Savvy Painter Podcast with Antrese Wood

Latest Episodes:

Collage Work & Mixed Media Art, with Lorette Luzajic Nov 09, 2017

Show notes

Have collage work and other forms of mixed media art been a part of your artistic journey? What influence have different forms of artistic expression had on your development as an artist? I had the pleasure to sit down with the wonderfully talented mixed media artist, Lorette Luzajic. In our conversation we discussed her journey as an artist, how she got her start creating mixed media art, how literature has impacted her journey, and much more! Lorette brings a fascinating and unique experience that I know artists like you will appreciate. Don’t forget to check out images of Lorette’s artwork located at the end of this post!

Discovering a Career as a Visual Artist

What led to your career as an artist? How did you become convinced that art would become the work that you would end up dedicating your life to practicing? Was it intentional or an accident? My guest, Lorette Luzajic opened up in our conversation and shared how she came to discover and embrace her path as a visual artist. Lorette was firmly on the path to becoming a writer and had dedicated much of her education toward this goal when she fell in love with visual arts. To hear Lorette tell how she got started with visual arts is inspiring. Believe it or not, it all started with a desire to learn and then create tarot cards. I hope you find Lorette’s story as captivating as I did!

A Joyous Encounter with Art

One of my very favorite questions to ask an artist is if they’ve had any memorable reactions to their artwork. Have you had any unique reactions to your artwork? Have you found yourself reacting to other artist's creations in a particularly noteworthy way? I put this question to my guest Lorette Luzajic and as usual, I got a fascinating story in response. She tells the story of when she presented her work at an outdoor art festival that featured an odd creature. The image she created drew the attention of a nearby two-year-old child. This child was enamored with the creature that Lorette created and ended up with a joyous encounter with her artwork. This story definitely tops the list of notable reactions, I’m so glad Lorette shared this story!

Keep Pressing Forward, Don’t Give Up!

How do you stay motivated when things don’t seem to be going your way in your career? Do you find yourself spiraling downward? What helps to break you out of a funk and get back on track? My guest, Lorette Luzajic was candid in our conversation and shared how she has pushed through difficult situations to remain motivated and determined to succeed. Lorette recalled an encounter she had with another artist where they explained that if their work impacted one person, that it would be worth it. Ultimately, we create art because we resonate with the creative process and what it does in us.

Organization is KEY

What steps have you taken to become more organized as an artist? What role has organization played in your journey as an artist? While artists are typically portrayed as cluttered and unfocused, that’s not necessarily a fair depiction. In our conversation my guest, Lorette Luzajic shared with me how vital a role organization has played as she has evolved over the years as an artist. It took her some time to figure it out but once Lorette was able to move away from procrastination to embrace a more regimented and focused approach she saw her artwork flourish. What can you learn from Loretta's story?

Outline of This Episode

[1:50] I introduce my guest, Lorette Luzajic
[3:00] Lorette shares how she got started as an artist.
[9:00] How does Lorette’s writing intersect with her art?
[10:30] Memorable responses to Lortette’s work.
[12:30] Overcoming fears and disappointments.
[15:00] Where does Lorette’s inspiration come from? How does she begin a project?
[22:00] Lorette talks about her studio process and archival considerations.
[25:30] Doe

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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. ❤️

Finding the Freedom to Create Your Art, with Lynn Whipple Nov 02, 2017

Show notes

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.

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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 and Business, with Katherine Sandoz Oct 26, 2017

Show notes

One of the most pressing topics on the minds of many artists these days is the role of art and business. This subject can lead to heated debates about the difference between making “Pure art” and art for profit. What is your opinion on this subject? Is there room for nuance and flexibility on this subject? My guest, Katherine Sandoz provides a helpful perspective on the role of art and business. In our conversation, we also discuss Katherine’s artwork, lessons she has learned as an art teacher, her use of mixed media art, how to approach art you dislike, and much more! I know that artists like you will enjoy the unique perspective that Katherine brings.

Lessons Learned as an Art Teacher

How can teaching concepts, theories, and subjects shape the way you think about them? Have you had an experience where conveying the topic has made you look at it in a new light? Artist and educator Katherine Sandoz was kind enough to open up about this subject with me in our conversation. Hearing from Katherine, you can really get the sense that teaching art has had an impact on the way she interprets and even reconsiders some of the topics she presents to her students. I was honored to get such an honest and transparent take from Katherine on this subject and I hope you find her insights and candor as stimulating as I have!

The Role of Art and Business

Does there need to be a defined and hard-line in the sand between “Pure art” and art made for profit? What is the right approach to the role of art and business? Could it be that a hard-line approach to this topic is unproductive and unhelpful? My guest, Katherine Sandoz shared her thoughts on this subject with me during our conversation. Katherine believes that a more balanced approach is necessary when we discuss art and business. She sees things existing more on a spectrum meaning, as, with a diverse array of types of art, there also exists a range of avenues where profit can come into play. What has contributed to your opinion on this subject? Do you agree with Katherine?

Using Mixed Media Art

Have you experimented with mixed media art? Is it still part of your regular pattern of creation and exploration? How can playing with other mediums expand and enrich your primary mode of creative output? Artist Katherine Sandoz started to utilize mixed media art primarily as a way to stay busy. Because you can’t paint effectively or on a large scale in a moving vehicle, Katherine found her way to experimenting with quilting and stitching as a way to exercise her creative expressions while she travels with her family. Katherine uses this example to explain why she encourages her students and as many artists as she can that the present is the best time to start practicing your craft with any means possible. Don’t hesitate and kick the can down the road! Does Katherine’s story resonate with you?

How to Approach Art that Doesn’t Connect with You

What is your reaction to artwork that doesn’t connect with you? Is there a constructive and beneficial way to respond to art that we don’t necessarily like? Could it be that the old adage is true, “If you don’t have something nice to say, say nothing at all?” My guest, Katherine Sandoz was quick to explain her take on this topic. Katherine says that there is a reason why we don’t like certain works of art and if we can communicate that reason to ourselves and others what we feel isn’t working that we’ll both be better for it in the long run. What is your opinion on Katherine’s perspective?

Outline of This Episode

[1:35] I introduce my guest, Katherine Sandoz.
[3:00] How did Katherine get started as an artist?
[5:00] Lessons learned as an art teacher.
[11:30] A blossoming art career and starting a family.
[15:30] Katherine describes her artwork and her process.
[22:30] What caused Katherine to branch out to mixed media art?

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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. ❤️

Light and Art, with Peter Fiore Oct 19, 2017

Show notes

The relationship between light and art is a beautiful and nuanced one. You can really tell when an artist has a deep passion and knowledge of how to use light in innovative and unique ways. My guest, Peter Fiore is an expert when it comes to experimenting with light in his artwork. In our conversation, we discuss his fascination with nature, his artistic process, why he uses music in the studio, the importance of fighting back fear, and much more! Our conversation takes a lot of twists and turns but I know artists like you will get a lot of enjoyment from Peter’s depth of experience.

Embracing a Fascination with Nature

What is your relationship with nature like? Do you find a significant level of inspiration and creativity well up when you are in the wilderness? Or is it the city and an urban environment that fires you up and excites you? My guest, Peter Fiore has a deep love and appreciation for nature. In fact, this love for the wilderness caused him to move out of the city and into a more quiet and serene setting. Peter described for me how much this move impacted his creative process and how connecting with nature resonates with him on a spiritual level. To hear Peter talk about his area and the beauty and creativity it draws out of him can be quite moving. What can you learn from Peter’s articulation? Where do you tap into that source of creativity?

The Role of Music in the Creative Process

Have you ever been moved by a song? Seriously, think about it. There seems to be an interesting divide on this issue among the general public. Some people love music and the way it intensifies their thoughts and feelings, then there are others who don’t feel particularly strong about it. Artist Peter Fiore definitely falls in the camp that loves music. He enjoys music so much that he has incorporated it into his creative process. You’ve got to hear him describe how he feels and reacts when he turns on Beethoven in his studio as he goes to work on his art projects. Does this resonate with you? If it’s not music, is there something that animates you when you are in your studio?

Pushing Fear Aside

What would your advice to young artists just starting out in their career? Maybe you are a young artist who is looking for helpful advice so you can learn from those who came before you. My guest, Peter Fiore was kind enough to open up and share some helpful wisdom that he received from his father that he wants to pass down to young artists including his own children. The primary advice that Peter shares is to never let your fears dictate the art that you make. As difficult as that advice can be to follow, I know that there is a lot of truth to that statement. Don’t let yourself be consumed with regret when you are older because you failed to push fear aside!

Creating Art from Passion

There seems to be a certain element that is almost indescribable when you see artwork that comes from a place deep in a person’s soul. Have you experienced that? Art that comes from a place of passion and creativity has a certain texture to it. Artist Peter Fiore wants to encourage artists like you to find that place where you can create your artwork from. Even if you can’t profit from your passion projects, it's really important to consider creating a space where you can exercise the creative pursuits that make you come alive. Peter shares this advice in light of his years of experience as an artist and I hope you can catch a glimpse of what he is trying to convey. Make sure to check out images of his artwork located at the end of this post!

Outline of This Episode

[1:50] I introduce my guest, Peter Fiore.
[4:00] How Peter got his start as an artist.
[12:30] Peter talks about his series on trees and a car crash he survived.
[17:00] A relationship with nature.
[20:00] Why is Peter so drawn to the subject of trees?
[26:30] Peter’s st

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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. ❤️

Symbolic Art, with Noah Buchanan Oct 12, 2017

Show notes

What do you think of when you hear the phrase “Symbolic Art?” Are there certain assumptions and presuppositions that come to mind when you think of that phrase? My guest, Noah Buchanan uses symbolism frequently in his artwork. He is attracted to images where there is a divine force or mythological reference. In our conversation, we discuss what drew him to become an artist in the first place, what emboldened him to create artwork on a large scale, surprising reactions he’s had to his paintings, and so much more! I know artists like you will enjoy hearing from Noah’s unique perspective. Don’t forget to check out images of his paintings located at the end of this post!

Inspired by Giants

Who helped usher you into the world of art? Was it a fantastic art teacher? A mentor or a family member? What was it that captured your imagination and fueled your creativity? My guest, Noah Buchanan was fortunate to have a stellar art teacher who encouraged their students to marvel at and become inspired by the work of artistic giants like Albrecht Dürer and Michelangelo. It’s amazing how the passion and empowerment by one person and change the course of someone’s life. Who is that person for you? Do you think you’ll ever have that kind of impact on some else’s creative journey?

Working On a Large Scale

Have you ever taken your work to a large scale? I’m talking 80 inches by 62 inches LARGE. Needless to say, work on that scale is striking, to say the least. My guest, Noah Buchanan was kind enough to open up about his current project that fits that exact dimension. The figures he has created in that work are actually life-sized, which is impressive. Noah’s project is inspired by a recent trip to New York where he saw the work of 17th-century French painter, Valentin de Boulogne showcased. The sheer scale and grandeur of Boulogne’s work captured Noah’s imagination. You’ve got to hear him describe it, he takes you right there to the exhibit in New York. You can also catch images of Noah’s current project at the end of this post.

Surprising Reactions

All artists want their work to evoke something within the viewer. What reactions do you think your work evokes in others? Are there notable reactions that you’ve received from other regarding your artwork? Artist Noah Buchanan has on occasion created paintings for the Catholic Church. Having created artwork that would be displayed in such a sacred and worshipful setting, Noah has received some unique responses, typically by email that are markedly different from the response to the artwork he typically shows in galleries. I hope you find Noah’s stories and insights as riveting as I did!

From Live Models to Using Photographs

Among many artists, this is a contentious issue; live models vs. using photographs. What side of the debate do you come down on? Have you always felt that way? Are you willing to hear the other side out? My guest, Noah Buchanan use to be staunchly in the camp opposed to using photographs as did I. In our conversation, we discuss what caused our opinion to change, why we embrace the use of photography, how the change has impacted our work, and more! Whichever side you find yourself on, I think it’s helpful for us as artists to really hear out and understand where the other side is coming from and appreciate the end result on its merits regardless.

Outline of This Episode

[1:45] I introduce my guest, Noah Buchanan.
[3:30] What led Noah to get started in painting?
[7:30] How does Noah choose his motifs?
[9:30] Noah talks about the project he is currently working on and it’s scale.
[19:30] Notable reactions from Noah’s work.
[24:00] Personal successes along the way.
[36:00] Noah describes his studio process & working from photographs vs. live models.
[44:00] Where does Noah get his models?
[49:00] What habit has beneficial for

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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 Role of An Artist in A New Technological Age, with Frank Lombardo Oct 05, 2017

Show notes

With headlines about plans to send people to Mars and other groundbreaking technological accomplishments, do you ever wonder, “What is the role of an artist in this new tech centric age?” This is one of many questions that my guest, Frank Lombardo ponders aloud with me in our conversation. Frank also opens up about how he became interested in art, what draws him to certain subjects, how he approaches galleries, and so much more! Frank has a fascinating perspective on the world and how artists bring out unique and valuable qualities to our society. I know artists like you are going to intrigued by our wide-ranging conversation.

The Role of An Artist

For so long, the role of an artist has been to help bring shape, image, and meaning to some of our culture’s most profound and mundane concepts. As we rapidly approach a new digital era that is starting to leave behind much of the old systems we’ve become accustomed to, what role can the artist hope to play in this radically new space? My guest, Frank Lombardo is at the point in his creative and personal journey where he has really started to consider this broader question. He hopes to see art continue to play a role in keeping our society grounded and rooted in the ways of poetry and aestheticism. Where do you think the role of the artist is heading?

Facing Setbacks and Pushing Forward

How do you respond when something you’ve poured your heart, soul, time, and resources into utterly fails? If you are anything like me, you can’t help but feel at the very least, that tinge of bitterness and disappointment. Is there anything to be learned or gained from these disappointments and setbacks that we all will inevitably face? Artist Frank Lombardo is no stranger to setbacks on his creative journey but he is convinced that there is something we can recover from encountering failure. In Frank’s case, he was able to come to a place where he could admit that he wasn’t getting where he wanted to go with a particular project. Once that happened, he was able to acknowledge what happened and move on, starting fresh with something new. What lessons can you learn from Frank’s story?

Approaching Galleries

One of the most difficult aspects of being an artist can be the process of promoting your work. Some artists take to it seemingly effortlessly, others find themselves constantly looking for ways to improve. Where do you land? My guest, Frank Lombardo shares his approach to promoting his work and holding himself to a preset plan. Frank’s goal is to approach one gallery or publication a day or do something that moves the ball forward for his artwork. This method really seems to motivate and keep Frank on track, what works for you? What can you take away from Frank’s approach?

On Colorblindness and Asking for Help

Is there an aspect of your workload that you need help with? It could be trouble with scheduling studio time or technical aspects of your art, or maybe for you, it comes down to promoting your artwork. What is holding you back from reaching out? In our conversation, Frank Lombardo was kind enough to discuss the topic of his colorblindness and how it has impacted the way he works in the studio. Frank says that after trying to overcome this difficulty with technology, he ultimately had to rely on help from others to better utilize his time in the studio. It was an honor to have someone as talented as Frank really open up about a sensitive subject. I am grateful for his candor and I hope you will find encouragement from his story.

Outline of This Episode

[1:50] I introduce my guest, Frank Lombardo.
[3:00] How did Frank move toward a career as an artist?
[9:30] Frank describes his artwork.
[11:00] Why is Frank drawn to the subject matter he chooses?
[21:00] Frank’s strategy for approaching galleries.
[25:30] What is Frank’s role in society as an artist?
[

Support the show

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

How to Sell Your Art Without Selling Out and More! With Maria Brophy Sep 28, 2017

Show notes

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

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. ❤️

The Process of Artistic Development, with Sally Strand Sep 21, 2017

Show notes

What really goes on behind the scenes when it comes to artistic development? Is it a straight path or are there a number of twists and turns along the way? What part of the process is active and what part of it is passive? My guest, Sally Strand opens up in our conversation about her journey and the process that led to her development as an artist over the last thirty years. Sally is open and transparent about the difficulties along the way but she is also quick to relish in the joy and beauty of the process as well. I know artists like you will get some helpful encouragement from Sally’s unique perspective.

Evolving As An Artist

How have you evolved as an artist over time? Has your artistic development been incremental or have you had specific moments that have shaped you along the way? There is no right answer to this question! Some artists make intentional shifts and some take the more gradual route. My guest, Sally Strand describes her development as more of a gradual process. The way she describes her past and how it slowly opened up to who she is as an artist today is fascinating! What will Sally’s story stir up in you? Let her story encourage and inspire you as you push forward on your journey!

Overcoming Challenges Along the Way

How do you react in difficult situations? What impact has that left on you as an artist? There are helpful lessons to be learned as we encounter difficulty and adversity on our creative journey. Sally Strand has learned that the best way to handle difficulty is to push forward and don’t let it bog you down or change you in a negative way. She also recounts a particularly difficult episode in her life where she struggled to understand what was happening in the world around her and how it would come to impact her artwork. I hope you find Sally’s perspective as captivating as I did!

Deciding What to Say “Yes” To

One of the most difficult aspects of the life of an artist is navigating your time as a friend or family member. You can feel like you are constantly torn between two worlds that you love deeply but you can’t inhabit simultaneously. How do you decide where to draw your lines? My guest, Sally Strand was kind enough to open up and explain how she works her way through this complicated and difficult area that all artists face at some point in their life. Sally’s method of dealing with this conflict is taking a moment to ask herself, “What can I not repeat?” This question allowed Sally to decide what moments in her life needed her attention and which ones could be accomplished at a later date.

Habits of a Successful Artist

What are the habits that have contributed to your success as an artist? Each one of us has a different spin on the answer to this question. As we continue to explore our artistic development, it can be immensely helpful to get the perspective of other artists, especially ones as experienced as Sally Strand. When it comes down to it, Sally says that scheduling her studio time and sticking to it has been a huge part of her journey of success as an artist. She doesn’t paint it as an easy task, but she does believe strongly that if you can commit to an appointed time and stick to it, creativity and inspiration have a high probability of making an appearance.

Outline of This Episode

[1:35] I introduce my guest, Sally Strand.
[3:00] Sally talks about her start as an artist.
[7:00] The struggle for meaning and purpose as an artist.
[9:00] The impact of travel on Sally’s development as an artist.
[14:00] Everyday life as a theme in art.
[17:00] Sally talks about her decision to go back to school.
[21:00] Evolving as an artist.
[27:30] Overcoming challenges as an artist.
[29:30] Deciding what to say “Yes” to.
[31:30] What does it mean to be a “Successful Artist?”
[36:30] Habits of a successful artist.

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. ❤️

Graffiti Art, Acrylic Painting, and more with Greg Simkins Sep 14, 2017

Show notes

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.

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The Future of Painting, with Burton Silverman pt. 2 Sep 07, 2017

Show notes

What is the future of painting? How will the next decade of painting stack up given the current trends compared to what’s come before? Is the painting community on a positive trajectory? Or do we need to make some course corrections? My guest, Burton Silverman joins me for part two of our conversation. Burt opens up about the impact of past artists, how he chooses his subjects, the future of painting, and so much more! Burt has such a depth of experience and knowledge I know you will find his insights and perspectives as fascinating as I did!

The Future of Painting

Do you have an idea of where the painting sector of the art community is headed? Does it leave you troubled or optimistic? I put this question to artist Burton Silverman and he provided a helpful and nuanced response. Burt used the word hopefully to describe his outlook and I found that really encouraging. He was also quick to add that he wants to see the future of painting push the bounds and really challenge the concept of authenticity that has been proclaimed as of late. I loved Burt’s take on our corner of the art community and hope that you find the hope and challenge as welcome as I did.

The Difference Between Style and Voice

What is the difference between an artist’s style and their voice? Is there a difference in your mind? How would you explain it? What illustrations would you give to describe it? Artist Burt Silverman explained how he sees the difference between style and voice in our conversation. Burt says that your style is the language by which your voice may or may not come through. He goes on to explain that if you change your language or your style, then your “voice” shifts and gets expressed with a different sound or accent to it. Burt really has a wonderful way with words and describing these complicated topics in a helpful and imaginative way.

Advice to Young Artists

What does it take to succeed as an artist? I’ve had just as many answers to this question as I have had guests to interview! Consider this, what would you say to someone who is just starting out on their journey as an artist? What do you think would be helpful advice for them to follow? Artist Burt Silverman struggled to answer this question because he is sensitive to the unique journey and circumstance of each artist. Having said that, he did manage to explain the importance of really knowing yourself and why artists should spend the time to plumb the depths of their interior and let that experience inform their art.

Seeing Without Observing

What skills are necessary for an artist to create meaningful works of art? Does it all rely on talent or is there something beyond the technical ability that makes for compelling and captivating art? Going back to the question of the future of painting and pairing it with the question about advice to young artists, Burt Silverman explained that we need more artists who practice the skill of observation. He used a wonderful line from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle that says, “You see but you do not observe.” Does that line resonate with you? I think that Burt hit the nail on the head and I hold out hope for the art world and for myself - may we observe more and more each day.

Outline of This Episode

[1:50] I introduce my guest, Burton Silverman.
[4:00] Burton and I discuss the lasting impact of bygone artists.
[8:20] How Burton chooses his subjects.
[15:00] What is the future of painting?
[22:40] Is there a difference between your style and your voice?
[32:30] What advice would Burt give to young artists?
[38:30] The problem of seeing without observing.

Other artists mentioned on this episode

Rembrandt
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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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