Savvy Painter Podcast with Antrese Wood

Latest Episodes:

Discover Your Passion in Life, with Deborah Paris Jun 22, 2017

Show notes

Have you discovered your passion in life? What is that one thing that lights you up like nothing in the world can? Imagine going through life without realizing or experiencing your passion in a consistent way. Deborah Paris realized one day that she wasn’t following her passion in life. From that moment on she set out to make a change in her career and focus on what really mattered to her. She went from a career practicing law to connecting with her desire to become an artist. Deborah’s message to people unsure of their future and career is to follow your passion. Don’t let another day go by without taking the steps to really engage in what matters to you.

A Reaction Beyond Words

Can you think of the most powerful response to your artwork that you’ve ever received? Some artists have a few of these interactions to choose from and others haven’t had any notable reactions at all. In my time interviewing artists, it really does vary - there doesn’t seem to be a pattern to how people respond. In my recent conversation with artist Deborah Paris, she shared with me a particularly notable reaction she received to someone who purchased her artwork. This reaction was so strong, the individual couldn’t even speak and put into words the emotion she was experiencing. To me, that is a beautiful story. There are times we experience beauty in this world that no words can do justice describing.

Easing into a Workflow

How do you approach your daily or weekly work patterns? Do you jump right in and find that the creative juices start flowing right away or do you find that you need some time to prepare and ease into your workflow? I had the great opportunity to sit down with artist, Deborah Paris as she opened up about how she approaches her workload each day. Deborah’s approach is to tackle the simple things first and then build up to the more challenging aspects of her day and the work that she is creating. To see the amazing products of Deborah’s workflow, make sure to catch images of her work at the end of this post!

Sharing Wisdom with Others

If you were to write a book, what would the subject be? What topic do you have the experience and wisdom on to share with the world? That seems like a very bold and out there question but like the life of an artist, a writer has to create from the core of their being. My guest, Deborah Paris is writing a book about her journey of discovering her passion in life. She told me that she doesn’t want to write another “How to Book” but maybe a “Why to Book…” Inviting others along that journey of discovering what they were meant to do in this life. I’m looking forward to Deborah’s book and think you will too!

Enjoying the Work

You’ve heard that old saying; “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” Have you found this saying to be true in your life? Do really love what you do day in and day out? Artist, Deborah Paris is just now getting to experience this truth in her life. She started her professional career practicing law but then pivoted to her dedicating her focus to a career in art. The transition wasn’t a perfect one but it helped Deborah really understand what she was meant to do. If you are struggling in finding your path when it comes to a career as an artist, I know Deborah's story will resonate with you.

Outline of This Episode

[1:20] My introduction to my guest, Deborah Paris.
[3:00] How Deborah got her start as an artist.
[7:00] Deborah talks about making the shift from a law career to an art career.
[9:30] Skills that helped from Deborah’s law career.
[17:00] Memorable responses to Deborah's work.
[22:50] What does Deborah look for in a subject for her paintings?
[31:00] Deborah’s process for painting.
[36:00] Does Deborah plan several steps ahead or just respond as inspiration comes?
[39:00] I talk abou

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Finding Your Artistic Voice, with Nancy Gruskin Jun 15, 2017

Show notes

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

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The Art of Being Present, with Joseph Todorovitch Jun 08, 2017

Show notes

What does “Being present” mean to you? Do you find that it is easy or difficult to be present in your studio time? With the cacophony of noise and distractions in our world, to be is present and in the moment could be considered an act of defiance. Artist Joseph Todorovitch is dedicated to honing in on what it means to be present with his artwork and to center on that place of stillness and focus. In our conversation, Joseph was open and transparent about his journey and how he finally found himself at a place where he is comfortable but still challenged.

What does it take to be a good draftsman?

The work of a draftsman is full of focus and clarity. It’s not an easy process that should be taken casually. I was curious what Joseph Todorvitch’s take would be when I asked him about the qualities and skill sets necessary to succeed as a draftsman. Joseph shared that it takes a particular type of motivation that comes from a desire to represent something faithfully. He also shared the importance of engaging in exploration and dedicated practice in the process as well. The two aspects of that Joseph ultimately highlights in our conversation is how critical it is to continue with a robust and thriving curiosity as well as a drive to be present and in the moment.

Slowing Down and Being Present

It takes a lot of dedication and practice to succeed in any given field of study. Malcolm Gladwell is famous for having written that it takes about 10,000 hours of practice to become masterful at a particular discipline. In our conversation, Artist Joseph Todorovitch shares what he would like to impart to his students as he tries to convey what it means to be a dedicated artist. Ultimately it comes down to the ability of the student to be patient with the process and put in the time to get their work finished. In our society, we want to move things along at a breakneck pace but Joseph teaches the necessity of slowing down and being present.

Healthy body, Healthy mind

The connection between our physical healthiness and the state of our creative mind can sometimes get downplayed. But the truth is, there is a huge link between how healthy and active an artist is and how they feel creatively. Artist Joseph Todorovitch is convinced that his ability to push himself creatively in the studio is due to the fact that he starts his day working out and pushing himself physically. This practice is part of his effort to clear out all the noise, once he has had his workout Joseph is much more focused on being present in the studio. Because of the power he’s found in this practice, Joseph encourages his peers and those coming up in the art community to make sure they take the time to care for their physical health which can only help the creative process.

Advice for New Artists

A huge advantage for many artists starting out in today’s art scene is the ability to tap into the insight and advice from artists who have been on the scene longer. With many artist writing books, giving lectures, and interviews the opportunities are endless. Into this plethora of voices offering their advice is Joseph Todorovitch. Joseph wants to help new artists get a good head start in their career. He suggests that these artists starting off consider their work ethic, work habits, and the materials they work with day in and day out. You can tell that Joseph has given these subjects great thought from his vantage point in his career as an artist thus far.

Outline of This Episode

[0:10] My introduction to today’s guest, Joseph Todorovitch.
[2:00] How Joseph started down the path to becoming an artist.
[5:00] Early influences from other artists.
[9:00] Joseph’s post-college path.
[16:30] What it takes to be a good draftsman.
[21:30] Concepts that Joseph would like to impart to his students.
[30:30] Facing challenges along the way.
[36:

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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
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Embracing the Unknown, with Lani Irwin Jun 01, 2017

Show notes

Some artists love to tell a very intentional and direct story with their artwork, and some focus on embracing the unknown. Artist Lani Irwin has a fascinating relationship with her paintings and their seeming tension of embracing the known and embracing the unknown. Lani’s work is very focused when it comes to the shapes and figures she creates but the unknown comes in when you step back and look for an underlying narrative or dialogue in her work, it’s not there. Lani likes to revel in the fact that her work embraces this tension, you can’t pin it down, you can’t define exactly what she is trying to say. Sometimes Lani wishes she had a story to tell in her paintings, and sometimes she loves the fact that there is nothing to tell.

Letting the Painting Speak

Many artists come to the canvas with an idea in mind and let it evolve over time or they just bring to life that original idea that existed in their head. Lani Irwin doesn’t go to the canvas with an idea in mind, rather she starts with a gesture or an object, or even a series of objects and she lets them speak to her. From that point, inspiration ebbs and flows as she listens to what the painting wants. The way Lani describes her process is fascinating and almost like a whirlwind because things will change very quickly as she listens to and adapts her approach to the painting. As she described her process, I was instantly transported to her studio and I could image this process unfolding and I hope you get that sense too. Make sure to catch images of her artwork included at the end of this post!

Every Step Revealing the Artist

Sometimes we can get so keyed into figuring out what that one moment or that one inspiration is that led someone down the path they chose. To be fair, there are many artists and other professionals that can clearly point to a moment of inspiration that acted as a catalyst for them on their career trajectory. Then there are artists like Lani Irwin who look back and find that it wasn’t just one moment that led to her decision to become an artist. For Lani, it's a compilation of events, ideas, and impulses that have guided her journey, she looks back at every step and sees it as an arrival.

Quality over Quantity

Even though her advice for younger artists might be geared around encouraging them to spend a lot of time in the studio, Lani Irwin has found that her time is now better spent with intense focus and precision. She finds that in order to maximize her time in the studio she needs to build up to it, honing all of her creative inspirations into that moment. One way Lani does this is by simply folding a paper crane before she goes into the studio, she does this as a meditative practice that centers her and brings her inspiration and focus.

Work Hard and Know Your Voice

There are many pressures placed on art students in the current industry climate. They tend to feel a very acute pressure to build a body of work and make a big splash in the art world. But for many, that seems hopelessly out of reach and a massive burden to bear. Artist Lani Irwin encourages young artists to put in the hard work and long hours, not only to produce a large body of work but to refine and master their craft. She also stresses the need for young artists to really understand who they are and what their artistic “Voice” will be.

Outline of This Episode

[0:45] My introduction to today’s guest, Lani Irwin.
[2:30] Lani talks about how she started to become an artist.
[7:00] The impact that moving from place to place had on Lani.
[12:00] Why did Lani decide to settle in Italy?
[15:00] Lani talks about her artwork.
[27:00] What narrative or dialogue exists in Lani’s work?
[33:00] Knowing and Unknowing in Lani’s paintings.
[38:30] Lani’s time in the studio.
[48:30] The thread that runs through Lani’s work and how she’s cha

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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
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Art Writer: John Seed May 25, 2017

Show notes

John Seed is an art writer, art and art history professor, and an artist in his own right. In our conversation we discuss his formative experience learning under Nathan Oliveira, his time working in galleries, what it was like hanging paintings by renowned artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Eric Fischl, and so much more. It was an honor to speak with such a gracious and talented artist and writer, I know you will have a great time learning about his progression from art teacher to art writer as well as all the great insights and lessons he has to share from his years in the art world.

From Art Teacher to Art Writer

It’s been said that every step we take in life is one of arrival. To hear John Seed explain how he found his way from being captivated with art at a young age, to working in art galleries, then teaching art and finally to writing about the subject is an engrossing story. Though each step along the way you really get the sense that John was meant to tell the story of artists because of his deep respect and genuine fascination with the creative process. If you are anything like me, spending time with John’s story will help fan the flames of creativity and passion for the art that you were meant to create.

John’s First Assignment as an Art Writer

Have you ever had on of those moments where it seems that the stars aligned to set you on a particular course? When I heard John Seed describe his first assignment as an art writer it seemed like a date with destiny type of encounter. John shares how he found a painting at a thrift store that grabbed his attention, he purchased the painting and proceeded to sell it on Ebay for a modest profit. It turns out that the buyer on Ebay was a private art dealer - John and this individual struck up a friendship. Soon after, this art dealer paid John $1000 to write an article about a well known artist in Hawaii who committed suicide at a young age. Over the course of the next year, John wrote an in depth article that ended up winning the Society of Professional Journalists Award for the best art article published in Hawaii that year.

Leaving a Legacy as an Art Writer

We all want to leave some sort of mark on the world. Most of us want the world to have been a better place because of the art we’ve created and the way we’ve treated others. Each one of us has to find that unique legacy that we want to leave behind. John Seed’s legacy rests primarily but not exclusively in his work as an art writer and an art teacher. He relishes in the fact that he has been able to have an impact on his art students in a similar manner that teachers like Nathan Oliveira had on him as a young student. But when John thinks of his legacy, he goes to his writing. He wants his impact to revolve around the public understanding and appreciating representational painters and other artists he knows who aren’t getting the type of exposure to the general public that he’d like to see.

Tips for Artists who want to tell their story

Many artists love to express their personal story through their artwork. As beautiful and symbolic as that expression can be, more and more artists are seeking to share their personal story through the written word. Art writer John Seed wants to help artists express themselves through the exercise of writing their story. John suggests that artists start by sharing their story on their websites. This can be done in big ways and in subtle ways depending on the comfort level of the artist. John also encourages artists to spend time with other artists and interview them to hear other artists tell their stories in their own words.

Outline of This Episode

[0:15] My introduction to today’s guest, John Seed.
[1:30] John shares how he started getting involved with art.
[8:30] Lessons John learned studying under Nathan Oliveira.
[18:00] John’s journey to start writing about art.

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. ❤️

Layered Paintings, with Chris Liberti May 18, 2017

Show notes

I’ve always been intrigued by layered paintings. I don’t know if you’ve had that same draw but there is something about the textures and the grooves that draw you in and makes you wonder why the artist added that piece or that mark in a way that is unique in its own right. My guest, Chris Liberti has a similar draw and fascination with layered paintings. In our conversation, Chris describes why the layered effect has such an influence in his work. I also share how it connects to a personal story in my life.

Connecting artwork to a personal space

Do you have a favorite place you like to work on your art besides the studio environment? What is it about that place that resonates with you in a way no other place does? Artist Chris Liberti shared with me that one of his favorite places to go and paint is in his parent's basement. Didn’t see that coming did you? The way Chris describes this space and why he likes to go back and paint a particular utility sink is really touching. As he describes what that artwork and that space meant to him, I was instantly transported to that location. I have a feeling that Chris’ story and the way he looks at his artwork will resonate with artist like you.

Preparing for a Gallery Show

I’m sure many artists like you wonder if your habits and processes for preparing for a gallery show are similar to other artists or if YOU are the weird one. Luckily, I caught my guest Chris Liberti in the middle of his process preparing for an upcoming gallery show. Chris was kind enough to indulge my questions about how he prepares and what he likes to do to get his work and himself personally ready for the sometimes herculean feat of showing his work. I found it fascinating to get a peek into Chris’ process and I know you will enjoy it too!

Working through the artistic process

I know many artists will resonate with that famous line from a U2 song “I still haven’t found what I’m looking for…” That seems to be an accurate description when discussing the artistic process and understanding what an artist is trying to connect with or convey with their artwork. Chris Liberti discussed with me how he focuses on the colors he uses and how he lets them sort of “Speak” to him along the way as he is creating his artwork. You’ve got to hear how Chris talks about his process, it’s fascinating and unique, also don’t miss examples of Chris’ fabulous work at the end of this post below.

Parenting as an Artist

There are many different aspects of an artist that gets drawn out when they become a parent. I’ve had the pleasure of talking to both mothers and father who are artists and each brings a very unique and fascinating perspective on how parenting has influenced and even changed their approach to their artwork. Chris Liberti has two little girls and in our conversation, he touches on their influence in his artwork as well as how being a parent has shaped his time and his perspective. It was intriguing to hear from yet another parent who incorporates their artwork and their time with their children work in a balanced way.

Outline of This Episode

[0:35] My introduction to today’s guest, Chris Liberti.
[4:00] What inspires and drives Chris as an artist?
[7:30] Chris talks about working in his studio and how he starts a project.
[12:00] Artwork that Chris is particularly attached to.
[15:00] Chris talks about the layered effect of his paintings.
[20:00] Mediums Chris uses.
[24:00] Projects Chris is currently working on.
[27:30] How Chris prepares for a gallery showing.
[34:30] Artists that have influenced Chris.
[37:20] What is Chris trying to convey or connect with in his work?
[44:00] How being a parent has influenced Chris’ work.

Other artists mentioned on this episode

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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 Spirituality, with Dozier Bell May 11, 2017

Show notes

When most people think of art and spirituality, they think of religious art. But what if there was a more subtle approach to art and spirituality that subverts the more common public expectations? Dozier Bell creates wonderful works of art that often convey a sense of “Presence.” She doesn’t feel the need to overtly draw the viewer's attention to the concept of God, rather she creates in a way that resonates with her spiritual experience and the way she sees the world. Once you get the chance to see Dozier’s artwork you will get a feel for the concept that she tries to convey, make sure to view some selections of her work at the end of this post.

Fitting into a new environment

Have you ever wanted to travel to a new location and get rooted into a new culture? Imagine the impact that would have on your worldview and artistic development. Dozier Bell had always wanted to spend time abroad expanding her skills and knowledge along with her creative pursuits. She finally got the chance when she was awarded a Fulbright scholarship and traveled to Germany in the mid 90’s. This experience had a profound impact on Dozier. She spoke at length with me about what it was like fitting into a new environment and gaining new creative inspirations along the way. This also happened to be the time in Dozier’s life where she taped into an exploration of art and spirituality.

Missing the Mystery in Art

The most beautiful aspect of art can be described as expressing through images what cannot be expressed through words. This is the wonderful and mysterious space of creative expression. Artist Dozier Bell revels in this sense of wonder and mystery. In fact, she believes these aspects of mystery and wonder are fading in an art world that increasingly trains students to have an articulated answer to what they’ve created. Dozier encourages artists to connect or reconnect to that sense of mystery, to truly explore it and resist the urge to define and quantify it.

Finding Your Voice as an Artist

One of the most difficult things to do as an artist is to find your “Voice.” You can learn many different techniques and find yourself influenced by other artists, but at the end of the day, you need to discover your unique artistic voice. Dozier Bell recounts an episode from her time in graduate school where she struggled to clarify what her voice would become. She talks about how grateful she is to a mentor who helped her see that she was spending time going in the wrong direction creatively. Dozier’s thoughts and insights into what it means to find your voice as an artist are very authentic and relatable, it was a pleasure to have such a candid conversation with her.

Facing “Painter’s Block”

Just as many writers tackle “Writer’s block” in different ways, various painters have their own methods to deal with “Painter’s block.” Some find it helpful to get an external perspective, while others find it helpful to plot away and stay faithful to the process, and others still consume a lot of chocolate. Artist Dozier Bell recently faced her own episode of painter’s block and she took the time to discuss that experience with me in our conversation. If you’ve struggled with this experience in the past, you might find our conversation encouraging and helpful.

Outline of This Episode

[0:30] My introduction to today’s guest, Dozier Bell.
[2:00] Dozier talks about the beginning of her art career.
[3:40] How Dozier’s time in Germany impacted her.
[19:30] Dozier talks about her spiritual journey and how it impacts her art.
[28:00] Losing a sense of mystery.
[33:00] How Dozier develops a motif.
[36:30] Dozier talks about finding her “voice.”
[43:30] Dealing with getting “stuck.”

Other artists mentioned on this episode

Hercules

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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
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Experiencing Artist’s Block, with Jason Cytacki May 04, 2017

Show notes

Have you ever struggled with “Artist’s block?” We’ve all heard about how difficult and frustrating “Writer’s block” can be for an author who is used to having the words flow out on the page, but do artists ever face a similar difficulty? Jason Cytacki is a talented artist and educator who bravely opens up about his difficulty facing artist’s block at a particular chapter in his career. Jason’s transparency, honesty, and ultimately hopeful perspective are a breath of fresh air. I had a wonderful time discussing his work, personal journey, and everything in between.

Art Inspired by the American West

Often many artists are inspired by things that impacted them as children or early in their life. For some artists it’s the ocean, for others it’s human faces, other still it’s landscapes, and on and on we could go. For Jason Cytacki one aspect of his childhood that has inspired his artwork is the entertainment genre of westerns. This inspiration has led to Jason creating some amazing pieces of art that incorporate that tv and movie genre and even comment on it. The way Jason describes his relationship to the American West and the western genre is intriguing and I know you will appreciate his unique and creative perspective. Make sure to catch images of his work at the end of this post!

Exploring Artist’s block

Have you ever been stuck? Whether it’s getting stuck relationally, geographically, or professionally, it really sucks. What lessons have you learned from those occurrences in your life? Jason Cytacki goes right to the heart of this difficult and personal subject for many creative individuals. He talks about a chapter in his career when he faced a professional crossroads and he really couldn’t figure out which way to go. Jason goes on to describe this feeling of being in a new setting and almost having to rediscover his creative inspiration. Eventually what helped Jason work through this experience of artist’s block was getting an external perspective from people he trusted like his wife. If you’ve ever faced this frustrating experience, I think that you will find Jason’s story encouraging.

Compound Growth as an Artist

You’ve heard of the financial concept of “compound interest” but what about the artistic concept of “compound growth?” Do skill and creativity grow over time in steady increments in a similar fashion that interest grows in an investment account? In our conversation, my guest Jason Cytacki and I discuss the role of technical and creative growth and development over the course of an artist’s career. We both look back and chart how we’ve grown and how the concept of compound growth is one that rarely gets discussed in many artist circles.

Hard work and Persistence that pays off

There are a lot of opinions out there that go back and forth on the topic of “success” and the artist. Whether you land more on the “luck” side of the debate or on the “hard work” side of the debate, it’s helpful to hear from artists themselves and how they describe their journey. Getting their perspective on the subject grants unique insight into how they view their work and their place in the art community. My guest, Jason Cytacki spent time in our conversation to explain how he views the role of hard work and persistence in relation to his journey toward success.

Outline of This Episode

[1:30] My introduction to today’s guest, Jason Cytacki.
[2:20] Jason talks about how he got his start as an artist.
[10:00] Challenges when approaching the canvas.
[15:00] Jason talks about his work inspired by the American West.
[23:40] Memorable responses to Jason’s art work.
[29:00] Facing “Artist's block.”
[37:00] Compound growth and getting an external perspective.
[41:00] Art work from a living artist that Jason would love to own.
[42:00] Hardwork and persistence are key to Jason’s success.

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. ❤️

Women Painting Women, with Alia El-Bermani Apr 27, 2017

Show notes

Why don’t we see more women painting women? The subject of some of the best paintings and sculptures throughout history has been the female form. However, the majority of those works of art have been created by men. This has led to a distinct bias in how women are portrayed in an artistic fashion. My guest, Alia El-Bermani hopes to change that portrayal and give the power of female representation back to women artists! "Women Painting Women" explores how contemporary women painters are handling women as subjects. The blog was founded by artists Alia El-Bermani, Diane Feissel and Sadie Valeri. Check out the link to the blog in the “Resources” section at the end of this post!

Lessons learned as an artist working in a gallery

You’ve heard the perspective of gallery owners on this website before. I’ve had the fortune of interviewing some AMAZING gallery owners. In this conversation, there is a little bit of a twist on the gallery perspective. My guest, Alia El-Bermani spent some time early in her career working in an art gallery. Given this unique perspective as an artist having worked in an art gallery, Alia shared with me some key lessons she learned from her time working there. One lesson that she shares is the realization that it truly is a two-sided relationship between the artist and the gallery. Too often the perception is that of a one sided relationship but that wasn’t what Alia observed. She generously shares more insights from her time in the gallery over our wide-ranging conversation.

Unique Challenges Faced by Women

Women have a uniquely different experience in the workplace than men. They have to fight and claw their way to earn the same type of recognition and respect that their male counterparts enjoy. My guest, Alia El-Bermani and I discuss the different treatment that we’ve experienced in the art world because of our gender. Our goal was, to be honest, and open with how we’ve been treated and to shed a light on the uniquely difficult career trajectory that women face in the art industry. It’s not always easy to be so open and transparent but my hope is that it will be beneficial and informative for followers like you!

Following the path of artistic inspiration

What do origami, snowflakes, and painting have in common? Strange combination right? For my guest, Alia El-Bermani the answer is; inspiration. All three of these creations ended up influencing Alia one day to embark on a new art project. She followed her creative impulse and asked for artists in her community to mail her paper snowflakes, like the ones you made in school as a kid. This idea came to her after playing with an origami kit that one of her children had laying around the house. The product of Alia’s experiment is fascinating, I have been blown away and inspired by her story and I hope you will be too!

Personal Value and Art Value

One of the common missteps that younger artists can tend to make is to shy away from putting a value on their artwork. The other side of that is usually falling for the comparison trap by seeing if they measure up to successful artists that they admire. My guest, Alia El-Bermani faced these difficulties early on in her art career. As she looks back, she wants to encourage artists of all walks to really own and appreciate their story. Alia also stresses the need for artists to feel free to confidently make a living by selling their art.

Outline of This Episode

[0:45] My introduction to today’s guest, Alia El-Bermani.
[2:50] Alia’s decision to become an artist.
[6:40] The post-college career path.
[10:00] Lessons learned working in an art gallery.
[15:00] Women painting women.
[22:30] Unique challenges faced by women.
[31:50] Alia’s studio schedule.
[35:30] Incorporating paper into the painting process.
[46:00] Advice Alia would give to her younger self.

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Personal Art, with Julyan Davis Apr 20, 2017

Show notes

You know that art that you love to make, that personal art that you know won’t sell in galleries? Don’t be discouraged, you aren’t alone! My guest Julyan Davis has a personal collection of art that he makes for himself. This is his way of separating his personal art from what he knows will sell on the marketplace. In our conversation we talk about creating art that no one will ever see, making deep personal connections, professional habits, personal promotion and much more. Julyan also tells the fascinating story of how he made his way from growing up in England to establishing himself as an artist in the American South that you won’t want to miss!

Art that no one will ever see

Would you still make art if no one could ever see it? That’s a difficult and fascinating question. Julyan Davis and I discuss our own answers to this question. It raises an important point, especially with the way that Julyan separates his art. Because of his style and the way that he likes to experiment, Julyan has created two different categories for his art, the personal art, and the public art. He describes two reasons for this separation. One reason is financial because he knows that a lot of his personal art won’t fit with what many collectors are looking for. The second reason for the separation is that the artwork is personal, he makes it for himself.

Making deep connections

In our hyperconnected world, one thing that can get easily left behind is deep and meaningful connections with those around us. The internet with all its wonderful social media brilliance can give us a false sense of personal connection. As artists, we can tend to suffer from this a bit more acutely than others because of our private and at times isolating creative process. Artist Julyan Davis discusses this tendency with me and how he’s taken steps to ensure that he connects relationally with people around him. If you’ve struggled with your sometimes isolating life as an artist, I know this conversation with Julyan will be helpful.

1 key to success and growth as an artist; Habit

There is no one right way or formula for success that will work for every artist. You have to find what works for you. Often one of the best ways to find your own path is to hear how others have found theirs. Julyan Davis goes through his typical day in the studio and explains that regularly practiced habits have contributed to his own growth and success. He has also created self-imposed deadlines that help him stay focused and on schedule. The last piece of insight that Julyan shares is how he pushes himself to learn about subjects that challenge him. Hearing how Julyan has grown as an artist over the years inspired me and I hope it has that same effect on you too!

Promote Your Art

With so many “Done for you” solutions out there in the marketplace for small business owners, one key aspect can get left behind, self-promotion. As an artist, you’ve got to promote yourself and your artwork. You can’t rely on “Being discovered.” You have to get out there and be your best advocate. This doesn’t mean you have to be egotistical and self-centered about it. If you’ve created something from your heart, a part of your story you want to share with the world then go for it! Artist Julyan Davis is a huge fan of this direct approach and he encourages as many artists as he can to adopt it.

Outline of This Episode

[0:45] My introduction today’s guest, Julyan Davis.
[2:30] Julyan’s start in his art career.
[4:20] Early artistic influences for Julyan.
[7:00] Julyan talks about visiting the American South in the 80’s.
[14:00] The decision to stay and put down roots in America.
[16:00] How Julyan established himself as an artist in a new country.
[19:00] Making art to show but not necessarily to sell.
[24:30] Why did Julyan land in the South? How important is location t

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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. ❤️

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