As an artist, you have the freedom to shape your career—but with that freedom comes the challenge of making decisions that align with your goals and values. Decision-making can feel overwhelming, especially when every opportunity seems promising.
In this solo episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield breaks down the Artist’s Decision-Making Framework to help you prioritize what truly matters. She shares practical strategies for assessing opportunities, trusting your instincts, and using policies to protect your time and energy.
Alyson discusses:
⬇️ Don’t miss the free downloadable PDF of the framework: https://artbizsuccess.com/decision-framework
01:00 The biggest challenge in running your own art business
02:45 The myth of certainty in decision-making
04:00 How the Eisenhower Matrix can clarify your priorities
06:30 The importance of setting clear business policies
08:15 The Artist’s Decision-Making Framework—step-by-step
12:00 Gut-checking opportunities: Does this excite you?
4:20 Aligning choices with your long-term vision
16:45 Assessing time, energy, and availability
19:30 Evaluating relationships and networking potential
22:15 Understanding financial benefits and long-term value
25:00 Making decisions with confidence
28:00 How one artist stuck to their pricing policy and still made the sale
30:45 Final thoughts: Trusting yourself and your process
If this episode resonated with you, share it with an artist friend who could use some decision-making support. And if you want more structured guidance, check out Alyson’s Essentials for Artists Success program at ArtBizSuccess.com/Essentials.
🎧 RELATED EPISODES
Guaranteeing an Effective Project with Eve Jacobs-Carnahan (ep. 121)
She Knows Exactly How Much Her Art Income Will be with Kelly Pelfrey (ep. 162)
Increasing Self-Sales by 400% with Sarah Becktel (ep. 157)
📖 To read more, see featured artists, and download the free PDF of the framework, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/decision-framework
🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶 full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.
⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.
~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~
This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/
Building an art business takes more than just talent—it takes determination, adaptability, and a willingness to keep going, even when success feels out of reach.
Stella and Gemma Stevens, the artists behind Two Faced Twins, know this firsthand. Their work—bold, colorful, and joyful—now has a dedicated following, but their path wasn’t always easy.
For two years, the Stevens twins struggled to sell a single piece. They faced creative differences, self-doubt, and even a gallery robbery. But instead of giving up, they leaned into their vision, their roles as artists, and their belief in what they were building.
In this conversation, host Alyson Stanfield talks with Stella and Gemma about:
One of the biggest takeaways? Determination isn’t just about working hard—it’s about believing in your work and staying the course.
00:35 Meet the Two Faced Twins: Stella and Gemma Stevens 02:20 Creative Process and Artistic Differences 03:39 Overcoming Early Struggles 06:50 Building a Business and Finding Motivation 18:08 The Birth of Two Faced Twins 20:38 Opening a Gallery During COVID 24:21 Family Involvement and Challenges 27:02 Dealing with a Gallery Robbery and the Aftermath 30:54 Income Streams Breakdown 32:38 Balancing Art and Business 34:50 Engaging with the Community 37:12 Promoting Artwork 39:46 School Visits and Their Impact 46:12 Future Plans and Expansion 48:54 The Importance of a Business Mentor 51:17 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
🎧 RELATED EPISODES
Here are a few other episodes that focus on collaborations:
Multiply Your Audience and Expand Your Show’s Impact with Jill Powers (ep. 27)
Knit Democracy Together with Eve Jacobs-Carnahan (ep. 64)
Expanding Your Skillset to Respond to Opportunities with Detour (ep. 128)
A Collaboration Between 2 Artists that Led to Creative Growth (ep. 183)
📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/two-faced-twins
⭐️ Connect with Stella and Gemma Stevens and see their art: https://twofacedtwins.com
🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶 full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.
⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.
~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~
This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/
Art has a unique ability to transcend language, evoke emotion, and bring people together across cultural divides.
This idea is embodied in the work of Samra Bashir, whose glass paintings celebrate the rich traditions of South Asian and Islamic art while inviting a broader audience into their intricate beauty.
Samra’s journey as an artist began as a personal escape—something she turned to during challenging times. But over the years, her work evolved into something much larger. Through her use of glass paint and light, she has built not just an art practice, but also a powerful means of storytelling, connection, and cultural education.
In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield talks with Samra about:
Samra’s story is a reminder that art doesn’t just exist in isolation—it thrives in conversation, connection, and shared experiences.
01:50 Samra's Early Inspirations
02:28 Reviving Her Art in the U.S.
04:05 Samra’s Cultural Heritage and How It Shows Up in Her Work
08:42 Building an Audience and Overcoming Challenges
11:37 Balancing Multiple Roles and Art
18:47 The Importance of Community and Teaching Workshops
22:43 Connecting Through Art and Overcoming Barriers
26:08 Practical Tips for Artists to Engage with Community
36:50 Conclusion and Practical Applications for You
🎧 RELATED EPISODES
Lessons from a Wildly Successful Pop-up Art Gallery Event with Mai Wyn Schantz (109)
Leaning Into Her Roots and Community Art with Marilyn Fontaine (185)
Beyond Comparison and Jealousy with Jason Kotecki (191)
📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/bashir-community
⭐️ Connect with Samra and see more of her art: SamraBashir.com
🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶 full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.
⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.
~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~
This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/
host: Alyson Stanfield
If you’ve followed my work, you’ve likely noticed some recurring themes—guiding principles that shape the way I advise artists. These aren’t just casual suggestions; they are the foundation of everything I do. In this episode of The Art Biz, I’m sharing the four core beliefs that define my approach and help artists build sustainable, thriving careers.
You’ll hear why your art must always come first, why you must learn to communicate clearly about your work, why your network is your #1 marketing asset, and why business systems will help you grow faster and save time. Internalizing these beliefs will make decision-making easier, marketing more purposeful, and your path as an artist clearer.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach, these principles will support you for the long haul. Join me as we dive into the essential mindset shifts that will strengthen your art career.
00:00 Introduction and Core Beliefs Overview
01:44 Core Belief 1: The Work Must Come First
04:48 Core Belief 2: Your Art Doesn't Speak for Itself—You Must Learn to Communicate Clearly
10:02 Core Belief 3: Your Network is Your #1 Marketing Asset
13:48 Core Belief 4: Business Systems Help You Grow Faster and Elevate Your Professionalism
17:59 Apply to Your Art Biz
🎧 RELATED EPISODES
Guidelines for Your Artist Statement (ep. 50)
Being Seen—Networking for Artists (ep. 148)
How to Squeeze More Time from Your Busy Calendar (ep. 152)
How to Guarantee that People Remember You with Skip Hill (ep. 187)
📖 To read more find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/4-beliefs
🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶 full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.
⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.
~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~
This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/ Because we are still committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Every artist’s journey is unique—what works for one won’t necessarily work for another. Personal preferences, life circumstances, and individual personalities all shape how artists navigate their creative careers.
In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield welcomes astrologer and coach Bonnie Gillespie to explore how artists can work with their natural wiring instead of against it. They discuss the concept of enoughness—understanding that an artist’s value isn’t determined by external validation—and how astrology can provide insights into creative rhythms, decision-making, and self-worth.
Highlights:
Whether you’re deep into astrology or a total skeptic, this episode offers thought-provoking insights into how artists can better understand themselves and their creative flow.
02:57 Understanding Enoughness
05:28 Balancing Positivity and Negativity
07:37 Self-Validation and the Loved File
14:09 Navigating Creative Spirals
15:14 Astrology and Practical Coaching
19:53 The Natal Chart Explained
30:59 Mars in Cancer: Navigating Life's Challenges
32:26 Venus: The Key to Love, Money, and Enoughness
36:10 The Power of the Moon in Your Chart
38:41 Astrological Insights for 2025 and Beyond
46:54 Staying Motivated and Inspired as an Artist
52:17 Practical Steps to Tap into the Bonnieverse
🎧 RELATED EPISODES
Injecting Personal Narrative into Your Art with Sara Lee Hughes (ep. 131)
Why I Want Partnerships with Art Galleries with Evita Tezeno (ep. 175)
How You Want to Be Perceived as an Artist with Alexandra Squire (ep. 133)
Every Artist Is Designed Differently and What It Means with Jahje Ives (ep. 178)
📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/enoughness-gillespie
⭐️ Connect with Bonnie and the Bonnieverse: https://bonniegillespie.com
🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶 full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.
⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.
~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~
This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/
This episode of The Art Biz with host Alyson Stanfield focuses on the power of commitment and taking action toward your goals.
Explore how to align your schedule with your values, overcome hesitation, and stop waiting for the "perfect time."
With practical strategies like inquiry-based reflection and small, intentional steps, you’ll discover how to move forward confidently. Whether it’s honing your craft, building connections, or pursuing opportunities, this episode inspires you to begin today.
00:20 The Illusion of Time Management
01:29 Living Intentionally
05:25 The Power of Commitment
08:37 Taking Action: Overcoming Hesitation
13:26 The Artist’s Empowered Success Cycle
14:45 Inquiry for Progress: Reflecting and Committing
18:39 Encouragement to Act Today
🎧 RELATED EPISODES
Risk, Rejection, and Resilience with Christine Aaron (ep. 114)
What Your Failures Are Teaching You with Laura Petrovich-Cheney (ep. 95)
Are You Playing It Too Safe in Your Art Business? (ep. 92)
📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/take-action-today
🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶 full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.
⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.
~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~
This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/
Host Alyson Stanfield discusses the benefits and strategies of a daily creative practice with Helen Hiebert, who constructs installations, sculptures, films, artists’ books, and works in paper using handmade paper as her primary medium.
This conversation acknowledges the value of a daily practice, but Helen is a strong advocate for what she calls “intermittent daily practices.” If sticking to a daily routine forever feels daunting, her approach might resonate with you.
There’s also a dive into Helen’s realization that as a teacher, she could maintain the same class structure while creatively evolving the content to keep it fresh and exciting over time—primarily to prevent herself from getting bored. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on the act of making—without obsessing over the final outcome.
04:00 Helen's Income Streams Update
[ see Transform Your Creative Ideas into Multiple Income Streams with Helen Hiebert (ep. 18) ]
06:14 Daily Practice and Paper Weaving
22:30 Teaching and Online Classes
26:10 The Different Types of Students
26:42 Keeping the Class Interesting
28:17 Innovative Teaching Methods
32:49 Tips for Sticking to a Daily Practice
37:43 The Importance of Community and Accountability
45:41 Concluding Thoughts and Upcoming Events
🎧 RELATED EPISODES
Creative Placemaking and Public Art with Lynn Basa (ep. 26)
Focusing on the Art, Not the Art Business with Rebecca Welz (ep. 134)
Play Tops Work, Connection Tops Solitude, and Confidence Tops Fear with Willie Cole (ep. 126)
Using Her Superpower and Biomaterials with Kelly M. O’Brien (ep. 196)
📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit artbizsuccess.com/intermittent-practices
⭐️ Connect with Helen and see more of her art: https://helenhiebertstudio.com/
🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶 full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.
⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.
~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~
This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/
Debbie Mueller talks with host Alyson Stanfield about how she has cultivated resilience and bravery as an artist, from finding her community to embracing opportunities that might initially feel intimidating. She also discusses how she’s navigated challenges like rejection and the balancing act of art and life.
Debbie credits her successes not just to hard work and persistence but to a little bit of luck—though her version of luck is decidedly hard-earned.
Whether you’re just starting out as an artist or looking for inspiration to take your next bold step, Debbie’s story is a reminder that bravery, persistence, and the willingness to embrace new opportunities can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
01:38 Discovering a Passion for Painting 06:01 Balancing Medicine and Art 08:28 The Role of Luck and Hard Work 15:46 Resources and Inspirations 21:09 The Importance of Community 28:54 Teaching and Personal Growth 30:23 Setting Goals and Looking Ahead 37:15 Conclusion and Bravery Challenge
🎧 RELATED EPISODES
These episodes touch on rejection and resilience:
Risk, Rejection, and Resilience with Christine Aaron (ep. 114)
What Your Failures Are Teaching You with Laura Petrovich-Cheney (ep. 95)
Are You Playing It Too Safe in Your Art Business? (ep. 92)
Dealing with Rejection with Megan Wimberley (ep. 197)
📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/mueller-bravery
⭐️ Connect with Debbie Mueller and see more of her art: https://debbiemuellerart.com
🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶 full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.
⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.
~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~
This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/