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

What is your artistic motivation? Has it always been the same, or has it changed? Artist Scott Conary would say that it has changed over the years. He describes a time when his artwork and his career came from a different place of motivation, that was before his daughter was born. Once she came into the world, Scott’s life, including his artwork took a new direction. In our conversation, Scott shares about his struggle with perfectionism, why every question doesn’t need an answer, the health difficulties that his daughter has faced from birth, and so much more. The illusion of perfectionism As a creative individual, you want your art to resemble the vision you have for it in your mind as much as possible. This can be both frustrating and exciting. When it comes together just right and looks exactly how you envisioned it - satisfying. On the rare occasion that it exceeds your expectations and imagination - ecstasy. My guest Scott Conary and I spent some time in our conversation around the subject of perfectionism. Scott explained how much the illusion of getting everything just right can derail the creative process. Scott will be the first to tell you that most of his artwork can’t be described as perfect. But because of the lessons he has learned, he would call them complete. Every question doesn’t have an answer Do you ever have a hard time silencing the noise in your head? Does your mind race with what feels like hundreds of questions or ideas? What do you do with those thoughts? My guest, Scott Conary spoke with me about this struggle. He told me about his battle to fight through all that noise and focus on what really matters. We both arrived at a consensus that not all questions need to be answered. You don’t have to follow every thought or idea down the rabbit hole. As difficult as it can be to resist that urge, it can be very freeing to just say “No” and bring your focus back to a singular goal or objective. When you are able to find this type of clarity, your artwork will benefit. The experience that colored everything Have you had a moment that changed the course of your life? Scott Conary’s daughter was born with “Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome.” He talked to me about her birth, and how that moment is the “Experience that colored everything.” As you can imagine, Scott and his wife had their world turned upside down with the diagnosis that came shortly after their daughter’s delivery. Scott was very gracious and transparent in our conversation. He shared about how the art he creates now holds a different meaning for him, it really shifted his artistic motivation. In what sounds like a contradiction, Scott says that his work has less significance but at the same time holds a new kind of meaning. The way Scott described it to me made perfect sense. As serious as his daughter’s condition is, Scott was quick to tell me how much joy she brings their family - at the time of this writing, she is seven years old and thriving. Art as an avenue for healing In light of the diagnosis that Scott and his wife received for their daughter, I wanted to ask Scott if creating art has contributed to healing on his journey. As you can imagine this was a difficult question to answer. Scott was gracious enough to give me an extended answer and discussion on this topic. Initially, Scott said that he didn’t necessarily see his creative pursuits as contributing to his healing process. However, the question resonated with Scott so much that he wanted to take another shot at answering it. On the second pass, Scott shared that he has experienced a sense of healing as he has taken his emotional trauma with him into the studio. Scott’s transparency and vulnerability were on full display and I was honored that he felt like he could trust me with such raw and honest responses. Outline of This Support the show

Most people don’t stop to consider the artistry involved with the framework that houses paintings. In many cases this is done on purpose, too elaborate or extravagant framework might detract from the detail and message that the artist is trying to convey. But artist Holly Lane has a different approach. She combines both aspects in a harmonious creative endeavor. The result is breathtaking. Holly carefully and litigiously plans how her work with carving and designing her frames will complement and enhance her painting as if they were one unified piece of art. Words don’t do Holly’s work justice, you have to see this brilliant and gifted approach - make sure to scroll down to the bottom of this post to see the images she provided. Early affirmations in carving out a creative path Not all artists receive the encouragement and enthusiasm for their early work as much as they’d like. Many artists use this adversity and challenge to fuel their creativity drive to succeed and make a name for themselves. Artist Holly Lane was fortunate enough to receive some early affirmations from her professors partly because of the unique nature of her work. In art school, Holly really discovered her passion, not only for painting but also for crafting and cultivating a skill for creating intricate frames that enhance her paintings. Holly’s journey wasn’t easy, she has faced her fair share of challenges but it’s refreshing to hear such a positive and encouraging start to an illustrious career. Art Inspired by Animals and Mythology It is an absolute joy to get the chance to hear from so many artists about what motivates and inspires their creative process. I asked my guest Holly Lane about her creative journey and how she conceptualizes her work. Holly explained that she gets a lot of her inspiration from “Interspecies compassion” - philosophical proofs that animals can think. She also delves into the imaginative journey and contemplates the backstory and implications of myths like the Roman goddess Fortuna. Holly has a vibrant and infectious energy that really comes alive when she opens up about her passion for her work. It's always wonderful to hear from such a talented and gracious artist. What is the Stendhal Syndrome? Have you ever heard of the Stendhal Syndrome? Neither had I until my conversation with Holly Lane. Once you hear what it is, it will sound familiar to you. The Stendhal Syndrome is a psychosomatic disorder that causes strong physical reactions and even hallucinations when an individual is exposed to an experience of great personal significance, particularly viewing art. Holly and I discussed our experiences with this phenomena and she told me about a meaningful moment someone had encountering her work. For an artist to see someone react so viscerally to their work is a powerful and meaningful moment and that certainly comes through when Holly tells the story. Keeping the artist's dream alive What is your dream project? Where would you go? What would you take with you? Artist Holly Lane was kind enough to indulge this question that I posed to her over the course of our conversation. Given the inspiration and type of work Holly engages in, her answer shouldn’t be too surprising. She said that she would like to travel to the great castles and cathedrals of Europe. There she would draw and take pictures, then compose a body of work to be exhibited either in a church or in a forest. Holly didn’t miss a beat when I asked her this question so you can tell this is something that is near the surface and that she's been dreaming about. I hope she gets to follow her dream and I hope you have one just below the surface that you will follow too! Outline of This Episode [0:35] My introduction to today’s guest, Holly Lane. [2:15] Holly talks about her work with framesSupport the show

Do you realize the power an art mentor has? They have the ability to guide and shape the next generation of artist. Unfortunately, this relationship is often underutilized. My guest Joe Gyurcsak believes strongly in the mentoring relationship. He has experienced the impact that older artist have had on his life AND he has had the opportunity to act as a mentor to the generation of artists coming up behind him. In our conversation, we cover the impact of having a mentor, his transition from illustration to fine art, how creative writing enhanced his artwork, and much more. The transition from illustration to fine art Have you ever imagined what it would be like to junk your current career path and make an abrupt change? That is exactly what my guest Joe Gyurcsak did. One night after a frustrating project as an illustrator, Joe decided that he was done. He made the decision and walked away. It wasn’t really a decision to turn from one thing and begin another at that point. But before long, Joe began producing paintings for fine art galleries. He quickly found himself swept up into a new direction for his work in the art world. It didn’t go completely smoothly for Joe from that point on, he had some ups and downs but he was confident that he had made the right decision and he was creating the art that he wanted to make. Reading and Writing as fuel to the artist's creative process What impact can reading and writing have in your creative process as an artist? I’ve had the privilege to interview many artists recently who have discovered the enormous impact that reading and more specifically writing has had on their creative process. My guest this week Joe Gyurcsak, tells me that reading and writing had a HUGE impact on him during a period of his life where he had to work in a field unrelated to his abilities as an artist. It was fascinating to hear as Joe described how creative writing helped clarify his thought process and really enhanced his approach to his artwork. Advice for artists early in their career What lessons can artists early in their career learn from more experienced artists? Joe Gyurcsak has some great insights that he’d love for some of his less experienced peers to learn from. He starts by encouraging them to put their work out there - boldly and consistently. Joe empathizes with the fear, insecurity, and nervousness that haunts many artists just starting off. But he is convinced that it is absolutely critical that artists take as many opportunities that come their way to show their art and sell their art. In Joe’s experience, the more an artist’s work is circulated and viewed, the chances increase for the artist to learn and grow from those encounters. Do artists need mentors? What would it be like to have a mentor? Someone who can point out and identify things that you can’t see in your own work and life? Artist Joe Gyurcsak has enjoyed some wonderful mentoring relationships over his career. He’s been able to get advice and outside perspective on his work, technique, and how to navigate the art world. If you haven’t been convinced of the importance of having a mentoring relationship, hearing from Joe will change your mind. He is convinced that the success and growth he has experienced is due in large part to the generous investment he has received from talented artists. Outline of This Episode [0:35] My introduction to this episode. [1:45] Joe Gyurcsak joins the podcast. [2:20] Joe talks about getting started with art. [3:30] Artists that inspired Joe. [4:10] Transitioning from student to working artist. [5:30] Personal success. [6:30] The decision to leave illustration behind. [7:40] Difficulty transitioning to fine art. [9:40] What advice would Joe give his younger selfSupport the show

When you meet someone who is passionate about a subject it can be contagious, whether you like the subject or not. But it takes a unique individual to really transfer and ignite that passion into someone else. It was a joy to sit down with my guest, Rey Bustos. Rey is a talented artist and an experienced educator. Our conversation covers the influence that Burne Hogarth had on both of us, his journey toward teaching art, and the role of passion and gratitude. We had a wonderful time discussing all these subjects and so much more. Influence from a giant in the art world When I went to school at Art Center I had the privilege to study under renowned illustrator Burne Hogarth. My guest, Rey Bustos also studied under Burne and ended up teaching his class soon after his passing. Rey and I had a wonderful time discussing the impact Burne had on both of us. He truly was a giant in the art and illustration world. Rey talked about how Burne’s passion and deep knowledge of illustration and anatomy ignited a passion in him that lasts to this day. It’s inspiring to reflect on the legacy and passion that one person can have over a generation of artists. The journey toward teaching art I have been fortunate to speak to quite a few artists recently who have also become educators. My guest, Rey Bustos also fits into that category. Rey tells the story that led him on the journey to becoming a teacher. He had taken a summer off from his time at Art Center to care for his first wife who would soon pass away. It was her words of encouragement that led Rey to move more and more toward teaching. She recognized his dreams of becoming a famous illustrator but she was convinced that Rey’s future and impact rested firmly in the teaching route. Eventually, Rey took more and more teaching opportunities and he’s never looked back. An infectious passion for art How do you pass on your joy and passion for art to others? Can it even be done? I asked this question to my guest, Rey Bustos who teaches art and illustration. He explained that for the most part, the students he gets in his classes these days sign up intentionally to take his class, it isn’t a course requirement. But Rey was kind enough to share what he does when he gets the odd student who didn’t quite know what they were getting into with taking his class. Simply put, Rey “Passions people to death.” That may sound strange but talk with Rey, and you can feel the energy and passion just radiate out from him. Gratitude that fuels creativity Learning from various talented artists over the years has been a joy and a privilege. Every artist has something that drives them, a creative impulse. My guest, Rey Bustos has many inspirations and motivations that he draws from. One of the key aspects that Rey points out in our conversation is his desire to highlight gratitude. He says “It is your choice to be happy or not.” Rey draws much of his artistic energy and inspiration from focusing on positive thoughts and the good things he has in his life. He has found this to be a better place for him to draw from then the things that aren’t going well in his life or about the things that he lacks. Outline of This Episode [0:30] My introduction to today’s guest, Rey Bustos. [2:30] Rey talks about what drew him to art. [9:00] Rey and I talk about our time at Art Center studying under Burne Hogarth. [12:15] What was Rey’s biggest takeaway from studying under Burne? [17:40] Rey talks about mastering figure drawing. [19:20] Rey talks about teaching analytical figure drawing. [23:00] How does Rey energize students who aren’t passionate about his topics? [34:10] Rey talks about a moment of personal success. [36:40] The importance of family. [43:30] Rey talks about learningSupport the show

Sometimes you just need to shake things up. Routine and patterns can foster complacency and stifle creativity. My guest Robert Chiarito lives to change things up when it comes to his artwork. Much of our conversation centered around the theme of “Breaking the mold.” Our conversation spanned some great topics like walking away from gallery representation, to being critical of work that “Comes easy,” and cultivating a flavor of unpredictability in his work. Robert was exceedingly gracious with his time and with his level of honesty. Make sure to catch the images of his inspiring work at the end of this post! Walking away from gallery representation In an ever-changing art world, is it realistic to expect to make a living by showing your work in art galleries? Robert Chiarito resolved early on in his career to creating the art he wanted to make regardless of what galleries or art collectors wanted to see. This decision has afforded him the freedom to cultivate an unpredictable flavor to the artwork he produces. Robert’s work as an educator has contributed to the independence he is able to enjoy. Even though he hasn’t depended on the income from the sales of his paintings, Robert has had his work in galleries over the years. Each artist's path is going to be different. Find what works for you and above all, be authentic to the work you were made to create. What’s behind the “Drive” to paint? The beautiful thing about interviewing a wide range of artists is getting to hear what motivates and drives each one of them. There might be some common threads but each person gives their explanation in a unique way. Artist Robert Chiarito describes the reason why he paints as, “Discovering what will happen and to see where things go.” Robert is fascinated by the basic interaction of positives and negatives in any painting technique. He has an intriguing perspective that really made me see things from a different angle, I loved hearing him explain his motivations. Skepticism for art that “Comes easy” You’ve heard the saying “If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.” Does that saying apply to art? Should you be skeptical when things come to you easily? My guest is artist Robert Chiarito and he is convinced that any work that he produces that comes easily should be scrutinized. This doesn’t mean that Robert never produces his art that just comes upon him in a rush of inspiration. At the end of the day, he has learned that if a painting comes easily it to him it usually lacks the depth and nuance he tries to cultivate. Avoiding predictability in art After practicing your craft over many years, there is a temptation to go into “Autopilot” mode. It happens to some of the best and talented artists out there. So how do you avoid this trap? How do you “Break the mold?” Artist Robert Chiarito has dedicated his efforts to continually change things up with his art for this very purpose. He looks for ways big and small to deviate from patterns and predictability in his work. Some challenges have arisen from this intense focus to stand out and do things differently. My conversation with Robert was fascinating as we explored his efforts and the insights he has gained along the way. Outline of This Episode [0:30] I introduce today’s guest Robert Chiarito. [2:00] Robert talks about what drove him to pursue art. [7:30] What type of work is Robert involved in now? [12:00] Finding your voice as an artist. [14:20] Growth as an artist. [16:30] Responses to Robert’s work. [23:00] How does Robert deal with his changing interests and galleries? [29:30] Why does Robert paint? [33:30] What is Robert obsessed with right now? [39:30] Why doesn’t Robert trust himself with a painting that doesn’t come quickly? Support the show

I had the wonderful privilege of sitting down with renowned artist and educator Langdon Quin. We discussed his work with observational art and invented imagery. Langdon was gracious enough to provide some images of his work that you can see at the end of this post. He shared how he started working with invented imagery and how his work as an observational painter has influenced his growth and evolution. Langdon’s passion for art is infectious, we discussed some of his influences over the years and how his role and educator has also impacted his life and work. Invented Imagery Art What is “Invented Imagery?” Invented imagery in the term artist Langdon Quin puts it is creating paintings of objects or scenes that he has created in his mind. This can also include a memory of a place the artist has seen but the art is created solely on that memory. Another fascinating example that Langdon shared was a painting he did of a landscape that he often travels by, but instead of painting that scene from the angle he had seen it in passing, he painted it from an aerial viewpoint. Langdon has taken an intriguing journey combining his skills as an observational painter and allowing it to evolve into his work with invented imagery. Growing as an artist - Incremental change. When you are in the middle of your career or a particular fast paced phase of life you lose track of your own growth and development. In the hustle and bustle, introspection and personal growth can take a backseat to the pressures of daily life. It was such an honor to sit down with artist Langdon Quin as he draws from his 35 years of experience in the art world. One of the most prominent topics we discussed was his growth as an artist. Langdon looks back on his growth as incremental - bit by bit he adapted and developed as an artist over time. He has never been in a hurry to make huge leaps and changes and he cautions other artists to heed this wisdom. Keeping your creative spark alive as an artist. Competition, innovation, and success are the idols that American culture worships in the marketplace. How does an artist fit into that ecosystem? Can an artist survive when competition and success reign supreme? Most artists won’t have a problem with innovation, the art world is built upon this idea. What about competition and success? To keep the creative spark alive, a good artist will resist the urge to let success define their passion. Competition can be helpful but often leads to comparison and envy. Artist Langdon Quin talks about his struggle to keep his work at the forefront. Langdon decided to focus on what matters, his work. Success will come and go and competition isn’t on his radar. He creates because he can’t image doing anything else. Don’t expect things to be sequential in the art world. Society often communicates to young people that you just need to get qualified in your field, work hard, and success will follow. Is that accurate advice for people pursuing their passion in the art world? Artist Langdon Quin doesn’t think it’s helpful to look at success in the art world in such a sequential way. Looking back on his 35 years as an artist, Langdon notes that the landscape is ever changing and a wise artist will learn to adapt to those changes. Success may come and go, sometimes it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. Langdon advises artists to keep at it, don’t give up and don’t be discouraged. Success shouldn’t validate or invalidate your work. Outline of This Episode [0:30] I introduce today’s guest: Langdon Quin. [3:00] What caused Langdon to pursue art? [5:50] How has teaching influenced Langdon’s life and work? [8:00] What has been the common thread in Langdon’s work over 35 years? [11:00] Langdon talks about his with invented imagery. [19:00] WhSupport the show

My guest today is Phyllis Schafer. You might remember her being mentioned from the interview I conducted with Parker Stremmel. Phyllis is represented by the Stremmel Gallery in Reno, NV. We had a wonderful and wide-ranging conversation where we discussed her work painting in gouache, her journey as an artist through her undergrad work in the 70’s, and some of the difficulties she faced in her graduate work in the 80’s. Phyllis has a unique perspective as both an artist and an educator. She currently lives and works in the beautiful Lake Tahoe area and her paintings reflect her stunning surroundings. Discovering painting in gouache Through her artistic journey, Phyllis Shafer has come to love and utilize painting in gouache. Gouache is a method of painting using opaque pigments ground in water and thickened with a glue-like substance. Phyllis was drawn to gouache partly because of the prolific use of acrylics in painting at the time she was in undergraduate school in the 70’s. As she started using oils and started branching out more in different techniques, she fell in love with painting in gouache. Growing up Artistically in the Bay area Every artist has that moment in their career where they “Come alive.” This can happen early in life or later in life, there really isn’t a set pattern to how this comes about, it's unique for each artist. Phyllis Shafer speaks of growing up artistically in the Bay area. She had moved there after spending years in New York. This was the place where she really got to work establishing herself and building her resume as an artist. To hear Phyllis talk about her journey both literally and artistically that took her to San Francisco and then to Lake Tahoe is riveting. Facing disillusionment with the art world How do you succeed in your field of study when it seems like the whole system is broken or not working for you? Do you give up or do you push through? Phyllis Shafer struggled with these thoughts as she navigated graduate school and the art scene at UC Berkeley in the 80’s. She faced some difficult decisions at this time in her life. Phyllis had dabbled in dance performance and had considered taking that route to fulfill her need for creative output. Ultimately, Phyllis came to terms with the fact that making images was so deeply ingrained in her that she could never give it up. Though her journey was difficult, Phyllis persevered. Urban compared to Rural life as an artist Does it matter where you live as an artist? Is it better to be in an urban setting or a more rural setting? My guest Phyllis Shafer has experienced both. She spent her early career in San Francisco, and then later moved to the Lake Tahoe area. Phyllis sees the benefits of both experiences and speaks to the unique opportunities she has enjoyed as an established artist moving from an urban to a smaller community. Phyllis’ insight is fascinating and provides a helpful perspective for artists both young and experienced. Outline of This Episode [0:35] I introduce today’s guest; Phyllis Shafer. [2:20] How did Phyllis get started with painting? [4:30] Phyllis’ growth as an artist when she was in her 20’s. [9:50] How did the move to San Francisco influence Phyllis as an artist? [11:30] Phyllis and I talk about using gouache, oil, and water colors. [15:30] Artists that have influenced Phyllis’ work. [20:00] Phyllis and talk about making difficult decisions. [24:20] Navigating politics and frustrations in the art world during graduate school. [30:20] The differences of Rural compared to Urban art scenes. [39:00] What has Phyllis been working on lately? Other artists mentioned on this episode Support the show

If you are anything like me, you might find math to be an intimidating subject. But math and art have had a harmonious relationship for hundreds of years. There is a rich history between the two subjects that I find fascinating. It is a huge honor to have artist Michael Schultheis as my guest on the podcast this week. Michael didn’t start his career as an artist, but he has always been captivated by the beauty of mathematics. After starting a successful career working at Microsoft in Seattle, Michael was struck with the inspiration to teach himself how to become an artist. The catalyst for this change occurred while Michael was listening to Terry Gross interview an artist who encouraged people to make art from what they knew. That set things off for Michael and his journey of bringing the two worlds of mathematics and art together with his own spin. Exciting ways art is being seen and felt When an artist can connect with their audience on a level beyond the visual, something truly special has occurred. For many observers, this level beyond the visual is usually an emotional connection that resonates deeply. However, when I asked artist Michael Schultheis about his experience with audience engagement, I received a surprising response. He told me about two different but fascinating reactions he has received from his artwork. The first was a blind woman who requested to feel his work with her hands so she could “See” his painting. The second was a young boy who focused on the numbers and equations in the painting. Both individuals “Saw” Michael’s art on a level beyond most viewers. How do you know when a painting is finished? It’s always interesting to hear from various artists about how they can tell when they have completed their artwork. For Michael Schultheis, having spent so much of his career dealing with algorithms and equations, he wasn’t sure when to “Finish” his artwork. That all changed one day when he had a conversation with the talented artist and storyteller, Jacob Lawrence. Michael learned from Jacob and his wife Gwendolyn to approach each painting as an experiment. They encouraged him to; “Do his experiment and then let it go.” That advice resonated deeply with Michael and influenced how he approached his artwork. Art and mathematics as storytelling I’ll be honest and admit that when I think of mathematics, I don’t think of storytelling. My guest, Michael Schultheis has opened my eyes and has given me a new appreciation for the beautiful way that math and art intersect to tell a moving story. As an example, Michael tells the story of his parents. He describes how they met, their relationship’s ups and downs, and ultimately how they grew closer than ever toward the end of his father’s life. Michael tells their story and intersects mathematical and artistic concepts throughout. It is absolutely stunning how he is able to bring these concepts together in an engaging and relatable way. Artistic Inspiration from Galileo to Leonardo da Vinci to Picasso and more! A lot of the artist I get to interview have a great list of individuals who have influenced or inspired their work over the years. As I sat down with Michael Schultheis, I quickly found that it wasn’t just fellow artist that inspired him but also many notable mathematicians and great historical figures from long ago. He draws inspiration from the likes of Galileo to Leonardo da Vinci to Picasso and many others! Michael’s fascination with these figures is infectious, our conversation had me on the edge of my seat as he talked about these artists and mathematicians as mentors. Outline of This Episode [0:36] Background of guest: Michael Schultheis. [2:30] How did Michael get started as an artist? [3:29] Finding beauty in mathematical equations. [7:40] Michael’s journeySupport the show

Incremental change isn’t sexy. Big changes and bold moves get all the attention and headlines. But most of the world revolves around this slow but steady persistent and forward progress of incremental change. This has been the case for artist Deborah Zlotsky. She would be the first to tell you that she’s not someone who has many “Aha moments” but that’s ok, she loves the small changes she has piled up in her life. To hear Deborah talk about her creative process and the journey she has taken to become the artist she is today is awe inspiring. Working hard to avoid being overwhelmed It can be so difficult to drown out all the noise of life and focus on the work at hand and the things you enjoy doing. How do you avoid becoming overwhelmed? What brings the most focus and clarity? Artist Deborah Zlotsky struggled with distraction and an unsatisfying amount of productivity. Through trial and error, Deborah found her way to focus and clarity was through compartmentalizing her work into short bursts of creativity. These bursts of creativity ended up being highly productive for Deborah and have allowed her to avoid the trap of becoming overwhelmed. What’s worked for you? Have you tried this practice of short bursts of creativity? The little things that make a huge impact Many of us will go through life not noticing the impact we have on others. But especially for teachers, the little things, that moment of encouragement or one on one engagement can make all the difference. Artist Deborah Zlotsky remembers a moment she had in art school where one teacher made that big impact on her life. She had been enjoying and thriving in her art history classes yet not finding as much engagement in her studio art classes. Then one day an instructor took the time to engage with her artwork. It meant the world to Deborah, so much so that she thinks back to that moment even today. It goes to show you that we all have the ability, however, big or small to have an impact on others. It’s a lesson we can all take to heart. Tracing creative output through different life stages You’ve heard the phrase “Art imitates life.” For artist Deborah Zlotsky, that saying rang true for her during a particular period of her life. In our conversation, Deborah tells me about a time in her life where her paintings were dark and somber in a way. This also happened to be the time in her life where she was going through a divorce. Once she came out on the other side of this stage in life, she noticed that she wanted to make paintings that were lighter. Deborah was bold and unflinching in our interview and it goes to show how much of a graceful and exciting artist she truly is. Writing that enhances the creative process Sometimes in order to truly understand what is going on inside us, we have to work it out. Many artists know this to be true as their paintings can be the very expression of what thoughts or emotions they have running around inside. Another practice that can help this process is writing. My guest Deborah Zlotsky has found that the discipline of writing enhances her drawing. On this episode, we sit down and discuss the impact writing has on her creative process. Have you found writing or journaling to be helpful in your creative process? Deborah was kind enough to let me in on her process and I hope her experience is an inspiration to you! Outline of This Episode [0:36] Background of guest: Deborah Zlotsky. [2:02] I introduce Deborah Zlotsky. [2:20] How did Deborah get started as an artist? [7:29] Incremental growth and self discovery. [11:34] What moves and motivates Deborah as she paints? [16:45] How does Deborah manage her time and structure her creativity? [23:36] Deborah talks about a personal success. [28:46] Deborah discussSupport the show

There are a multitude of factors that contribute to crafting your personality. The familiar debate of nature versus nurture comes to mind. Just as there are various pieces involved in crafting a personality, so are there in finding artistic inspiration. What inspires one person would never inspire the next and so on. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I have the pleasure of interviewing artist Ginnie Gardiner. In our conversation, we discuss her work as an MTV music video producer, what art books inspire her, her creative process, and much more! I can’t wait for you to hear from this gracious and talented artist - make sure to listen in! An artist inspired by her work with MTV You wouldn’t think there was much correlation between working on MTV music videos and developing as a painter. However, that is exactly artist Ginnie Gardiner’s story. She worked as a producer for a video company to take “Flat art” and animate it for videos and television. This job working with digital art and music videos served as her early work experience right out of college from Cornell. On this episode of Savvy Painter, Ginnie shares how this experience influenced her significantly as an artist and later as a painter. Don’t miss out on our fascinating conversation! Painting inspired by reading Inspiration can be a difficult thing to come by for many creative people. Once you find what inspires you, it can unleash a flood of productivity. What have you found that inspires you? Is it always the same thing or does it change through different seasons of life? Artist Ginnie Gardiner finds inspiration for her paintings and collage work from reading various books. She loves to read books about artists and by artists. Reading these works have had a huge impact on her creative process. Ginnie has even added reading into her daily routine as she prepares and paints her canvases. To hear more about what motivates and inspires Ginnie, listen to this episode of Savvy Painter! Finding the right routine and rituals to fuel creativity When you have done things a certain way for so long, it becomes second nature. You don’t even realize you are practicing particular habits because it’s become part of who you are. These habits and rituals can be extremely helpful in fueling your creative impulses. Some people’s creativity thrives while they are listening to music, some need complete silence. I am always intrigued to find out what makes each artist I get to interview succeed. Artist Ginnie Gardiner has a number of these routines that she practices when she approaches her canvas. I know you will find her habits and rituals as fascinating as I did. Don’t miss my interview with Ginnie on this episode of Savvy Painter. The magic of viewing art in person Can you think back to a time when you were truly awe inspired? When was that last time your heart started racing and your jaw dropped? For artist Ginnie Gardiner it's whenever she gets to view world renowned paintings in person. On this episode of Savvy Painter, Ginnie and I discuss the powerful impact art has had on our lives. My hope is that our conversation resonates with you. Ginnie’s awe and wonder of the art world is contagious and had me planning my next trip to Madrid. Listen to this episode of Savvy Painter to hear more from Ginnie! Outline of This Episode [0:36] Background of guest: Ginnie Gardiner. [2:13] I introduce Ginnie Gardiner. [2:41] Why did Ginnie become an artist? [11:03] How working with music videos influenced Ginnie’s painting. [16:38] Ginnie talks about the influence of Josef Albers and the use of colors in her art. [23:18] The influence of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo on Ginnie’s work. [27:19] The use of thumbnail drawings. [31:42] Reading good books as inspiration.Support the show

Kirstine Reiner Hansen is an artist with a vibrant story. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Kirstine to discuss her successful and thriving career as a “Self taught artist.” Our discussion ranges from the pros and cons of getting a Masters in Fine Arts (MFA), her experience as a self taught painter, keeping her audience updated, and making a substantial shift in her method and style of painting. Kirstine is a generous and gracious guest and I believe you will learn a lot from her wealth of knowledge and insight. Make sure to listen to this episode of Savvy Painter! Is it important to keep your audience invested and interested in your work? In the social media age, how important is it to keep your audience interested? I get the wonderful opportunity to sit down with artist Kirstine Reiner Hansen to discuss the importance of updating and including your audience on your journey. Much of our thinking around this idea is just reminding our audience that we are still around and working out our creative process. This can take the form of snapping a picture of a paint brush and posting it Instagram or giving them an exclusive “Peek” on our upcoming project. In this new global and interconnect society, artists need to think about the steps they can take to ensure their audience is engaged. Learn more from our in depth conversation on this episode of Savvy Painter!   What is it like being a “Self taught artist” Discovering your vocation doesn’t usually come easy most people. For those who find their “calling” easily, even that can be fraught with uncertainty. Kirstine Reiner Hansen discovered her passion and calling as an artist. As she has developed and grown as an artist and has experienced different art communities, Kirstine has struggled with the fact that she never procured her Masters of Fine Arts (MFA) degree. This is a hotly debated issue among many artists, is the MFA really necessary to have a credible and successful career as an artist? Kirstine came to the conclusion that for her, even though it would be nice, the MFA is not necessary. To hear more about Kirstine’s journey as a “Self taught artist”, listen to this episode of Savvy Painter. Making the shift from observational to photo reference. Leaving a style or way of doing things for so long can be difficult. Not many people enjoy and embrace change. One of the keys to moving from a place of comfort to a new and possibly better place is understanding that your current location is unacceptable. Kirstine Reiner Hansen understood this truth. She had been practicing an observational form of painting for many years but soon realized that she need to make a change. It wasn’t easy and it took a lot of courage and boldness to push into a new realm of painting. She now uses photo references in her painting and she is thrilled that she made the change. To hear more about Kirstine’s process and what it took for her make that leap, listen to this episode of Savvy Painter! An unconventional method of painting   Every artist has their own unique way of preparing themselves before they approach the canvas. I found Kirstine Reiner Hansen’s approach to her projects rather unconventional. As she prepares her canvas and other items (she uses collage work as well), Kirstine closes her eyes and picks objects at random and then figures out how to incorporate them into her work. She feels that it is the only way she can be fresh and present her work as surprising. The Support the show

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

Mixed media art refers to a work of art where more than one medium has been employed. "Mixed media" tends to refer to a work of visual art that combines various traditionally distinct visual art media. For example, a work on canvas that combines paint, ink, and collage could properly be called a "mixed media" work. I had the privilege of sitting down with premier mixed media artist, Caren Canier on this episode of Savvy Painter. Caren brings years of experience and profound insight to our conversation about the art world. Hear about her experience as an artist, Rome Prize Fellowship recipient, and much more! Establishing a “Commitment” to art As an artist, you have to decide who you are making art for. If you are constantly looking for approval and checking “Which way the wind blows” your career is going to be very difficult. Caren Canier is an artist and teacher. She emphasizes the need to connect with your motivation for art. She believes that every artist needs to establish a commitment that comes from the inside out. In our fascinating discussion on this episode of Savvy Painter, Caren expands on these thoughts and shares about her journey. Don’t miss it! The artist’s role in American society What is the artist’s role in 21st century American society? In today’s context artists are largely divorced from culture. There seems to be a tension between commercial art and the “Art world.” Some believe the true role of an artist is to reflect back to people ideas about living and what it’s like to be human. Caren Canier shares this view, she also believes that the artist’s role is to express through art what it’s like to live in the times we live in and make sense out of things. It's a rarified form of communication that is extremely important. To hear more from Caren, don’t miss this episode of Savvy Painter! Mixed media art and the creative process Each artist’s journey is unique. Just as each piece of art reflects something that connected deep within the artist that created it. In hearing someone share their story and their heart, you get to discover a piece of your own. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I ask artist Caren Canier about her creative process and how she found her way using mixed media art. Caren’s story is fascinating and elaborate. You’ll love hearing about her experimentations with collage work and figure painting. Our conversation is wide ranging and fun, make sure to catch this episode! Finding value in setbacks and challenges How do you respond when you encounter setbacks or failures? Is it even possible to rise from those experiences and grow from it? Accomplished artist Caren Canier encourages artists to remain patient. It has been her experience that even though you can’t see the way forward in times of difficulty, clarity will come. From her vantage point as an experienced artist, she has learned to take a longer view of setbacks and failures. Nothing she has experienced in her career has defeated her. She has remained true to her “Commitment to art” and she advises others going to through difficulty to do the same. Learn more from Caren’s wealth of wisdom on this episode of Savvy Painter. Outline of This Episode [0:38] Background of guest: Caren Canier. [2:21] I introduce Caren Canier. [3:02] How Caren started her journey as an artist. [8:20] Caren’s definition of a “Commitment to art.” [11:15] The artist's role in American society. [14:25] What connections does Caren see between painting and “New media?” [20:35] Caren’s creative process. How she chooses her motifs. [25:41] Technical questions about preparing a collage. [33:30] Caren talks about a powerful moment in her early art career. [43:02] A time when Caren faced a setback. [47:47] The vaSupport the show

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

Synesthesia is a sensation that some people have when one sense is being interpreted by a different one. Some people see a color when a number is mentioned. Others smell a lemon when they see a particular shade of green. Artist Krista Harris has incorporated this sensory phenomenon into her abstract art. She lives in rural Colorado which creates a perfect backdrop for inspiration through all five senses. For example, when she hears a blackbird singing she attempts to paint that sound. Krista’s art and her way of approaching the senses and the world around her is fascinating. Check out my exciting interview with her on this episode of Savvy Painter! How do you approach your goals? With the New Year fast approaching, many people are setting goals for 2017. How do you approach goal setting? Do you grab what was leftover from 2016 that you didn’t get accomplished? What strategy works best? Artist Krista Harris found a few methods that worked for her. To start off, she focuses on a clear, specific goal. Once she identifies the goal she works her way back from there. She asks herself, “What will it take to accomplish this?” Krista finds that a common mistake most artists make is having vague goals or aspirations. She encourages artists to be ruthlessly specific in what they want to accomplish. To hear more of my conversation with Krista, catch this episode of Savvy Painter! Seeing challenges as opportunities for growth. How you face obstacles and challenges in life says a lot about who you are. Do you allow setbacks to knock you down or do you see them as lessons to strengthen you? Krista Harris learned that when life gives you hurdles to jump over, don’t get discouraged - leap! It has been her experience as an artist that adversity and challenges make you stronger. It is all part of the process. When one door closes another opens. Learn more about Krista’s story and the struggles she has overcome on this episode of Savvy Painter. Do you say “No” enough? In our culture “business” is a virtue. But the truth of the matter is, a frantic and busy lifestyle can quickly lead to burnout. We are hardwired to accept every offer and seize every opportunity that saying “No” sounds strange. It even seems counterintuitive. Yet, artist Krista Harris told me it is one of the smartest decisions she’s ever made. She learned that saying “No” can be empowering. It forces you to evaluate what matters to YOU and not allow other people to drive your schedule. Don’t miss more of Krista’s valuable insight on this episode of Savvy Painter. Painting from an “Empty place” Most artists approach the canvas with some inspiration. Maybe it’s a word, color, emotion, etc. It seems very “out of the box” to produce art that has no inspiration. But for Krista Harris, it's all about coming to the canvas with nothing in her mind. This method takes serious focus and discipline. As she prepares the colors and the canvas Krista empties her mind as much as possible. She explains that this approach allows her to let inspiration strike in a unique way. To hear Krista talk about her method and results is fascinating. I enjoyed our conversation and I’m sure you will too! Outline of This Episode [0:39] Background of guest: Krista Harris. [2:33] I introduce Krista Harris. [2:52] Early inspirations in art. [5:15] Krista’s journey to becoming an artist. [13:55] The necessity of goals. [22:24] Is it ever too late to become an artist? [26:00] Krista talks about on of her biggest challenges. [29:51] The necessity of saying “No.” [41:32] What goes through Krista’s mind while painting? [49:01] Krista’s work with synesthesia and art. [55:01] What is Krista currently working on? Other artists mentioned on this episoSupport the show

Controversial art is often provocative. The artist wants to make you feel something on a visceral level or they want to challenge the way you think. If you haven’t ever thought of art as a medium to send a message, then this episode for you! I had the wonderful privilege to sit down with a provocative and sometimes controversial artist, Hannah Yata. In this episode we discuss her journey of becoming an artist, finding her voice, and challenging the culture. Hannah has some powerful messages to convey through her work. She has evoked strong responses from audiences of all types. You won’t want to miss hearing from this talented artist! Getting Started as an Artist Plotting your way down a career path can be very difficult. Some professions have a very clear cut route, and others don’t. Hannah Yata found herself struggling through the process of getting started as an artist. As she was finishing up her time in art school, she wondered what the next step would be. An offhand comment from one of her teachers sent Hannah in the right direction toward her goal of becoming an artist. An email sent things into motion and Hannah was given a great opportunity to spend the summer working with artists Martin Wittfooth and Adam Miller. That summer was valuable and formative for Hanna. Her time there allowed Hannah to gather insight and skills she needed for the next phase of her development as an artist. To hear more about Hanna’s journey listen to this episode of Savvy Painter! Sending a Message with Controversial Art “There are only two things that pierce the human heart. One is beauty. The other is affliction.” ~ Simone Weil The idea of beauty or affliction is front and center with most controversial art. The artist is trying to evoke something within the viewer. They want their art to resonate deep within. On this episode of Savvy Painter, I get to sit down with artist Hannah Yata. Listen as we discuss one of her most recent pieces of provocative art. Hannah describes the message she wants to convey through the piece and her motivation behind it. Don’t miss this fascinating story from Hana! Living in a Productivity Obsessed Culture An ancient proverb asks, “What good does it profit someone to gain the whole world yet forfeit their soul?” As a society, we can become blind to the damage that seemingly “good” things can cause. We live in a productivity obsessed culture. On the surface, productivity is good. However, when set on a pedestal it can cause men and women to sacrifice their well-being on its altar. On this episode of Savvy Painter, Hannah Yata and I discuss how productivity can become detrimental. We discuss the necessity of “turning off” and finding ways to refresh and remind ourselves that we are more than what we produce! Keys to Success Have you ever wondered what makes certain artists successful? On this episode of Savvy Painter, I sit down with Hannah Yata to find out the keys to her success. Hannah emphasizes two habits that have enabled her to thrive. One of the habits that helped her was establishing a routine. This is a common theme with many artists. Her other key to success is maintaining an appetite for reading. Hannah is convinced that a mind engaged with ideas and stories will produce thoughtful and engaging art. To hear more of our conversation around success as an artist, check out this episode! Outline of This Episode [0:31] Background of Guest: Hannah Yata. [1:59] I introduce Hannah on today’s show. [2:19] Hannah talk’s about her very first painting. [3:13] What made Hannah consider painting as a viable career path? [13:52] How did Hannah feel after her first gallery showing? [16:15] Hannah describes her work. [18:59] Hannah discusses her most recent controversial piece of Support the show

The creative process works differently for everyone. If you are an artist you know that. It’s even possible that what works for you for some time, in terms of how you go about preparing to create your art, stops working later in your career. In this fascinating conversation with John Brosio, I had the privilege to chat about those changes and what to do when they happen. We also tried to dive deeply into what goes into the creative process and why artists are responsible to connect their work to things the viewer already knows in order to communicate with significance and power. It’s a great conversation with a fun guy, so I hope you take the time to listen. What goes into YOUR creative process and what will you do when it doesn’t work? During this conversation with John Brosio, I asked what his creative process looks like - I wanted to know the basics of how he sets up his studio and prepares himself to create. What I got was a quick lesson in dealing with distractions and the necessity of remaining flexible. That’s because lately John’s found that his old routines and rituals don’t work and he’s had to pivot in order to keep creating. But in time we did get to the extremely practical, talking about the kind of music or sound he needs in the room while he’s painting and how he is carving out more time for concentrated effort in the studio. I found it very helpful and definitely a part of the creative process that I could relate to. Why John Brosio can’t keep creating the same things all the time. It’s a place every artist reaches eventually. You’ve created something that people respond to. Galleries ask for more of the same. And you may be able to crank out a few more pieces along that line but is it something you can do indefinitely. Is it something you SHOULD do repeatedly? John Brosio says he can’t keep creating the same things over and over. He finds himself in a certain creative space for a season and then has to move on. Maybe it’s part of how his personal creativity ebbs and flows. Maybe it’s an expression of his keen mind and the many interests he has. Whatever it is I believe we’re all better off for it. You can hear John talk about this and many more issues he’s experienced throughout his career, on this episode of Savvy Painter. He got his dream job working for George Lucas and it wasn’t for him. One of the things John Brosio thought he wanted to do as he worked his way through school was to work with George Lucas on the Star Wars films. His keen interest in the unusual, the epic, the fantastic caused him to feel like it was an ideal fit. But as he got into the work - creating sculptures of monsters and alien worlds - he discovered that it’s very different to create someone else’s dream than it is to create what’s in your own mind and heart. When his internship was over he decided that he needed to do something else. And he has certainly done that! You can hear John’s artistic journey on this episode. Why making art is a privilege artists can never take for granted. Art is one of the finer things of life. To have the privilege to express beauty or communicate truth through a work of your own creativity is a humbling thing. But it’s essential that in the pursuit of our art we keep in mind that the price has already been paid for us to have the privilege to be artists. Someone has done the hard work of preparing the way, creating a culture that allows us the luxury of painting, drawing, sculpting, and more. A quote from President John Adams prompted John Brosio and me to chat about the importance of this issue - and a whole lot more - on this episode. Outline of This Episode John’s background: how he got started in the creative industry. Artists that John was inspired by when he was young. The journey through school and how John Support the show

Parker Stremmel is the Gallery Manager at Stremmel gallery in Reno, Nevada. The gallery opened in 1969 with an outdoor and wildlife emphasis, but by 2003, it evolved to reflect a modern focus. Today Stremmel gallery specializes in contemporary paintings, drawings, and sculptures by mid-career and established American and European artists. In this episode, Parker and Antrese Wood talk about why galleries have limits with the number of artists they work with, the benefits of standing by artists as they experiment and grow, and how Stremmel talks to collectors. They also talk about the cornerstone of a healthy They also talk about the cornerstone of a healthy artist-gallery relationship: honesty, communication, and why Stremmel Gallery employs some counter-intuitive tactics to help their artists grow and succeed. Parker tells the harrowing story of when a visitor slammed his fist into a Trompe L’Oeil piece to see if it was real- luckily the piece was undamaged. This episode is sponsored by Trekell Art Supplies. Go to Trekell.com and use promo code SAVVY16 to get 15% off your next order.Support the show

Jennifer Balkan didn’t start out to be an artist. She earned a Ph.D in anthropological sociology, but after seeing master paintings in France, Italy, and Spain, she knew she had to switch gears and study art. Jennifer shares about how she transitioned into full-time painting, her experiences with galleries, social media, looking out for yourself, and balancing painting life with family life. Jennifer offers tips on pushing yourself to be your best, determining which galleries to work with, and working through grief. She stresses the importance of both working hard to learn the language of painting, and of playful riffs and exploration.Support the show

Realist painter Chris Leib’s artistic journey began by way of anthropology and a near-miss with a career in real estate. An apprenticeship with Roberto Lupetti provided a foundation from which his talent could organically grow. Leib discusses overcoming setbacks, including an explosion that forced him from his home and studio, life with a fellow artist as your spouse, and the habits and mindset that contribute to productive creativity.Support the show

Gillian Pederson-Krag paints still-lifes and figurative work from her home in New York. She received her BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design in 1961 and her MFA from Cornell University shortly after. As a child, Gillian visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York often. She was particularly fascinated by the Egyptian mummies and the concept of death. Later, she had a pivotal experience of being moved by the Egyptian artwork, and that experience of being moved, of connecting on a human level through visual language became a cornerstone of her work, something she continually returns to and strives for. Gillian believes that part of a painters discipline lies in the act of daydreaming - spending a certain amount of time being a host to whatever images and feelings visit, and then allowing those to incubate until they from a painting.Support the show

Brian Rutenberg is originally from South Carolina. He received his BFA from the College of Charleston, and his MFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. I think you will really enjoy this conversation- Brian talks about his idea that in the big picture, art fails us, it is lifeless and incomplete. Wait— what?? When I heard Brian say that, I’ll admit I had a split second of judgment, you know, like someone had just insulted the love of my life and I needed to defend my love. But what Brian goes on to say is quite beautiful, and illustrates the role of the artist in this dance with our canvas. Brian also shares his idea that art is part skill and part insanity. I loved diving down that rabbit hole- it brought us into skill, spontaneity and the difference between making and creating. Then we talk about Brian’s painting rituals, his family life, and how that inspires his work.Support the show

Zoey Frank is a figurative painter from Colorado. She studied at the Juliette Aristides Atelier in Seattle and then went on to get her MFA from the Laguna College of Art and Design. Zoey is in love with the figure. She shares her process, and her experiments freely in this episode. I really enjoyed talking with her about her current work, in which she is playing with observation, imagination, and photography. We also talk about the instability of this career choice we’ve made and how that can really affect our mood. Zoey shares the tactics she uses to deal with uncertainty- tactics that focus on reconnecting with the joy of making things and creating.Support the show

Susan Jane Walp paints still lifes from her home in Vermont. Her compositions expertly balance silent spaces with a powerful geometry that pulls you in and holds you. Her influences range from Piero de la Francesca to Lennart Anderson whom she met and studied with at a summer program run by Boston University during her undergrad years. Susan and I talk about how she constructs her paintings, and how she balances precision with those spontaneous a-ha moments. We dive pretty deep into how she sets up her subjects. She has the patience to leave things open enough for change and for something larger than herself to manifest. Susan also shares how painting phases coincide with the phases of the moon.Support the show

Like many artists, Billyo O'Donnell struggled with the decision to pursue art as a vocation. But standing in his boss's office at a Missouri saw mill, Billyo came to a life changing realization. He saw that there are no safe paths, and decided he might as well take his own chances. So he carved his own path in the world of corporate illustration, negotiating a brilliant deal with his employer that got his paintings into corporate collections across the U.S. After being rejected from multiple galleries in his home state of Missouri, a painting trip to California inspired Billyo to start his own painting ventures. We talk about the uncertainty and dedication in multi-year projects, how the NEA contacted Billyo and expanded on his project, plus the book that followed: “Painting Missouri.” We also talk about the plein-air events and what Billyo looks for when judging painting competitions plus how he sees the art world changing in the next few years.Support the show

Kathleen Speranza is a painter from Massachusetts. She earned her BFA from Boston University and her MFA from Yale. She teaches painting and drawing at Rhode Island School of Design. Her current obsession is portraits. Portraits of flowers. And according to Kathleen, flower paintings are sometimes akin to stepping on the third rail. There are so many stereotypes that go along with this subject that tackling it can be dangerous. Particularly for a female painter. But Kathleen, I think, is fluent in the language of color. She understands their subtleties and arranges them masterfully on her canvas. Allowing each its place so that the subject sings. I am completely fascinated by, the topic of color so I grill Kathleen on her palette organization, her interest in the Munsell Palette and when she chooses to use it. We talk about life, and yes, having one informs our art. As much as we’d like to lock ourselves in an ivory tower and paint 24/7, it just doesn’t work. We circle back to this topic a few times - as it relates to taking a break so that we have the opportunity to distil the stimulus into a painting. Maintaining an art practice after having a child, and how that actually makes you a better painter. We get into a little aside on artists who have more than one kid and how bad ass we think they are. This episode is just chock full of wonderful bits of wisdom. I don’t want to list them all; I just want you to hear it from Kathleen herself, but one last jewel I want you to keep an ear out for: Kathleen’s insights on asking for help and how she became comfortable with frustration when she paints.Support the show

You are listening to the 100th episode of the Savvy Painter podcast! To commemorate this exciting event, I’ve been working on something special for you. I’m collecting the very best quotes and observations from artists interviewed on the Savvy Painter into an ebook. You can sign up to get your free copy at http://savvypainter.com/ebook In the early eighties, Trici Venola was an early adopter and jumped into the digital art scene. She created fonts for Zap Comix artists including Robert Crumb. She got to know the comic artists she adored and was in the very first issue of Juxtapoz Magazine. I was introduced to Trici by good friends of mine, Rachel and Dan DiPaola, back when I was a young punk, fresh out of college working at Disney. Rachel was the project manager, I needed some help, so Rachel brought in Trici. Years later, Trici abandoned everything and moved to Istanbul, Turkey to draw the architecture and the people there. As she will tell you, it was a very bumpy road. She has many colorful stories of the experiences she has had in Istanbul. She candidly describes her mistakes and the consequences she and the people she loved suffered because of her decisions. It has been 17 years since she fell in love with Istanbul. She has published two books: Drawing on Istanbul 1 and 2. Her obsession with documenting the culture and architecture continues unabated, despite the many obstacles in her way.Support the show

Rebecca Crowell creates luscious abstract paintings which are inspired by her travels and memories of places. In this episode, Rebecca and I talk about working with cold wax, and how playing with the medium encouraged her to switch from representational to abstract painting. We also discuss the discomfort artists feel when they transition from a style they are known for into something completely new. We dig a little into her process of both a painting and a body of work she might create after experiencing a place through her travels. Because I know artists do have lives outside of the studio, I asked Rebecca to share what it was like when she and her husband started their family. She talks candidly about her challenges with raising her sons while keeping up with her painting. I really appreciate Rebecca’s curiosity and love of creating. Although she might be most known for her cold wax paintings, she also makes mono-prints and is learning about carborundum printing, a technique I was unfamiliar with so I asked her all about it. Rebecca is currently in the middle of a crowdsourcing campaign for Cold Wax Medium: Techniques, Concepts & Conversations, a book she co-authored with artist Jerry McLaughlin. The fundraising campaign reached its goal quickly, which is not a small feat, and they still have a few weeks to go. The campaign ends on August 17th, 2016Support the show

Zaria Forman makes pastel drawings of glaciers and icebergs and the changing landscapes of places like Antarctica, Greenland, and the Maldives. She does this to bring attention to climate change and to honor her mother who started it all. Zaria shares how taking risks and having the courage to grow has been an essential part of her journey. We get into the nitty-gritty of how she works: from curating thousands of photographs, getting just the right shades of blue for her pastel drawings, and even a bit on how she runs her studio. Zaria’s work has been featured in National Geographic, she recently gave a TED talk and she was invited by Sven Lindblad as an artist aboard Lindblad expeditions. We talk about how all that came about. Anyway, as you’ll hear, we geek out a little bit, and I loved every second of it. There is a moment in this interview when Zaria tells me about what she is doing with some noises she recorded in Antarctica. My geeky little heart skipped a beat when she told me who is helping her and who stopped by her studio. I kind of had fan girl moment. You’re going to have to listen to find out who that is.Support the show

Greg Decker is a symbolist painter, living in southern New Mexico. He holds two MFA (Master of Fine Arts) degrees, from Cranbrook Academy of Art (MI) and from the New York Academy of Art (NYC).  He’s studied with renowned painters such as Leland Bell, Fairfield Porter, John Moore, Vincent Desiderio and Martha Erlebacher. I never thought I would hear Beethoven and the Ramones mentioned in the same sentence, but that’s what Greg does, he weaves together ideas from history, literature, philosophy and diverse sources to create his work. Thank you to Julyan Davis for bringing Greg and his luscious paintings to my attention. Go to SavvyPainter.com to see Greg’s work- it really is a treat, and for links to   everyone we mentioned. While you are there, make sure you don’t miss an episode- sign up sign up for show updates and free guides by clicking on the yellow button in the sidebar. I’m working on a couple more goodies for you as we speak. A very special shout out goes to Liz Cutler, Aimee Hoover, Tracy Everly, Kaethe Bealer, Amy Fitzgerald, Rhonda Doré, Douglas Reina, Gail Hight, Art of Joy, and Barry Koplowitz - thank you so much for supporting the podcast.Support the show

Timothy Horn paints rural landscapes around Marin and Sonoma counties in northern California. He fell in love with painting after a chance encounter with another artist who has been on this show- Stanley Goldstein. Just a few years later, Tim shut down his graphic design business to focus entirely on his painting and he hasn’t looked back. In this episode, Tim shares how he got started, what he needed to learn about painting before he was ready to get his work out, and how he made the transition to a full time painter. Tim and Antrese also talk about how Tim chooses painting events to participate in, how he managed his time starting out, and also the conflict that comes with being 100% dependent on the sales of your art, while having a family and making the time to paint.Support the show

Ann is a figurative painter based in Seattle. If you are not familiar with her work, you definitely want to spend some time to really look at what she is doing in her painting. On the surface you’ll note her distinctive brushwork, how she weaves ribbons of color through figure and background, and plays with edges. But as she will tell you herself, she is constantly setting up challenges for herself to push her painting further.   She’s a painter’s painter, which is probably why during these interviews when I ask an artist if you would like to own a painting by any living artist, whose would it be, Ann’s name comes up often. She received her bachelor of fine arts from Rhode Island College and her MFA from Yale University.   Ann has been the recipient of several prestigious awards for her painting - including a Guggenheim Fellowship. She has had solo shows at the Portland Art Museum  and the Weatherspoon Art Museum, in North Carolina. Ann’s work can be seen in person at the Dolby Chadwick Gallery in San Francisco and at Prographica Drawings in Seattle. I met Ann last summer at the JSS program in Civita Italy where she was the guest of honor. I don’t think there are enough superlatives to adequately describe what a great painter and human being Ann is.  She asks the right questions to understand where her students are and then drops these knowledge bombs that tweak your perspective making it impossible to see your  painting in the same way again. I’m a little jealous of the students at the University of Washington School of Art, where Ann is a professor. While in Italy, we went on weekly excursions to visit museums. Sometimes that meant a 3 hour bus ride. Several times I sat with Ann and we talked about art, life, and the unbearable heatwave that just wouldn’t die down. In Naples, we stood in awe in front of Caravaggio’s the Flagellation of Christ and dissected the composition, seeing nuances you just can’t get in a book. On those trips and during Ann’s critiques, I often wished I could record the conversations. So I’m excited to have the opportunity again to chat with her and share the conversation with you.  Support the show

Celia Reisman paints suburban landscapes - specifically the neighborhood she has been living in for over 30 years.    In this interview discusses her process of creating these paintings and how she adapted her work methods to fit her personality.    Observational drawings are integral to her work method. While she does paint plein air, it is her field sketches that feed her large scale studio paintings.    She talks about memory, instinct and how she constructs her large scale works -not being satisfied with traditional proportions for example. Early on, Celia played with an extremely limited palette, which is probably why she has such a sensitive eye for color.   This episode is a lot about Celia’s process of making a painting: the shifting balance between planning and having control while letting the painting evolve throughout the process.  Support the show

Skip Whitcomb grew up on a Ranch in Colorado, without much encouragement to pursue art as a vocation. Following his parents advice, he enrolled in college to study business, but quickly realized his heart was somewhere else. Skip has been painting landscapes of the western United States for over forty years now. In this conversation, Skip and I talk about learning the craft and then taking every opportunity to flex your wings, to test them and see if you can fly. We talk about artist communities, their natural cycles and how having a sympathetic ear from time to time is crucial.    Skip shares the frustration of pushing through dissatisfaction, or plateaus in his paintings. I think - or hope- we all go through this at some point as we master certain skills and go on to explore new concepts. How one deals with these issues greatly impacts our growth as artists. Eventually, technique becomes less important than why you are using it. “Why?”, not “how?” is the question we would be better off  asking.   Skip is a wealth of information, and a brilliant creative thinker.  Support the show

Ray Roberts is a California painter, who paints landscapes and figures both in studio and en plein air. He is best known for his seascapes, figurative work, and landscapes of California and the Southwest. Ray has won numerous awards for his paintings including Gold Medal for "Best Painting" at the California Art Club and the Artists' Choice Award, the highest accolade from fellow artists, at several major Southwest art events. Several times in this interview, we mention Peggi- Peggi is Ray’s wife - the other half of the Kroll Roberts Studio- You may remember Peggi from an earlier interview on this podcast but if you have not had a chance to listen, check the show notes for a link to my interview with Peggi Kroll Roberts - she and Ray form a unique partnership and often host workshops together.   **Support the podcast** Savvy Painter is a labor of love. It takes significant resources to keep it going, if you find inspiration or value in the Savvy Painter interviews, please consider making a modest donation to show your support: http://savvypainter.com/supportSupport the show

Kurt Moyer is a landscape painter living in upstate New York. He pulls inspiration from nature, and from studying the master paintings that came before us. As Kurt will tell you, some mysteries in painting don’t need to be solved in order to have a full,  rich experience with them. Kurt is content to let some of that be so that he can focus on light, color, and the thread that weaves through his work and ties  all the way back  to Cezzane, Balthus, George Sorrell, and many other artists. In this episode Kurt and I talk about seeing. About getting that authentic impression of color and light and not being a slave to your own eyes. We also talk about how new experiences or simply time can completely change the way you look at paintings that maybe you have seen many times before.  Support the show

After a successful career in illustration, Mark Daniel Nelson decided he would be more fulfilled working on his own art. He took his business acumen from the illustration world and applied it to fine arts. Through some smart decisions and ‘being in the right place at the right time.’ Mark created his own path to artistic freedom. In this episode, Mark describes the calculated moves he made to build his career. And how he learned that those calculations will only get you so far. To sustain an art career, the artist ultimately must discover their authentic voice, that thing that keeps him fascinated and engaged with his art. http://SavvyPainter.comSupport the show

Figurative oil painter Martin Campos describes himself as a late bloomer. He began painting in earnest in his late 20s and didn't go to the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA) where he teaches now until his 30’s. Martin describes a pivotal moment at PAFA when an instructor with a Cheshire Cat grin made a suggestion that ended up changing everything about Martins paintings. Martin also talks about the domino effect in his work, how his paintings are almost premonitions of what his life will be, and why its so important to paint something that truly scares you.Support the show

Bobbie Burgers is an artist living in Vancouver, Canada. She paints large scale portraits of flowers, but as Bobbie will tell you, these paintings are actually not about the flowers at all.Bobbie and I talk about her inspiration, where it comes from and how changing studios gave her the luxury of seeing the progression of her body of work. We also talk about Bobbie’s reaction to having her work copied in Chinese art factories. I have to say, I love how Bobbie ultimately responded to this experience and how it has affected experimentation and her painting process.We also talk about art residencies - Bobbie recently ran an Instagram contest where the winner gets to come hang out and work in her studio for a day - That lead to us talking about how changing things up a bit enables you to explore freely without expectations.Go to show notes  Support the show

Debra is a plein air painter from Southern California. She lives in Orange County where she has a studio and a gallery on Balboa Island.She has been featured in Art of the West, and Plein Air magazine, this year, her paintings will be exhibited in Maui Plein Air, and at the California Art Club Gold Medal Exhibition at the Autry Museum.Debra and I talk about….What she teaches her students about simplification and avoiding the overwhelm of complicated subjects.How she started her own gallery - admitting what you’re good at and delegating the rest.Mistakes artists make when dealing with a gallery.The many plein air events she participates in, and how she uses that consistency to move her work.Support the show

Felicia is a representational artist who paints Alla Prima portraits from her studio in Detroit. Her self portrait ‘Melting Point’ was accepted into he BP Portrait awards show in 2015.After 15 years of waitressing, Felicia took a leap and decided to focus exclusively on her painting. It’s an inspiring story of faith in her abilities and pushing past the “oh my god, what did I just do” moments to become the artist she is today.Antrese Wood and Felicia talk about the importance of human connection for artists, how connecting with artists in the real world as well as the virtual world creates a safety net and community. I especially appreciated Felicia’s candor in talking about a difficult period in her life and how the apathy she felt turned out to be the thing that allowed her to grow as an artist.Support the show

Plein Air painter John Cosby began his art career at sea. Like so many people in their 20's he had the urge to travel and see what else is out there. Other sailors noticed him drawing, John needed to eat, so he sold his drawings or bartered for gear.In this episode, John describes how what started as a necessity morphed into a 35 year adventure in painting.When John began to focus exclusively on his art, there was not much going on in the New Port Beach area of California, in terms of art, so he started his own gallery. Just a little farther down the coast of California though, in Laguna Beach, there was a mecca, John give us the back story on how that came to be and how he, and a group of friends formed their own community of plein air painters with the Laguna Plein Air Painters Association.John has been working on a project called Rust and Roadsides with Joe Paquet. They are painting what is known as the 'Rust Belt' - after many factories and manufacturing shut down across the United States, towns and entire cites were abandoned and left blighted. John tells some colorful stories about staying safe while plein air painting.And of course, as you probably expect by now, we talk about the issues artists wrestle with almost daily: Managing your painting practice, staying authentic despite real or perceived expectations from others, and when to share your work, and the pressures of social media.Support the show

David Gray is a classical realist painter. His work has appeared in Southwest Art, Art of the West, and American Art Collector.David talks with Antrese Wood about how being an artist is being an entrepreneur in this episode. David shares how he accidentally discovered the power of social media to connect with both students and collectors.David and Antrese also talk about the pressure of supporting a family and making a living as an artist while creating meaningful art.Support the show

Sean Cheetham grew up surrounded by artists and encouraged to create. He studied illustration at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena and quickly began teaching and showing his art.Sean and Antrese Wood talk about his portraits of friends, and how painting became sort of a diary of his life. Sean talks about entering art contests, his experience with the BP Portrait contest. On the one hand these contests can be great opportunities for exposure, on the other hand- they can get expensive quickly.Tunnel vision with your art career often leads to burnout. Sean shares his other creative outlets that help him stay on track, and why these creative outlets are categorically not for sale. They allow him to get back to the place where he is creating for himself first.Sean Cheetham is a portrait artist, originally from San Francisco. He now splits his time between San Francisco and L.A.Support the show

Christopher Gallego talks about mastery, the artist mindset, why a painting might 'fail', and his new drawings of the streets of New York City.Support the show

Chelsea Bentley James studied art at the University of Utah and shows her work at Dolby Chadwick in San Francisco.After some early success with still life paintings, Chelsea was advised to “Paint what makes your heart hurt.” Although those early still lifes were necessary to her technical growth and she loved painting them, Chelsea felt they might become somewhat formulaic. So she looked for a motif that was uniquely hers and found the vulnerability and openness of the desert.This conversation echoes a recurring theme here on the Savvy Painter podcast: which is to trust yourself first. As Chelsea will tell you, you can’t fool anyone, and when you paint from your heart and trust your intuition, your authenticity is rewarded. People notice.Chelsea and Antrese also talk about her painting process, allowing a series to grow, avoiding preciousness and even painting with toddlers in the house.Support the show

Artist Katy Schneider paints intimate domestic scenes, mostly from her 6 foot by 8 foot studio in her basement. She plays with questions like, how do you fit all of THIS in such a small space? When you see her paintings, you’ll know what I’m talking about.Katy includes all disciplines in her creative life. She consistently challenges the beginner mindset by doing things like taking up pedal steel guitar, composing music and even taking up ballet. Katy reflects on navigating the guilt artists feel when they are not in the studio and giving herself permission to be creative in other ways. Katy paints from her home in New York, teaches painting at Smith college, and she has won numerous awards for her children’s books.Support the show