Let's take a moment to travel back in time and recognize the timeless allure of storytelling. From the earliest days of humanity to the digital era we live in today, one activity has never lost its charm: storytelling. We're all familiar with the enchantment that takes hold when we sit in a movie theater, silencing our phones, and surrendering to a gripping tale on the big screen. Stories have the unique ability to captivate our minds and hearts, making us crave every clue, every twist, and every moment of the narrative.
As artists, we often find ourselves wondering about the best ways to market our creations. In a world flooded with constant visual stimuli, how can we make our art stand out and touch the lives of others? The answer, my fellow artists, lies in the art of storytelling. Marketing is not just about promoting what we create; it's about sharing who we are...
Let's rewind the clock for a moment and take a trip down memory lane to our art school days. It feels like ages ago, doesn't it? Back then, we were passionately pursuing our creative dreams, fueling our souls with the magic of art. But one thing was curiously missing from our conversations – money.
Yes, you heard that right. Money was like a hushed secret in the art world. It was a big "no-no" topic that no one dared to touch upon. We were left to navigate the complexities of selling our art, managing our art business, and handling our finances all on our own. No wonder we felt lost.
Andy Warhol showed us that art and money are inseparable, like two sides of the same coin. Now, I've said it many times, and I'll say it again – art is not about money. It's about passion, emotions, and the sheer joy of creation. But here's the thing: to make the art that is not about money, we need financial resources. Money becomes the lever that opens doors to...
Have you ever found yourself lost in the pages of a book featuring artists in their studios? I certainly have. There's something utterly captivating about those visuals—the carefully curated spaces where creativity blooms. For me, it's not about reading the texts; it's about immersing myself in the pictures, exploring every nook and cranny. From the walls adorned with inspiration to the brushes strewn on the floor, these studios are like miniature laboratories of creative brilliance.
In today's world of social media, it's easy to fall into the comparison trap. You might look at those picture-perfect studios and feel a twinge of inadequacy. Perhaps you think your own space isn't big enough, lacks natural light, or falls short of the ideal setup you dream of. But here's the truth: those pictures shouldn't intimidate you. They shouldn't distract you from the wonders of what you can...
Today, I want to dive into a topic that's close to our hearts—the way we perceive and approach opportunities. As creators, we all long for that breakthrough moment, a chance to showcase our talents and be recognized. But how exactly do we navigate the vast realm of opportunities? Let's explore three unique perspectives together.
There's a belief among some artists that opportunities should effortlessly land on our laps. We find ourselves waiting, hoping that fate will smile upon us and open the doors of success. It's the waiting game, the mentality of "I'll just sit here in my studio, and someday, something incredible will happen." While it's true that some opportunities may come knocking unexpectedly, relying solely on this approach can leave us feeling stagnant.
Now, let's shift gears...
I wanted to take a moment to share a personal story with all of you. You see, I know firsthand the challenges that many artists face when it comes to living with illnesses, diseases, or other conditions that can impact our ability to create. For me, it's been a 16-year journey of grappling with vertigo – an inner ear malfunction that sends my world into a spin from time to time. It's a condition that comes and goes in seasons, and unfortunately, I find myself in the midst of one of those seasons right now.
In coping with my vertigo, I've developed a unique perspective on my situation. I've come to affectionately call it the "Genie in a Bottle Syndrome." You know, like the genie from the Aladdin tales, except mine isn't granting any wishes. Instead, it barges into my life, disrupting my family time, studio work, and business endeavors. So, I've learned to put...
Welcome to Episode 353 of the Next Level Podcast, where hosts Drew Harris and Sergio Gomez sit down with Canadian painter Shirley Williams to unveil the top secrets of successful corporate art commissions. Shirley Williams, a renowned artist with nearly 30 years of experience, takes us behind the scenes and shares her valuable insights on working with corporate clients, meeting deadlines, navigating contracts, selecting materials, and much more.
Shirley Williams is celebrated for her captivating multi-layered abstract paintings, which draw inspiration from the organic rhythms of nature and the vibrant energy of colors. Her distinctive style has garnered international acclaim, with her work being exhibited across North America in prestigious solo and juried group exhibitions. Museums and commercial art galleries in Toronto, Detroit, Dallas, Austin, New York, San Francisco, and Naples have showcased her remarkable talent.
Notably, Shirley's artwork has found a home in major...
Have you ever had one of those moments where a simple notification on your smartwatch triggers a profound thought? Well, I experienced just that this morning. As I strapped on my Apple Watch and started my day, a notification flashed on the screen: "No Connection." It got me thinking about the importance of connections in our lives as artists. Let's dive in and explore this fascinating topic together.
As artists, our creations come from deep within us. The art we produce is a reflection of our innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences. We don't necessarily need external connections to make art itself, much like my trusty smartwatch doesn't require a connection to tell the time. However, when it comes to propelling our art careers forward and fostering personal growth, connections play a vital role.
I vividly remember a time when I didn't have...
Today, let's delve into a topic that's close to my heart: the art of communication. As artists, we pour our souls into our work, but how often do we consider the impact of our words? Whether you're an extrovert who thrives on social interaction or an introvert who finds solace in solitude, honing our communication skills is a journey we should all embark on.
I vividly remember a conversation I had years ago with a dear friend named Ruth. She dropped a profound nugget of wisdom on me that still resonates to this day: "Everything is about people connecting with people." Those words struck a chord deep within me, reminding me of the essence of our craft.
No matter how many followers we have, how many exhibitions we've participated in, or how many accolades we've received, at the core of it all, we are human beings seeking genuine connections. So, the next time you sit...
I have a confession to make. It's hard for me to say no. I'm naturally a "yes" kind of guy. When someone asks me to do something, I find it difficult to turn them down. But here's the thing: saying yes always comes at the expense of something else. Every time you choose to do something, you're inevitably choosing not to do something else. It's a trade-off we often overlook in the pursuit of artistic growth.
As our art careers flourish and our connections in the art world multiply, we find ourselves being asked to participate in various projects and events. It's both exciting and overwhelming. Opportunities knock at our doors, presenting us with chances to make a difference, to contribute our talents to noble causes. Take, for instance, when a non-profit organization reaches out, requesting a donation of our artwork for their...
Have you ever wondered about the ideal number of hours you should spend in the studio each day? When I was an art professor, I used to get asked this question a lot. But let me tell you something: there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this. The key lies in embracing the seasons of your creativity and finding your own unique studio rhythm.
As artists, we often have a burning desire to immerse ourselves in the studio, to lose track of time and let our creativity run wild. However, it's important to recognize that creativity has its own ebb and flow. There are times when we need to dedicate countless hours in preparation for a show, pushing our boundaries and refining our craft. But there are also seasons where stepping away from the studio can bring tremendous growth.
Let's face it: life as an artist is dynamic, just like the changing...
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