Savvy Painter Podcast with Antrese Wood

Latest Episodes:

Fueling a Passion for Art, with Kelli Vance Jan 18, 2018

Show notes

What is it that fuels your passion for art? Can you trace your passion back to an early age or is it something that was awakened in you later in life? How do you continue to fan the flame? My guest is artist Kelli Vance. Kelli is a figurative artist from Texas, she got her BFA from the University of North Texas and her MFA from the University of Houston. Kelli’s current paintings of women explore spirituality and invite the viewer to decipher their meaning. In our conversation, we discuss how Kelli fuels her passion for art, where her ideas come from, how she brings her vision to life with the help of friends who model for her, and so much more. I can’t wait for you to hear Kelli’s story and her fascinating perspective.

Falling in love with creating art.

Do you remember that “moment” when everything clicked for you and you just fell in love with making art? If you didn’t have a specific moment, what was it that pushed you to start your journey as an artist? Kelli Vance and I had a wonderful discussion where we both took the time to share how we both had a moment where everything clicked for us. It was really exciting to hear from a peer who had a similar experience as I did. We both marveled at the fact that there was nothing spectacular about the assignments that we were given but we fell in love with craft all the same.

The difficulty of wrestling with personal expectations.

Holding to high standards and rigorous expectations for yourself can really be an asset that keeps you focused and striving to create good art. However, there is often another side to that coin. In our conversation, Kelli Vance and I discuss our relationship with personal expectations and how they’ve helped and hindered us over the years. We also touch on a sort of antidote to our high expectations, getting around other artists who can look at our work and assure us that we don’t have to critique every little thing along the way. What has been your relationship with personal standards and expectations?

Stoking the flames of passion for art.

As with many things in life, the longer you live with something, the more ordinary it begins to feel. Something that once took your breath away, can easily be lost to boredom or indifference. What have you done to keep the passion for art alive in your mind? How do you keep that flame lit after so many years? My guest, Kelli Vance opened up in our conversation and shared with me a few examples of what she does to keep stoking the flames of passion for art in her life. One aspect that she mentioned is how she is moved by art shows like the one she recently viewed in LA. Kelli also says that getting away and exploring nature has a rejuvenating effect on her creative spirit. What can you learn from Kelli’s story? What helps you keep your passion alive for art?

Nurturing a habit of curiosity.

It is so fascinating to hear all the different responses from all my guests when they talk about habits that have helped them succeed as artists. Kelli Vance says that the habit of curiosity is the one habit that has helped her grow and find success in her career. She describes herself as constantly curious, researching ideas, talking through them with friends and cultivating an ever-present awareness of things all around her. Kelli also points to a specific friendship she has with a fellow painter who has challenged her and acted as a sounding board for all of her creative ideas. What habits have helped you on your journey? What role has curiosity played in your development as an artist?

Outline of This Episode

[1:00] I introduce my guest, Kelli Vance.
[3:00] How Kelli got started as an artist.
[9:00] Kelli and I talk about that “moment” when we fell in love with creating art.
[13:00] Kelli talks about her time in Roswell as an art resident.
[17:00] What is Kelli working on right now?
[20:00] Having

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The Ebb and Flow of Art Sales, with Kenny Harris Jan 11, 2018

Show notes

How do you as an artist navigate the ebb and flow of art sales? Is there a method to the madness or is it all guesswork? What lessons have you learned in your career to help you navigate this important topic? My guest, artist Kenny Harris joins me on this episode as we discuss the ebb and flow of art sales and many other topics. Throughout our conversation, we touch on self-promotion, personal development, questioning assumptions, Kenny’s marriage to fellow artist Judy Nimtz, and much more. I am so excited for you to hear from Kenny’s distinct perspective!

The wisdom of understanding there is an ebb and flow to art sales.

What have been some of the best advice you’ve received in your art career? Did it come from a mentor, family member, or close friend? Did you have the opportunity to connect with a community of artists with seasoned members? My guest, Kenny Harris was kind enough to open up to me about his journey from life in New York to moving to Venice, California. His move started out as a visit but he quickly found himself embraced and welcomed by the art community, particularly among the “Old guard.” It was during this transition in his career that Kenny received the advice that art sales are cyclical and to why it’s important to fight the impulse to play to fashion. Have you received similar advice like Kenny received? Did you take it?

What is it like being married to a fellow artist?

Do you have someone close to you who shares your passion for art? Is there a family member or close friend who you can collaborate with and learn from? Can you imagine what it would be like to have your partner share in your profession as an artist? During our conversation, artist Kenny Harris spoke at length about the special connection he enjoys by sharing the same career as his spouse and fellow artist, Judy Nimtz. Kenny speaks fondly of the influence that Judy has had on his artwork and how he sees his influence coming out in her work as well. They also enjoy filling their time bonding over painting together, going to shows and exhibits, and giving each other feedback. I enjoyed hearing Kenny describe the influence his wife has on his work and I hope you benefit from it too.

Questioning your own assumptions.

Sometimes you can get to the point in your career where you inoculate yourself to criticism and introspection. Have you experienced that? How do you fight against that impulse? My guest, Kenny Harris was candid about his own struggle and revealed to me that it took going back to school to really help him begin to question his own assumptions. This led to him becoming cautious about his own use of caution in his artwork. Kenny’s journey led to massive growth both internally and professionally. While the process sounds exhausting, reflecting back on this season in his life, Kenny says it was ultimately rewarding. What has been your experience with challenging your own assumptions?

The benefit of preparing for tomorrow’s work.

What steps have you taken to push yourself to get into a rhythm of productivity in your studio? Do you have a process that you feel comfortable with? What habits have helped you on your journey? Kenny Harris says that it wasn’t one single habit that helped him get on track and make progress in his career but multiple little things that have helped along the way. One step that Kenny tries to practice on a regular basis that stood out to me was the habit of preparing for the next day’s work the night before. It sounds like such a simple step but the way Kenny described it had me fascinated. Does Kenny’s process sound like anything you’ve tried before?

Outline of This Episode

[1:30] I introduce my guest, Kenny Harris.
[3:30] How did Kenny get his start as an artist?
[7:30] Kenny talks about getting settled in with the LA art community.
[16:30] Questioning assumptions in your own work.
[19:0

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

The Benefit of Being Part of an Art Community and Taking Risks, with Julie Beck Jan 04, 2018

Show notes

The results are in and I am happy to announce the three winners of our art competition. Take a look at the end of this post for images and links for our second and third place winners. Our first place winner is Julie Beck. Julie is an artist from upstate New York who currently lives and works as an art instructor in Boston. In our conversation, we discuss the benefit of being part of an art community, why it’s important to take risks, how she signs her paintings, and much more! I can’t wait for you to hear from all three of my guests, starting with the talented Julie Beck.

What is so great about titling paintings?

Maybe you are like me and you really don’t enjoy the process of coming up with a title for your artwork. Then again, maybe you are more like my guest, Julie Beck. Julie loves the process of deciding on a title for her paintings. In fact, Julie talks about the process a bringing a further depth and layer to her artwork. In our conversation, Julie opens up about how she decides on a title and she even shares that she has a list of “Orphaned titles.” What is your process for deciding on a title like? What can you learn from Julie’s process and passion for this task?

Why is it important to be connected to an art community?

What has been your experience with getting connected to an art community? Have you had good and positive experiences or have you struggled to find your tribe? Artist Julie Beck says that finding a vibrant and robust artist community has had a profound impact on her development and growth as an artist. Julie goes on to share that one of the best ways to break out of a funk or difficult season as an artist is to get around other creative individuals, it doesn’t have to be other artists. I hope artists like you get the chance to connect with a supportive and inspiring art community like Julie has!

How taking risks can grow you and help you succeed.

Does taking risks come easy to you or do you find it to be difficult? What has informed your relationship with risk? Were you taught to avoid risks or were you taught to chase them? Do you see risks as beneficial or dangerous? My guest, Julie Beck has, at times struggled with taking risks. Her painting that won our contest serves as her evidence that she is fighting her impulse to avoid risks. In our conversation, Julie shared with me how she came to branch out and try something different with this painting. As she describes it, this was a departure for Julie, she usually works in a very controlled and measured process. It was fascinating to hear from Julie’s perspective and how she embraced this scary, vulnerable, and rewarding experience. Make sure to check out the image of Julie’s work that won our contest at the end of this post!

The power of reminding yourself that you are a professional artist.

What habits have helped you build your confidence and succeed as an artist? Are you still looking for tips and insights that will help you as you grow in your profession? Artist Julie Beck was kind enough to share a helpful practice that might encourage artists like you as try to find ways to stay motivated. For Julie, things started to click for her when she made that decision to take herself seriously as an artist. To keep the momentum going, Julie created a folder on her computer desktop titled, “I am an artist.” As she continued to create and build her portfolio, she would add to that folder, gaining more and more confidence each time. I hope you pick up on the sense of accomplishment and success that comes across from Julie’s story and I hope you find your way to a similar experience!

Outline of This Episode

[2:00] I introduce my guest and first place contest winner, Julie Beck.
[3:30] Julie talks about her painting that won the contest.
[11:00] Why Julie loves titling paintings.
[15:00] Julie and I talk about signing our paintings.
[18

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

Cityscape and Landscape Art, with Adam Harrison Dec 28, 2017

Show notes

What does the process of creating cityscape and landscape art entail? How do those artists choose their locations? What does it even look like to create a portable studio? My guest, Adam Harrison is a cityscape and landscape artist who paints on location and lives in Santa Monica. Adam’s paintings range from four to six FEET! In our conversation, we talk about Adam’s process and strategy, how he connects with the public who live around his various locations, and so much more! I can’t wait for you to hear from Adam’s unique perspective and get the chance to view images of his artwork located at the end of this post.

The first approach to painting outside and on location.

What is it like taking your studio outside for the first time? What lessons do you learn in the process? My guest, Adam Harrison was kind enough to open up and share with me his first experience going outside and on location to start a project. Adam says that on his first outing, he carried two 4ft by 4ft panels made out of a quarter inch birchwood plywood, his studio easel, a lawn chair, a glass pallet, and a couple of reusable bags full of odds and ends. Can you imagine the scene? He took this setup to the Dodger Stadium area where he would end up spending the next year creating his first landscape work. From this experience, Adam came away with a lot of lessons, most notably, making sure to pack sunscreen next time. What can you take away from Adam’s story? What have been your experiences painting outside?

The benefit of having a deadline.

One of the most important things for any creative individual to find out about themselves is how they are motivated. Are you internally motivated and find that you can hit goals and benchmarks that you hold yourself too? Or are you more externally motivated and thrive when you set yourself up with deadlines that other people are counting on? My guest, Adam Harrison shared with me that he operates out of external motivation. Once he realized this, Adam was able to set up external deadlines and benchmarks that others would be dependent on, and this allowed Adam to thrive. Which process works best for you?

The process of picking a motif.

How do you pick your projects and motifs? Do you find inspiration in the settings around you or do you like to branch out and look past the familiar? Artist Adam Harrison has developed three “Have to’s” in his process that helps him pick his motifs. These are the three criteria he uses when he starts a painting.

A sense of “Wonder” or “Wow.” Something that blows him away, that he loves looking at.
Does this image resonate? Does he continue to think about it days and weeks later?
How practical is it to get in front of the image on a weekly or daily basis?

Adam says that these criteria have been instrumental in helping him filter through all the options and ideas that he comes across to pick the right one for him to spend his time on. What has worked for you? What are your criteria for picking a motif?

How predictable patterns and habits lead to success.

What habits and practices have contributed to your growth and success as an artist? Are you still looking for those patterns that will help unlock your creativity? My guest, Adam Harrison was candid enough to share with me some of the daily practices and habits have led to his success as an artist. Adam points to his practice of having between 5-7 paintings that he works on throughout the week that allows him the freedom and flexibility to create wherever his work week takes him. While Adam’s approach may not be for everyone, it is really fascinating to get his take and the creative journey and how he discovered what works for him.

Outline of This Episode

[1:30] I introduce my guest, Adam Harrison.
[3:30] Adam talks about how he got started as an artist.
[5:30] Artists that influenced Adam earl

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

Abstract Painting and the Freedom to Create, with Allison Gildersleeve Dec 21, 2017

Show notes

What is the evolution like for an artist that focuses on abstract painting? How can the work of abstract painting provide additional avenues that encourage a freedom to create? My guest, Allison Gildersleeve was generous with her time and candor as she opened up about her journey as an artist and her work with abstract paintings. We also discussed her time working in Vermont and Sweden, why she paints with layered images, navigating her career as a parent, and so much more! I can’t wait for you to get a glimpse into the journey and story of this talented painter!

Layered artwork and evolving as an artist.

When was the last time you really stretched yourself and experimented as an artist? Is it something you do often or do you have intentionally put yourself in situations where you can experiment? My guest, Allison Gildersleeve was kind enough to share about her time working with a printmaker in Sweden. During that time, Allison was able to experiment with layered drawings. You can tell from how she describes her time in Sweden that this was a very formative and liberating time for Allison. I hope you can catch the joy and enthusiasm that was evident in Alison's perspective like I did!

The struggles and inspirations of navigating an art career as a parent.

What has been your experience as an artist and parent? Do you find challenging, inspiring, or a mixture of both? How can you encourage and support your fellow artist who is at this stage of life right now? Artist Allison Gildersleeve discussed with me her experiences as an artist and parent, the challenges and the inspiring points in our conversation. While her life as a parent and artist was difficult at many points when her children were little, she also looks back at early parenthood as a time that required her to focus more intentionally on the time she had to create. What lessons can you learn from Allison’s experience? Do you resonate with what she shared?

The value of being part of a thriving art community.

Are you a part of a local art community? Do you connect with other artists to commiserate, collaborate, and get encouragement? Or do you find that life separated and isolated from the hustle and bustle give you more freedom to create? My guest, Allison Gildersleeve shared with me about the impact that being part of an artist community had on her years ago and continues to impact her today. She looks back at her time as an art assistant for Joan Snyder as being a pivotal point where she was able to connect with other artists and enjoy being part of that unique type of community. How has being part of an art community impacted your journey?

The hard work of slowing down and paying attention.

Do you ever find it challenging to slow down and pay attention to what is going on around you? What about your process, do you find that you have to make a deliberate effort to make sure you are challenging yourself? My guest, Allison Gildersleeve says that her challenges at this point in her career as an artist are to slow down and yet at the same time continue to challenge herself. They sound like they’d be opposites but both of these areas really make sense for Allison’s current stage in her career. I hope you can find some encouragement in Alison's story and don’t forget to check out images of her work located at the end of this post!

Outline of This Episode

[1:20] I introduce my guest, Allison Gildersleeve.
[3:30] Allison talks about how she got started as an artist.
[7:30] The value of being part of an artist community.
[10:00] A key moment of personal success for Allison.
[13:00] Allison talks about leaving behind certain aspects of her work.
[18:00] How has Allison’s work changed over time?
[23:00] Allison talks about disconnecting and creating a space for free form.
[30:30] Advice for artists with young kids.
[37

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

Art Critique, with Melinda Cootsona Dec 14, 2017

Show notes

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 a

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

Figurative Art and Choosing Women as Subjects, with Amber Lia-Kloppel Dec 07, 2017

Show notes

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 i

Support the show

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

Mural Art, with Ralph Gilbert Nov 30, 2017

Show notes

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

[1:5

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

From Freelance Artist to Art Instructor, with Jane Davies Nov 23, 2017

Show notes

What is it like to move from working and earning a living as a freelance artist and begin a career as an art instructor? What impact does that transition have in the creative process? My guest, Jane Davies was kind enough to open up and share parts of her journey and how she left her work as a freelance artist behind to throw herself into the role of an art instructor. Jan has some helpful insights and lessons to share about her journey and how she grew and evolved as an artist over time in light of this pivotal point her her career. It was a joy to have Jane share her story and I know artists like you will get a lot of enjoyment from hearing her unique perspective.

Embracing the role of Art Instructor

Jane Davies spent over fifteen years creating production pottery and taking on other roles as a freelance artist. She eventually got to a point in her journey where she didn’t want to make art that way any longer. Now, she focuses less on selling her work, though that would be nice, she has turned a lot of her energy toward her role as an art instructor. Talking with Jane, I could really get the sense that this is where a lot of her passion and excitement are rooted. It was great to hear Jane’s angle on this subject and to hear where she is spending her time expressing herself.

The Need for Community Among Artists

Do you have a community of fellow artists that you connect? Where do you turn for inspiration and camaraderie? Have you been looking for that missing piece on your creative journey? In our conversation, my guest Jane Davies and I discuss the impact that being in community with fellow artists can have on your own creative output. While each person’s journey will have its own variables, don’t neglect this important aspect in the life of an artist. Even if you can’t be part of an artistic community locally, find other ways to connect either digitally in a community like this one or find ways to meet up once or twice a year with other artists. What steps are you taking to stay connected to a creative community?

Art is Never Easy

Have you ever had someone tell you that art is easy? How did you react? While there may be moments of inspiration where the creativity just flows through your fingertips, by and large, the work of an artist is far from “easy.” In my conversation with artist Jane Davies, we discuss this topic and misnomer that once you find your “voice” as an artist, the work becomes easy. Jane shares her experience as an art instructor and assumptions she encounters from young artists who are longing to find their voice. While techniques and concepts might become easier to hone and master, the work of an artist will always include striving, struggling, and challenge. What has been your experience? Do you resonate with Jane’s perspective?

A Commitment to Constant Creation

What habits and routines have helped you succeed as an artist? Do you take comfort in rituals and processes? How do you tap into a current of motivation and inspiration that can keep you focused on the work that you create? My guest, Jane Davies shared with me that it’s her commitment to constantly create that keeps her focused and drawn back to the canvas over and over again. Jane also gives herself the permission to just create, she doesn’t hold herself to a perfectionist standard, in these sessions she gives herself the freedom to just create, it doesn't have to be perfect or “good.” What are your takeaways from Jane’s story?

Outline of This Episode

[1:30] I introduce my guest, Jane Davies.
[2:30] Jane talks about how she got started as an artist.
[14:00] A pivotal moment in Jane’s career.
[17:00] Jane talks about her role as an art teacher.
[21:00] Mistakes Jane made as a teacher.
[24:30] Positive experiences as a teacher.
[30:30] Art is never easy.
[34:30] Jane talks about her time in her stud

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An Evolving Approach to Selling Art, with Jose Trujillo Nov 16, 2017

Show notes

What is the best approach to selling art? Have you found it more effective to be your own advocate or to connect with galleries and agents who promote your art for you? My guest, Jose Trujillo was kind enough to open up in our conversation about his journey and his evolving approach to selling art. We also discuss Jose’s artwork, how he got started as an artist, what it takes to connect with an audience, the importance of consistency, and so much more! I know artists like you will get a lot of value out of the insights and lessons that Jose has to share.

Marketing and Presenting Artwork

What makes for a great and compelling presentation of artwork? Have you been able to present and market your work in a way that draws people in? In my conversation with Jose Trujillo, we discussed his approach and the components he has found useful in marketing his art to a large audience. From a young age, Jose has been searching for an audience for his artwork. I could tell from listening to him that his passion and eagerness really shines when he talks about getting his art in front of people. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your willingness to put your artwork out there, again and again, adapting and learning from each interaction with galleries in the process. If you want to know more about what it takes to approach a gallery and evolve your approach over time, you’ll find some helpful insight from Jose in this conversation.

Finding Channels to Promote Your Artwork

Where do most people go to interact with artwork? Where does your target audience tend to spend their time viewing art? Don’t underestimate this vital aspect of knowing your audience and getting your artwork in front of them! Artist Jose Trujillo is passionate about connecting with people who want to view his artwork. He doesn’t expect them to come to him, so he does everything he can to get his work in front of them. In our conversation, Jose explains the many channels he uses to find his audience and expose them to his artwork. What steps are you taking to bring your artwork to a receptive audience? What lessons can you learn from Jose’s approach?

The Power of Consistency

One of the most important aspects of success for an artist is producing content. Is there any hope to sell your work or gain a reputation if you don’t produce content and practice your craft? My guest, Jose Trujillo shares from his own experience of committing to a regime of constantly creating artwork. It sounds easy but Jose will the first to tell you that it can be a struggle to show up and continue to practice, especially when you don’t “Feel inspired.” I really resonated with much of what Jose had to share on this subject and I hope artists like you can connect with it in a similar way.

A Practice of Gratitude

What practices or habits have helped you in your evolution as an artist? Do you find habits and rituals to be helpful or do you feed off of chaos and unpredictability? I enjoyed discussing this topic with my guest, Jose Trujillo as he opened up and shared how practicing gratitude has impacted him on his creative journey. I have also found a lot of benefit out of practicing gratitude and think artists like you will be able to connect with the positive impact that these habits can create. Jose talks about this practice as grounding him and helping him through the ups and downs of his career as an artist. Have you experienced this same grounding experience?

Outline of This Episode

[1:50] I introduce my guest, Jose Trujillo.
[3:00] Jose talks about how he got started as an artist.
[5:00] Marketing and presenting artwork.
[9:00] Jose talks about pricing his work.
[13:30] Jose describes his artwork.
[19:00] The impact of technology in the art community.
[27:00] Finding channels that can help your artwork succeed.
[29:00] What is the ‘Game?”

Support the show

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

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