have directed you to do. It’s time to put that thinking behind you! Really take the time to discover what it is that you want out of your profession as an artist. Maria believes that if you learn how to take the time to hone in on what it is you really want, you’ll end up being more productive and happy in the process. Maria has lots of helpful insight like this that I know will be of great value to artists like you! Moving To A Full-Time Art Career Have you taken the plunge yet and moved into a full-time commitment to your artwork? If not, what is holding you back? I’ve been there, I know the struggle and I want to do everything I can to encourage you and support you along the way. That’s why I knew that I needed to sit down with Maria and get some tips from her to help artists like you looking for motivation. Maria has traveled this road too, she helped her husband move toward and eventually completely transition to a career as a full-time artist. In our conversation, Maria shares what this process was like as well as practical advice that you can use if you are struggling at this stage on your journey. What Would Richard Branson Do? Let’s face it, most artists aren’t cut out to be successful businesspeople right off the bat. In fact, this tension between making art and selling art can really cause a lot of sleepless nights. You are not alone! I’ve struggled with the business aspect of my art career too. In my conversation with Maria, she shared a funny tool that helps her and her husband make tough business decisions. She simply thinks to herself, “What would Richard Branson do?” It sounds funny but it really helps her frame the decision-making process based on business parameters rather than emotional or egotistical ones. I hope you get the chance to hear more of our conversation and the additional insights and tips Maria has to share. How to Sell Your Art How do you sell your art? What is your strategy? Do you have a good idea on how to show, market, and price your artwork? Could your approach use an update? In my conversation with Maria, she shares the driving mindset that will help you sell your art. Maria explains that one of the best ways to get started is to remember that your artwork is valuable to someone. Never lose sight of the fact that your creation will become valuable to someone in the marketplace! This mental shift can make all the difference in your approach to selling your art. Maria has many more tips and lessons for artists like you, make sure to listen to more of our conversation and check out her book, “Art, Money, and Success!” Outline of This Episode  [1:50] I introduce my guest, Maria Brophy. [3:30] Maria talks about how she started managing her husband. [6:30] Knowing what you want. [15:00] Steps toward working as a full-time artist. [18:00] Lessons Maria and Drew learned from stepping out on their own. [23:30] What would Richard Branson do? [29:00] Knowing when to say no. [31:00] Communicating your worth to friends and family. [40:00] How to price your work. [44:00] Positioning yourself as a high-value artist. [49:00] How to sell your art without selling out. [55:30] Habits of successful artists.  Resources Mentioned on this episode  http://mariabrophy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mariabrophy/ https://www.facebook.com/MariaBrophyArtBiz/ ART, MONEY &amp; SUCCESS Richard Branson Eddie Vedder  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Like most artists you’ve probably wondered how you can sell your art at some point along your journey. Some artists pick it up quickly or partner with someone who can help this navigate the business side of making a living as an artist. Then there are others who really struggle with this aspect of surviving as an artist. Where do you land? Wouldn’t it be great to get some helpful professional insight on this topic? Then you’ve come to the right place! My guest, Maria Brophy has spent the last decade and a half, acting as agent and brand manager for her husband, artist Drew Brophy. In our conversation, Maria opens up about the process of moving to a full-time career as an artist, when to say no, how to position yourself as a high-value artist, and much more. I know artists like you will get a ton of value out of our fascinating and wide-ranging conversation! Know What You Want What do you want out of your career as an artist? Really!? For too long, we have been trained by society to think that what we want isn’t realistic or right. Maybe you find that you’ve pushed what you want aside for so long that you found yourself spending energy and time doing what others have directed you to do. It’s time to put that thinking behind you! Really take the time to discover what it is that you want out of your profession as an artist. Maria believes that if you learn how to take the time to hone in on what it is you really want, you’ll end up being more productive and happy in the process. Maria has lots of helpful insight like this that I know will be of great value to artists like you! Moving To A Full-Time Art Career Have you taken the plunge yet and moved into a full-time commitment to your artwork? If not, what is holding you back? I’ve been there, I know the struggle and I want to do everything I can to encourage you and support you along the way. That’s why I knew that I needed to sit down with Maria and get some tips from her to help artists like you looking for motivation. Maria has traveled this road too, she helped her husband move toward and eventually completely transition to a career as a full-time artist. In our conversation, Maria shares what this process was like as well as practical advice that you can use if you are struggling at this stage on your journey. What Would Richard Branson Do? Let’s face it, most artists aren’t cut out to be successful businesspeople right off the bat. In fact, this tension between making art and selling art can really cause a lot of sleepless nights. You are not alone! I’ve struggled with the business aspect of my art career too. In my conversation with Maria, she shared a funny tool that helps her and her husband make tough business decisions. She simply thinks to herself, “What would Richard Branson do?” It sounds funny but it really helps her frame the decision-making process based on business parameters rather than emotional or egotistical ones. I hope you get the chance to hear more of our conversation and the additional insights and tips Maria has to share. How to Sell Your Art How do you sell your art? What is your strategy? Do you have a good idea on how to show, market, and price your artwork? Could your approach use an update? In my conversation with Maria, she shares the driving mindset that will help you sell your art. Maria explains that one of the best ways to get started is to remember that your artwork is valuable to someone. Never lose sight of the fact that your creation will become valuable to someone in the marketplace! This mental shift can make all the difference in your approach to selling your art. Maria has many more tips and lessons for artists like you, make sure to listen to more of our conversation and check out her book, “Art, Money, and Success!” Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:50] I introduce my guest, Maria Brophy.</li> <li>[3:30] Maria talks about how she started managing her husband.</li> <li>[6:30] Knowing what you want.</li> <li>[15:00] Steps toward working as a full-time artist.</li> <li>[18:00] Lessons Maria and Drew learned from stepping out on their own.</li> <li>[23:30] What would Richard Branson do?</li> <li>[29:00] Knowing when to say no.</li> <li>[31:00] Communicating your worth to friends and family.</li> <li>[40:00] How to price your work.</li> <li>[44:00] Positioning yourself as a high-value artist.</li> <li>[49:00] How to sell your art without selling out.</li> <li>[55:30] Habits of successful artists.</li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://mariabrophy.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://mariabrophy.com/</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mariabrophy/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mariabrophy/</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MariaBrophyArtBiz/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/MariaBrophyArtBiz/</a></li> <li><a href="http://amzn.to/2xzdBaR" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">ART, MONEY &amp; SUCCESS</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Branson" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Richard Branson</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eddie_Vedder" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Eddie Vedder</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

How to Sell Your Art Without Selling Out and More! With Maria Brophy

Lynn Whipple

Do you ever struggle with finding the freedom or giving yourself the permission to create your art? Maybe you try to convince yourself that the work you make to pay the bills is the art you want to create if that’s the case, great! But if you struggle with the tension of creating your art and creating art to keep food on the table, then you will find my conversation with Lynn Whipple relevant. Lynn is such a gracious guest and our conversation branches out from creating your own art to daily routines, to how she got started as an art teacher and so much more. I hope you enjoy hearing from Lynn as I much as I did! Creating “Your Art” Have you reached that point in your career as an artist where you were able to finally put in the time working on “Your Art?” What did it take for you to get to that point? If you haven’t reached that point yet, what steps are you taking to inch closer to it? My guest, artist Lynn Whipple struggled for a long time working as an artist for Universal Studios. She eventually reached that point in her journey where she was able to settle in her mind that it was time for her to start creating artwork that was “hers.” Coming from a similar background, I really resonated with Lynn’s story and I hope artists like you can find inspiration and encouragement from what Lynn has to say on this subject. Working with Art Collectors What has been your experience connecting with art collectors? Have any collector's been attracted to your artwork? Has it been more of a transactional relationship or have you been able to build a more organic one? Artist Lynn Whipple took the time in our conversation to open up about the relationships she has built with art collectors over the course of her career. Lynn speaks of the relationships she has built with art collectors as a unique privilege and one, you can tell, that she holds dear. It’s refreshing to hear an artist speak about the business side of her career that still connects on a personal level. What can you learn from Lynn’s story? The Benefit of Deadlines As you navigate your own journey as an artist, what have you found to be helpful practices? Are you internally motivated or are you externally motivated? How does that impact the structure of your time in the studio? My guest, Lynn Whipple shared about her difficult transition from working in a structured environment at Universal Studios to working for herself. I also connected with Lynn’s struggles in this area as I transitioned from working in a professional setting to working on my own projects. Lynn and I both discussed the role of setting deadlines and how that has been a helpful aspect in our growth as artists. What role has the use of deadlines played for you? The Art of Noticing What daily rhythms and rituals help get your creative juices flowing? Is it that cup of coffee you just have to have each morning when you wake up? Or is it that same routine and flow as you approach the studio that does it for you? My guest, Lynn Whipple had a beautiful aspect of her day that she was kind enough to share with me in our conversation. Each morning, before anything else, Lynn goes out to the dock by her house and sits there with a sketchbook. Sitting there, Lynn forces herself to pay attention to the world waking up around her. With each thing she notices that morning, Lynn challenges herself to linger a few seconds longer than she usually would. Lynn calls this captivating and motivating daily practice the “Art of noticing.” The way Lynn described this daily ritual moved me and I hope it has a similar effect on you. Outline of This Episode  [1:50] I introduce my guest, Lynn Whipple. [2:50] Lynn talks about her background as an artist. [5:00] Lynn describes her artwork. [7:00] How Lynn built her business as an artist. [9:30] Connecting with galleries and building a cohesive body of work. [17:00] Working with art collectors. [20:30] Lynn talks about getting started as an art instructor. [23:00] Facing and overcoming challenges and setbacks. [31:30] Creating deadlines can make a huge difference. [33:30] Scheduling out the whole year. [36:30] Advice for artists starting out. [43:00] Honing the art of “noticing” and Lynn’s daily routine. [48:00] What Lynn would tell her younger self.  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Paul Klee John Singer Sargent Cy Twombly Mark Rothko  Resources Mentioned on this episode  http://lynnwhipple.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Lynn-Whipple-Art-346136962142796/ https://twitter.com/LynnWhippleArt  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Do you ever struggle with finding the freedom or giving yourself the permission to create your art? Maybe you try to convince yourself that the work you make to pay the bills is the art you want to create if that’s the case, great! But if you struggle with the tension of creating your art and creating art to keep food on the table, then you will find my conversation with Lynn Whipple relevant. Lynn is such a gracious guest and our conversation branches out from creating your own art to daily routines, to how she got started as an art teacher and so much more. I hope you enjoy hearing from Lynn as I much as I did! Creating “Your Art” Have you reached that point in your career as an artist where you were able to finally put in the time working on “Your Art?” What did it take for you to get to that point? If you haven’t reached that point yet, what steps are you taking to inch closer to it? My guest, artist Lynn Whipple struggled for a long time working as an artist for Universal Studios. She eventually reached that point in her journey where she was able to settle in her mind that it was time for her to start creating artwork that was “hers.” Coming from a similar background, I really resonated with Lynn’s story and I hope artists like you can find inspiration and encouragement from what Lynn has to say on this subject. Working with Art Collectors What has been your experience connecting with art collectors? Have any collector's been attracted to your artwork? Has it been more of a transactional relationship or have you been able to build a more organic one? Artist Lynn Whipple took the time in our conversation to open up about the relationships she has built with art collectors over the course of her career. Lynn speaks of the relationships she has built with art collectors as a unique privilege and one, you can tell, that she holds dear. It’s refreshing to hear an artist speak about the business side of her career that still connects on a personal level. What can you learn from Lynn’s story? The Benefit of Deadlines As you navigate your own journey as an artist, what have you found to be helpful practices? Are you internally motivated or are you externally motivated? How does that impact the structure of your time in the studio? My guest, Lynn Whipple shared about her difficult transition from working in a structured environment at Universal Studios to working for herself. I also connected with Lynn’s struggles in this area as I transitioned from working in a professional setting to working on my own projects. Lynn and I both discussed the role of setting deadlines and how that has been a helpful aspect in our growth as artists. What role has the use of deadlines played for you? The Art of Noticing What daily rhythms and rituals help get your creative juices flowing? Is it that cup of coffee you just have to have each morning when you wake up? Or is it that same routine and flow as you approach the studio that does it for you? My guest, Lynn Whipple had a beautiful aspect of her day that she was kind enough to share with me in our conversation. Each morning, before anything else, Lynn goes out to the dock by her house and sits there with a sketchbook. Sitting there, Lynn forces herself to pay attention to the world waking up around her. With each thing she notices that morning, Lynn challenges herself to linger a few seconds longer than she usually would. Lynn calls this captivating and motivating daily practice the “Art of noticing.” The way Lynn described this daily ritual moved me and I hope it has a similar effect on you. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:50] I introduce my guest, Lynn Whipple.</li> <li>[2:50] Lynn talks about her background as an artist.</li> <li>[5:00] Lynn describes her artwork.</li> <li>[7:00] How Lynn built her business as an artist.</li> <li>[9:30] Connecting with galleries and building a cohesive body of work.</li> <li>[17:00] Working with art collectors.</li> <li>[20:30] Lynn talks about getting started as an art instructor.</li> <li>[23:00] Facing and overcoming challenges and setbacks.</li> <li>[31:30] Creating deadlines can make a huge difference.</li> <li>[33:30] Scheduling out the whole year.</li> <li>[36:30] Advice for artists starting out.</li> <li>[43:00] Honing the art of “noticing” and Lynn’s daily routine.</li> <li>[48:00] What Lynn would tell her younger self.</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Klee" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Paul Klee</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Singer_Sargent" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">John Singer Sargent</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cy_Twombly" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Cy Twombly</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Rothko" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Mark Rothko</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://lynnwhipple.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://lynnwhipple.com/</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Lynn-Whipple-Art-346136962142796/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/Lynn-Whipple-Art-346136962142796/</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/LynnWhippleArt" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/LynnWhippleArt</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Finding the Freedom to Create Your Art, with Lynn Whipple

Kami Mendlik

The public perception of a person's journey toward becoming an artist is usually an ethereal and happy go lucky one. As many of you know, that’s not the case. In my conversation with artist Kami Mendlik, we discuss her journey of becoming an artist. Kami emphasis that luck had nothing to do with her skill, talent, and success as an artist. She isn’t shy talking about the stubbornness, difficulty, and perseverance that is required to have a thriving art career. In our conversation we also touch on the impact of a mentor, finding the time to paint, her life raising children and much more. The impact of a mentor Can you think back to a time when someone helped you on your career path in vital ways? Everyone doesn’t get such a special person in their life. Usually, a mentoring relationship doesn’t just fall into your lap. Kami Mendlik had to hunt down and pursue her mentor Mary Pettis. Kami was relentless because she knew she had to learn from one of the best in her field. Mary was a huge hero and mentor to Kami and only asked for one thing in return for the time and insight she gave, that one day Kami would do the same for another young artist. Kami has fulfilled that promise and delights in the joy of passing down what she has learned on her journey to up and coming artists. Finding the time to paint One of the most common refrains among aspiring artist is “I’ve got to find the time to paint.” The struggle to carve out the time to focus on something so important and intimate can be difficult. Artist Kami Mendlik empathizes with this struggle but is a strong advocate of helping artists push through this difficulty. In order to succeed as an artist and a single mother, Kami had to get creative with her time. In our conversation, she tells me a few beautiful stories of her children growing up around her painting habits. If you’ve ever struggled to find the time to paint this conversation will be a huge encouragement to you. Don’t wait until you’ve “Arrived” The difficulty of navigating a career toward becoming an artist is fighting off the mindset that everything will come together once you’ve “Arrived.” My guest, Kami Mendlik strongly urges that artists fight that impulse. Kami describes her career as a journey. In fact, she couldn’t pick a particular moment in her career where she “Felt like an artist.” Rather, Kami describes her path as a series of stepping stones along the way. She encourages budding artists to avoid the trap of comparison and focus on discovering their own journey and finding their “Voice” in the process. Incorporating children into life as an artist Many professionals and even some artists are tempted to compartmentalize their work life from their life as a parent. To some degree, this has to be done to carve out that time where you can get “In the zone” and focus on your work. But because much of an artist’s process bleeds into the rest of their life you have to find a way to incorporate family life into the artistic journey. My guest, Kami Mendlik shares her experiences raising her children and navigating her path toward becoming an artist. Kami is delightfully transparent and honest as she explains the joys and difficulties that have come along the way. I know you will benefit greatly from our candid and in-depth conversation. Outline of This Episode  [0:55] My introduction to today’s guest; Kami Mendlik [2:30] Kami’s journey to become an artist. [5:20] Every step an arrival. [11:00] Not luck, hard work. [20:30] The difficulty of finding your way after art school. [23:00] Determination and making your way. [29:00] The impact of a mentor. [34:00] Raising children and pursuing an art career. [40:00] Fighting the impulse to make “Perfect art” [45:40] Pushing through fear. [51:00] Don’t wait until you’ve “Arrived” [54:45] Incorporating children into life as an artist.  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Mary Pettis Mark Rothko Kevin Macpherson  Resources Mentioned on this episode  Kami’s website: kamimendlik.com The Man in the Arena  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

The public perception of a person's journey toward becoming an artist is usually an ethereal and happy go lucky one. As many of you know, that’s not the case. In my conversation with artist Kami Mendlik, we discuss her journey of becoming an artist. Kami emphasis that luck had nothing to do with her skill, talent, and success as an artist. She isn’t shy talking about the stubbornness, difficulty, and perseverance that is required to have a thriving art career. In our conversation we also touch on the impact of a mentor, finding the time to paint, her life raising children and much more. The impact of a mentor Can you think back to a time when someone helped you on your career path in vital ways? Everyone doesn’t get such a special person in their life. Usually, a mentoring relationship doesn’t just fall into your lap. Kami Mendlik had to hunt down and pursue her mentor Mary Pettis. Kami was relentless because she knew she had to learn from one of the best in her field. Mary was a huge hero and mentor to Kami and only asked for one thing in return for the time and insight she gave, that one day Kami would do the same for another young artist. Kami has fulfilled that promise and delights in the joy of passing down what she has learned on her journey to up and coming artists. Finding the time to paint One of the most common refrains among aspiring artist is “I’ve got to find the time to paint.” The struggle to carve out the time to focus on something so important and intimate can be difficult. Artist Kami Mendlik empathizes with this struggle but is a strong advocate of helping artists push through this difficulty. In order to succeed as an artist and a single mother, Kami had to get creative with her time. In our conversation, she tells me a few beautiful stories of her children growing up around her painting habits. If you’ve ever struggled to find the time to paint this conversation will be a huge encouragement to you. Don’t wait until you’ve “Arrived” The difficulty of navigating a career toward becoming an artist is fighting off the mindset that everything will come together once you’ve “Arrived.” My guest, Kami Mendlik strongly urges that artists fight that impulse. Kami describes her career as a journey. In fact, she couldn’t pick a particular moment in her career where she “Felt like an artist.” Rather, Kami describes her path as a series of stepping stones along the way. She encourages budding artists to avoid the trap of comparison and focus on discovering their own journey and finding their “Voice” in the process. Incorporating children into life as an artist Many professionals and even some artists are tempted to compartmentalize their work life from their life as a parent. To some degree, this has to be done to carve out that time where you can get “In the zone” and focus on your work. But because much of an artist’s process bleeds into the rest of their life you have to find a way to incorporate family life into the artistic journey. My guest, Kami Mendlik shares her experiences raising her children and navigating her path toward becoming an artist. Kami is delightfully transparent and honest as she explains the joys and difficulties that have come along the way. I know you will benefit greatly from our candid and in-depth conversation. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:55] My introduction to today’s guest; Kami Mendlik</li> <li>[2:30] Kami’s journey to become an artist.</li> <li>[5:20] Every step an arrival.</li> <li>[11:00] Not luck, hard work.</li> <li>[20:30] The difficulty of finding your way after art school.</li> <li>[23:00] Determination and making your way.</li> <li>[29:00] The impact of a mentor.</li> <li>[34:00] Raising children and pursuing an art career.</li> <li>[40:00] Fighting the impulse to make “Perfect art”</li> <li>[45:40] Pushing through fear.</li> <li>[51:00] Don’t wait until you’ve “Arrived”</li> <li>[54:45] Incorporating children into life as an artist.</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.marypettis.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mary Pettis</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Rothko" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mark Rothko</a></li> <li><a href="https://savvypainter.com/podcast/macpherson/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kevin Macpherson</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>Kami’s website: <a href="https://kamimendlik.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kamimendlik.com</a></li> <li><a href="http://mentalfloss.com/article/63389/roosevelts-man-arena" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Man in the Arena</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Becoming An Artist, with Kami Mendlik

Julian Merrow Smith

Have you ever wondered how a self taught artist fares in today’s art scene? Do they have the same difficulties and opportunities as artists who have been through the traditional route? What unique lessons can we learn from this subset of creators who defy conventional expectations? My guest, Julian Merrow Smith is a self taught artist who has plenty of insight to share about his journey. In our conversation, we touched on his move to France, how he taught himself how to paint, why he decided to start teaching workshops, how he works through disappointment, and much more. I can’t wait for you to get to know the side of Julian that came out in our interview! Creative Inspiration What inspires you to create your artwork? Is it people, places, concepts, or something else? When I get the chance to peer into the mind of an artist I enjoy the wonderful opportunity to explore what inspires them, what really makes them come alive. It intrigues me to hear what inspires various artists as they approach their canvas. Artist Julian Merrow Smith shared with me that he likes to use what he sees around him each day at his home in the countryside of France. He draws inspiration from peaches at this point in the season when I spoke with him. Catch a glimpse of Julian’s work captured in the images section at the end of this post! Discovering What NOT to do It’s always a privilege when I get to sit down and talk to artists whose career path has been different than my own. I love hearing from artists who discovered their passion for art late in life and from others who found their way as a self taught artist. Julian Merrow Smith took the time to share with me his journey and the lessons he has taken away from the experience of teaching himself how to paint. One of the key insights that Julian shared with me is how he was able to discover his unique voice and creative path by putting in the long hard hours and by deciding after each completed work what aspect he did NOT want to continue to produce from that painting. Julian was kind enough to share many more insights and lessons from his art career - I hope you enjoy them as much as I did! From Self Taught Artist to Teacher Can you imagine the pressure and stress that comes with teaching students to do what you’ve only discovered how to do on your own? Imagine you have no frame of reference to look back upon, no formal teaching in the subject matter in which you are being asked to teach. Self taught artist Julian Merrow Smith found himself in that very scenario. Students and established artists alike have been drawn to Julian’s work and want to learn from him. In proper response, Julian has begun offering workshops. The unique circumstance is not lost on Julian, in our conversation we discussed his feelings of serving as a teacher in a subject where he didn’t have one. Momentum can be KEY How do you keep the ball moving as an artist? What practices do you turn to that keep you coming back to the canvas over and over again to hone your craft? I’ve heard from artists over and over again that once they’ve stepped away from their work for a period of time, they find it very difficult to return. Yet, I also have heard from well-known artists that stepping away for a period of time has been essential for their mental and emotional capacity to continue to create. In my conversation with Julian Merrow Smith, we discussed how this topic has played out in his creative journey. There may not be a one size fits all solution, but the KEY is figuring out what works for YOU. Outline of This Episode  [1:40] I introduce my guest, Julian Merrow Smith. [3:30] How Julian got his start as an artist. [8:30] Why did Julian move to France? [11:00] Julian talks about teaching himself how to paint. [13:00] How do you find your voice as an artist? [16:00] Julian’s process in the studio and what inspires his paintings. [21:30] What led Julian to start teaching workshops? [30:30] Julian talks about his approach to the canvas. [35:30] Working through disappointment. [42:30] The difficulty of stopping and starting. [45:30] Sometimes you just need to go paint.  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Richard Long Peter Doig Ivon Hitchens Lucian Freud David Leffel Sherrie McGraw Alice Neel  Resources Mentioned on this episode  https://stillives.com https://shiftinglight.com/  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Have you ever wondered how a self taught artist fares in today’s art scene? Do they have the same difficulties and opportunities as artists who have been through the traditional route? What unique lessons can we learn from this subset of creators who defy conventional expectations? My guest, Julian Merrow Smith is a self taught artist who has plenty of insight to share about his journey. In our conversation, we touched on his move to France, how he taught himself how to paint, why he decided to start teaching workshops, how he works through disappointment, and much more. I can’t wait for you to get to know the side of Julian that came out in our interview! Creative Inspiration What inspires you to create your artwork? Is it people, places, concepts, or something else? When I get the chance to peer into the mind of an artist I enjoy the wonderful opportunity to explore what inspires them, what really makes them come alive. It intrigues me to hear what inspires various artists as they approach their canvas. Artist Julian Merrow Smith shared with me that he likes to use what he sees around him each day at his home in the countryside of France. He draws inspiration from peaches at this point in the season when I spoke with him. Catch a glimpse of Julian’s work captured in the images section at the end of this post! Discovering What NOT to do It’s always a privilege when I get to sit down and talk to artists whose career path has been different than my own. I love hearing from artists who discovered their passion for art late in life and from others who found their way as a self taught artist. Julian Merrow Smith took the time to share with me his journey and the lessons he has taken away from the experience of teaching himself how to paint. One of the key insights that Julian shared with me is how he was able to discover his unique voice and creative path by putting in the long hard hours and by deciding after each completed work what aspect he did NOT want to continue to produce from that painting. Julian was kind enough to share many more insights and lessons from his art career - I hope you enjoy them as much as I did! From Self Taught Artist to Teacher Can you imagine the pressure and stress that comes with teaching students to do what you’ve only discovered how to do on your own? Imagine you have no frame of reference to look back upon, no formal teaching in the subject matter in which you are being asked to teach. Self taught artist Julian Merrow Smith found himself in that very scenario. Students and established artists alike have been drawn to Julian’s work and want to learn from him. In proper response, Julian has begun offering workshops. The unique circumstance is not lost on Julian, in our conversation we discussed his feelings of serving as a teacher in a subject where he didn’t have one. Momentum can be KEY How do you keep the ball moving as an artist? What practices do you turn to that keep you coming back to the canvas over and over again to hone your craft? I’ve heard from artists over and over again that once they’ve stepped away from their work for a period of time, they find it very difficult to return. Yet, I also have heard from well-known artists that stepping away for a period of time has been essential for their mental and emotional capacity to continue to create. In my conversation with Julian Merrow Smith, we discussed how this topic has played out in his creative journey. There may not be a one size fits all solution, but the KEY is figuring out what works for YOU. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:40] I introduce my guest, Julian Merrow Smith.</li> <li>[3:30] How Julian got his start as an artist.</li> <li>[8:30] Why did Julian move to France?</li> <li>[11:00] Julian talks about teaching himself how to paint.</li> <li>[13:00] How do you find your voice as an artist?</li> <li>[16:00] Julian’s process in the studio and what inspires his paintings.</li> <li>[21:30] What led Julian to start teaching workshops?</li> <li>[30:30] Julian talks about his approach to the canvas.</li> <li>[35:30] Working through disappointment.</li> <li>[42:30] The difficulty of stopping and starting.</li> <li>[45:30] Sometimes you just need to go paint.</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.richardlong.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Richard Long</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.wikiart.org/en/peter-doig" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Doig</a></li> <li><a href="%20http:/www.tate.org.uk/art/artists/ivon-hitchens-1291" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ivon Hitchens</a></li> <li><a href="%20https:/www.wikiart.org/en/lucian-freud" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lucian Freud</a></li> <li><a href="%20http:/davidleffel.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">David Leffel</a></li> <li><a href="%20http:/sherriemcgraw.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sherrie McGraw</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aliceneel.com/home/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alice Neel</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://stillives.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://stillives.com</a></li> <li><a href="https://shiftinglight.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shiftinglight.com/</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

The Path of a Self Taught Artist, with Julian Merrow Smith

Melinda Cootsona

What does it take to whether an art critique and come out the other side ready to continue to create? How do you receive criticism and move forward? I had the pleasure to sit down with the artist, Melinda Cootsona. In our conversation, Melinda opened up about how she transitioned from her work in interior design to painting, how she organized her very first open studio, why it’s important to put yourself out there early, her work with cold wax, and so much more! I know that artists like you will get a lot of enjoyment out of Melinda’s distinct perspective and her helpful advice to budding artists. What it’s like to organize and hold your first open studio. Have you ever held an open studio for your artwork? What was it like? What kind of feedback did you receive? How early in your career did you hold it? Artist Melinda Cootsona held her first open studio early on in her career. She held the open studio in her home and enjoyed the feedback via purchases and responses from her viewers. She’s had several since that first one and encourages artists getting started to go for it and hold an open studio as soon as they have a good collection of work to display. What can you learn from Melinda’s experience? How to receive criticism and move forward. How do you receive a critique of your artwork? Do you seek them out and look forward to learning from them or do you struggle with receiving them constructively? My guest, Melinda Cootsona was candid enough to open up and share from her perspective and how she faced critiques of her artwork. Melinda says that she experiences a sort of detachment from the criticism that she hears regarding her work. She doesn’t take the criticism personally and encourages artists to do all they can to cultivate that sort of healthy detachment that keeps them from taking the critiques personally. What has been your experience with criticism? Why it’s important to connect with a mentor. Do you have people in your circle that you go to and receive feedback on your artwork? Are there other artists that you are in contact with whose opinion you can trust? Artist Melinda Cootsona shared with me during our conversation that she has relied heavily on mentors as she has progressed in her career. She also encourages artists who are just getting started to take the initiative and connect with a mentor as soon as possible. Melinda says that connecting with a mentor can have a huge impact on an artist's ability to get feedback, push toward goals, and expand their perspectives. Have you connected with a mentor? What was your experience? Overcoming self-doubt and the downward spiral. What do you do when you run into self-doubt and the occasional downward spiral that can plague the experience of an artist. Are there best practices that have helped you address this difficulty? My guest, Melinda Cootsona took the time in our conversation to open up about her own experience with self-doubt and the downward spiral. There is two point that Melinda touches on in addressing this difficulty among artists; first, she says it’s important to understand that every artist goes through this, you are not alone. Second, Melinda makes the point that the only way to the work is through the work, meaning, if you want to break out of the downward spiral and figure out what to do next, you’ve just got to start working. Can you relate to Melinda’s perspective? Share what’s worked for you! Outline of This Episode  [1:00] I introduce my guest, Melinda Cootsona. [2:30] Melinda talks about how she got started on her journey as an artist. [4:00] What was Melinda’s first open studio like? [6:30] Receiving an art critique. [9:00] Melinda talks about personal successes along the way. [13:00] Why it’s important to connect with a mentor. [18:00] Learning from setbacks and failures. [24:30] Melinda talks about her work with cold wax. [31:00] How Melinda starts a painting. [35:00] Melinda’s habits in the studio. [37:30] Using music during the creative process. [40:30] Don’t wait too long before you approach a gallery! [45:00] Dealing with self-doubt as an artist. [47:00] Artwork by living artists that Melinda would love to own.  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Richard Diebenkorn Alex Kanevsky Christopher Brown Manuel Neri  Resources Mentioned on this episode  https://www.melindacootsona.com/ https://www.facebook.com/melindacootsonafineart/ Melinda Cootsona (@mlcstudios) • Instagram photos and videos Melinda’s Book: Open Your Studio: Nine Steps to A Successful Art Event  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

What does it take to whether an art critique and come out the other side ready to continue to create? How do you receive criticism and move forward? I had the pleasure to sit down with the artist, Melinda Cootsona. In our conversation, Melinda opened up about how she transitioned from her work in interior design to painting, how she organized her very first open studio, why it’s important to put yourself out there early, her work with cold wax, and so much more! I know that artists like you will get a lot of enjoyment out of Melinda’s distinct perspective and her helpful advice to budding artists. What it’s like to organize and hold your first open studio. Have you ever held an open studio for your artwork? What was it like? What kind of feedback did you receive? How early in your career did you hold it? Artist Melinda Cootsona held her first open studio early on in her career. She held the open studio in her home and enjoyed the feedback via purchases and responses from her viewers. She’s had several since that first one and encourages artists getting started to go for it and hold an open studio as soon as they have a good collection of work to display. What can you learn from Melinda’s experience? How to receive criticism and move forward. How do you receive a critique of your artwork? Do you seek them out and look forward to learning from them or do you struggle with receiving them constructively? My guest, Melinda Cootsona was candid enough to open up and share from her perspective and how she faced critiques of her artwork. Melinda says that she experiences a sort of detachment from the criticism that she hears regarding her work. She doesn’t take the criticism personally and encourages artists to do all they can to cultivate that sort of healthy detachment that keeps them from taking the critiques personally. What has been your experience with criticism? Why it’s important to connect with a mentor. Do you have people in your circle that you go to and receive feedback on your artwork? Are there other artists that you are in contact with whose opinion you can trust? Artist Melinda Cootsona shared with me during our conversation that she has relied heavily on mentors as she has progressed in her career. She also encourages artists who are just getting started to take the initiative and connect with a mentor as soon as possible. Melinda says that connecting with a mentor can have a huge impact on an artist's ability to get feedback, push toward goals, and expand their perspectives. Have you connected with a mentor? What was your experience? Overcoming self-doubt and the downward spiral. What do you do when you run into self-doubt and the occasional downward spiral that can plague the experience of an artist. Are there best practices that have helped you address this difficulty? My guest, Melinda Cootsona took the time in our conversation to open up about her own experience with self-doubt and the downward spiral. There is two point that Melinda touches on in addressing this difficulty among artists; first, she says it’s important to understand that every artist goes through this, you are not alone. Second, Melinda makes the point that the only way to the work is through the work, meaning, if you want to break out of the downward spiral and figure out what to do next, you’ve just got to start working. Can you relate to Melinda’s perspective? Share what’s worked for you! Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:00] I introduce my guest, Melinda Cootsona.</li> <li>[2:30] Melinda talks about how she got started on her journey as an artist.</li> <li>[4:00] What was Melinda’s first open studio like?</li> <li>[6:30] Receiving an art critique.</li> <li>[9:00] Melinda talks about personal successes along the way.</li> <li>[13:00] Why it’s important to connect with a mentor.</li> <li>[18:00] Learning from setbacks and failures.</li> <li>[24:30] Melinda talks about her work with cold wax.</li> <li>[31:00] How Melinda starts a painting.</li> <li>[35:00] Melinda’s habits in the studio.</li> <li>[37:30] Using music during the creative process.</li> <li>[40:30] Don’t wait too long before you approach a gallery!</li> <li>[45:00] Dealing with self-doubt as an artist.</li> <li>[47:00] Artwork by living artists that Melinda would love to own.</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Diebenkorn" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Richard Diebenkorn</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Kanevsky" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Alex Kanevsky</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.artsy.net/artist/christopher-brown" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Christopher Brown</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manuel_Neri" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Manuel Neri</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://www.melindacootsona.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.melindacootsona.com/</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/melindacootsonafineart/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/melindacootsonafineart/</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mlcstudios/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Melinda Cootsona (@mlcstudios) • Instagram photos and videos</a></li> <li>Melinda’s Book: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Open-Your-Studio-Steps-Successful/dp/0615763723/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&amp;qid=1510866866&amp;sr=8-1" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Open Your Studio: Nine Steps to A Successful Art Event</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Art Critique, with Melinda Cootsona

Greg Simkins

What does a creative journey that starts with graffiti art then moves to video game work and then ends up on a smaller scale working with acrylics look like? What lessons and tips can other artists learn from such a journey? My guest, Greg Simkins opens up about all these various transitions in his life and how he has been able to build a thriving art business with his wife. Greg’s story is fascinating and unique and I hope you can catch the lively and infectious passion that he exudes for his work. Don’t forget to catch some images of Greg’s artwork located at the end of this post! Encouragement Along the way How did you get started as an artist? Was it a gradual progression? Did you know from a young age? Or did you come to the realization later in life? Who helped you along your creative journey? Did you have mentors, friends, or family members who encouraged you along the way? My guest, Greg Simkins describes the wonderfully supportive relationship he shares with his father who was vital in encouraging and nurturing his creative impulses early in his journey. What can you learn from Greg’s story? Does the impact that other people have had on your journey as an artist inspire you to do the same for others? Graffiti Art How does a mild mannered and shy AP student find himself involved with the skating and punk rock crowd? How does this association and engagement translate to a career as a successful and respected artist? My guest Greg Simkins shares the story of how some students in high school noticed his drawings and introduced him to the world of graffiti art. From there, the encouragement of his friends and his father led to greater confidence in his artistic abilities. Greg’s story is an interesting and non-traditional one that will leave you intrigued and curious to how many other paths exist out there for artists to find their way. Working With Acrylics Do you remember the first piece you completed in a new medium? Can you remember what you learned through that process? Was it frustrating or rewarding? My guest, Greg Simkins described to me his first experience completing a piece of art using acrylics. This experience also happened to be Greg’s first foray into being commissioned for his artwork. Greg recalls the experience as being difficult and not absent of errors he had to correct along the way but ultimately, this encounter led Greg on a path to begin working with acrylics more and more. Now Greg works predominately with acrylics and looks back fondly on this moment as one of the first steps of his journey. Struggling With Time Management What do you do to structure your time as an artist? Do you try to spend some time each day in your creative flow or do you designate whole days that you can dedicate to projects? Artist Greg Simkins explained to me his struggles with navigating the complexities of raising a family and balancing his time in the studio working on his projects. At the end of the day, Greg had to get to a place where he could really learn to slow down and structure his time. He had taken his time for creative endeavors for granted when he had his father close by to assist him, but when his father moved away he found himself in a state of chaos. What lessons can you learn from Greg’s story? How will you ensure that you have time to complete the work you are passionate about? Outline of This Episode  [1:35] I introduce my guest, Greg Simkins. [3:30] Greg talks about how he got his start as an artist. [13:00] The first time Greg painted with acrylics. [18:00] Moving from big scale work to a smaller scale. [20:30] Greg talks about working with acrylics. [28:00] Experimenting with different mediums. [36:00] Struggling with time management. [43:00] Running the business as an artist. [45:00] Greg’s advice for artists who run their own business. [52:00] What is Greg working on right now?  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Mark Ryden James Nares Christopher Marley Zest  Resources Mentioned on this episode  www.Imscared.com http://artbusiness.com/ http://kpprojects.net/ https://lifeisbeautiful.com/ http://www.ahernmedia.com/  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

What does a creative journey that starts with graffiti art then moves to video game work and then ends up on a smaller scale working with acrylics look like? What lessons and tips can other artists learn from such a journey? My guest, Greg Simkins opens up about all these various transitions in his life and how he has been able to build a thriving art business with his wife. Greg’s story is fascinating and unique and I hope you can catch the lively and infectious passion that he exudes for his work. Don’t forget to catch some images of Greg’s artwork located at the end of this post! Encouragement Along the way How did you get started as an artist? Was it a gradual progression? Did you know from a young age? Or did you come to the realization later in life? Who helped you along your creative journey? Did you have mentors, friends, or family members who encouraged you along the way? My guest, Greg Simkins describes the wonderfully supportive relationship he shares with his father who was vital in encouraging and nurturing his creative impulses early in his journey. What can you learn from Greg’s story? Does the impact that other people have had on your journey as an artist inspire you to do the same for others? Graffiti Art How does a mild mannered and shy AP student find himself involved with the skating and punk rock crowd? How does this association and engagement translate to a career as a successful and respected artist? My guest Greg Simkins shares the story of how some students in high school noticed his drawings and introduced him to the world of graffiti art. From there, the encouragement of his friends and his father led to greater confidence in his artistic abilities. Greg’s story is an interesting and non-traditional one that will leave you intrigued and curious to how many other paths exist out there for artists to find their way. Working With Acrylics Do you remember the first piece you completed in a new medium? Can you remember what you learned through that process? Was it frustrating or rewarding? My guest, Greg Simkins described to me his first experience completing a piece of art using acrylics. This experience also happened to be Greg’s first foray into being commissioned for his artwork. Greg recalls the experience as being difficult and not absent of errors he had to correct along the way but ultimately, this encounter led Greg on a path to begin working with acrylics more and more. Now Greg works predominately with acrylics and looks back fondly on this moment as one of the first steps of his journey. Struggling With Time Management What do you do to structure your time as an artist? Do you try to spend some time each day in your creative flow or do you designate whole days that you can dedicate to projects? Artist Greg Simkins explained to me his struggles with navigating the complexities of raising a family and balancing his time in the studio working on his projects. At the end of the day, Greg had to get to a place where he could really learn to slow down and structure his time. He had taken his time for creative endeavors for granted when he had his father close by to assist him, but when his father moved away he found himself in a state of chaos. What lessons can you learn from Greg’s story? How will you ensure that you have time to complete the work you are passionate about? Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:35] I introduce my guest, Greg Simkins.</li> <li>[3:30] Greg talks about how he got his start as an artist.</li> <li>[13:00] The first time Greg painted with acrylics.</li> <li>[18:00] Moving from big scale work to a smaller scale.</li> <li>[20:30] Greg talks about working with acrylics.</li> <li>[28:00] Experimenting with different mediums.</li> <li>[36:00] Struggling with time management.</li> <li>[43:00] Running the business as an artist.</li> <li>[45:00] Greg’s advice for artists who run their own business.</li> <li>[52:00] What is Greg working on right now?</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Ryden" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Mark Ryden</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Nares_(artist)" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">James Nares</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pheromonegallery.com/product-cat/insects/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Christopher Marley</a></li> <li><a href="https://zestgraffiti.dunked.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Zest</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.imscared.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.Imscared.com</a></li> <li><a href="http://artbusiness.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://artbusiness.com/</a></li> <li><a href="http://kpprojects.net/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://kpprojects.net/</a></li> <li><a href="https://lifeisbeautiful.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://lifeisbeautiful.com/</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ahernmedia.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.ahernmedia.com/</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Graffiti Art, Acrylic Painting, and more with Greg Simkins

Jennifer Farris

Wouldn’t it be great to hear inside tips for artists from a gallery’s perspective? Most of my interviews are with artists but I jump at the chance when I get to connect with a gallery owner. They provide such a helpful and unique perspective! My guest Jennifer Farris is the owner of Studio Gallery. Jennifer and Rab opened the gallery in 2003 to showcase the work of Bay Area artists. Jennifer and I discuss the role of social media in the art world, the story behind the artwork, setting the right prices, helpful tips for artist engaging with galleries and much more! Leveraging Social Media to Promote Art With the interconnectedness the internet age gives us, it can seem like brick and mortar stores are becoming increasingly irrelevant. You might be tempted to think that social media promotion threatens the role of galleries in the art world. Gallery owner Jennifer Farris doesn’t see social media promotion as an obstacle but rather as a platform she can leverage alongside the artists her gallery works with. In our conversation, Jennifer paints a helpful picture of the relationship between social media, artists, and galleries. If you are interested in hearing her inside tips for artists, make sure to catch this interview. The Story Behind the Artwork Don’t forget that one of the most powerful tools you have is your story! It doesn’t matter what type of medium you are engaged in, people want to hear the story behind the artwork. What inspired you, what moved you, what were you going through when you created your art? This is what resonates with people. I know it can be scary to put yourself out there, and not every artist is ready to do that - that’s OK. When you are ready, share your story. In most cases, it’s the story that enhances the artwork in a similar way a quality frame helps it pop. If I haven’t convinced you, my guest and gallery owner Jennifer Farris will. She has seen the power a story can have in appreciating and selling a work of art. Setting the Right Price for Artwork Figuring out the right price point for their artwork is something that many artists, especially inexperienced artists struggle with. How do you determine the right price range for your work? What is the best process and approach? My guest, Jennifer Farris is happy to shed some light and share some tips for artists on this otherwise difficult process. Jennifer is the owner of Studio Gallery and regularly walks new artists through the process of pricing and showing their work for the first time. Her helpful perspective will help you get an inside look at the art world from the gallery angle. Do’s and Don’t’s of Approaching a Gallery As an artist, have you ever wondered what would be the best way to approach a gallery you want to go into business with? You are in luck! Gallery owner Jennifer Farris is eager to share some tips for artists who want to start off on the right foot with galleries.  Visit the gallery if possible. Get to know the feel for the type of work they show. Is it a fit? Understand the right timing. Don’t ambush a gallery owner, make an appointment. Respect the process. Don’t expect special treatment. Work with the gallery’s process.  Jennifer has some wonderful insights that will help artists navigate the gallery landscape. I had a wonderful time learning about her gallery’s process and I know you will too! Outline of This Episode  [0:35] My introduction to this episode. [2:00] Jennifer shares the story behind Studio Gallery. [4:20] The difficulty Jennifer and Rab faced opening their gallery. [7:40] How does Jennifer help an artist decide which artwork to show? [10:45] What criteria is used to determine if an artist is ready for a solo show? [12:20] How can artists work with galleries in a harmonious way? [15:00] The story behind the artwork. [21:00] Social Media’s influence on galleries. [25:00] Setting prices for artwork. [32:40] Do’s and Don'ts of approaching a gallery as an artist. [39:20] Jennifer’s plans for her gallery’s future.  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Rab Terry Lindsey Kustuch Kanna Aoki Bill Cone Michael Chamberlain Denny Holland  Resources Mentioned on this episode  Studio Gallery’s website: studiogallerysf.com Studio Gallery’s Facebook page: facebook.com/studiogallerysf  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Wouldn’t it be great to hear inside tips for artists from a gallery’s perspective? Most of my interviews are with artists but I jump at the chance when I get to connect with a gallery owner. They provide such a helpful and unique perspective! My guest Jennifer Farris is the owner of Studio Gallery. Jennifer and Rab opened the gallery in 2003 to showcase the work of Bay Area artists. Jennifer and I discuss the role of social media in the art world, the story behind the artwork, setting the right prices, helpful tips for artist engaging with galleries and much more! Leveraging Social Media to Promote Art With the interconnectedness the internet age gives us, it can seem like brick and mortar stores are becoming increasingly irrelevant. You might be tempted to think that social media promotion threatens the role of galleries in the art world. Gallery owner Jennifer Farris doesn’t see social media promotion as an obstacle but rather as a platform she can leverage alongside the artists her gallery works with. In our conversation, Jennifer paints a helpful picture of the relationship between social media, artists, and galleries. If you are interested in hearing her inside tips for artists, make sure to catch this interview. The Story Behind the Artwork Don’t forget that one of the most powerful tools you have is your story! It doesn’t matter what type of medium you are engaged in, people want to hear the story behind the artwork. What inspired you, what moved you, what were you going through when you created your art? This is what resonates with people. I know it can be scary to put yourself out there, and not every artist is ready to do that - that’s OK. When you are ready, share your story. In most cases, it’s the story that enhances the artwork in a similar way a quality frame helps it pop. If I haven’t convinced you, my guest and gallery owner Jennifer Farris will. She has seen the power a story can have in appreciating and selling a work of art. Setting the Right Price for Artwork Figuring out the right price point for their artwork is something that many artists, especially inexperienced artists struggle with. How do you determine the right price range for your work? What is the best process and approach? My guest, Jennifer Farris is happy to shed some light and share some tips for artists on this otherwise difficult process. Jennifer is the owner of Studio Gallery and regularly walks new artists through the process of pricing and showing their work for the first time. Her helpful perspective will help you get an inside look at the art world from the gallery angle. Do’s and Don’t’s of Approaching a Gallery As an artist, have you ever wondered what would be the best way to approach a gallery you want to go into business with? You are in luck! Gallery owner Jennifer Farris is eager to share some tips for artists who want to start off on the right foot with galleries. <ol> <li>Visit the gallery if possible. Get to know the feel for the type of work they show. Is it a fit?</li> <li>Understand the right timing. Don’t ambush a gallery owner, make an appointment.</li> <li>Respect the process. Don’t expect special treatment. Work with the gallery’s process.</li> </ol> Jennifer has some wonderful insights that will help artists navigate the gallery landscape. I had a wonderful time learning about her gallery’s process and I know you will too! Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:35] My introduction to this episode.</li> <li>[2:00] Jennifer shares the story behind Studio Gallery.</li> <li>[4:20] The difficulty Jennifer and Rab faced opening their gallery.</li> <li>[7:40] How does Jennifer help an artist decide which artwork to show?</li> <li>[10:45] What criteria is used to determine if an artist is ready for a solo show?</li> <li>[12:20] How can artists work with galleries in a harmonious way?</li> <li>[15:00] The story behind the artwork.</li> <li>[21:00] Social Media’s influence on galleries.</li> <li>[25:00] Setting prices for artwork.</li> <li>[32:40] Do’s and Don'ts of approaching a gallery as an artist.</li> <li>[39:20] Jennifer’s plans for her gallery’s future.</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="%20http://www.rabterry.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rab Terry</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.studiogallerysf.com/lindsey-kustusch-gallery/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lindsey Kustuch</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.studiogallerysf.com/kanna-aoki-inv/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kanna Aoki</a></li> <li><a href="http://billcone.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bill Cone</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.studiogallerysf.com/mc16-gallery/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Michael Chamberlain</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.dennyholland.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Denny Holland</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>Studio Gallery’s website: <a href="http://www.STUDIOGallerySF.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">studiogallerysf.com</a></li> <li>Studio Gallery’s Facebook page: <a href="http://www.Facebook.com/STUDIOGallerySF" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">facebook.com/studiogallerysf</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Tips for Artists (From a Gallery’s Perspective), with Jennifer Farris

Jordan Wolfson

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! Wandering in the dark and finding a path forward. 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? Honing the craft. 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! Can you really follow your intuition? 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. Clearing the mind and getting centered. 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 his mind have a direct impact on his artwork. Take a look at some of the images of his art located at the end of this post and see for yourself! Outline of This Episode  [3:20] I introduce my guest, Jordan Wolfson. [4:50] How Jordan decided to become an artist. [7:00] Jordan talks about his post-college pursuits. [10:30] What it took for Jordan to hone his painting skills. [15:30] Painting and presence. [17:20] The contrast between language and art. [20:45] Jordan talks about what he is currently working on. [26:00] Trusting your intuition and seeing where it leads. [33:30] Jordan opens up about his process of creating his artwork. [44:15] The value of meditation and centering your thoughts. [46:45] Artwork that Jordan would love to own. [48:50] Jordan talks about the recontextualization of painting.  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Andrew Forge William Bailey John Walker Guggenheim Museum Presents Giacometti Chaim Soutine’s Intense Paintings of Slaughtered Animals Venus and Adonis Paul Rost Chuck Ceraso Ann Gale Paul Cézanne Willem de Kooning Leon Kossoff Frank Auerbach John Dewey http://concurrenceart.com/  Resources Mentioned on this episode  Jordan’s website Jordan on Facebook Jordan on Instagram Jordan’s Teaching Website Jordan’s Blog Video – Song Cycle with Blue Cloth, 2018 The Shape of a Pocket The Painting and Presence Course, beginning October 29 EMERGENCE: An Online Painting Collaborative  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

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! Wandering in the dark and finding a path forward. 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? Honing the craft. 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! Can you really follow your intuition? 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. Clearing the mind and getting centered. 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 his mind have a direct impact on his artwork. Take a look at some of the images of his art located at the end of this post and see for yourself! Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[3:20] I introduce my guest, Jordan Wolfson.</li> <li>[4:50] How Jordan decided to become an artist.</li> <li>[7:00] Jordan talks about his post-college pursuits.</li> <li>[10:30] What it took for Jordan to hone his painting skills.</li> <li>[15:30] Painting and presence.</li> <li>[17:20] The contrast between language and art.</li> <li>[20:45] Jordan talks about what he is currently working on.</li> <li>[26:00] Trusting your intuition and seeing where it leads.</li> <li>[33:30] Jordan opens up about his process of creating his artwork.</li> <li>[44:15] The value of meditation and centering your thoughts.</li> <li>[46:45] Artwork that Jordan would love to own.</li> <li>[48:50] Jordan talks about the recontextualization of painting.</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://www.huffingtonpost.com/marc-trujillo/the-influence-of-andrew-f_b_6277546.html" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Forge</a></li> <li><a href="https://news.yale.edu/2010/12/10/made-world-artist-william-bailey" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">William Bailey</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Walker_(painter)" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">John Walker</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.guggenheim.org/press-release/guggenheim-museum-presents-giacometti-opening-june-8" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Guggenheim Museum Presents Giacometti</a></li> <li><a href="https://thejewishmuseum.org/press/press-release/soutine-flesh-announcement-release" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Chaim Soutine’s Intense Paintings of Slaughtered Animals</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/437826" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Venus and Adonis</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.osmosisartgallery.com/paul-rost" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Paul Rost</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.cerasogallery.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Chuck Ceraso</a></li> <li><a href="https://savvypainter.com/podcast/ann-gale/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Ann Gale</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_C%C3%A9zanne" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Paul Cézanne</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Willem_de_Kooning" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Willem de Kooning</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.miandn.com/artists/leon-kossoff" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Leon Kossoff</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Auerbach" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Frank Auerbach</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Dewey" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">John Dewey</a></li> <li><a href="http://concurrenceart.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://concurrenceart.com/</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://jordanwolfson.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jordan’s website</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/jordan.wolfson.3" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jordan on Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/jordan.wolfson/?hl=en" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jordan on Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.thepaintingproject.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jordan’s Teaching Website</a></li> <li><a href="https://thepaintingproject.org/homepage/blog/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jordan’s Blog</a></li> <li><a href="http://jordanwolfson.com/video-song-cycle-with-blue-cloth-2018/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Video – Song Cycle with Blue Cloth, 2018</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Shape-Pocket-John-Berger/dp/0375718885/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=savvyp-20&amp;linkId=01b6c8133ad4516f8c18a30c9609bc3c&amp;language=en_US" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">The Shape of a Pocket</a></li> <li><a href="https://conta.cc/2M3gjcc" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">The Painting and Presence Course, beginning October 29</a></li> <li><a href="https://thepaintingproject.org/emergence/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">EMERGENCE: An Online Painting Collaborative</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Following Your Intuition, with Jordan Wolfson

Emily Leonard

No one has a perfect story. Light and dark, day and night, there seems to be a constant opposite element to contrast our experiences in life. We all have our moments of glory and times of difficulty. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I have the privilege to sit down with artist Emily Leonard. Emily’s journey is a fascinating one. We discuss her successes, her battle with depression, the creative process, the benefits of good habits, and much more! If you love to hear how artists have navigated their creative journey as much as I do, you don’t want to miss this episode! That magical moment when everything “Clicks” Have you ever had one of those magical moments when everything you are working on just “Clicks?” Artist Emily Leonard had one of those moments in her career that left a lasting impression on her process. She was working on a big solo show at a gallery in Seattle when she started a painting in which every brush stroke “Felt right.” She didn’t finish this painting in time for the gallery opening which was unusual for Emily. Usually, in those moments, she rushes the project to have it ready for the show but this one was different. This experience left a strong impression on Emily and has shaped the way she approaches painting projects and deadlines. To hear more from my exciting interview with Emily, listen to this episode of Savvy Painter! Battling depression and refusing to use art as a coping mechanism. Mental illness can be difficult to understand let alone cope with. There is a wide range of strategies and methods that have helped people who suffer from mental illnesses like depression. In some instances using art has acted as a helpful coping mechanism. Artist Emily Leonard discovered that in her case, she was using art as a coping mechanism but not talking about or talking through her difficulties. She had to make a clear distinction so she distanced herself from painting for a period of time. This decision made a huge impact on the way she navigated her mental health. To hear more about Emily’s story, don’t miss this episode of Savvy Painter! Good habits and routines that maximize creativity Everyone is looking for that one book, quote, or piece of advice that will help them maximize their creativity or productivity. Since everyone is created uniquely, it takes a variety of methods to find that personal inspiration and drive. What works for one person may not work for the next. That is why hearing from others who have found what works for them is so helpful. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I sit down with artist Emily Leonard. We talk about habits she has formed over the years that have helped maximize her creative process. Make sure to catch Emily’s inspiring story! Can you balance work and family life? Many men and women in the workplace today are asking an important question. How do you balance work life and family life? Emily Leonard is an artist and a mother so I asked her how she keeps it all balanced, does she have any tips? Emily was quick to explain that she doesn't have any tips, she is just doing the best she can to make it all work. At one point when her daughter was still an infant, her time in the studio was suffering and it forced her to ask herself this question; “How can my process and work adapt to fit my new lifestyle as a mother?” Since she asked herself that question, Emily has been able to adapt and streamline her process and time in the studio. I loved hearing from Emily’s unique story and I know you will enjoy it too. Hear more from Emily on this episode of Savvy Painter! Outline of This Episode  [0:34] Background of guest: Emily Leonard. [1:35] I introduce Emily Leonard. [2:00] Early inspirations in art. [4:55] The beginning of Emily’s art career. [6:27] How to get started as an artist. [9:13] Emily shares a successful moment in her career. [15:29] How painting has helped Emily work through her depression. [19:06] What habits or routines work well for Emily? [24:00] Emily’s process for starting a painting. [27:03] Unexpected reactions to Emily’s art. [29:27] What is Emily working on right now? [33:36] How do you balance work and family life? [40:34] If you could have a piece of art from one living artist who would it be? [41:38] What advice would you give a younger you?  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Bobbie Burgers David Lusk (Gallery owner) Kathleen Speranza Alex Kanevsky  Resources Mentioned on this episode  Emily’s website: emilyleonard.com Emily's Facebook page Emily on Twitter: @emilyleonard Book:  "The Creative Habit" by Twyla Tharp Book:  "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield 

No one has a perfect story. Light and dark, day and night, there seems to be a constant opposite element to contrast our experiences in life. We all have our moments of glory and times of difficulty. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I have the privilege to sit down with artist Emily Leonard. Emily’s journey is a fascinating one. We discuss her successes, her battle with depression, the creative process, the benefits of good habits, and much more! If you love to hear how artists have navigated their creative journey as much as I do, you don’t want to miss this episode! That magical moment when everything “Clicks” Have you ever had one of those magical moments when everything you are working on just “Clicks?” Artist Emily Leonard had one of those moments in her career that left a lasting impression on her process. She was working on a big solo show at a gallery in Seattle when she started a painting in which every brush stroke “Felt right.” She didn’t finish this painting in time for the gallery opening which was unusual for Emily. Usually, in those moments, she rushes the project to have it ready for the show but this one was different. This experience left a strong impression on Emily and has shaped the way she approaches painting projects and deadlines. To hear more from my exciting interview with Emily, listen to this episode of Savvy Painter! Battling depression and refusing to use art as a coping mechanism. Mental illness can be difficult to understand let alone cope with. There is a wide range of strategies and methods that have helped people who suffer from mental illnesses like depression. In some instances using art has acted as a helpful coping mechanism. Artist Emily Leonard discovered that in her case, she was using art as a coping mechanism but not talking about or talking through her difficulties. She had to make a clear distinction so she distanced herself from painting for a period of time. This decision made a huge impact on the way she navigated her mental health. To hear more about Emily’s story, don’t miss this episode of Savvy Painter! Good habits and routines that maximize creativity Everyone is looking for that one book, quote, or piece of advice that will help them maximize their creativity or productivity. Since everyone is created uniquely, it takes a variety of methods to find that personal inspiration and drive. What works for one person may not work for the next. That is why hearing from others who have found what works for them is so helpful. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I sit down with artist Emily Leonard. We talk about habits she has formed over the years that have helped maximize her creative process. Make sure to catch Emily’s inspiring story! Can you balance work and family life? Many men and women in the workplace today are asking an important question. How do you balance work life and family life? Emily Leonard is an artist and a mother so I asked her how she keeps it all balanced, does she have any tips? Emily was quick to explain that she doesn't have any tips, she is just doing the best she can to make it all work. At one point when her daughter was still an infant, her time in the studio was suffering and it forced her to ask herself this question; “How can my process and work adapt to fit my new lifestyle as a mother?” Since she asked herself that question, Emily has been able to adapt and streamline her process and time in the studio. I loved hearing from Emily’s unique story and I know you will enjoy it too. Hear more from Emily on this episode of Savvy Painter! Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:34] Background of guest: Emily Leonard.</li> <li>[1:35] I introduce Emily Leonard.</li> <li>[2:00] Early inspirations in art.</li> <li>[4:55] The beginning of Emily’s art career.</li> <li>[6:27] How to get started as an artist.</li> <li>[9:13] Emily shares a successful moment in her career.</li> <li>[15:29] How painting has helped Emily work through her depression.</li> <li>[19:06] What habits or routines work well for Emily?</li> <li>[24:00] Emily’s process for starting a painting.</li> <li>[27:03] Unexpected reactions to Emily’s art.</li> <li>[29:27] What is Emily working on right now?</li> <li>[33:36] How do you balance work and family life?</li> <li>[40:34] If you could have a piece of art from one living artist who would it be?</li> <li>[41:38] What advice would you give a younger you?</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://bobbieburgers.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bobbie Burgers</a></li> <li><a href="http://davidluskgallery.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">David Lusk (Gallery owner)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.alpersfineartonline.com/kathleen-speranza.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kathleen Speranza</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.somepaintings.net/Alex.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alex Kanevsky</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>Emily’s website: <a href="http://emilyleonard.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">emilyleonard.com</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/emily.leonard.543" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Emily's Facebook page</a></li> <li>Emily on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/emilyleonard" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@emilyleonard</a></li> <li>Book: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Habit-Learn-Use-Life/dp/1480589837" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> "The Creative Habit" by Twyla Tharp</a></li> <li>Book: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/1936891026" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield</a></li> </ul>

Good Habits Maximize Creativity, with Emily Leonard

How are women represented in figurative art? Can you tell the difference between figurative art created by a woman and a man? What is it about women painting women that stands out? Figurative artist, Amber Lia-Kloppel was kind enough to sit down with me and discuss these questions and so much more. In our conversation, we also touch on her time at the New York Academy of Art, why she chooses women as her subjects, voyeurism, confrontation, navigating motherhood as an artist, and so much more. I know artists like you are going to enjoy Amber’s unique and fascinating perspective. The Female Figure Throughout the ages, the woman’s figure has been explored by artists the world over. But with each artist, the inspiration is a little bit different. I wanted to know why my guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel was so drawn to painting the female figure. Amber opened up and shared with me that the reason she is so drawn to the female figure, in part, is because they are self-portraits. She means this both literally and figuratively as she occasionally uses herself as a model but she also sees a reflection of herself in the models and the work she creates that are represented by the female body. It was a joy to hear Amber’s take on figurative art and the portrayal of the female figure. Make sure to check out images of Amber’s work at the end of this post! Navigating an art career as a parent How do parents and mothers, in particular, manage their time in the studio? What does it look like to navigate an art career as a parent? How does parenting influence the artwork of an artist? Amber Lia-Kloppel was gracious and candid in our conversation as she shared her experience navigating her role as an artist and a mother. She told me about projects she created that reflected moments she shared with her daughter. Amber also went on to describe how parenting has brought her to cherish and make the most out of her time working in her studio. I got the sense from my conversation with Amber that parenting enhanced her imagination and scope in some fascinating ways. I’m curious to hear what you take away from my conversation with Amber. Evolving as an artist How have you evolved as an artist over time? Have you made subtle changes here and there or have there been dramatic shifts in your approach and style? What caused the changes you’ve made over the years? My guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel described for me a pivotal moment in her career as an artist when she started to attend the New York Academy of Art. It was in this environment that Amber developed and refined her approach. Amber told me about how she learned new techniques and enjoyed the freedom and permission to expand her abilities in this environment that challenged and empowered her. Have you had an experience like Amber’s? Learning how to let go of a painting As artists, when we create, we pour part of ourselves into the process and ultimately into our creations. What are the ramifications of this creative process when we are unable to complete a project? What happens to that energy and passion that were poured out? My guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel discussed this artist's dilemma with me in our conversation. I appreciated Amber’s honesty as she admitted that she still struggles with letting go of her paintings that she just can't seem to finish. She hates to let go because, as she has gotten older, her starts are better, so there is so much there to salvage. Amber also holds herself to a high standard, she wants every painting to be her best painting. Can you relate to Amber’s struggle?  Outline of This Episode  [1:50] I introduce my guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel. [3:00] Amber talks about how she got started as an artist. [10:00] What attracts Amber to painting the female figure? [15:00] Amber’s process and using herself as a model. [19:30] How Amber incorporates being a mother in her painting process. [23:00] Amber talks about approaching the canvas. [29:30] Pivotal moments in Amber’s career. [35:00] How art school helped Amber evolve as an artist. [37:00] Amber talks about her current project. [39:00] Learning how to let a painting go. [42:30] Artwork that Amber would like to own from a living artist.  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Lucian Freud Alice Neel Wade Schuman Vincent Desiderio Antonio López García Johannes Vermeer  Resources Mentioned on this episode  http://www.amberlia-kloppel.com/  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

How are women represented in figurative art? Can you tell the difference between figurative art created by a woman and a man? What is it about women painting women that stands out? Figurative artist, Amber Lia-Kloppel was kind enough to sit down with me and discuss these questions and so much more. In our conversation, we also touch on her time at the New York Academy of Art, why she chooses women as her subjects, voyeurism, confrontation, navigating motherhood as an artist, and so much more. I know artists like you are going to enjoy Amber’s unique and fascinating perspective. The Female Figure Throughout the ages, the woman’s figure has been explored by artists the world over. But with each artist, the inspiration is a little bit different. I wanted to know why my guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel was so drawn to painting the female figure. Amber opened up and shared with me that the reason she is so drawn to the female figure, in part, is because they are self-portraits. She means this both literally and figuratively as she occasionally uses herself as a model but she also sees a reflection of herself in the models and the work she creates that are represented by the female body. It was a joy to hear Amber’s take on figurative art and the portrayal of the female figure. Make sure to check out images of Amber’s work at the end of this post! Navigating an art career as a parent How do parents and mothers, in particular, manage their time in the studio? What does it look like to navigate an art career as a parent? How does parenting influence the artwork of an artist? Amber Lia-Kloppel was gracious and candid in our conversation as she shared her experience navigating her role as an artist and a mother. She told me about projects she created that reflected moments she shared with her daughter. Amber also went on to describe how parenting has brought her to cherish and make the most out of her time working in her studio. I got the sense from my conversation with Amber that parenting enhanced her imagination and scope in some fascinating ways. I’m curious to hear what you take away from my conversation with Amber. Evolving as an artist How have you evolved as an artist over time? Have you made subtle changes here and there or have there been dramatic shifts in your approach and style? What caused the changes you’ve made over the years? My guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel described for me a pivotal moment in her career as an artist when she started to attend the New York Academy of Art. It was in this environment that Amber developed and refined her approach. Amber told me about how she learned new techniques and enjoyed the freedom and permission to expand her abilities in this environment that challenged and empowered her. Have you had an experience like Amber’s? Learning how to let go of a painting As artists, when we create, we pour part of ourselves into the process and ultimately into our creations. What are the ramifications of this creative process when we are unable to complete a project? What happens to that energy and passion that were poured out? My guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel discussed this artist's dilemma with me in our conversation. I appreciated Amber’s honesty as she admitted that she still struggles with letting go of her paintings that she just can't seem to finish. She hates to let go because, as she has gotten older, her starts are better, so there is so much there to salvage. Amber also holds herself to a high standard, she wants every painting to be her best painting. Can you relate to Amber’s struggle? Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:50] I introduce my guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel.</li> <li>[3:00] Amber talks about how she got started as an artist.</li> <li>[10:00] What attracts Amber to painting the female figure?</li> <li>[15:00] Amber’s process and using herself as a model.</li> <li>[19:30] How Amber incorporates being a mother in her painting process.</li> <li>[23:00] Amber talks about approaching the canvas.</li> <li>[29:30] Pivotal moments in Amber’s career.</li> <li>[35:00] How art school helped Amber evolve as an artist.</li> <li>[37:00] Amber talks about her current project.</li> <li>[39:00] Learning how to let a painting go.</li> <li>[42:30] Artwork that Amber would like to own from a living artist.</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucian_Freud" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Lucian Freud</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alice_Neel" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Alice Neel</a></li> <li><a href="http://forumgallery.com/artist/wade-schuman/about/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Wade Schuman</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vincent_Desiderio" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Vincent Desiderio</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_L%C3%B3pez_Garc%C3%ADa" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Antonio López García</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johannes_Vermeer" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Johannes Vermeer</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.amberlia-kloppel.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.amberlia-kloppel.com/</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Figurative Art and Choosing Women as Subjects, with Amber Lia-Kloppel

Claudia Rilling

On your journey as an artist, have you experienced a season where you wanted to expand your painting skills? What helped you in that season? What would you suggest to others who are in that season right now? My guest, Claudia Rilling was kind enough to open up about this topic as it relates to her own career as an artist. In our conversation, we also touch on Claudia’s search for direction, her time studying under Israel Hershberg, the technical details of her time in the studio, what attracts her to a subject, and much more. I can’t wait for you to hear some of the powerful insights that Claudia has to share. Searching for direction. As an artist, you are most likely very familiar with the sense of searching for direction in your artwork and in your career in general. What has helped you on your journey? Were you better off finding your path on your own or did it help to be connected to an art community? In my conversation with Claudia Rilling, she shares aspects of her journey and how she struggled and then eventually found her voice and diction as an artist. Specifically, Claudia points to a season of life in her twenties where she struggled with mark making. Before long, Claudia ended up going to grad school where she would continue to wrestle with and then hone her voice and approach as an artist. Honing and expanding your painting skills. What does it take for an artist to get to the point where they finally feel comfortable with their painting skills? Is that even possible or does the artist have to come to terms with a lifelong struggle in this area? Artist Claudia Rilling explains that in her experience, expanding and honing your painting skills is something that most artists continue to work on throughout their career. Having said that, there comes a point where an experienced artist feels more comfortable with their skill sets and abilities. I hope artists like you get as much out of the technical aspects of my conversation with Claudia as I did! Also, don’t forget to check out images of Claudia’s work located at the end of this post. The drawbacks of viewing art digitally. One of the questions I like to put to experienced artists like Claudia Rilling is finding out what they see in the painting world as it sits in today’s landscape. As usual, I was intrigued by Claudia’s response. In her opinion, due to the numerous closures of art galleries and the increased proliferation of art being viewed online, we’ve lost an important feature in the art world. While many artists are becoming more technologically and digitally astute, Claudia maintains that the move to a digital and virtual experience with art is not necessarily a good thing. What do you think of Claudia’s take? Do you agree? Do you view the digital movement as a positive step or a negative one? How to tell when a painting is finished. A question many artists struggle to answer is; when is a painting “Finished?” Do you still struggle with this question? What strategies or methods have you used to help you conclude your paintings? While there is no perfect answer, my guest, Claudia Rilling was kind enough to share her thoughts on this important step in creating artwork. In Claudia’s experience, it all comes down to getting the input of fellow artists. She quips with a great expression, “How many artists does it take to make a painting? Two! One to paint and the other to tell them when to stop.” Are you the type of artist who has the confidence to stop on their own or have you found it helpful to get the opinion of fellow artists? Outline of This Episode  [1:00] I introduce my guest, Claudia Rilling. [2:40] How Claudia got started painting. [4:00] Artists that inspired Claudia early on. [9:00] How Claudia describes her work. [12:00] What was Claudia’s post undergrad career like? [15:00] Claudia talks about lessons learned in grad school. [20:00] How Claudia chooses her subjects. [22:00] What does Claudia do when she approaches the canvas? [28:30] An update on Claudia’s process and why she changed it over time. [30:00] Claudia talks about different adhesives she’s used. [32:30] How do you know when a painting is finished? [36:00] What is Claudia currently working on? [42:00] The drawbacks of galleries closing down and view art digitally. [44:00] What Claudia wishes she would have known as an inexperienced artist. [47:00] Overcoming challenges along the way.  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Euan Uglow Myron Barnstone Anne Gale Israel Hershberg JSS in Civita Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot Giorgio Morandi Edgar Degas Mark Tennant Édouard Manet Jon Redmond  Resources Mentioned on this episode  Claudia’s website:claudia rilling.com Connect with Claudia on Instagram:@ClaudiaRilling  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

On your journey as an artist, have you experienced a season where you wanted to expand your painting skills? What helped you in that season? What would you suggest to others who are in that season right now? My guest, Claudia Rilling was kind enough to open up about this topic as it relates to her own career as an artist. In our conversation, we also touch on Claudia’s search for direction, her time studying under Israel Hershberg, the technical details of her time in the studio, what attracts her to a subject, and much more. I can’t wait for you to hear some of the powerful insights that Claudia has to share. Searching for direction. As an artist, you are most likely very familiar with the sense of searching for direction in your artwork and in your career in general. What has helped you on your journey? Were you better off finding your path on your own or did it help to be connected to an art community? In my conversation with Claudia Rilling, she shares aspects of her journey and how she struggled and then eventually found her voice and diction as an artist. Specifically, Claudia points to a season of life in her twenties where she struggled with mark making. Before long, Claudia ended up going to grad school where she would continue to wrestle with and then hone her voice and approach as an artist. Honing and expanding your painting skills. What does it take for an artist to get to the point where they finally feel comfortable with their painting skills? Is that even possible or does the artist have to come to terms with a lifelong struggle in this area? Artist Claudia Rilling explains that in her experience, expanding and honing your painting skills is something that most artists continue to work on throughout their career. Having said that, there comes a point where an experienced artist feels more comfortable with their skill sets and abilities. I hope artists like you get as much out of the technical aspects of my conversation with Claudia as I did! Also, don’t forget to check out images of Claudia’s work located at the end of this post. The drawbacks of viewing art digitally. One of the questions I like to put to experienced artists like Claudia Rilling is finding out what they see in the painting world as it sits in today’s landscape. As usual, I was intrigued by Claudia’s response. In her opinion, due to the numerous closures of art galleries and the increased proliferation of art being viewed online, we’ve lost an important feature in the art world. While many artists are becoming more technologically and digitally astute, Claudia maintains that the move to a digital and virtual experience with art is not necessarily a good thing. What do you think of Claudia’s take? Do you agree? Do you view the digital movement as a positive step or a negative one? How to tell when a painting is finished. A question many artists struggle to answer is; when is a painting “Finished?” Do you still struggle with this question? What strategies or methods have you used to help you conclude your paintings? While there is no perfect answer, my guest, Claudia Rilling was kind enough to share her thoughts on this important step in creating artwork. In Claudia’s experience, it all comes down to getting the input of fellow artists. She quips with a great expression, “How many artists does it take to make a painting? Two! One to paint and the other to tell them when to stop.” Are you the type of artist who has the confidence to stop on their own or have you found it helpful to get the opinion of fellow artists? Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:00] I introduce my guest, Claudia Rilling.</li> <li>[2:40] How Claudia got started painting.</li> <li>[4:00] Artists that inspired Claudia early on.</li> <li>[9:00] How Claudia describes her work.</li> <li>[12:00] What was Claudia’s post undergrad career like?</li> <li>[15:00] Claudia talks about lessons learned in grad school.</li> <li>[20:00] How Claudia chooses her subjects.</li> <li>[22:00] What does Claudia do when she approaches the canvas?</li> <li>[28:30] An update on Claudia’s process and why she changed it over time.</li> <li>[30:00] Claudia talks about different adhesives she’s used.</li> <li>[32:30] How do you know when a painting is finished?</li> <li>[36:00] What is Claudia currently working on?</li> <li>[42:00] The drawbacks of galleries closing down and view art digitally.</li> <li>[44:00] What Claudia wishes she would have known as an inexperienced artist.</li> <li>[47:00] Overcoming challenges along the way.</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artists/euan-uglow-2084" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Euan Uglow</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.barnstonestudios.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Myron Barnstone</a></li> <li><a href="https://savvypainter.com/podcast/ann-gale/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Anne Gale</a></li> <li><a href="https://savvypainter.com/podcast/israel-hershberg/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Israel Hershberg</a></li> <li><a href="https://jssincivita.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">JSS in Civita</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jean-Baptiste-Camille_Corot" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giorgio_Morandi" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Giorgio Morandi</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edgar_Degas" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Edgar Degas</a></li> <li><a href="http://marktennantart.com/paintings/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Mark Tennant</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89douard_Manet" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Édouard Manet</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.jonredmond.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jon Redmond</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>Claudia’s website:<a href="http://claudiarilling.com/home.html" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">claudia rilling.com</a></li> <li>Connect with Claudia on Instagram:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/claudiarilling/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">@ClaudiaRilling</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Expanding Your Painting Skills, the Drawback of Viewing Art Digitally and more with Claudia Rilling

As I’ve been promising, here is my special conversation with Brian Trekell and Courtney Bridges from Trekell Art Supplies. In our conversation, we cover a ton of ground. Everything from how Trekell got started, what inspired Brian to get into the paint brush making business, a bunch of technical questions you sent in for Brian and his team, some history behind paint brush making, and so much more! It’s a ton of information but I know artists like you will appreciate the detailed explanations. Make sure to check out the special offer Trekell has made available for the Savvy Painter audience and the YouTube video of artist William Whitaker explaining his approach to brush care, you can find both in the resources section at the end of this post. Letting curiosity lead the way. Have you ever wondered how successful art suppliers like Trekell got their start? Are they just a faceless corporation or is there a heart somewhere behind the name? I had the privilege of sitting down with Brian Trekell and Courtney Bridges from Trekell Art Supplies. Brian founded Trekell over 30 years ago after spending time backpacking through Japan where he was first inspired by the art of brushmaking. Soon after, he traveled to Bechhofen, Germany, to fine-tune his skills. Now, Trekell is an established name in art. Brian continues to lead the organization with a relentless focus on delivering high-quality products to artists like you. I hope you are inspired by Trekell’s humble beginnings as much as I am. Brush care really does make a difference. As an artist, chances are you’ve picked up some bad habits when it comes to brush care over the course of your career. Brian and Courtney from Trekell Art Supplies are here to help remedy some of those bad habits and answer questions from the Savvy Painter community that will help you get more life out of your brushes. In our conversation, Brian and Courtney cover topics like which solution you should keep your brushes in, if using conditioner is a good idea, alternatives to rinsing the paint out on your hand, and much more. Don’t leave it all up to trial and error, get the best advice right from the supplier! Expanding the product line. While focusing on one specific product can lead to a lot of success, Trekell has taken the path of expanding their product line to bring their dedication and experience to other areas in the art world. In my conversation with Briand Trekell and Courtney Bridges, I got to hear their passion for working with other suppliers like Gamblin to bring creativity and high-quality products to a larger network of artists. Find out about Trekell’s offerings including panels, frames, primers, varnishes, and much more. I’m excited for you to get to know Brian and Courtney and their unique approach to offering as many tools to the art community as possible. Maintaining a robust relationship with artists. As you take the time to listen to Brian and Courtney explain their methodology and approach at Trekell Art Supplies, I hope you come to glimpse their passion for truly serving the art community. Through their partnership with the Savvy Painter podcast and hearing stories of how they’ve incorporated artists input throughout their history, I am confident that they care about their products and the people who use them. Trekell offers a number of professional grade sets, kits, and packages designed by the Trekell Pro Team which is made up of artists like you! From their partnership with William Whitaker to their efforts creating the Trekell Pro Team, they’ve taken the time to show that they are invested in the success of artists. Outline of This Episode  [0:25] I introduce my guests, Brian Trekell &amp; Courtney Bridges. [3:30] Why did Brian go into the brush business? Where did the name come from? [8:00] How are acrylic brushes created differently than oil brushes? [9:30] Who should use which brushes? Does it matter? [12:30] What is the best way to treat your brush between uses? [17:30] Why is wood used over other materials as the handle for brushes? [21:30] Why did Trekell switch the color for their Legion handles? [22:30] Why do brushes splay, even after they are properly cared for? [24:30] How are the quill mops are made? [25:30] When do you need to glue a brush, versus crimp it? [27:00] Why does Trekell make some shapes and not others in each type of brush? [30:00] Why is it so difficult to create a synthetic version of the natural mongoose brush? [32:00] Is it true that I should not use brushes interchangeably between acrylics and oils? [38:00] Any recommendations on how to soften edges with wet-on-wet? [39:30] Do I need to seal the wood on the backside of the panel to prevent possible cracking? [40:30] Courtney talks about Trekell’s coffin-shaped panels. [42:00] How do you decide which is the best wood to use for your wood panels? [44:30] What made you decide to start offering aluminum panels? [46:00] How do you create the wood floating panels? [48:00] Why did Trekell start expanding their product line from just brushes? [50:00] How to do you measure spring in a brush? [52:00] Should I try to make brushes with the hair of my animals? Does Trekell use animal hair? [54:00] What is the most versatile brush? Which brush line is the most popular? [55:30] If you could make a brush exclusively for a deceased artist and a living artist, who would you choose? [56:00] Who was the first person to officially join the Trekell Pro Team? [57:30] What should I use to clean my brushes before I'm ready to paint? [1:02:00] What brushes would be best for me to use, using water mixable oil paints?  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Van Gogh Salvador Dalí William Whitaker Greg Simkins Dabs Myla Glenn Arthur Mark Ryden  Resources Mentioned on this episode  www.trekell.com Use Discount Code: SP2018 expires June 30th 2018 Trekell on Instagram William Whitaker Video on brush care can be found HERE https://twitter.com/trekell_art  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

As I’ve been promising, here is my special conversation with Brian Trekell and Courtney Bridges from Trekell Art Supplies. In our conversation, we cover a ton of ground. Everything from how Trekell got started, what inspired Brian to get into the paint brush making business, a bunch of technical questions you sent in for Brian and his team, some history behind paint brush making, and so much more! It’s a ton of information but I know artists like you will appreciate the detailed explanations. Make sure to check out the special offer Trekell has made available for the Savvy Painter audience and the YouTube video of artist William Whitaker explaining his approach to brush care, you can find both in the resources section at the end of this post. Letting curiosity lead the way. Have you ever wondered how successful art suppliers like Trekell got their start? Are they just a faceless corporation or is there a heart somewhere behind the name? I had the privilege of sitting down with Brian Trekell and Courtney Bridges from Trekell Art Supplies. Brian founded Trekell over 30 years ago after spending time backpacking through Japan where he was first inspired by the art of brushmaking. Soon after, he traveled to Bechhofen, Germany, to fine-tune his skills. Now, Trekell is an established name in art. Brian continues to lead the organization with a relentless focus on delivering high-quality products to artists like you. I hope you are inspired by Trekell’s humble beginnings as much as I am. Brush care really does make a difference. As an artist, chances are you’ve picked up some bad habits when it comes to brush care over the course of your career. Brian and Courtney from Trekell Art Supplies are here to help remedy some of those bad habits and answer questions from the Savvy Painter community that will help you get more life out of your brushes. In our conversation, Brian and Courtney cover topics like which solution you should keep your brushes in, if using conditioner is a good idea, alternatives to rinsing the paint out on your hand, and much more. Don’t leave it all up to trial and error, get the best advice right from the supplier! Expanding the product line. While focusing on one specific product can lead to a lot of success, Trekell has taken the path of expanding their product line to bring their dedication and experience to other areas in the art world. In my conversation with Briand Trekell and Courtney Bridges, I got to hear their passion for working with other suppliers like Gamblin to bring creativity and high-quality products to a larger network of artists. Find out about Trekell’s offerings including panels, frames, primers, varnishes, and much more. I’m excited for you to get to know Brian and Courtney and their unique approach to offering as many tools to the art community as possible. Maintaining a robust relationship with artists. As you take the time to listen to Brian and Courtney explain their methodology and approach at Trekell Art Supplies, I hope you come to glimpse their passion for truly serving the art community. Through their partnership with the Savvy Painter podcast and hearing stories of how they’ve incorporated artists input throughout their history, I am confident that they care about their products and the people who use them. Trekell offers a number of professional grade sets, kits, and packages designed by the Trekell Pro Team which is made up of artists like you! From their partnership with William Whitaker to their efforts creating the Trekell Pro Team, they’ve taken the time to show that they are invested in the success of artists. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:25] I introduce my guests, Brian Trekell &amp; Courtney Bridges.</li> <li>[3:30] Why did Brian go into the brush business? Where did the name come from?</li> <li>[8:00] How are acrylic brushes created differently than oil brushes?</li> <li>[9:30] Who should use which brushes? Does it matter?</li> <li>[12:30] What is the best way to treat your brush between uses?</li> <li>[17:30] Why is wood used over other materials as the handle for brushes?</li> <li>[21:30] Why did Trekell switch the color for their Legion handles?</li> <li>[22:30] Why do brushes splay, even after they are properly cared for?</li> <li>[24:30] How are the quill mops are made?</li> <li>[25:30] When do you need to glue a brush, versus crimp it?</li> <li>[27:00] Why does Trekell make some shapes and not others in each type of brush?</li> <li>[30:00] Why is it so difficult to create a synthetic version of the natural mongoose brush?</li> <li>[32:00] Is it true that I should not use brushes interchangeably between acrylics and oils?</li> <li>[38:00] Any recommendations on how to soften edges with wet-on-wet?</li> <li>[39:30] Do I need to seal the wood on the backside of the panel to prevent possible cracking?</li> <li>[40:30] Courtney talks about Trekell’s coffin-shaped panels.</li> <li>[42:00] How do you decide which is the best wood to use for your wood panels?</li> <li>[44:30] What made you decide to start offering aluminum panels?</li> <li>[46:00] How do you create the wood floating panels?</li> <li>[48:00] Why did Trekell start expanding their product line from just brushes?</li> <li>[50:00] How to do you measure spring in a brush?</li> <li>[52:00] Should I try to make brushes with the hair of my animals? Does Trekell use animal hair?</li> <li>[54:00] What is the most versatile brush? Which brush line is the most popular?</li> <li>[55:30] If you could make a brush exclusively for a deceased artist and a living artist, who would you choose?</li> <li>[56:00] Who was the first person to officially join the Trekell Pro Team?</li> <li>[57:30] What should I use to clean my brushes before I'm ready to paint?</li> <li>[1:02:00] What brushes would be best for me to use, using water mixable oil paints?</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vincent_van_Gogh" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Van Gogh</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvador_Dal%C3%AD" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Salvador Dalí</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.williamwhitaker.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">William Whitaker</a></li> <li><a href="https://gregsimkinsart.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Greg Simkins</a></li> <li><a href="http://dabsmyla.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Dabs Myla</a></li> <li><a href="https://glennarthurart.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Glenn Arthur</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.markryden.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Mark Ryden</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.trekell.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.trekell.com</a> Use Discount Code: SP2018 expires June 30th 2018</li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/trekell_art_supplies/?hl=en" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Trekell on Instagram</a></li> <li>William Whitaker Video on brush care can be found <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQM6pc-3biQ" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/trekell_art" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/trekell_art</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Paint Brush Care, Techniques, and Q&As with Trekell Art Supplies

Jenni Waldrop

What does it take to sell your art online successfully? Do you need to hire someone else to do it or are there tools and resources out there to empower artists like you to run your business effectively? My guest, Jenni Waldrop has built a successful online business herself and now works to help others do the same. In our conversation, Jenni opens up about how she got started, lessons she has learned along the way, what you need to do to start building an online store, and a whole lot more. If you are looking for a way to cut through all the complicated and confusing barriers to building your online business, this is the episode for you! Leveraging online platforms can help you succeed. Let’s face it, building something from scratch is difficult. While you probably aren’t afraid of hard work, wouldn’t you rather spend your time on your art than building an online presence that garners enough traffic to sustain you financially? That’s where utilizing online platforms like Etsy come into play. My guest, Jenni Waldrop is a pro at getting the most out of platforms like Etsy to help artists like you sell your art online. Learn from Jenni about all the advantages and yes, the work that’s necessary to build an online shop and in a successful and sustainable way. Why it’s important to understand your target audience. If you want to sell your art online, you’ve got to know who your target audience is and what they are looking for. This doesn't mean you have to compromise your principles or “Sell out.” Rather, think of it as a method for you to find out how you can connect with your fans in a way that allows them to support your work. Remember, the majority of your target audience doesn’t look like you! They don’t think like you, shop like you, or spend their time online the same way you do. Find out how to understand and connect with your audience by listening to Jenni Waldrop’s expert advice! Work smarter, not harder! Did you know that understanding how to read data and analytics can help you sell your art online more effectively? It’s true! You don’t always have to work harder to get the results you are looking for, sometimes is better to work smarter. In my conversation with Jenni, she explains how artists like you can locate and understand data from online sources like Instagram, Pinterest, and Etsy that will help you better understand where your audience is connecting with your activity. Wrapping your mind around this data is easier than you might think, once you’ve done that you’ll be better equipped to build your business and market your artwork. Building an online shop can really pay off. Trust me, I can understand how you may think that all of this talk about data and building an online shop to sell your art can be overwhelming and even daunting. I’ve built my Etsy shop and experienced less than impressive results. However, I’m convinced that Jenni Waldrop’s approach can work for artists like you and me. After considering all of Jenni’s advice and spending time with the information she’s provided, I’m ready to put give it another shot. Stay tuned as Jenni and I work on a special venture to rehab my Etsy shop and test how her approach can work for artists. Outline of This Episode  [1:05] I introduce my guest, Jenni Waldrop. [3:00] Jenni talks about her background and what she does. [5:30] How do artists on Etsy make themselves discoverable? [7:30] If you build it, will they really come? [10:00] What would Jenni suggest to revive or grow an Etsy business? [14:00] Jenni talks about print on demand options. [17:30] How do you build up and establish an audience? [20:00] Why it’s important to understand who your audience is. [25:30] Following the data can help you work smarter, not harder. [28:30] What does it take to get an Etsy shop off of the ground? [34:00] Advice Jenni would give to her younger self. [38:30] Selling original pieces of art instead of prints. [43:00] Parting advice for artists looking to sell their art online.  Resources Mentioned on this episode  https://blog.fuzzyandbirch.com/saavy-painter/ https://www.facebook.com/fuzzyandbirch/ https://twitter.com/fuzzyandbirch Etsy https://www.printedmint.com/ https://www.printful.com/  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

What does it take to sell your art online successfully? Do you need to hire someone else to do it or are there tools and resources out there to empower artists like you to run your business effectively? My guest, Jenni Waldrop has built a successful online business herself and now works to help others do the same. In our conversation, Jenni opens up about how she got started, lessons she has learned along the way, what you need to do to start building an online store, and a whole lot more. If you are looking for a way to cut through all the complicated and confusing barriers to building your online business, this is the episode for you! Leveraging online platforms can help you succeed. Let’s face it, building something from scratch is difficult. While you probably aren’t afraid of hard work, wouldn’t you rather spend your time on your art than building an online presence that garners enough traffic to sustain you financially? That’s where utilizing online platforms like Etsy come into play. My guest, Jenni Waldrop is a pro at getting the most out of platforms like Etsy to help artists like you sell your art online. Learn from Jenni about all the advantages and yes, the work that’s necessary to build an online shop and in a successful and sustainable way. Why it’s important to understand your target audience. If you want to sell your art online, you’ve got to know who your target audience is and what they are looking for. This doesn't mean you have to compromise your principles or “Sell out.” Rather, think of it as a method for you to find out how you can connect with your fans in a way that allows them to support your work. Remember, the majority of your target audience doesn’t look like you! They don’t think like you, shop like you, or spend their time online the same way you do. Find out how to understand and connect with your audience by listening to Jenni Waldrop’s expert advice! Work smarter, not harder! Did you know that understanding how to read data and analytics can help you sell your art online more effectively? It’s true! You don’t always have to work harder to get the results you are looking for, sometimes is better to work smarter. In my conversation with Jenni, she explains how artists like you can locate and understand data from online sources like Instagram, Pinterest, and Etsy that will help you better understand where your audience is connecting with your activity. Wrapping your mind around this data is easier than you might think, once you’ve done that you’ll be better equipped to build your business and market your artwork. Building an online shop can really pay off. Trust me, I can understand how you may think that all of this talk about data and building an online shop to sell your art can be overwhelming and even daunting. I’ve built my Etsy shop and experienced less than impressive results. However, I’m convinced that Jenni Waldrop’s approach can work for artists like you and me. After considering all of Jenni’s advice and spending time with the information she’s provided, I’m ready to put give it another shot. Stay tuned as Jenni and I work on a special venture to rehab my Etsy shop and test how her approach can work for artists. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:05] I introduce my guest, Jenni Waldrop.</li> <li>[3:00] Jenni talks about her background and what she does.</li> <li>[5:30] How do artists on Etsy make themselves discoverable?</li> <li>[7:30] If you build it, will they really come?</li> <li>[10:00] What would Jenni suggest to revive or grow an Etsy business?</li> <li>[14:00] Jenni talks about print on demand options.</li> <li>[17:30] How do you build up and establish an audience?</li> <li>[20:00] Why it’s important to understand who your audience is.</li> <li>[25:30] Following the data can help you work smarter, not harder.</li> <li>[28:30] What does it take to get an Etsy shop off of the ground?</li> <li>[34:00] Advice Jenni would give to her younger self.</li> <li>[38:30] Selling original pieces of art instead of prints.</li> <li>[43:00] Parting advice for artists looking to sell their art online.</li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://blog.fuzzyandbirch.com/saavy-painter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://blog.fuzzyandbirch.com/saavy-painter/</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/fuzzyandbirch/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/fuzzyandbirch/</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/fuzzyandbirch" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/fuzzyandbirch</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.etsy.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Etsy</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.printedmint.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.printedmint.com/</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.printful.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.printful.com/</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Discover How to Sell Your Art Online and Grow Your Audience, with Jenni Waldrop

Ralph Gilbert

MURAL

Have you ever been involved in creating mural art? Do you know the intricacies and details involved with creating artwork on such a large scale? What about commissioned mural artwork in public spaces? My guest, Ralph Gilbert was kind enough to open up and share about his experience creating mural art and winning several commissioned art projects. He also goes on to share about his personal artwork, how poetry influences his art, his creative process, habits that have helped him succeed, and much more! Make sure to check out images of his artwork located at the end of this post. Mural Art and working in public view An interesting aspect of mural art is it's large a scale and how rooted in place it is. These are just two of several aspects of mural art that artist Ralph Gilbert and I talked about in our conversation. Ralph shared a couple of fascinating observations from his recent work at the Saint Paul Union Depot in Minnesota. During this project which included arched tops and much of the work on scaffolding, Ralph experienced unique interactions with the public as his work was ongoing. He tells of one interaction with a community member that influenced an on the spot change in the work he was creating, it was to include a depiction of an individual with a physical disability. I was enraptured with Ralph’s stories of creating mural art and I know artists like you will get a lot of enjoyment out of it too. Commissioned Artwork Have you had any opportunities to create commissioned artwork? What was your experience like? What impressions or assumptions do you have about commissioned artwork? My guest, Ralph Gilbert had the opportunity to work on a handful of commissioned pieces throughout his career as an artist. In our conversation, he explained what the process was like to enter and be considered for committed artwork in a public setting. While commissioned artwork only represents a small portion of Ralph’s portfolio it was great to get his input and perspective on this important and public expression of art in communities all across our nation. Visual imagery and text What are the subjects that inspire you and spark that impulse to create your artwork? Is it a landscape, the human body, everyday objects, or something different entirely? My guest, Ralph Gilbert shared with me that poetry captures his imagination and provides that creative spark that inspires him often when he approaches his canvas. Ralph doesn’t see this work he creates as an illustration per say, it truly is more of an inspiration than anything else. He went on to describe the type of poetry that he associates with his creative process and they tend to always focus on human relationships and an insight into the nature of being and desire. It was really intriguing to hear Ralph describe his relationship to poetry and how that informs and inspires the artwork he creates. The Habit of Showing Up What are some of the habits that have empowered you in your creative journey as an artist? Is it a ritual you go through each time you approach your canvas? Or maybe for you, it's music or that one art book that just somehow seems to get the creative juices flowing. When I asked my guest Ralph Gilbert what habits have helped him on his journey as an artist, the first thing he put forward was the habit of showing up. It may not sound sexy or unorthodox but it is a very real and honest truth. As the saying goes, “80 percent of life is showing up.” Ralph finds a lot of truth in that saying and how it plays out in his success as an artist. He also shared with me that the habit of working on multiple projects at once has really allowed him the freedom to move in and out from one piece of artwork to another one depending on where he feels like spending his time on that given day. What lessons can you take away from Ralph’s story? What habits work well for you? Outline of This Episode  [1:50] I introduce my guest, Ralph Gilbert. [3:20] How Ralph got started as an artist. [9:00] Lessons Ralph learned from working at Disney. [10:30] Ralph describes his mural artwork. [16:30] How public input influenced Ralph’s mural work. [23:30] Commissioned and public artwork. [33:00] Ralph talks about his personal artwork. [35:00] Poetry and it’s impact on Ralph’s artwork. [38:30] The association between visual imagery and text. [40:30] A series based on the dream life of babies. [45:00] Ralph talks about his process when creating his artwork. [48:00] How being colorblind has impacted Ralph’s work. [53:00] Habits that have helped Ralph succeed as an artist.  Other artists mentioned on this episode  William Shakespeare W.B. Yeats Carol Ann Duffy Cecil Day-Lewis Lisa Zaran William Carlos Williams Edgar Degas Henri de Toulouse Jack Zajac  Resources Mentioned on this episode  http://www.ralphgilbert.com/ www.callforentry.org www.publicartist.org https://www.brainpickings.org/  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Have you ever been involved in creating mural art? Do you know the intricacies and details involved with creating artwork on such a large scale? What about commissioned mural artwork in public spaces? My guest, Ralph Gilbert was kind enough to open up and share about his experience creating mural art and winning several commissioned art projects. He also goes on to share about his personal artwork, how poetry influences his art, his creative process, habits that have helped him succeed, and much more! Make sure to check out images of his artwork located at the end of this post. Mural Art and working in public view An interesting aspect of mural art is it's large a scale and how rooted in place it is. These are just two of several aspects of mural art that artist Ralph Gilbert and I talked about in our conversation. Ralph shared a couple of fascinating observations from his recent work at the Saint Paul Union Depot in Minnesota. During this project which included arched tops and much of the work on scaffolding, Ralph experienced unique interactions with the public as his work was ongoing. He tells of one interaction with a community member that influenced an on the spot change in the work he was creating, it was to include a depiction of an individual with a physical disability. I was enraptured with Ralph’s stories of creating mural art and I know artists like you will get a lot of enjoyment out of it too. Commissioned Artwork Have you had any opportunities to create commissioned artwork? What was your experience like? What impressions or assumptions do you have about commissioned artwork? My guest, Ralph Gilbert had the opportunity to work on a handful of commissioned pieces throughout his career as an artist. In our conversation, he explained what the process was like to enter and be considered for committed artwork in a public setting. While commissioned artwork only represents a small portion of Ralph’s portfolio it was great to get his input and perspective on this important and public expression of art in communities all across our nation. Visual imagery and text What are the subjects that inspire you and spark that impulse to create your artwork? Is it a landscape, the human body, everyday objects, or something different entirely? My guest, Ralph Gilbert shared with me that poetry captures his imagination and provides that creative spark that inspires him often when he approaches his canvas. Ralph doesn’t see this work he creates as an illustration per say, it truly is more of an inspiration than anything else. He went on to describe the type of poetry that he associates with his creative process and they tend to always focus on human relationships and an insight into the nature of being and desire. It was really intriguing to hear Ralph describe his relationship to poetry and how that informs and inspires the artwork he creates. The Habit of Showing Up What are some of the habits that have empowered you in your creative journey as an artist? Is it a ritual you go through each time you approach your canvas? Or maybe for you, it's music or that one art book that just somehow seems to get the creative juices flowing. When I asked my guest Ralph Gilbert what habits have helped him on his journey as an artist, the first thing he put forward was the habit of showing up. It may not sound sexy or unorthodox but it is a very real and honest truth. As the saying goes, “80 percent of life is showing up.” Ralph finds a lot of truth in that saying and how it plays out in his success as an artist. He also shared with me that the habit of working on multiple projects at once has really allowed him the freedom to move in and out from one piece of artwork to another one depending on where he feels like spending his time on that given day. What lessons can you take away from Ralph’s story? What habits work well for you? Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:50] I introduce my guest, Ralph Gilbert.</li> <li>[3:20] How Ralph got started as an artist.</li> <li>[9:00] Lessons Ralph learned from working at Disney.</li> <li>[10:30] Ralph describes his mural artwork.</li> <li>[16:30] How public input influenced Ralph’s mural work.</li> <li>[23:30] Commissioned and public artwork.</li> <li>[33:00] Ralph talks about his personal artwork.</li> <li>[35:00] Poetry and it’s impact on Ralph’s artwork.</li> <li>[38:30] The association between visual imagery and text.</li> <li>[40:30] A series based on the dream life of babies.</li> <li>[45:00] Ralph talks about his process when creating his artwork.</li> <li>[48:00] How being colorblind has impacted Ralph’s work.</li> <li>[53:00] Habits that have helped Ralph succeed as an artist.</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Shakespeare" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">William Shakespeare</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/W._B._Yeats" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">W.B. Yeats</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carol_Ann_Duffy" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Carol Ann Duffy</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cecil_Day-Lewis" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Cecil Day-Lewis</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.poemhunter.com/lisa-zaran/biography/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Lisa Zaran</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Carlos_Williams" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">William Carlos Williams</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edgar_Degas" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Edgar Degas</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henri_de_Toulouse-Lautrec" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Henri de Toulouse</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Zajac" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jack Zajac</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.ralphgilbert.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.ralphgilbert.com/</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.callforentry.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.callforentry.org</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.publicartist.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.publicartist.org</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.brainpickings.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.brainpickings.org/</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Mural Art, with Ralph Gilbert

Nancy Gruskin

Often it can take an artist years to discover their “Artistic voice.” It comes to each artist in a different way, some find it by learning from mentors and instructors over years, others find it by teaching the nuances of art theory or art history. There are so many beautiful paths that different individuals take to discover their unique artistic voice. My guest, Nancy Gruskin had a fascinating story to tell as she spoke with me about her journey to discovering and sharing her artistic voice. She didn’t take the “Typical” route to her career as an artist but it makes total sense for Nancy and it's an inspiring one that I know you will enjoy! Getting “Established” as an Artist Part of the process of discovering your voice as an artist is getting to that place where you feel “Established.” Similar to finding your voice, getting established comes at different points for each artist. For Nancy Gruskin, her career as an art history instructor has played a significant role in her journey and arriving at that place of feeling established in her career. She talks about how teaching and bringing value to students even when her art isn’t selling is still validating for her. Nancy was very forthcoming in sharing her thoughts and feelings in our conversation and I know her story will have an impact on other artists that get the chance to hear from her. Acrylic Wash and Finding What Works How did you discover what medium or process works best for your creative expression? Have you stuck with that same method for years or have you adjusted and changed it over time? My guest, Nancy Gruskin shares how she had modified and stumbled upon different approaches in her paintings and artwork over the years. In our conversation, Nancy told me how she stumbled into working with acrylic wash and how working with acrylic works much better in her home studio than working with oils like she did in the past. It was great to hear from Nancy and how she has adjusted her approach over the years and is still finding her creative impulses shine through that adaptation. Creative Inspiration Some artists share that they find their creative inspiration in some of the most mundane aspects of their life, others still find that inspiration strikes through the abstract. There is no “Right way” to tap into that creative inspiration, each artist must find what it is that inspires them. My guest Nancy Gruskin shared a touching moment from her life that inspired one of her paintings. Nancy’s story just goes to show you that you can’t bottle the creative process! It was great to hear how yet another individual uses the flow and circumstance of their life to create something beautiful. Make sure to catch images of Nancy’s paintings at the end of this post! Overcoming Self-Doubt It takes a lot of courage to bare your soul and share with a large audience a glimpse into your inner thoughts and feelings. Is that something you can imagine doing? My guest, Nancy Gruskin felt bold enough to share that she struggles with self-doubt from time to time. In our conversation, Nancy told me that she felt like she wouldn't’ have anything noteworthy to share with a wider audience. This could not have been further from the truth! I had a wonderful time speaking with Nancy about her journey to become an artist and how she has tackled other challenges along the way. I know you will also enjoy hearing from such a transparent, unique and bold artistic voice! Outline of This Episode  [0:50] I introduce my guest, Nancy Gruskin. [2:00] Nancy’s journey to becoming an artist. [10:30] How has Nancy’s background with Art History influenced her artwork? [13:00] Finding your voice. [18:00] Nancy talks about being included in a group art show. [22:00] Feeling “Established” as an artist. [27:30] Nancy’s process in approaching her time in the studio. [34:30] Technical aspects of Nancy’s artwork. [47:30] Facing self doubt and challenges along the way. [53:30] Healthy habits. [56:30] What art would Nancy LOVE to own if money wasn’t an issue?  Other artists mentioned on this episode  David Park John Seed Kyle Staver Jennifer Pochinski Mitchell Johnson Fairfield Porter Alex Katz Aubrey Levinthal Elizabeth Blackadder Chantal Joffe Henry Taylor David Hockney Susan Lichtman Elisabeth Cummings Janice Biala Pierre Bonnard Joan Brown Richard Diebenkorn  Resources Mentioned on this episode  Nancy’s website: nancygruskin.com Matisse/Diebenkorn Exhibit https://www.etsy.com/shop/vanessabeanshop  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

Often it can take an artist years to discover their “Artistic voice.” It comes to each artist in a different way, some find it by learning from mentors and instructors over years, others find it by teaching the nuances of art theory or art history. There are so many beautiful paths that different individuals take to discover their unique artistic voice. My guest, Nancy Gruskin had a fascinating story to tell as she spoke with me about her journey to discovering and sharing her artistic voice. She didn’t take the “Typical” route to her career as an artist but it makes total sense for Nancy and it's an inspiring one that I know you will enjoy! Getting “Established” as an Artist Part of the process of discovering your voice as an artist is getting to that place where you feel “Established.” Similar to finding your voice, getting established comes at different points for each artist. For Nancy Gruskin, her career as an art history instructor has played a significant role in her journey and arriving at that place of feeling established in her career. She talks about how teaching and bringing value to students even when her art isn’t selling is still validating for her. Nancy was very forthcoming in sharing her thoughts and feelings in our conversation and I know her story will have an impact on other artists that get the chance to hear from her. Acrylic Wash and Finding What Works How did you discover what medium or process works best for your creative expression? Have you stuck with that same method for years or have you adjusted and changed it over time? My guest, Nancy Gruskin shares how she had modified and stumbled upon different approaches in her paintings and artwork over the years. In our conversation, Nancy told me how she stumbled into working with acrylic wash and how working with acrylic works much better in her home studio than working with oils like she did in the past. It was great to hear from Nancy and how she has adjusted her approach over the years and is still finding her creative impulses shine through that adaptation. Creative Inspiration Some artists share that they find their creative inspiration in some of the most mundane aspects of their life, others still find that inspiration strikes through the abstract. There is no “Right way” to tap into that creative inspiration, each artist must find what it is that inspires them. My guest Nancy Gruskin shared a touching moment from her life that inspired one of her paintings. Nancy’s story just goes to show you that you can’t bottle the creative process! It was great to hear how yet another individual uses the flow and circumstance of their life to create something beautiful. Make sure to catch images of Nancy’s paintings at the end of this post! Overcoming Self-Doubt It takes a lot of courage to bare your soul and share with a large audience a glimpse into your inner thoughts and feelings. Is that something you can imagine doing? My guest, Nancy Gruskin felt bold enough to share that she struggles with self-doubt from time to time. In our conversation, Nancy told me that she felt like she wouldn't’ have anything noteworthy to share with a wider audience. This could not have been further from the truth! I had a wonderful time speaking with Nancy about her journey to become an artist and how she has tackled other challenges along the way. I know you will also enjoy hearing from such a transparent, unique and bold artistic voice! Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:50] I introduce my guest, Nancy Gruskin.</li> <li>[2:00] Nancy’s journey to becoming an artist.</li> <li>[10:30] How has Nancy’s background with Art History influenced her artwork?</li> <li>[13:00] Finding your voice.</li> <li>[18:00] Nancy talks about being included in a group art show.</li> <li>[22:00] Feeling “Established” as an artist.</li> <li>[27:30] Nancy’s process in approaching her time in the studio.</li> <li>[34:30] Technical aspects of Nancy’s artwork.</li> <li>[47:30] Facing self doubt and challenges along the way.</li> <li>[53:30] Healthy habits.</li> <li>[56:30] What art would Nancy LOVE to own if money wasn’t an issue?</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Park_(painter)" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">David Park</a></li> <li><a href="https://savvypainter.com/podcast/art-writer-john-seed/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">John Seed</a></li> <li><a href="http://kylestaver.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kyle Staver</a></li> <li><a href="https://savvypainter.com/podcast/jennifer-pochinski/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jennifer Pochinski</a></li> <li><a href="https://savvypainter.com/podcast/mitchell-johnson/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mitchell Johnson</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairfield_Porter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fairfield Porter</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.artnet.com/artists/alex-katz/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alex Katz</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aubreylevinthal.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Aubrey Levinthal</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.scottish-gallery.co.uk/artist/elizabeth_blackadder" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Elizabeth Blackadder</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.cheimread.com/artists/chantal-joffe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chantal Joffe</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Taylor_(artist)" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Henry Taylor</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Hockney" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">David Hockney</a></li> <li><a href="http://susanlichtman.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Susan Lichtman</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/collection/works/?artist_id=cummings-elisabeth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Elisabeth Cummings</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janice_Biala" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Janice Biala</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pierre_Bonnard" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pierre Bonnard</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joan_Brown" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Joan Brown</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Diebenkorn" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Richard Diebenkorn</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>Nancy’s website: <a href="http://www.nancygruskin.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">nancygruskin.com</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.sfmoma.org/exhibition/matisse-diebenkorn/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Matisse/Diebenkorn Exhibit</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/vanessabeanshop" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.etsy.com/shop/vanessabeanshop</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Finding Your Artistic Voice, with Nancy Gruskin

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! A Dedicated Focus on Oil Painting 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! Is the New Blue Worth it? 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. Mitigating Toxicity Risks 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! What is FastMatte? 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? What if there was a way to avoid that pause and continue with your creative momentum? That’s where Gamblin’s helpful product, FastMatte come in. FastMatte colors are a unique type of oil colors, every color dries fast, every color dries matte. These qualities make them perfect for underpainting techniques. FastMatte also serves as an excellent way to come back to oil painting for those painters who have switched to acrylics because of the need for a faster drying rate. I was seriously impressed with this helpful solution that Gamblin has developed and I hope you get the chance to find out for yourself!

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! A Dedicated Focus on Oil Painting 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! Is the New Blue Worth it? 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. Mitigating Toxicity Risks 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! What is FastMatte? 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? What if there was a way to avoid that pause and continue with your creative momentum? That’s where Gamblin’s helpful product, FastMatte come in. FastMatte colors are a unique type of oil colors, every color dries fast, every color dries matte. These qualities make them perfect for underpainting techniques. FastMatte also serves as an excellent way to come back to oil painting for those painters who have switched to acrylics because of the need for a faster drying rate. I was seriously impressed with this helpful solution that Gamblin has developed and I hope you get the chance to find out for yourself!

Your Questions Answered! With Gamblin Artist's Colors

Jennifer Pochinski

How do artists find their creative inspiration? The answer to this question is as unique as each person who asks it. Every artist finds their inspiration differently and that inspiration varies widely. But with each exploration of this question, you get a peek into each artist's journey. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I sit down with artist Jennifer Pochinski. We have a wonderful and wide ranging conversation about creative inspiration, painting techniques, and raising a family as an artist. Jennifer brings some fascinating insights on this episode, don’t miss it! Using Instagram for Artistic Inspiration Some artists retreat to the beauty of nature to find that creative spark called inspiration, some look to literature or the human anatomy. Then there are some artists who find inspiration from Instagram. In the 21st century, some artists are finding new avenues of motivation. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I get to explore this subject with artist Jennifer Pochinski. Jennifer likes to “travel around the world” by surfing the social media application, Instagram. She knows it's an unconventional method to find inspiration, but it works great for her. Make sure to catch this episode to hear more from Jennifer! Disappointment as fuel for success As you grow and develop your skills as an artist over time, you find yourself holding to higher standards. This may cause you to look at your older work unfavorably. How do you respond when you are disappointed with art you've produced? Do you allow it to discourage and disappoint you? Artist Jennifer Pochinski and I discuss how you can use your disappointment as fuel for success. As an experienced painter, Jennifer has years of expertise to draw from. Be prepared for powerful insight and inspiration on this episode of Savvy Painter! How to respond when you get “Stuck” creatively In every creative endeavor you eventually run up against a “wall.” Writers suffer from writer's block, ballerinas struggle to master a particular move, and musicians can struggle with hitting a certain note. Everyone deals with adversity and challenges differently. Jennifer Pochinski is a painter who has run up against this wall before. She found herself “In the zone” creatively when all of a sudden the well dried up. Life has a brutal way of treating every creative type to this struggle at some point. Either you have experienced this difficulty, you are in the middle of one right now, or you will be in one eventually. It is crucial to hear from others like Jennifer who have found their way through the other side of a creative block. Make sure to catch this episode of Savvy Painter and hear more of Jennifer’s story! Pursuing your passion and raising a family. It can be done! You’ve heard it said that “You can’t have your cake and eat it too.” This saying pokes at the very idea of possessing something and enjoying it at the same time. Many in our society believe you can’t do something like raise a family and find success pursuing your passion at the same time. While it sounds complicated, difficult, and messy - it is a real possibility! Artist Jennifer Pochinski has raised her two girls all the while pursuing her passion as a painter. She will be the first person to tell you that it isn’t easy but it is rewarding! On this episode of Savvy Painter, Jennifer and I discuss the early years of raising children as an artist and how her kids are doing today! Outline of This Episode  [0:40] Background of guest: Jennifer Pochinski. [2:21] I introduce Jennifer Pochinski. [3:19] Early inspirations in art. [4:36] How Jennifer chooses what she is going to paint. [7:20] How Jennifer uses Instagram for inspiration. [12:11] What are some memorable responses to Jennifer's work? [16:20] How Jennifer’s view of her paintings change over time. [18:35] Have unsatisfying paintings challenged Jennifer? [20:48] Jennifer’s ritual for preparing to paint. [22:41] How does Jennifer prepare her paint technically? [27:19] What Jennifer does when she gets “stuck” on a painting? [31:17] How Jennifer keeps her creative spark. [33:59] Pursuing your passion while raising a family. [41:24] If Jennifer could own one piece of art she’d own…  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Henri Matisse Pablo Picasso RB Kitaj  Resources Mentioned on this episode  Jennifer’s website: jenniferpochinski.com Jennifer's Facebook page Jennifer on Twitter: @JPochinski Jennifer on Instagram: @jenniferpochinski  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

How do artists find their creative inspiration? The answer to this question is as unique as each person who asks it. Every artist finds their inspiration differently and that inspiration varies widely. But with each exploration of this question, you get a peek into each artist's journey. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I sit down with artist Jennifer Pochinski. We have a wonderful and wide ranging conversation about creative inspiration, painting techniques, and raising a family as an artist. Jennifer brings some fascinating insights on this episode, don’t miss it! Using Instagram for Artistic Inspiration Some artists retreat to the beauty of nature to find that creative spark called inspiration, some look to literature or the human anatomy. Then there are some artists who find inspiration from Instagram. In the 21st century, some artists are finding new avenues of motivation. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I get to explore this subject with artist Jennifer Pochinski. Jennifer likes to “travel around the world” by surfing the social media application, Instagram. She knows it's an unconventional method to find inspiration, but it works great for her. Make sure to catch this episode to hear more from Jennifer! Disappointment as fuel for success As you grow and develop your skills as an artist over time, you find yourself holding to higher standards. This may cause you to look at your older work unfavorably. How do you respond when you are disappointed with art you've produced? Do you allow it to discourage and disappoint you? Artist Jennifer Pochinski and I discuss how you can use your disappointment as fuel for success. As an experienced painter, Jennifer has years of expertise to draw from. Be prepared for powerful insight and inspiration on this episode of Savvy Painter! How to respond when you get “Stuck” creatively In every creative endeavor you eventually run up against a “wall.” Writers suffer from writer's block, ballerinas struggle to master a particular move, and musicians can struggle with hitting a certain note. Everyone deals with adversity and challenges differently. Jennifer Pochinski is a painter who has run up against this wall before. She found herself “In the zone” creatively when all of a sudden the well dried up. Life has a brutal way of treating every creative type to this struggle at some point. Either you have experienced this difficulty, you are in the middle of one right now, or you will be in one eventually. It is crucial to hear from others like Jennifer who have found their way through the other side of a creative block. Make sure to catch this episode of Savvy Painter and hear more of Jennifer’s story! Pursuing your passion and raising a family. It can be done! You’ve heard it said that “You can’t have your cake and eat it too.” This saying pokes at the very idea of possessing something and enjoying it at the same time. Many in our society believe you can’t do something like raise a family and find success pursuing your passion at the same time. While it sounds complicated, difficult, and messy - it is a real possibility! Artist Jennifer Pochinski has raised her two girls all the while pursuing her passion as a painter. She will be the first person to tell you that it isn’t easy but it is rewarding! On this episode of Savvy Painter, Jennifer and I discuss the early years of raising children as an artist and how her kids are doing today! Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:40] Background of guest: Jennifer Pochinski.</li> <li>[2:21] I introduce Jennifer Pochinski.</li> <li>[3:19] Early inspirations in art.</li> <li>[4:36] How Jennifer chooses what she is going to paint.</li> <li>[7:20] How Jennifer uses Instagram for inspiration.</li> <li>[12:11] What are some memorable responses to Jennifer's work?</li> <li>[16:20] How Jennifer’s view of her paintings change over time.</li> <li>[18:35] Have unsatisfying paintings challenged Jennifer?</li> <li>[20:48] Jennifer’s ritual for preparing to paint.</li> <li>[22:41] How does Jennifer prepare her paint technically?</li> <li>[27:19] What Jennifer does when she gets “stuck” on a painting?</li> <li>[31:17] How Jennifer keeps her creative spark.</li> <li>[33:59] Pursuing your passion while raising a family.</li> <li>[41:24] If Jennifer could own one piece of art she’d own…</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henri_Matisse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Henri Matisse</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pablo_Picasso" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pablo Picasso</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R._B._Kitaj" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">RB Kitaj</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>Jennifer’s website: <a href="http://www.jenniferpochinski.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">jenniferpochinski.com</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.pochinski" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jennifer's Facebook page</a></li> <li>Jennifer on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JPochinski" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JPochinski</a></li> <li>Jennifer on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jenniferpochinski/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@jenniferpochinski</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

Finding Your Creative Inspiration, with Jennifer Pochinski

Erin Spencer

What does it look like to build a career as a self taught artist? What are the unique challenges and thrilling rewards of forging a path on your own? Can you really succeed and thrive as a self taught artist? My guest is self taught, landscape and cityscape artist Erin Spencer. Her work is greatly influenced by her time spent in Holland. In our conversation, Erin and I talk about her early start selling her art on Etsy, struggling with the imposter syndrome, making the time to paint with a young family, and much more. I can’t wait for you to get a peek into Erin’s exciting journey and the fascinating perspective she brings to the table. Taking the leap into the unknown as a self taught artist. What has been your journey as an artist? Have you been through formal education or does your story look more like Erin Spencer’s? What does that leap into the unknown look like? How do you navigate it? While the journey wasn’t always easy, Erin says that as she looks back, she knows that this path was meant for her to travel in her own unique way. Erin describes her journey as going through a lot of trial and error, studying art at museums and shows, and reading about her craft. While she doesn’t describe her path as easy, Erin is passionate about how much the process has meant to her and her growth along the way. Make sure to check out images of Erin’s landscape and cityscape work located at the end of this post! Knowing your own limits and setting goals for growth. How often do you push yourself in your abilities as an artist? Do you find it easy to stretch yourself or is it painful and difficult for you? If you struggle with going past your personal limitations, you aren’t alone! Artist Erin Spencer revealed to me in our conversation how much she struggles with the idea of going to art workshops to work around and learn from other artists. I applaud Erin for knowing her own limits and boundaries and finding the determination to set a goal for stretching past those limits in the future. What can you learn from Erin’s story? Making the time to paint as an artist and a parent to young children. How do artists with children find the time to focus on their artwork when the demands of parenthood constantly rear its head? Is it possible to do both without failing at one? My guest, Erin Spencer spoke with me about how she has been able to make time in her day to focus on her painting. She also talks about how her children have grown up in her environment as an artist and they’ve learned to understand and adapt to her space and creative work. If you’d like to get a good understanding of what life as an artist and parent looks like, you’ll enjoy hearing from Erin’s honest viewpoint. Accepting opportunities and discovering your roots. When was the last time that you accepted a challenging opportunity? How did that go for you? Can you think of a time when you followed an impulse or a whim to find yourself embarking on a new and exciting project? In our conversation, Erin Spencer was candid enough to share with me what she is currently working on and a fun personal journey she is taking to explore her roots. Both projects capture Erin’s imagination in different ways, the first project is stretching her abilities and the second project is taking her on a creative journey with her family background. I hope you catch the excitement and passion that Erin exudes as she talks about both of these projects. Outline of This Episode  [1:05] I introduce my guest, Erin Spencer. [2:30] How did Erin get started as an artist? [5:30] Taking the leap as a self-taught artist. [11:30] What have been some of the more difficult techniques for Erin to learn? [17:30] Where does Erin sell her art? [19:00] Struggling with the imposter syndrome. [27:00] Why workshops are intimidating for Erin. [30:30] A moment of personal success for Erin. [39:00] Dealing with challenges along the way. [46:30] What is Erin working on right now?  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Paul Ferney  Resources Mentioned on this episode  http://www.erinspencerart.com/ http://foursquareart.com/ www.savvypainter.com/trekell  Connect With Antrese  On Facebook On Pinterest On Instagram On Twitter 

What does it look like to build a career as a self taught artist? What are the unique challenges and thrilling rewards of forging a path on your own? Can you really succeed and thrive as a self taught artist? My guest is self taught, landscape and cityscape artist Erin Spencer. Her work is greatly influenced by her time spent in Holland. In our conversation, Erin and I talk about her early start selling her art on Etsy, struggling with the imposter syndrome, making the time to paint with a young family, and much more. I can’t wait for you to get a peek into Erin’s exciting journey and the fascinating perspective she brings to the table. Taking the leap into the unknown as a self taught artist. What has been your journey as an artist? Have you been through formal education or does your story look more like Erin Spencer’s? What does that leap into the unknown look like? How do you navigate it? While the journey wasn’t always easy, Erin says that as she looks back, she knows that this path was meant for her to travel in her own unique way. Erin describes her journey as going through a lot of trial and error, studying art at museums and shows, and reading about her craft. While she doesn’t describe her path as easy, Erin is passionate about how much the process has meant to her and her growth along the way. Make sure to check out images of Erin’s landscape and cityscape work located at the end of this post! Knowing your own limits and setting goals for growth. How often do you push yourself in your abilities as an artist? Do you find it easy to stretch yourself or is it painful and difficult for you? If you struggle with going past your personal limitations, you aren’t alone! Artist Erin Spencer revealed to me in our conversation how much she struggles with the idea of going to art workshops to work around and learn from other artists. I applaud Erin for knowing her own limits and boundaries and finding the determination to set a goal for stretching past those limits in the future. What can you learn from Erin’s story? Making the time to paint as an artist and a parent to young children. How do artists with children find the time to focus on their artwork when the demands of parenthood constantly rear its head? Is it possible to do both without failing at one? My guest, Erin Spencer spoke with me about how she has been able to make time in her day to focus on her painting. She also talks about how her children have grown up in her environment as an artist and they’ve learned to understand and adapt to her space and creative work. If you’d like to get a good understanding of what life as an artist and parent looks like, you’ll enjoy hearing from Erin’s honest viewpoint. Accepting opportunities and discovering your roots. When was the last time that you accepted a challenging opportunity? How did that go for you? Can you think of a time when you followed an impulse or a whim to find yourself embarking on a new and exciting project? In our conversation, Erin Spencer was candid enough to share with me what she is currently working on and a fun personal journey she is taking to explore her roots. Both projects capture Erin’s imagination in different ways, the first project is stretching her abilities and the second project is taking her on a creative journey with her family background. I hope you catch the excitement and passion that Erin exudes as she talks about both of these projects. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[1:05] I introduce my guest, Erin Spencer.</li> <li>[2:30] How did Erin get started as an artist?</li> <li>[5:30] Taking the leap as a self-taught artist.</li> <li>[11:30] What have been some of the more difficult techniques for Erin to learn?</li> <li>[17:30] Where does Erin sell her art?</li> <li>[19:00] Struggling with the imposter syndrome.</li> <li>[27:00] Why workshops are intimidating for Erin.</li> <li>[30:30] A moment of personal success for Erin.</li> <li>[39:00] Dealing with challenges along the way.</li> <li>[46:30] What is Erin working on right now?</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.paulferney.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Paul Ferney</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="http://www.erinspencerart.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.erinspencerart.com/</a></li> <li><a href="http://foursquareart.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://foursquareart.com/</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.savvypainter.com/trekell" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.savvypainter.com/trekell</a></li> </ul> Connect With Antrese <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/savvypainter/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Pinterest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antresewood/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/SavvyPainter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">On Twitter</a></li> </ul>

An Exciting Journey as a Self Taught Artist, with Erin Spencer

Joe Gyurcsak

Do you realize the power an art mentor has? They have the ability to guide and shape the next generation of artist. Unfortunately, this relationship is often underutilized. My guest Joe Gyurcsak believes strongly in the mentoring relationship. He has experienced the impact that older artist have had on his life AND he has had the opportunity to act as a mentor to the generation of artists coming up behind him. In our conversation, we cover the impact of having a mentor, his transition from illustration to fine art, how creative writing enhanced his artwork, and much more. The transition from illustration to fine art Have you ever imagined what it would be like to junk your current career path and make an abrupt change? That is exactly what my guest Joe Gyurcsak did. One night after a frustrating project as an illustrator, Joe decided that he was done. He made the decision and walked away. It wasn’t really a decision to turn from one thing and begin another at that point. But before long, Joe began producing paintings for fine art galleries. He quickly found himself swept up into a new direction for his work in the art world. It didn’t go completely smoothly for Joe from that point on, he had some ups and downs but he was confident that he had made the right decision and he was creating the art that he wanted to make. Reading and Writing as fuel to the artist's creative process What impact can reading and writing have in your creative process as an artist? I’ve had the privilege to interview many artists recently who have discovered the enormous impact that reading and more specifically writing has had on their creative process. My guest this week Joe Gyurcsak, tells me that reading and writing had a HUGE impact on him during a period of his life where he had to work in a field unrelated to his abilities as an artist. It was fascinating to hear as Joe described how creative writing helped clarify his thought process and really enhanced his approach to his artwork. Advice for artists early in their career What lessons can artists early in their career learn from more experienced artists? Joe Gyurcsak has some great insights that he’d love for some of his less experienced peers to learn from. He starts by encouraging them to put their work out there - boldly and consistently. Joe empathizes with the fear, insecurity, and nervousness that haunts many artists just starting off. But he is convinced that it is absolutely critical that artists take as many opportunities that come their way to show their art and sell their art. In Joe’s experience, the more an artist’s work is circulated and viewed, the chances increase for the artist to learn and grow from those encounters. Do artists need mentors? What would it be like to have a mentor? Someone who can point out and identify things that you can’t see in your own work and life? Artist Joe Gyurcsak has enjoyed some wonderful mentoring relationships over his career. He’s been able to get advice and outside perspective on his work, technique, and how to navigate the art world. If you haven’t been convinced of the importance of having a mentoring relationship, hearing from Joe will change your mind. He is convinced that the success and growth he has experienced is due in large part to the generous investment he has received from talented artists. Outline of This Episode  [0:35] My introduction to this episode. [1:45] Joe Gyurcsak joins the podcast. [2:20] Joe talks about getting started with art. [3:30] Artists that inspired Joe. [4:10] Transitioning from student to working artist. [5:30] Personal success. [6:30] The decision to leave illustration behind. [7:40] Difficulty transitioning to fine art. [9:40] What advice would Joe give his younger self? [11:30] What is Joe involved with right now? [13:50] Joe’s process in the studio. [24:00] Joe’s biggest setback in his career. [27:50] What did Joe do to fuel the fire while he wasn’t employed as an artist? [34:30] What is on Joe’s list right now? [35:30] How do you establish a relationship with a gallery? [40:00] What advice does Joe have for artists early in their career? [43:00] How do you stay motivated when facing rejection? [45:30] The significance of having mentors. [49:00] How do you approach these mentors? [51:00] How has working as a resident artist affected Joe’s art?  Other artists mentioned on this episode  Bernie Fuchs Mark English Malcolm Liepke Giorgio Morandi Emily Nelligan Kevin Macpherson David Leffel Sherrie McGraw John Howard Sanden Andrew Wyeth Bruce Waldman C.W. Mundy Morgan Samuel Price  Daniel Gerhartz  Resources Mentioned on this episode  Joe’s website: josephgyurcsak.com Joe’s Facebook page: facebook.com/josephgyurcsak Utrechtart 

Do you realize the power an art mentor has? They have the ability to guide and shape the next generation of artist. Unfortunately, this relationship is often underutilized. My guest Joe Gyurcsak believes strongly in the mentoring relationship. He has experienced the impact that older artist have had on his life AND he has had the opportunity to act as a mentor to the generation of artists coming up behind him. In our conversation, we cover the impact of having a mentor, his transition from illustration to fine art, how creative writing enhanced his artwork, and much more. The transition from illustration to fine art Have you ever imagined what it would be like to junk your current career path and make an abrupt change? That is exactly what my guest Joe Gyurcsak did. One night after a frustrating project as an illustrator, Joe decided that he was done. He made the decision and walked away. It wasn’t really a decision to turn from one thing and begin another at that point. But before long, Joe began producing paintings for fine art galleries. He quickly found himself swept up into a new direction for his work in the art world. It didn’t go completely smoothly for Joe from that point on, he had some ups and downs but he was confident that he had made the right decision and he was creating the art that he wanted to make. Reading and Writing as fuel to the artist's creative process What impact can reading and writing have in your creative process as an artist? I’ve had the privilege to interview many artists recently who have discovered the enormous impact that reading and more specifically writing has had on their creative process. My guest this week Joe Gyurcsak, tells me that reading and writing had a HUGE impact on him during a period of his life where he had to work in a field unrelated to his abilities as an artist. It was fascinating to hear as Joe described how creative writing helped clarify his thought process and really enhanced his approach to his artwork. Advice for artists early in their career What lessons can artists early in their career learn from more experienced artists? Joe Gyurcsak has some great insights that he’d love for some of his less experienced peers to learn from. He starts by encouraging them to put their work out there - boldly and consistently. Joe empathizes with the fear, insecurity, and nervousness that haunts many artists just starting off. But he is convinced that it is absolutely critical that artists take as many opportunities that come their way to show their art and sell their art. In Joe’s experience, the more an artist’s work is circulated and viewed, the chances increase for the artist to learn and grow from those encounters. Do artists need mentors? What would it be like to have a mentor? Someone who can point out and identify things that you can’t see in your own work and life? Artist Joe Gyurcsak has enjoyed some wonderful mentoring relationships over his career. He’s been able to get advice and outside perspective on his work, technique, and how to navigate the art world. If you haven’t been convinced of the importance of having a mentoring relationship, hearing from Joe will change your mind. He is convinced that the success and growth he has experienced is due in large part to the generous investment he has received from talented artists. Outline of This Episode <ul> <li>[0:35] My introduction to this episode.</li> <li>[1:45] Joe Gyurcsak joins the podcast.</li> <li>[2:20] Joe talks about getting started with art.</li> <li>[3:30] Artists that inspired Joe.</li> <li>[4:10] Transitioning from student to working artist.</li> <li>[5:30] Personal success.</li> <li>[6:30] The decision to leave illustration behind.</li> <li>[7:40] Difficulty transitioning to fine art.</li> <li>[9:40] What advice would Joe give his younger self?</li> <li>[11:30] What is Joe involved with right now?</li> <li>[13:50] Joe’s process in the studio.</li> <li>[24:00] Joe’s biggest setback in his career.</li> <li>[27:50] What did Joe do to fuel the fire while he wasn’t employed as an artist?</li> <li>[34:30] What is on Joe’s list right now?</li> <li>[35:30] How do you establish a relationship with a gallery?</li> <li>[40:00] What advice does Joe have for artists early in their career?</li> <li>[43:00] How do you stay motivated when facing rejection?</li> <li>[45:30] The significance of having mentors.</li> <li>[49:00] How do you approach these mentors?</li> <li>[51:00] How has working as a resident artist affected Joe’s art?</li> </ul> Other artists mentioned on this episode <ul> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernie_Fuchs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bernie Fuchs</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_English_(illustrator)" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mark English</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malcolm_T._Liepke" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Malcolm Liepke</a></li> <li><a href="%20https://es.pinterest.com/savvypainter/morandi/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Giorgio Morandi</a></li> <li><a href="https://es.pinterest.com/savvypainter/emily-nelligan/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Emily Nelligan</a></li> <li><a href="https://savvypainter.com/podcast/macpherson/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kevin Macpherson</a></li> <li><a href="http://davidleffel.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">David Leffel</a></li> <li><a href="http://sherriemcgraw.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sherrie McGraw</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Howard_Sanden" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">John Howard Sanden</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrew_Wyeth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Wyeth</a></li> <li><a href="%20http://www.brucewaldman.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bruce Waldman</a></li> <li><a href="http://cwmundy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">C.W. Mundy</a></li> <li><a href="http://morgansamuelprice.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Morgan Samuel Price</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.danielgerhartz.com/Artist.asp?ArtistID=36476&amp;Akey=HTDFQTVK" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Daniel Gerhartz</a></li> </ul> Resources Mentioned on this episode <ul> <li>Joe’s website: <a href="https://josephgyurcsak.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">josephgyurcsak.com</a></li> <li>Joe’s Facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/josephgyurcsak/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">facebook.com/josephgyurcsak</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.utrechtart.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Utrechtart</a></li> </ul>

The Impact of an Art Mentor, with Joe Gyurcsak

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