The SneakyArt Podcast

Ep 68 - Making your own Path with Jason Chatfield Oct 14, 2023

New York-based cartoonist and comedian Jason Chatfield talks about how the business of being an artist has changed over the last two decades. This episode is full of essential advice and our best ideas about sustaining an independent creative career. It is the conclusion of the conversation from Ep 67.

💡 Follow the good ideas and my mind-map from this episode.

📚 Buy Jason’s book, You’re not a Real Parent until…

📲 Check out Jason’s website to learn about all his work and sign up to his Substack.

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Ep 67 - Stand up & Sit down with Jason Chatfield Sep 23, 2023

New York-based cartoonist and comedian Jason Chatfield speaks about taking over Australia’s iconic daily comic strip, Ginger Meggs, at the tender age of 23, and how he sees the path ahead for syndicated comic strips and the newspaper industry.

Other topics include - the evolution of humour over time, not doing political comedy, Derrida, and people-watching at the MoMA. Big stuff. Also, the difference between meme-ification and mummification.

This is the first episode of a two-part conversation.

💡 For all the good links and ideas from this episode, to see the cheatsheet of this conversation, check out the shownotes.

📚 Buy Jason’s book, You’re not a Real Parent until…

📲 Check out Jason’s website to learn about all his work.

📪 Sign up to Jason’s Substack.

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Ep 66 - From Heart Attack to Renewal with Jeff Schmidt Aug 18, 2023

London-based educator, artist and author Jeff Schmidt, speaks about his book “Heart Attack - Finding hope, joy and inspiration in adversity”. This conversation is about the big and small things that can transform our life in unexpected ways, and Jeff’s resolution to live inspired - by making room for the things that bring joy to his life.

📚 Buy Jeff’s book, Heart Attack - Finding hope, joy and inspiration in adversity.

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Ep 65 - War and Not-War with Nina Khashchina Jul 28, 2023

California-based illustrator Nina Khashchina shares the experience of daily video calls with her parents in Kharkiv, after Ukraine was invaded and the bombs fell everyday. She speaks about recommitting to the Ukrainian language as part of her war effort. A wild book list appears.

This is the second of a two-part conversation.

🎙 Listen to the first part, Ep 64 Growing up in Ukraine w Nina Khaschina.

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💡 For all the good ideas from this episode, read the show notes.

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Ep 64 - Growing up in Ukraine with Nina Khashchina Jul 14, 2023

California-based illustrator Nina Khashchina speaks about her childhood in Kharkiv, Ukraine, growing up in the former USSR, her lifelong journey with art, and how she documents her life through sketchbooks. . This is the first of a two-part conversation.

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Ep 63 - (Part 2) Sketching Here & Everywhere with Christina Wald Jun 30, 2023

Cincinatti-based Christina Wald speaks about how to live and thrive as an independent artist and illustrator. They discuss Kickstarter, Patreon, and ways to keep the creative process at the heart of your practice, and the creator in the economy. This episode is the second part of the conversation from Ep 62.

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✅ Catch the Kickstarter discussion supercut

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Ep 62 - Sketching Here & Everywhere with Christina Wald Jun 16, 2023

Cincinatti-based Christina Wald speaks about how to live as, and making a living from, being an independent artist and illustrator.

This is a conversation about how to work for yourself while meeting client expectations. It is about Christina’s multiple successful Kickstarter projects, including her latest book (link below).

This episode is for anyone eager to chart their own path as an independent creator. Lots of practical advice, listen carefully!

💡 For all the good ideas from this conversation, become a reader and join 8000+ readers of the SneakyArt Post.

📲 Follow Christina Wald on Instagram and check out her linktree for the latest projects.

📚 Buy Sketching Here & Everywhere: My Sketching Obsession by Christina Wald.

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Ep 61 - Design Thinking with Ellen Vesters Jun 02, 2023

Utrecht-based sketcher, illustrator and educator Ellen Vesters speaks about the design-thinking approach to life and all the things she does. After practicing as a psychologist, and getting an MA in Illustration, Ellen founded the Venster Academy to teach art and illustration.

Nishant also shares the story of how he accidentally became an artist while trying to become a writer after quitting his PhD program in Neuroscience. If you have wondered about taking a big leap in your life, this conversation will give you some ideas!

💡 For all the links and ideas from this conversation, read the show notes.

📲 Follow Ellen’s work on Instagram and check out her website.

🏫 Visit the Venster Academy.

🎙 Listen to Ellen and Nishant’s conversation while sketching in Utrecht, Netherlands.

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Ep 60 - Words are just Lines too May 19, 2023

Host Nishant Jain presents the idea that writing and drawing are literally the same thing. If you can do one, you can also do the other.

This episode was recorded for paid subscribers of SneakyArt.

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More good ideas:

💻 Read The Role of Art in the Age of AI.

📖 Learn why Nishant self-published his first book of art

🔁 Play Finite v Infinite Games and take the Long Path to success

💻 Watch the latest Zoom demo for SneakyArt Insiders

📚 Celebrate Little Free Library Week

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Ep 59 - Never Look at the Numbers May 05, 2023

Host Nishant Jain takes a look at Goodhart’s Law, originally coined to describe monetary policy, but applies it instead to the business of being an artist today. No matter how successful (or unsuccessful) you are at social media, here are some good reasons to never look at the numbers.

"When a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a useful measure." - Goodhart's Law.

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👂 Listen to the latest episode shared with Insiders!

🎙 Listen to Ep 43 with Jim Richards

🎯 Read Nishant's plans for an ambitious 2023 without setting any goals

✍🏼 Read the show notes, best ideas, and tangents from the episode.

Ep 58 - Illustrating Black History with George McCalman Apr 21, 2023

Author, artist, and designer George McCalman speaks about making his award-winning book (Illustrated Black History: Honoring the Iconic and the Unseen) at the intersection of twin curiosities - to learn more about black history, and to find out if he could be an artist.

This is a conversation about curiosity, the importance of following your own compass, and the need for every artist to be a work-in-progress.

💡 For all the links and ideas from this conversation, read the show notes.

📲 Follow George’s work on Instagram

📚 Learn more about his art/design work and buy the book!

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Ep 57 - Into the Wild with John Muir Laws Apr 07, 2023

San Francisco based artist, naturalist and educator John Muir Laws talks about nature-journaling and the many benefits of paying deep attention to our natural environment.

(00:13:50) Sketching in the wild

(00:43:21) Ways to keep a nature journal.

(00:59:23) John’s lifelong obsession with field guides and nature conservancy.

(01:24:13) They read poems to each other. Aww.

(1:34:40) BREAK

(1:44:21) How to draw a bird

(2:28:55) Nature stewardship, the role of the amateur, and the Wild Wonder Foundation

💡 For all the links and ideas from this conversation, read the show notes.

📲 Follow John’s work on Instagram, visit his website, and learn more about the Wild Wonder Foundation.

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Ep 56 - An Art Residency on Wheels Mar 24, 2023

The SneakyArt Podcast returns for a new season. Host Nishant Jain speaks about his recent art residency aboard the TransLink, Vancouver’s public transit system.

What can be learned from drawing on trains? Nishant speaks about pushing outside his comfort zone, engaging with the public, and facing his fears.

✍🏼 Read about his experience and see all the drawings.

📺 Catch his TV segment on CBC Vancouver Evening News

📻 Listen to his radio spot on CBC Early Morning Edition with Stephen Quinn.

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Ep 55 - Travelling through History with Sunil Shinde Nov 25, 2022

Seattle-based artist and traveller Sunil Shinde speaks about retracing the 1839 expedition of British artist David Roberts through the biblical Holy Land.

This conversation is at the intersection of travel, history, and art. In this respect, it is really about three distinct journeys - Sunil’s journey through the Middle East, the 1839 expedition of David Roberts, and Sunil’s effort to combine his words and lines into an excellent book - “From Cairo to Beirut”.

📚 BUY THE BOOK, “From Cairo to Beirut” - (Amazon US) (Amazon CA)

🔍 (5:05) The first journey - the origins of Sunil’s curiosities - how history led to travel, and how both led to sketching.

🔍 (33:55) The second journey - retracing an expedition nearly 200 years ago, noting what has changed and what has stayed the same.

🔍 (1:53:40)The third journey - writing the book, approaching agents and publishers.

💡 For more detailed notes (with timestamps) and the best ideas from this conversation, read the show notes.

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Ep 54 - Making a YouTube Channel with Sandi Hester Nov 11, 2022

This conversation was recorded immediately after the recordings for Episodes 38 and 39 in April 2022. Sandi and Nishant draw portraits of one another while tying up some loose ends from their epic conversation.

Nishant asks how he can build and sustain a YouTube channel. Sandi has some excellent ideas.

✍🏼 To check out their portraits, a summary of the ideas in this episode, and links to other previously paywalled content, visit The SneakyArt Post. 📹 Check out Sandi’s amazing YouTube channel and visit her website. ✍🏼 Follow SneakyArt on IG, Twitter, and TikTok. ☕ Like this episode? Buy me a coffee (and say hello!) 🔥 Love the show? Become a SneakyArt Insider (to support my work!)

Ep 53 - Getting Things Done with Amy Stewart Oct 28, 2022

Best-selling author Amy Stewart (”Flower Confidential”, “Drunken Botanist”, “Girl Waits with Gun”) talks about her disinclination to pick a lane, the ideas that have helped her navigate a successful writing career, and the role of art in her creative practice.

This conversation addresses several dichotomies of the creative life - instant vs delayed gratification, processes vs results, art vs writing, and sticking to a lane vs sticking to one’s convictions. It is about understanding how Amy gets so many things done.

It is a conversation about many things and then some more - cocktails, 19th century feminism, gardening, poisons, the global flower industry, and people who collect trees. It is an episode about “one and a half things.”

Catch all the best ideas in the show notes.

🔍 Last week I completed Book 1 of the Kopp Sisters’ stories - Girl Waits with Gun. I highly recommend it!

🙌🏽 Check out Amy’s other books, her art, and her online classes on her website. Sign up to her Substack newsletter.

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📭 Read the show notes to follow the threads, rabbitholes and best ideas from this episode.

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Ep 52 - Chasing Horizons with Samantha Dion Baker Oct 14, 2022

New York-based artist, educator, and author Samantha Dion Baker shares the profound impact a daily sketchbook practice had on her creative journey. She explains her brave decision to go freelance, and discusses what it means to follow one’s own compass.

Is art a solitary pursuit? Would you make art on a deserted island? Why or why not? This conversation has some good answers.

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🙌🏽 Follow Sam on Instagram and visit her website to follow her other work.

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📭 Check out the show notes and best ideas from this episode.

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Ep 51 - Making a Book with Koosje Koene Sep 30, 2022

We’re back! After a refreshing summer hiatus, the SneakyArt Podcast returns with a conversation with Amsterdam-based artist and YouTuber Koosje Koene. They speak about her book “Life is Better when you Draw (it)” and the experience of self-publishing from raw concept to finished product and beyond!

📚 Buy the book! Also find Koosje’s work on IG, and YouTube.

🎙 Listen to our previous conversation, Ep 29 - Doing What’s Fun with Koosje Koene. Also catch the bonus Post-Script segment, about self-publishing and being creative entrepreneurs.

⛳️ Follow SneakyArt as it happens on IG, Twitter, and TikTok.

📭 Find all the links and best ideas from this episode. Share your thoughts too!

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(A Second Listen) Ep 22 with Zainab Tambawalla Sep 03, 2022

The SneakyArt Podcast is currently on summer break. During this period, host Nishant Jain offers a second listen to underrated gems from the archives.

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(Originally aired: July 16, 2021)

Mumbai-based artist Zainab Tambawalla speaks about her sketch-reportage project to document the lives of various artisans in Mumbai (India) during the first wave of the pandemic.

Her project urges us to notice the lives of other people and pay closer attention to the humanity that constitutes our urban landscape.

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(A Second Listen) Ep 17 with Roisin Cure Aug 12, 2022

The SneakyArt Podcast is currently on summer break. During this period, host Nishant Jain offers a second listen to underrated gems from the archives.

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(Originally aired: May 7, 2021)

Roisin Cure, an urban sketcher and illustrator in Galway (Ireland), talks about learning to draw from comic books and the ways that urban sketching has transformed her art and approach to life.

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Ep 50 - Ask Me Anything with Nishant Jain Aug 05, 2022

To celebrate the milestone of 50 episodes, the tables are turned on host Nishant Jain. Uma Kelkar steps in to host an AMA-style (Ask Me Anything) episode, posing the best questions crowdsourced from fans of the show and past guests. Nishant speaks about his journey to be an artist, how the podcast began, and the directions he is now keen to explore. The show is going on a brief summer hiatus. Nishant will be recording new material while travelling! To stay in the loop, add SneakyArt to your inbox.

🎙 Follow Uma’s work on Instagram and visit her studio.

📭 The best words & ideas from this episode - SneakyArt Post.

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Ep 49 - Chasing Stillness with Gavin Snider Jul 22, 2022

Gavin Snider finds stillness in the busy streets of New York. He talks about growing up in Kansas, drawing with his twin brother Grant (cartoonist of Incidental Comics) and the decision to become an architect. We learn about how Gavin came to New York city, how he began to paint his world, and what it is like to paint the most iconic city in the world.

🖊 Find Gavin’s work on IG or visit his website. ⛳️ Follow SneakyArt on IG, Twitter, and TikTok. 📭 Read the show notes and best insights from this episode: The SneakyArt Post. ☕ Did you enjoy the conversation? Buy Nishant a coffee! (and say hello!) 🔥 Do you like the show? Become a SneakyArt Insider!

Ep 48 - Getting Inked with Alvin Chong Jul 08, 2022

Malaysia-based Alvin Chong talks about finding his way back to art as an adult after deciding to become a tattoo artist. This conversation is about the value of chasing your curiosity, and having the courage to chart your own path.

🖊 Find Alvin’s work on IG or check out links to his work.

⛳️ Follow SneakyArt on IG, Twitter, and TikTok.

📭 Read the show notes and best insights from this episode: The SneakyArt Post.

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Ep 47 - 30 Days of Watercolor with Marc Taro Holmes Jun 24, 2022

Montreal-based artist Marc Taro Holmes (Citizen Sketcher) speaks about two art challenges organizes for thousands of artists around the world - “OneWeek100People” and “30x30 Direct Watercolor”. They discuss the value of compounding good ideas through a daily practice, and the benefits of participating with an online community.

This episode releases on Day 24 of 30x30 Direct Watercolor. Check out the FB group.

Follow Marc’s work on his Website and Instagram.

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📭 All the good links and ideas from the conversation on my Substack publication: SneakyArt Post.

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Ep 46 - Doodling at Google with Matthew Cruickshank Jun 17, 2022

Matthew Cruickshank (Art Director at Google Doodles) speaks about his sketchbook-ing road-trip down historic Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles to create a … doodle!

The question that drives the conversation is this - How far will a Doodler go for a Google Doodle? The answer ~2500 miles! But another answer - hundreds of pages of sketchbook drawings. Still another answer - hours under a hot sun by the side of a desolate road.

Matthew speaks about the abiding role of sketchbooks in his life, drawing from real life as a way to “be grounded”, and the incredible work of Google Doodles in our lives.

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🙌🏽 Follow Matthew’s work on his website and Twitter.

🔍 Visit the Google Doodle project.

🚐 Check out the Route 66 Doodle!

📭 Show-notes, links & atttributions, and best insights from the episode: The SneakyArt Post.

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Ep 45 - Art and Bike-Packing with Mike Shisler Jun 03, 2022

Mike Shisler speaks about leaving home and career to cycle across the US, work as an artist, and live out of a van. Next week, Mike begins a 4000mi bike-packing trip from the northern tip of Alaska to San Diego, California. He speaks about the incredible physical and mental endurance required for the solo journey, and his plan to make a painting every day along the way.

This conversation emphasizes the importance of slowing down to appreciate the world, even parts of it that are not 5-star destinations on Google Maps.

🙌🏽 Follow Mike’s work on IG, his Kickstarter, and visit his website.

⛺️ Check out the Sēkr app ****to locate campsites and essential public services, and connect with other campers.

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📭 Read the show-notes and best insights from this episode: The SneakyArt Post.

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Ep 44 - Inventing Life's Meaning with James Richards (Part 2) May 27, 2022

The second half of the conversation with Florida-based artist, educator, author and architect James Richards, about traveling the world as an architect and as an educator, the concept of “stealing like an artist”, and Jim’s decision to pick creativity and autonomy at various stages of his professional life.

“To invent your own life’s meaning is not easy, but it is still allowed. And I think you’ll be happier for the trouble.” - Bill Watterson (creator of Calvin and Hobbes).

❤️ Follow James Richards’ work on Instagram and visit his website for information about upcoming workshops.

🤳🏼 Follow SneakyArt on Instagram | TikTok | Twitter

📭 All the links, quotes, insights, and ideas from the episode: SneakyArt Post.

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Ep 43 - Inventing Life's Meaning with James Richards (Part 1) May 20, 2022

On his website, James Richard says - "I never saw myself as Monet in the studio. I wanted to be Anthony Bourdain with a sketchbook." What was the meaning of art in James’ life? How far was Monet, and the world of fine art, from the world in which he grew up? What did it mean to be like Anthony Bourdain … but with a sketchbook? In many ways, this conversation is the long process of unpacking this beautiful quote.

Storyteller, artist, architect, educator - Jim has worn many hats in an epic and fascinating life. He speaks about growing up in Louisiana, learning to draw from Mad Magazine, and his close association with the built environment. We learn what it means to create a life that reflects our values, and the places we can go when guided by interests and curiosities.

Visit James Richards’ website.

📭 All the links, quotes, insights, and ideas from the episode: SneakyArt Post.

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Ep 42 - A "30 Days of Vancouver" Retrospective May 13, 2022

After completing “30 Days of Vancouver”, Nishant looks back at the goals of this self-imposed drawing challenge and considers the lessons he has learned from drawing everyday. He speaks about conversations with Sandi Hester (Ep 38 & 39) and David Morales (Ep 37) that led to the decision to undertake this challenge, the compounding value of good habits, and the incredible importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

Also, why TikTok matters!

🎙 Read the best insights from this episode on The SneakyArt Post.

📆 Catch up on the ‘30 Days of Vancouver’ project.

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Ep 41 - Taking the Leap with Don Low May 06, 2022

Singapore-based comic artist Don Low talks about taking the leap from an engineering career to becoming a full-time creative. He shares stories from his lifelong journey of self-education and explains the role of urban sketching in his work.

Find his work on Instagram and visit his website.

The episode begins with Nishant sharing his plans after the 30 Days of Vancouver project. Skip ahead to 05:00 for the start the conversation.

🚀 Nishant just concluded “30 Days of Vancouver”, a daily drawing challenge around the city. Learn more about it here.

📭 Read the show-notes + the top insights from this episode: The SneakyArt Post.

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Ep 40 - Deciding to be an Artist with Eleanor Doughty Apr 22, 2022

Seattle-based artist Eleanor Doughty is an independent artist, illustrator and urban-sketcher whose work includes murals, large canvases, prints, Kickstarter campaigns, and now also a book. This conversation explores how an independent illustrator can chart their path, and find a home for their ideas in work for others and themselves.

This episode pairs well with Ep 38 and 39 with Sandi Hester, Ep 32 with Emma Carlisle, and Ep 26 with Anna Wilson.

Follow Eleanor’s work on Instagram. Learn more about her other work, Kickstarter campaign, and the new book.

Follow Nishant (SneakyArtist) on Instagram.

🚀🚀 If you are reading this on April 22, it is Day 22 of 30 Days of Vancouver, Nishant’s daily drawing challenge. Learn more about this project here.

📭 Get the best insights from this show straight into your inbox: https://sneakyart.substack.com.

🎙 Check out the PostScript with Sandi Hester & David Morales.

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Ep 39 - Painting for Joy with Sandi Hester (Part 2) Apr 08, 2022

[Re-uploaded to edit a minor overlap in the audio. Sorry!]

In the second part of their extended conversation, Sandi Hester explains her creative process, her journey across various mediums and tools, and the role of observation in her art. Find Sandi Hester’s work on Instagram and YouTube.

🎁 Have you ever thought about starting a YouTube channel? This conversation was followed by a bonus segment in which Sandi shares some great ideas to help Nishant get moving on a YouTube channel. To get the Ep 39 Post-Script in your inbox (releases Apr 17), become a SneakyArt Insider.

🚀🚀 If you are reading this on April 8, it is Day 8 of 30 Days of Vancouver, Nishant’s daily drawing challenge. Learn more about this project here.

🎙 Curious about previous bonus content? Listen to the Post-Script with David Morales for free!

📭 Check out the best insights from this episode: https://sneakyart.substack.com.

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Ep 38 - Painting for Joy with Sandi Hester (Part 1) Apr 01, 2022

Tennessee-based painter Sandi Hester shares her life’s journey with art, the ideas behind her wonderful YouTube channel, and how she keeps joy at the centre of her creative process. This episode is the first of a two-part conversation recorded over two days.

Find Sandi Hester’s work on Instagram and YouTube.

🚀🚀 If you are reading this on April 1, it is Day 1 of 30 Days of Vancouver, Nishant’s daily drawing challenge. Learn more about this project here.

📭 Check out the best insights from this episode, and good ideas for a creative life: https://sneakyart.substack.com/p/113.

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Ep 37 - Drawing Everyday with David Morales Mar 18, 2022

Today’s conversation is about the many things you can gain from having a daily drawing practice. David Morales is an architect and sketcher famous for his linework style, and a daily drawing challenge he has maintained since 2018.

There’s something about daily practice that pushes us to find subjects of art in ordinary situations, in ordinary places, on ordinary days. Does this make the artist a magician who can create art out of nothing? Or are they simply better able to notice the art that exists in all of our lives, hidden in plain sight?

Follow David’s work on Instagram, and visit here for his prints and workshops.

🚀🚀 Taking inspiration from this conversation, Nishant is starting a 30 Day drawing challenge next month. To learn more, check out The SneakyArt Post.

📭 Check out the best insights from this episode, and good ideas for a creative life: https://sneakyart.substack.com.

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Ep 36 - Finding Reasons to Draw with Rita Sabler Mar 04, 2022

“The question that you should ask yourself is - why are you drawing this? What are you trying to show? And if the answer is not clear to you, it will never be clear to your audience..." - Rita Sabler.

Why is this question important, and is it worth the effort of answering every time? What does the audience stand to gain from this exercise? Rita's thoughts around this become the basis of this lovely conversation.

In her role as sketch-journalist, Rita covers events that she finds important and shares stories through a combination of location-art and reportage. She has covered various protests in Portland (Oregon, USA), and most recently the rallies to seek justice for George Floyd. Nishant asks also about her reportage of border-towns in Arizona, to document a world literally and figuratively divided by politics.

Rita explains how she balances the arduous responsibilities of artist and journalist. In this light they consider the why of her art, and the value that urban-sketching can offer in today’s media-landscape of unlimited screens and limited attention spans.

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🖌 Find Rita's work on IG or visit her website to see her other fascinating projects.

🖌 Find Nishant’s work on IG or visit here for other links.

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📭 Every week, Nishant shares the best insights from the podcast, and ideas from his journey of self-education to be an artist: https://sneakyart.substack.com.

🖋 Read Nishant's 5 Reasons to Write Regularly, 4 Big Ideas for Creative Entrepreneurs, 3 Kinds of Permission Every Artist Needs.

Ep 35 - Reconnecting with Don Colley Feb 18, 2022

In this episode, I speak with my good friend Donald Owen Colley, an artist based in Chicago.

Like the previous couple of episodes, this one is also a Second Conversation, i.e. a chance to catch up with guests who have already appeared on the show. I share with Don some new ideas I’ve imbibed from having conversations with so many wonderful guests, and hear his plans and ideas for his work. Jump ahead to 1:22:30 to hear the Second Conversation only.

Don and I met when I lived in Chicago. We immediately hit it off because we share a deep love for human activity and urban spaces. His work is characterized by a close observation of life and marked by a genuine empathy for other people. He brings sharp observation and a nuanced understanding to both his art and his arguments. I hope you will see that also from the conversation in this episode. Follow Don’s work on Instagram.

To catch the best insights from every episode, and contribute to the conversation, sign up for the SneakyArt Post.

Ep 34 - Being Authentic with Shari Blaukopf Feb 04, 2022

Montreal-based urban sketcher and educator Shari Blaukopf shares her journey to becoming a full-time artist, with practical tips, advice, and ideas for anyone on a similar path.

In this conversation, Nishant asks Shari about the various decisions that led to her becoming a full-time, independent artist, many years after she had given up on the idea of having an artistic career. Shari explains how the first job of the artist is to ‘see’ things differently. They discuss how seeing is also a function of the art-tools one decides to use, and the personal inclinations of the artist. How does Shari bring incremental progress to her work? What are the motivations behind her daily painting practice?

In the Second Conversation (beginning from 1:06:38), Nishant and Shari catch up after 1.5 years, to reconnect with each other’s lives and art practice. With the experience of 30+ conversations since their previous recording, Nishant asks for Shari’s thoughts on a set of ideas he has accumulated about surviving and thriving as an independent artist in the creator economy.

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🖌 Find Shari’s work on IG or subscribe to her blog.

🖌 Find Nishant’s work on IG or visit here for more links.

☕ Like the episode? Buy me a coffee! (+ give Nishant personal feedback about the episode)

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📭 Every week, Nishant shares the best insights from the podcast, and ideas from his own journey of self-education to be an artist, on the SneakyArt Post. Add it to your inbox: https://sneakyart.substack.com.

🖋 Read Nishant's 4 Big Ideas for Creative Entrepreneurs, 3 Kinds of Permission Every Artist Needs, and Notes from the Second Conversation with Paul Heaston.

Ep 33 - Second Conversation with Paul Heaston Jan 21, 2022

In this episode, Paul and Nishant discuss specific ideas around being solo independent artists in the creator economy. As a Second Conversation, this episode naturally builds upon their first conversation (Ep 2 Drawing Lines with Paul Heaston). They discuss balancing work and play, and finding the ikigai, or beautiful intersection, of the two.

Being a trained fine artist, how does Paul perceive the evolution of the freedoms afforded to artists, and the responsibilities incumbent upon them in today’s time? Considering that “all content is just more content”, they discuss sharing work across multiple platforms, and the impact of meme-culture to explain how we reach across cultures and nationalities to interact with a global audience.

(To skip ahead to the latest conversation, go to 1:30:35 mark.)

Follow Paul's work on Instagram, and check out his TikTok channel.

To follow SneakyArt, visit Nishant's Instagram, Twitter, and website.

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Ep 32 - Rekindling Joy with Emma Carlisle Dec 03, 2021

In this episode, Nishant speaks with Cornwall-based illustrator and artist Emma Carlisle about her work as an illustrator, and how adverse circumstances pushed her to engage in new and meaningful ways with both her art and her thousands of fans. In this respect, they speak about the many pitfalls of Instagram from the point of view of both creatives and fans. Emma talks candidly about suffering from burnout, and how she eventually rekindled the joy she would find in her work. They discuss the various influences that helped this process - including location drawing, a renewed focus on self-fulfilment, and friends with valuable lessons to share - as a model for how to craft a sustainable and fulfilling artistic career in today's world.

Follow Emma's work on Instagram, and check out her Patreon page.

To follow SneakyArt, visit Nishant's Instagram, Twitter, and website.

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This episode comes with a bonus Post-Script. In this exclusive, extended segment, Nishant and Emma unwind and chat while drawing portraits of each other. Emma speaks about having a creative consultant to guide her career. Nishant makes a case for why quick sketching can be a useful practice exercise. Become an Insider (using the link above) to catch this segment as well as see their portraits of each other!

Get the best ideas from the episode straight in your inbox by signing up to The SneakyArt Post - a free weekly email newsletter.

Ep 31 - Transforming Yourself with Virginia Hein Nov 19, 2021

In this episode, I speak with LA-based urban sketcher and educator Virginia Hein about her education to be a fine artist, her work in the toy industry, and her discovery of urban sketching. Despite intending to become a painter, Virginia found herself working in the toy industry fresh out of art school. Did she find this troubling, and how did she equip herself for the subtle differences between commercial and fine art? As an educator at Otis College of Art and Design, how does she communicate these distinctions to students today, and what skills do toy designers need today to enter this market?

We also discuss urban sketching and how that once again transformed Virginia's idea of herself as an artist, when she became a sketch correspondent on Gabi Campanario's Urban Sketchers Blog. Successful careers rarely follow a pre-determined trajectory. A consistent theme running across this conversation is the idea of 'permission' - to try styles, to do things, to be a different person than we had envisioned becoming - and how we subconsciously seek it from the various influential people and entities in our world.

Follow Virginia's work on Instagram. To follow my work, find SneakyArt on Instagram, Twitter, or visit my website.

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I share my best ideas from this episode in The SneakyArt Post - my free email newsletter.

Ep 30 - Illustrating for Science with Oliver Hoeller Nov 05, 2021

I speak with Vienna-based researcher and illustrator Oliver Hoeller about the field of science illustration, and what he finds in the practice of urban sketching to make him a better illustrator, a more patient observer, and a happier person. He tells me about his path to a scientific career, and how he leapt at the opportunity to make his first science illustrations. We talk about where good ideas come from, and the ways an illustrator can and must build a mental library of reference material. We also speak about how he used observational drawing at a difficult time in his life to catalogue his memories and deal with adverse circumstances.

Check out Oliver's work on his website, or find him on Instagram.

Find SneakyArt on Instagram or visit my website for a summary transcript of this conversation.

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Ep 29 - Doing What's Fun with Koosje Koene Oct 22, 2021

In this episode, I speak with Amsterdam based art-educator Koosje Koene about how she used the restrictions of COVID lockdown to "discover an extended version of the artist" in her, with a simple philosophy of doing what's fun. How much can be achieved by doing what is fun? Can it spark new ideas? Can it help us accomplish big, important goals too? Koosje used this period to write a book and discover a new creative outlet in abstract art, and we talk about both of these interesting projects. Koosje has been an educator and art-entrepreneur for a decade, and we speak about that with relation to her journey at Sketchbook Skool and her successful YouTube channel. We talk about the unique task of being an independent creative - the burdens and responsibilities of such a job title, and also the unique opportunities it offers in today's landscape.

☕ Like the episode? Buy me a coffee! (+ get access to the SneakyArt Discord)

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This episode comes with a bonus section exclusively for SneakyArt Insiders. Insiders receive bonus material from various podcast episodes - Ep 15 with George Butler and Ep 28 with Tomas Pajdlhauser.

Best ideas from the episode in my free email newsletter. Transcript of the conversation on my website. Find links to Koosje's work here.

Ep 28 - Unlocking Creativity with Tomas Pajdlhauser Oct 08, 2021

I speak with Ottawa-based Tom Pajdlhauser (aka Captain Tom) about his years of work in the animation industry. I ask him about the many responsibilities of an art director, and the hierarchy of workflows involved in the creation of an animated show. We talk about how he sees the relevance of traditional drawing skills in the age of digital art.

But as a career illustrator, what does Tom gain from the practice of urban-sketching? He tells me about a motorcycle trip through SE Asia when he arrived at the intersection of travel and art, and how it changed everything for him. We also share our respective experiences self-publishing books of our art, with reference to Tom's excellent Palestine Sketchbook, and my SneakyArt of Eau Claire.

🔥🔥🔥 This episode has ~45 minutes of bonus content, available to all SneakyArt Insiders. Subscribe to become an Insider and access bonus content + other privileges!

🎨 Follow Tom's work on IG, or visit his website. ✒ Follow the SneakyArtist on IG, or visit here for a transcript.

This show is 100% independent and runs on the generous support of listeners and patrons!

☕ Like this episode? Buy Me A Coffee! (+ get into the SneakyArt Discord server!) 🌟 Special offer: Enjoy a 7-day free trial of Insider content. 📫 Read and discuss ideas from the episode on my free Substack newsletter. 🙏 Apple Podcast listeners, if you liked this episode, please leave me a review!

Ep 27 - Understanding Light with Katie Woodward Sep 24, 2021

In the new episode, I speak with NYC-based artist and urban-sketcher Katie Woodward. Katie has made paintings that are both very large and very small. As a scenic artist for the theater she has worked on backdrops spanning several feet, and as an urban-sketcher she makes tiny watercolor cityscapes just a couple of inches wide.

What’s it like to make art for the theater? What is inherently different about painting big and small, and what is strangely similar to both?

Working in stage design demands a wide array of crafting skills, and Katie shares wonderful stories of some of her memorable work. We also talk about her upcoming book - Understanding Light - where she brings together the art and ideas of her favorite artists across different media.

Follow Katie's work on Instagram. To pre-order her book, visit here or find it on Amazon. Find a summarized transcript to this conversation on my website.

To support this show, and get an invite to the SneakyArt Discord, buy me a coffee. To signup for the free weekly newsletter or subscribe to the premium content, visit my Substack page.

Ep 26 Becoming an Illustrator with Anna Wilson Sep 10, 2021

In this episode, I speak with urban-sketcher and illustrator Anna Wilson. Anna is what I describe as a 'deliberate artist', in that she has taken strong decisions to change her career trajectory towards art and illustration.

I am always interested in speaking to 'deliberate artists', because they have such motivated and well-considered reasons for the things they do. What does a path of self-education in art look like? How do they gather influences, images, and inspirations, to guide this path? Anna tells me about the role that travel plays in shaping her perspectives, the lessons she picks from photography and carrying a little sketchbook, and what she carries from her formal education in human geography.

Check out Anna's work. To support this show, read my email newsletter, or follow me on social media, visit here.

Ep 25 - Applying Imagination with Felix Scheinberger Aug 27, 2021

In this episode, I speak with Berlin-based illustrator and artist Felix Scheinberger. Felix once described illustration as "applied imagination" and in this conversation I try to learn more about where this imagination comes from, and how it can be nurtured.

What is the role of on-location drawing in feeding this imagination? What are some ways to strengthen your imagination over time? What is the role of observation, what is the job of interpretation, and how can the artist translate the ideas in their mind into a visual language universally understood?

This episode took me into the mind of an illustrator whose work enchants me because it seems effortless, even though it is anything but. Felix makes his art with a carefree finesse that takes many, many years to master.

Check out Felix's work on IG or visit here to buy his art
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Ep 24 - Looking in Layers with Ian Fennelly Aug 13, 2021

In this episode, I speak with Ian Fennelly, an artist and urban sketcher in the UK. Ian paints his urban environments in vivid, rich, and sometimes fantastical color-scapes. His lines and colors cleverly contrast the tussle between representing objective reality and subjective emotions. As Ian likes to point out, he is not recreating a scene, but creating art from a scene. The title of this episode is based on the title of Ian's latest book and is an apt description of his artistic process. His paintings are the result of looking and looking again, patiently building layer upon layer of observation, emotion, and artistic judgment.

Follow Ian Fennelly - IG | Website
Buy Ian's book - "Layers of Looking"
Follow SneakyArt on IG, or visit the Website to see a transcript of this episode.
Join the Facebook group of the podcast.
Subscribe to the SneakyArt Post - a weekly newsletter where I elaborate on these podcast conversations, and share my journey of self-education to become an artist.

If you like this show, show your support and buy me a coffee. It's that simple!

Ep 23 - Evolving as an Artist with Marc Taro Holmes Jul 30, 2021

In this episode, I speak with oil painter and urban-sketcher, Marc Taro Holmes, about his evolution over the years as an artist.

Marc worked in the early gaming industry, when both games and design programs were rudimentary. Later, as an urban-sketcher, he started the Citizen Sketcher blog, led numerous workshops, wrote several books, and inspired countless artists with his annual events - OneWeek100People and 30x30 Direct Watercolor.

Over the past few years, Marc has retreated from social media, and started using oil paints on canvas in his home-studio. What caused this shift? What do oil paints offer him that watercolors do not? Does he miss painting outdoors? In finding answers to these questions, I learned that Marc’s story is one of continuous evolution, motivated by his interests, surrounding influences, and life circumstances.

Links:

To support this show, buy me a coffee!
Marc’s work on Instagram + Citizen Sketcher blog
30x30 Direct Watercolor + OneWeek100People
Free instructional cheat-sheets on Marc’s website
SneakyArt on Instagram + Website (for a transcript)

Ep 22 - Capturing the Spirit of Mumbai with Zainab Tambawalla Jul 16, 2021

In this episode, I speak with Mumbai-based artist, illustrator and urban-sketcher Zainab Tambawalla, about her sketch-reportage project to tell the story of 6 artisans practicing different trades in the city of Mumbai, India. She shares stories from their lives, professional struggles, and the enormous hardships of the past 2 years. Her project urges us to notice the lives of people who are often at the edges of our tunnel vision. It invites us to pay attention to our urban landscape in a more conscientious and empathetic manner.

We talk about Zainab's journey as an artist, her work in the animation industry, and her turn towards becoming a freelance illustrator. What does urban sketching have to offer someone who has been drawing and painting their entire life? We talk about the value of exploring new media and styles of expression, and discuss how drawing on location can help us appreciate the culture and history of the places we live in.

- If you liked this episode, buy me a coffee as a show of support. - To discuss this episode with me and other listeners, join our private Facebook group. - Subscribe to my free, weekly newsletter - Find an episode summary and links to other episodes on the SneakyArt website.

Ep 21 - Making Storyboards with Alex Hillkurtz Jul 02, 2021

I speak with painter and storyboard artist, Alex Hillkurtz, about working on Hollywood storyboards and how it informs and influences his art today. We discuss how storyboards are made, what they are used for, and the lessons they have for every artist in terms of composition and framing. Alex tells me about picking up painting at a later stage in life, and how his ideas about control and precision changed as he worked in watercolors. We talk about picking up ideas and inspiration from cinema, fine art, and our fellow artists. Alex also shares his recent experience putting his thoughts together as a book - "Sketching Techniques for Artists".

Follow Alex on Instagram, or visit his website to stay updated with his latest work.

To follow SneakyArt across different platforms, visit here. To discuss this episode and the SneakyArt Podcast, join our private Facebook group.

To support this show, visit here and buy me a coffee. :)

Ep 20 - Documenting Life with Danny Gregory Jun 18, 2021

In this episode of the SneakyArt Podcast, I speak with Danny Gregory - author, adman, speaker, artist, podcaster and all-around creative person. Danny has led a remarkable life, growing up in various parts of the world, working different jobs, and pursuing creativity in various forms. I speak to him about his journey to become a deliberate artist, and what it means to pursue self-expression inside a sketchbook. With reference to the many books he has authored, I pick his brain about what it means to "draw without talent", to "shut your inner critic", and to find beauty in "everyday matters". I learn from the conversation that every day matters, even when it's filled with just everyday matters.

Catch links to Danny's work and buy his books from his website - www.dannygregory.com. If the practice of art makes you curious, shed your inhibitions and get moving with Danny's wonderful podcast - art for all.

- To support this podcast and my work, visit here to buy me a coffee. - Learn more about the show, and SneakyArt, at www.sneakyartist.com. - Join the SneakyArt Podcast Facebook group

Ep 19 - Building Platforms with Teoh Yi Chie Jun 04, 2021

In this episode, I speak with Teoh Yi Chie, an urban sketcher, artist and YouTuber in Singapore. Teoh creates content at a prolific pace to meet the diverse needs of his audience - art tutorials, draw-alongs, art supply reviews, and online workshops. We talk about the many ways that creators can interact and engage with fans in the new "creator economy". In his work, Teoh is able to merge his natural curiosity and his passion for making videos and art. What has he learned from following his curiosity in this way? How has it helped him satisfy his own interests as well as that of his burgeoning audience? Follow Teoh's work on IG, or visit his website - https://www.parkablogs.com/. Also check out his wonderful YouTube channel!

If you enjoyed this episode, show me your support by buying me a coffee. Follow SneakyArt on IG, or visit the website (www.sneakyartist.com) to catch links and transcripts for all episodes.

Ep 18 - Gone Digital with Rob Sketcherman May 21, 2021

In this episode, I speak with Rob Sketcherman, an urban sketcher and digital artist in Hong Kong. Rob is popular in the global urban-sketching community for making his work exclusively on the iPad, and for being the host of USk Talks.

Rob’s artistic journey constitutes decisions motivated by both curiosity and pragmatism. It was a combination of curiosity and pragmatism that led him to urban sketching when he was trying to become a better artist, and the same thing led him to the digital medium when he was becoming a better urban sketcher.

Visit Rob's website to find his IG, YouTube and news about upcoming workshops - www.sketcherman.com.

To support my work and buy me a coffee, visit my website - www.sneakyartist.com.

Ep 17 - Looking for Magic with Roisin Cure May 07, 2021

In this episode, I speak with Roisin Cure, an urban sketcher and illustrator living in Galway, Ireland. We talk about learning to draw from comic books, and the ways that urban sketching has transformed her art and her approach to life.

I enjoy Roisin's work for the unique illustration style and for her focus on human activity. People are the subject of Roisin's work, and in this conversation I learn about the art that has helped her see the world in this way. We discuss learning to draw from comic books, and the useful habit of finding solutions to our problems in the styles of other artists. But despite drawing all her life, Roisin always thought she was yet to find her 'magic'. We begin this conversation with the story of how she finally found the magic, and her first attempts of urban-sketching. She shares also the experience of putting together multiple books of and about urban-sketching. We discuss her experience leading workshops, and how they have pivoted to online classes since the pandemic.

Follow Roisin Cure on Insta, Twitter or visit her website.
Follow SneakyArt on Insta, Twitter, or visit the website for transcripts and other episodes.
To support my work or become a member, buy me a coffee.
Join the Facebook group in order to discuss the episode afterward.
Danny Gregory's 'art for all' podcast
Swarnavo Datta's 'Paper Pencil Podcast'

Ep 16 - Telling Stories with Gabi Campanario Apr 23, 2021

In this episode, I speak with Gabi Campanario, sketch-journalist at the Seattle Times and founder of the Urban Sketchers organization. Everyone in the urban-sketchers community knows or knows about Gabi, but often only in the role of being the founder. As I researched this episode, I realized it would be a disservice to speak to him only about this. Instead, we talk about the many intersections of art and journalism in his life. He tells me about his early interest in observational drawing, as well as the circumstances under which he came to be a journalist at a time of great change within the industry. We talk about the era of blogs, and what it was like to connect with other writers, photographers and artists on the early internet. We discuss the first USk blog, bringing together correspondents from different parts of the world. In this light, we talk about the importance of chasing one’s interests to simply do things, and about the unexpected virtue of ignorance, i.e. not knowing enough to not try something. We talk about how we see the horizon today, and the vanishing point where art and storytelling meet.

Follow Gabi’s work on IG or visit his page on the Seattle Times. You can also follow SneakyArt on IG. For a summarized transcript of this conversation, visit here. Support this show by buying me a coffee and check out the exclusive giveaways offered to members of the podcast. The podcast also has a private FB group, where I interact with fans and solicit ideas for future episodes.

Ep 15 - Drawing Across Borders with George Butler Apr 09, 2021

In this episode of the SneakyArt Podcast, I spoke with British artist George Butler, who makes ink/watercolor drawings of people in conflict-zones and refugee camps all over the world. His latest book (Drawn Across Borders) tells the migration stories of 12 individuals, compiled from travels over the past decade. Modern reasons for migration, legal or otherwise, include political upheaval, civil strife, proxy wars, and, increasingly, climate change. But human migration, he argues, is a basic feature of human existence, and has been so for hundreds of thousands of years. In this respect, George and I talk about the importance of sharing individual stories. I ask him about drawing scenes that are not conventionally pretty, and whether it is possible to find art in such environments. This leads to a deeper discussion about the power of illustration - what the artist puts into it and what the viewer derives from it - and thus the broader purpose of what we call art.

- Follow George Butler on Instagram or visit his website to see his other work.

- To support my work, buy me a coffee. Also find here a downloadable extra commentary on interesting tangents from this episode, plus exclusive membership offers.

- Read a brief transcript of this conversation, on the podcast page.

- *NEW* Join the SneakyArt Podcast FB Group!

Ep 14 - Making it Look Easy with Liz Steel Mar 26, 2021

I speak with Sydney-based urban-sketcher Liz Steel about the different ways she makes her art look effortless and spontaneous. Liz took a big leap of faith in her professional life - quitting a career in architecture to become a full-time artist and educator. What does she carry from her education and experience that informs her art today? How does she benefit from a regular blogging habit? And why is teaching useful for an artist keen on self-improvement?

I was also interested to learn the point of view of an architect with a sketchbook, and the ways it differs from the non-architect urban sketcher. We discuss how a knowledge base helps to better appreciate the history and evolution of art in all its forms, architecture included.

Links below to Liz's art and her workshops. Also check out my BuyMeACoffee page for an exclusive giveaway related to this episode!

Liz Steel’s website & links to her workshops | instagram
Sneaky Art instagram
Support this podcast and my work - Buy me a coffee
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Read a transcript of this conversation here.

Ep 13 - Sketch Now, Think Later with Mike Daikubara Mar 12, 2021

I speak with industrial designer Mike Daikubara about how the principles of design intersect with his passion for urban-sketching. In design it is said, form follows function. But how does that translate to art? We discuss this interplay in both directions. How does Mike’s education affect his urban-sketching? How does a regular sketching practice inform his work as an industrial designer?

The author Joan Didion said about writing - “I write entirely to find out what I'm thinking.” Consider that if writing is the way to find out what you think, perhaps drawing is the way to learn what you find beautiful. Mike employs a philosophy of “Sketch Now, Think Later”, to derive more joy from everyday life experiences, to learn what he finds beautiful, and to better communicate his ideas. It is also the title of his fantastic book on urban sketching for beginners.

To catch links related to our conversation, and to read a transcript of this episode, visit www.sneakyartist.com/podcast.

Follow Mike’s work on Instagram
Buy “Sketch Now Think Later” on Amazon
Follow SneakyArt on Instagram
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Ep 12 - Drawing on the Way with Sarah Nisbett Feb 26, 2021

I speak with New York-based artist Sarah Nisbett, who has been sketching people on the subway for over 9 years. Her work is titled Drawn on the Way, which is an apt description for her art as well as this episode. Drawing on the subway means that Sarah is always racing against an invisible clock, because she never knows when a subject might leave. This makes her alert to inspiration, and ready to leap at a drawing opportunity. It makes her work simple yet expressive, quick yet surprisingly detailed.

We talk about the value of making quick and simple drawings for the social-media soul, and the various reasons why other people should try it too. We also discuss the incredible importance of social media to the career of an artist. We discuss how crucial it is to share not only the content but also the context of one’s work. Sarah and I work similarly in a lot of respects, so it was fun to go back and forth on common ideas and inspirations. If you find yourself stuck for subjects, hesitant over the blank page, or frequently foiled by your own sense of perfectionism, this episode will give you inspiration and courage.

Sarah has a **new book** now available for pre-order! Check it out here.

Sarah’s work on IG@drawnontheway | Website
SneakyArt on IG@thesneakyartist
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Ep 11 - Looking Back with Nishant Jain Feb 12, 2021

The purpose of this episode is to look back at previous conversations and follow the threads of commonality that weave between them. I do not try to portray unique ideas, but ideas that we all have in response to obstacles we all face. In this way, I hope that the moments I have chosen will inspire you, bring confidence, and show you a way forward in the fog of solitary, creative pursuit.

I like to think that we don't suffer from a lack of ideas, as much as a lack of confidence in the ideas we have. Consider that the solutions to most problems are not unique, because our problems themselves are not unique or exclusive to us. From hearing the journeys of others, we gain confidence in ourselves. In that sense this is not a "Best of" episode. But I trust that listening to this diverse selection of guests will give you the courage to chase your ideas, big or small. If you have not heard all the episodes yet, I hope the snippets will send you back to listen to them in full.

To stay abreast with SneakyArt updates and follow my journey of self-education as an artist, subscribe to my free weekly newsletter.

If you enjoy this episode, consider supporting my work by buying me a cup of coffee. I just instituted new, exclusive membership privileges as well. Take a look!

Ep 10 - A Dance of Line & Color with Paul Wang Dec 25, 2020

I speak with Singapore-based educator and artist Paul Wang about the way he dances, using line and color, across the page. Paul finds art in the middle of urban chaos and he paints it with dramatic colors and meandering lines. His composition is informed by his education in interior design and theatre production. He tries to tell a story with every piece, and that influences every artistic decision on the page - color and line, conflict and collaboration, work and play. Paul and Suhita Shirodkar have been running the aptly-named Sketching Play Lab since March, with participants from around the world meeting over Zoom. We talk about his work as an educator and urban-sketching instructor, the different ways he encourages people to approach their art practice to find joy, as well as the things he has learned from being in the USk community.

Follow Paul’s work on IG or visit his website to see his art + get info on the Sketching Play Lab.

To see SneakyArt, visit my website, check out my IG or Linktree. Read a transcript of this conversation and find related links on sneakyartist.com/podcast.

Support my work with a cup of coffee!

Ep 9 - Finding Values with Marek Badzynski Dec 10, 2020

I speak with Toronto-based urban-sketcher Marek Badzynski about being an impatient artist, using a fude nib fountain pen, and selling art to tourists from different countries. While both of us like to finish drawings quickly, we discuss the importance of getting started quickly. We talk about making it easier to get started on an empty page and how that is often the biggest barrier of all.

It was good to reconnect with Marek after our last meeting at USk Chicago 2019. I hope you enjoy our conversation, and I would love to hear what you think of it!

Find Marek's work on Instagram. You can also follow SneakyArt on Instagram or Twitter. If you liked this episode, you can now indicate your support at the cost of one cup of coffee!

To read a transcript of our conversation, or catch links to related subjects, click here.

Ep 8 - Sketching the World with Luis Simoes Nov 27, 2020

In the latest episode, I speak with traveler and urban sketcher Luis Simoes about his journey around the world. Luis quit his job as a graphic designer (in his early 30s) to backpack around the world, drawing all the interesting sights he would see. What motivates a salaried, young person to take on a life of less comfort, certain risks and constant instability? Is there really a pot of gold at the end of this rainbow? Or is the goal the journey itself? This conversation became the longest session I have recorded yet, because I had so many questions and he had so many stories. But do not be intimidated, for there is a small break in the middle - to recap and reassess before we continue with Luis' adventures.

If you like this show and would like to support my work, you can now do so at the simple cost of one cup of coffee - Buy Me A Coffee!

Check out the World Sketching Tour on Instagram or at www.worldsketchingtour.com.

You can find my work (SneakyArt) on Instagram as well or visit www.sneakyartist.com.

There will be a transcript of this episode and shownotes with links at www.sneakyartist.com/podcast.

Ep 7 - Seizing Opportunity with Suhita Shirodkar Nov 13, 2020

In this episode, I speak with artist and educator Suhita Shirodkar (San Jose, California) about how she finds artistic opportunities in brief moments of calm during her day. From looking at her work, you can tell that Suhita is always working against time. Her sketches are driven by instinct and inspiration. By drawing quickly, her work captures a domestic life that is nonetheless dynamic, people who are doing things, and settings that are alive with activity and color. We talk about the importance of drawing regularly to “turn the page” as an artist, the idea of the sketchbook as art, and the interesting ways she is reaching out to students and followers during lockdown.

This show is sustained by the enthusiasm of listeners. I would love to here what you think of this episode, or other episodes on the SneakyArt Podcast. Send an email to nishant@sneakyartist.com.

Find Suhita's work on IG@suhitasketch or visit her blog to learn more. You can also check out SneakyArt on my IG@thesneakyartist or visit my website.

To read shownotes and a summarized transcript, visit - www.sneakyartist.com/podcast.

If you like this show and would like to support my work, buy me a coffee.

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