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.

Beyond the Canvas: The Role of Connections in Our Artistic Journey

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.

The Loneliness of the Outsider: My Journey Without Connections

I vividly remember a time when I didn't have...

How can artists improve their communication skills to enhance their artistic journey?

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.

Embracing Human Connections

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...

How can I navigate the challenges of balancing opportunities and time commitments in my art career?

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.

The Growing Artistic Journey: An Influx of Requests

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...

The Three Types of Artists: Which One Are You?

As someone who has had the privilege of working alongside talented artists for many years, I've come to a realization: when it comes to the business of art, there are three distinct types of artists. Each one has their own approach, their own quirks, and their own unique path to success. So, let's delve into this fascinating world together, shall we?

The Traditional Artist: Navigating the Gallery Scene

Ah, the traditional artist—the one who finds solace in the cozy confines of galleries. These artists cherish the opportunity to collaborate with established art galleries, but they may feel uneasy when it comes to selling their work independently. Without gallery representation, they often find themselves relying heavily on the marketing prowess of these galleries. It's a classic approach that has its merits, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.

The Independent Artist: Forging Your Own Path

On the opposite end of...

How can I stay motivated and focused on my art career?

If you've ever found yourself dreading Mondays, I have a little secret to share with you. Lean in closer—I love Mondays, and let me tell you why.

Carefully Aiming Your Bow

Mondays are like that moment when you carefully align your bow, preparing to take aim at your target. It's the start of a new week, a blank canvas waiting to be filled with your artistic endeavors. So, embrace this day with open arms and an adventurous spirit.

Shooting Arrows at Your Goals

As the week unfolds, it's time to unleash your arrows—one after another—with unwavering determination. Each arrow represents a step toward your dreams, and Mondays give you the opportunity to set your sights on a specific target.

Visualizing Your Goals

Take a moment after the weekend's respite to visualize what you want to achieve during the week. What is your number one goal? What's that one target you must hit? Imagine it clearly, feel the excitement...

Welcome to the Artist Next Level Podcast! In episode 352, join hosts Sergio Gomez and Drew Harris as they embark on an enlightening conversation about their fascinating experiences with Chat GPT. Delve into the world of artificial intelligence as Sergio and Drew share the intriguing results of their tests and experiments with this cutting-edge technology.

During this episode, the hosts explore various aspects of using Chat GPT as a powerful tool for artists. From discussing the effectiveness of prompts and responses to unveiling how artists can easily incorporate this new technology into their creative processes, Sergio and Drew leave no stone unturned. However, they also candidly delve into the pitfalls they encountered while working with Chat GPT, ensuring a comprehensive discussion that encompasses both the advantages and challenges of leveraging this tool.

By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with invaluable strategies and insights to navigate the realm of Chat GPT....

How can personal declarations empower artists on their creative journey?

Do you believe in personal declarations? I must admit, it wasn't always a concept that resonated with me. Throughout most of my life, I've carried a positive attitude, firmly believing that everything happens for a reason and that the glass is always half full. But it wasn't until I met the love of my life, Dr. Yanina, that I truly discovered the magic behind personal declarations.

"I'm an Artist on a Mission": The Birth of a Powerful Statement

Over the past six years, my artistic journey has taken me on an incredible path of self-discovery. I've gone from crafting a long list of empowering statements to condensing it all into a single, mighty declaration. You might have even heard me say it before: "I'm an artist on a mission."

This simple phrase encompasses all my wishes, goals, and aspirations. It serves as a daily reminder of the purpose that drives me forward, inspiring me to seize each day with passion...

How can artists overcome fear and embrace courage in their creative process?

As artists, we all have that vivid memory of our early days—the days when courage flowed through our veins like an unyielding current. I can't help but take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the time when I, too, possessed that unbridled fearlessness within my studio. Back then, I approached my artistic endeavors with unwavering determination, unafraid to start over on a colossal painting or take scissors to a canvas to create an audacious collage. The pursuit of finding my voice and style knew no bounds. It was a time when the world's expectations felt distant, and my youthful naivety shielded me from fear's grip.

The Evolution of an Artist

As the years passed, and I matured both as an artist and as a person, I couldn't help but notice a shift within myself. The once unyielding courage seemed to waver, and the risks I once took with ease became harder to embrace. Cutting a painting...