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The Art Biz

Looking for art career inspiration and ideas while you’re working in the studio or schlepping your art across the country? Alyson Stanfield helps you be a more productive artist, a more empowered artist, and a more successful artist.
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Now displaying: 2020

Looking for art career inspiration and ideas while you’re working in the studio or schlepping your art across the country? Alyson Stanfield helps you be a more productive artist, a more empowered artist, and a more successful artist. https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts/

Dec 17, 2020
I don’t believe in making art for a market, I believe in making art from your soul and then finding the right audience for it. But sometimes we are lucky enough to make the art we want, then tweak it just a bit so we can broaden our audience. My guest today has found a way to do just that.

Ashley Lucas (aka Lady Lucas) is an artist whose work features smartly dressed animals and other sweet anthropomorphic characters. She has illustrated numerous children’s books, coloring books, and other cute projects. By placing her characters in the local townscape Ashley has increased the appeal of her work to a specific audience that continues to grow.

In today’s conversation, I talked with Ashley about how she came up with the idea to tap into people’s love of a specific location and how she leverages it for her prints, products, and commissioned work.

We also discuss how she connected with a community even before moving there, how she juggles her life as an artist with that as a mother of a two-year-old, and which social media platform offers the greatest return for her work (it's not Instagram).

Even if you don't "do" cute or illustrations or location-specific art, you'll want to listen to ideas for connecting to new communities.

 

Highlights

 

  • Ashley Lucas describes the inspiration behind her characters. (2:22)

  • How COVID-19 and motherhood have affected Ashley’s income streams. (6:22)

  • Juggling a growing art business and a busy two-year-old. (9:18)

  • The value that community connections bring to your art business. (13:18)

  • Distinguishing between prints and commissioned pieces and how to price each. (19:01)

  • Customizing standard city pieces without redrawing each one. (21:41)

  • How Ashley connected with her new community before moving there. (25:25)

  • How the pandemic has made a strong online presence more important than ever. (28:21)

  • Marketing through TikTok and exploring current culture. (31:20)

  • Curating email lists for artists and for promoting products. (34:13)

  • Which social media platform generates the most work for Ashley? (35:25)

  • Ashley’s strategy for promoting her web stores. (37:14)

  • The key to making your art appealing to buyers. (40:28)

  • A look at Ashley’s next project and the future of Lady Lucas. (43:00)

 

Mentioned

 

 

Resources

 

 

Dec 10, 2020
By now you may have picked up on the fact that I am a sucker for a reliable system. My signature program is called the Art Business Success System for a reason — systems work. They provide you with a framework that, once in place, you can return to repeatedly and update to match where you are at any given moment in your art business. I love figuring out systems, maybe even more than I love following them because systems are always there to support my progress. And my guest today has proven that a clearly defined system can take your art business to the next level.

Sema Martin is a full-time artist living in the French Riviera. She currently has a four-month waiting list for her pet portraits, which is due in part to the flawless 8-step system that she has developed that keeps her organized and keeps her customers satisfied.

In our conversation, Sema shares the system that she has in place for her commission-based business. We walk through the eight stages of commissioning work from her, which are clearly outlined on her website. We discuss how she standardized her sizes, how she makes it easy for clients to buy from her by offering multiple currencies, and how social media serves a dual purpose to both promote her work and to share her progress with clients. You’ll hear how she stays organized and at the end of this episode you can find out how to get a copy of her system spreadsheet.

Highlights

  • Sema shares the journey that led her to becoming a full-time commissioned artist. (2:11)

  • Income streams and the percentages of Sema’s income that comes from commissions. (5:50)

  • Developing the stages of the commission process, starting with sizing the art. (7:32)

  • What should be included in your pricing? (12:15)

  • A comparison of Squarespace and MailChimp. (14:18)

  • Contact forms and how to make sure you have proper communication with clients. (16:03)

  • The importance of collecting money before you start drawing. (20:46)

  • Handling a waiting list and details of a payment plan. (22:09)

  • Guidance for helping customers choose the details of the piece. (26:54)

  • Sema’s workflow and how she works in the drawing zone. (30:03)

  • How many social media posts should highlight your current piece? (34:24)

  • Final approval ensures that the customer is happy before the piece is shipped. (37:00)

  • Mounting, packing and delivery of the final piece and how each step ensures you will have happy customers. (37:56)

  • The bonus stage and how many customers take advantage of it. (42:08)

  • How do people find Sema? She maintains a focus on SEO that really pays off. (43:52)

  • Staying organized and implementing the systems that will keep you straight. (46:11)

  • A glimpse inside Sema’s current project. (49:06)

 

Mentioned

 

Resources

Dec 3, 2020
So many artists have benefitted from Instagram — it’s a topic that comes up frequently in these interviews, but it’s been difficult to pinpoint one key lesson to devote an entire episode to, until now. Jeanne Rosier Smith made a conscious decision to focus on using Instagram to grow her following and expand her art business and it has definitely paid off. Jeanne has been focused and deliberate in her use of the platform while also allowing a great deal of flexibility in the process.

Jeanne paints seascapes and landscapes with pastels and works with the abstract underlying designs beneath the realistic images she paints, seeing just how far she needs to go in order to maintain realism while still leaving something to the imagination. She loves pastel because the rich, pure pigments allow vibrations of color and visual mixing impossible to capture with any other medium.

In our conversation, Jeanne shares the strategies that she has used for the past three years to build a following of more than 37,000 and reach the six-figure mark in sales for each of those three years. She shares how she maintains good relationships with her eight galleries, even while selling on Instagram, and why she doesn’t schedule posts in advance.

 

Highlights

 

  • Jeanne shares her personal art history and passion for pastels. (2:08)

  • The instant feedback and fun factor that has made an Instagram strategy the right choice for Jeanne. (5:48)

  • Steps that will take your Instagram account to the next level. (7:45)

  • Connecting with collectors starts with sharing your inspiration. (11:56)

  • The frequency of your posts needs to reflect your growth goals. (14:15)

  • Which content results in the greatest connection, followers, and sales? (15:49)

  • Is the ROI worth the effort of maintaining an Instagram account? (20:41)

  • Maintaining a good relationship with galleries while growing on Instagram. (25:22)

  • Marketing opportunities that will result in sales. (28:42)

  • A look inside Jeanne’s personal collection. (33:45)

  • Do your posts need to be scheduled in advance?? (34:45)

  • A successful hashtag strategy starts with thinking like a collector. (40:09)

  • Is there a best time of day to post on Instagram? (44:46)

  • A peek at what Jeanne is currently working on. (45:51)

Mentioned

Resources

Nov 19, 2020
Blogging may seem like an art form of years gone by, replaced entirely by the quick and simple posts of Facebook or Instagram, but my guest today has proved that nurturing a blog can be one of the most beneficial and rewarding outlets that an artist can pursue, both personally and professionally. Lisa Call dove headfirst into the blogging world years ago and created such an excellent blog that I have referenced it many times both on my website and in the first three editions of my book. Unfortunately, her blog went up in flames before I could mention it in my fourth edition, but that major set back hasn’t stopped Lisa from continuing to create what I consider one of the best corners of the art blogging world.

Lisa makes textile-based art and uses hand dyed fabric to create large abstract compositions. She uses her blog not for marketing her work but as a place where she can share her opinions about art and learn more about herself and her work. In fact, Lisa credits her blog as the single greatest factor in her success as an artist.

In our conversation, she shares the benefits of blogging and why she decided to revive her blog after all those posts disappeared. We also go over some of the steps she’s taking to republish old posts and how her blog has led her to opportunities that she otherwise never would have imagined. Of course, blogging isn’t for everyone, but if you enjoy writing and sharing insights about your life as an artist, this is an episode you are going to want to listen to.

Highlights

  • Lisa shares the evolution of her textile-based abstract compositions. (2:21)

  • Why blog? Lisa offers insights into the value of blogging as a way to unite the artist community, share opinions and increase marketing. (4:08)

  • Structuring blog posts in a meaningful way. (8:40)

  • Recovering a broken website, republising missing posts, and discovering yourself along the way. (10:10)

  • Lisa’s method for categorizing her current blog posts. (19:00)

  • Defining your purpose in blogging and setting boundaries within your posts. (24:53)

  • Details of the Make Big Art blog and juggling the ins and outs of SEO for two blogs. (27:25)

  • The benefits and accountability that come with blogging about art. (33:50)

  • How to find the balance between blogging, Facebook posts and email lists. (35:30)

  • Lisa’s advice for successfully blogging about your art. (40:06)

  • A glimpse inside Lisa’s current project. (44:32)

 

Mentioned

Resources

 

Nov 12, 2020
Introducing yourself as an artist is a topic I never could have dreamed up while I was working in art museums. It wouldn’t have occurred to me that artists would have a hard time introducing themselves. It seems like all you have to do is say, “I’m an artist” and the conversation opens wide.

But what I’ve learned in the years since working in the museum bubble is that it isn’t always that easy to say “I’m an artist”. Then, when the words finally do come out, what do you say after that? If you’ve found yourself struggling to confidently introduce yourself as an artist, know that you are not alone. A well-crafted introduction should seem effortless but it also has the potential to change the course of a conversation and connect you with people who can have a great impact on your work.

Let’s examine why introducing yourself as an artist can be such a struggle, why you should care about confidently introducing yourself as an artist, and what you can do today to master the art of introducing yourself as an artist.

 

Highlights

 

  • Why is introducing yourself as an artist so difficult? (1:34)

 

  • Why you should care about introducing yourself as an artist. (4:38)

 

  • Take advantage of introductions as a starting point (6:26)

 

  • Tips for refining your informal introduction. (7:37)

 

  • What your informal introduction isn’t going to do for you. (10:17)

 

  • Where to go next — preparing powerful yet natural follow-up statements. (11:35)

 

Mentioned

 

 

Resources

 

 

 

Oct 29, 2020
At the intersection of craftivism and the world of campaign finance is Eve Jacobs-Carnahan. Eve is taking the historical practice of knitting circles and re-envisioning them as modern craftivist assemblies. While bringing artists together to craft the building blocks of a characteristic state capitol building, she’s also leading conversations about changing the role of money in election campaigns. But the impact that Eve is going to make with this work is going to extend far beyond the current election cycle, in fact, it has very little to do with it. 

Kicking off in early 2020, Knit Democracy Together combines interested organizations, knitting circles, and conversation about election finance reform. The result will be a 5 foot by 3 foot knitted sculpture of a state capitol building that Eve hopes to exhibit in multiple venues.

The pandemic has certainly had an effect on Eve’s plans, but it hasn’t stopped her. In our conversation, she shares details about reimagining in-person knitting circles, funding and exhibiting the project, and the art of knitting as a daring act of social activism. Eve explains the stereotypes that she has to push against when using a domestic handcraft to increase social activism and the goals she has for this unique and powerful project.

Highlights

  • Eve shares the objectives and the vision behind Knit Democracy Together. (2:43)
  • The effect of COVID-19 on Eve’s plan for in-person knitting circles. (7:11)
  • How Eve found people to participate in the project. (10:26)
  • Details about the yarn and the sculpture dimensions. (14:48)
  • The campaign funding message that Eve is working to increase awareness about. (17:26)
  • Funding the project and what Eve learned from each declined request. (25:07)
  • Questions surrounding the exhibition stage of the project.  (27:07)
  • Understanding knitting as a daring act of social activism. (28:37)
  • How Eve is leading a group project while remaining politically neutral. (32:27)
  • Collaborating in a community project just might mean letting go of total control. (34:33)
  • Steps that will move the Knit Democracy Together project to the next level. (41:10)

Mentioned

Resources

Quotes

  • “People are cynical about elections, but there are ways to improve the system rather than throwing the whole thing out.”
  • “We are a community made up of all these different people, but together we can do something bigger.”
  • “The goal of all of this is to get people to care more and be able to participate in the election process more than before.”
  • “A lot of knitted art is activist art.  It’s a tool for social action.”
  • “You have to push against stereotypes when you use any textile art, especially with knitting.”

About My Guest

Eve Jacobs-Carnahan makes knitted sculpture. Using the comforting qualities of knitting she explores human interactions with nature, democracy, and society. 

Eve’s work has been exhibited throughout the United States, receiving regional and national awards. Her work appears in Lela Nargi’s survey of knitted art, Astounding Knits! 101 Spectacular Knitted Creations and Daring Feats. She loves the notion of knitting as a daring act. When not engaged in such audacious pursuits, she can be found digging in her garden or cross-country skiing through the woods. Both activities put her in touch with the plants and birds that appear in her sculptures.

Eve majored in history at Swarthmore College, and knit several sweaters along the way. While earning a law degree at the University of Chicago she could often be found taking a study break at the Art Institute of Chicago. She lives in Vermont.

Oct 15, 2020
I'm not crazy about the word "pitch" but I'm going with it. I use it in the sense that you are making an argument for something. You're making an argument that I should pay attention to who you are and the art you make.

I'm more likely to pay attention to your art if you have a compelling story than if you ask me to buy, buy, buy.

What I share in this special bonus episode will not only help you get on the Art Biz Podcast, but will also serve you when you pitch to other podcasts, bloggers, writers, and publications.

The more interviews you do and the more experience you get, the better you become at telling your story. You will also grow your audience and maybe even sell some art or attract new students and social media followers. You never know who is listening.

5 STEPS FOR PITCHING YOUR STORY TO THIS PODCAST

  1. Listen to the podcast. Remember I am looking for visual artists who have a dedicated studio practice and a business lesson to share.
  2. Research. Show me that you know who I am and what I’m trying to do here.
  3. Get clear on the business lesson you have to share with my listeners. Make it easy for me to envision the story and say Yes.
  4. If you have been a guest on other podcasts or shared your story in a video, share that link with me.
  5. I’ve made it easy for you. There’s a form to complete on this page. https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program for artists, the Art Career Success System.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will address repeatedly throughout your art business and career—like rewriting your artist statement, submitting exhibition proposals, developing content, and nurturing your connections.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation that will last throughout your career.

Please join our community of ambitious artists. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 63).

CONNECT WITH ALYSON

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield
Facebook @ArtBizSuccess
#ArtBizSuccess #ArtBizNow

Oct 8, 2020
Fun isn't a word used very often when we think of marketing or business tasks. Still, it's one of the criteria I suggest considering when you're thinking about whether to add something to your busy schedule.

When lockdown started, Brooke Harker threw her fears about doing live video out the window and created Saturday Night Live Art Shows—because she thought it would be fun. It started with just her, but quickly grew to a core of regular artists, with new ones added each week.

I wanted to talk with her about it because these weekly events are open to any artist who wants to show off their art or, perhaps, the art that you collect. In fact, as you'll learn, the rules are, well, ... What rules? This could be a great way for you to connect, practice your video (because imperfections are encouraged), and maybe even sell some art.

Brooke Harker is a contemporary artist based in Los Angeles, California. Her lively paintings of cities and coastal scenes are characterized by energetic brushstrokes in ink and thick oil paint applied with palette knives. These vibrant depictions of daily life capture a sense of motion and highlight moments of synchronicity.

Harker calls herself a historian of the ordinary. Her paintings are a collaboration with all of the people who’ve contributed to a place over time: architects, engineers, city workers who’ve placed street signs and pedestrians whose colorful fashion landed in view at the perfect moment. All of their individual actions brought together one moment, fated to be captured on canvas. Follow Brooke on Instagram: @brookeharker.

Read more about the Saturday Night Live Art Shows and how you can participate. Find them on Facebook and Instagram.


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program for artists, the Art Career Success System.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will address repeatedly throughout your art business and career—like rewriting your artist statement, submitting exhibition proposals, developing content, and nurturing your connections.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation that will last throughout your career.

Please join our community of ambitious artists. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 62).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Sep 24, 2020
Just a mention of the word critique can bring back painful memories for some artists. Or downright fear from those who have never participated in a professional critique.

Artists who have been part of formal and ongoing critique groups find them invaluable to their creative development.

In the latest episode of the podcast, I talk with Patricia Miranda, founder of The Crit Lab. She's been leading 7 separate critique groups in 3 states and has recently taken them online.

We discussed:

  • Why artists need critical feedback and at one point they should ask for it.

  • The format of a day-long critique session.

  • Patricia's contention that art is a verb, not an object.

  • Artists would benefit from thinking about engagement more than intent.

This is a deep and philosophical discussion that is different from my other episodes. I encourage you to listen more than once.

See Patricia's art: https://patriciamiranda.com

Read about The Crit Lab: https://thecritlab.com

Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://instagram.com/patriciasuzannemiranda


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program for artists, the Art Career Success System.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will address repeatedly throughout your art business and career—like rewriting your artist statement, submitting exhibition proposals, developing content, and nurturing your connections.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation that will last throughout your career.

Please join our community of ambitious artists. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 61).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizNow #ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Thank you for listening.

Aug 28, 2020
I'm a planner, and I like helping artists plan. I'm good at it! If you've taken any of my courses, or even read my book, you anticipate that there will be at least one plan involved.

This is one of the special episodes I'm adding since Covid hit—a topic that will help you stay in control of your art business.

In talking with my students and clients, I realize how devastating this year has been. Truth be told, I didn't really have to talk with them to know that their plans had been dashed, but it helps to understand the extent.

The pandemic has wreaked havoc on everyone's plans. Canceled shows and travel. Shuttered studios and exhibition spaces. And the kids! Suddenly the kids are at home and you are tasked with the awesome responsibility of their education. You're on Zoom all of the time, so that brief sigh of relief you felt for not having to get dressed and put on makeup was short-lived.

In the early days of the outbreak, I encouraged my clients and students to plan just 1 week at a time. We didn't know what was going to happen. How long things would be closed. I wanted them, again, to control what they could and not worry about months into the future.

We now know that Covid is going to be with us for the foreseeable future. The planner in me said, Okay! Time for a new plan!

So I developed a short program to help you do this. Read about Reclaim Your Year at

ArtBizNow.com.


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program for artists, the Art Career Success System.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will address repeatedly throughout your art business and career—like rewriting your artist statement, submitting exhibition proposals, developing content, and nurturing your connections.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation that will last throughout your career.

Please join our community of ambitious artists. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 60).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Aug 20, 2020
Four and a half years ago I hired the best assistant I have ever had at Art Biz Success. She has been loyal, prompt, and 200% dependable.

She was 21 years old at the time—about to turn 22—and had just graduated early from college.

After making many hiring mistakes in the past, I was determined to do it right this time

And I did. I hit the jackpot.

Mesa is moving on to new professional opportunities, but I wanted to give her a little surprise send-off. (Any typos are on me this week!)

In episode #59 of the Art Biz Podcast I tell you exactly how I hired the perfect person for my business at the time. I also give you the steps I put in place to make sure that we maintained a good relationship and that, above all, she enjoyed her position.

I touch on the hiring process, setting up an assistant for success, working together, and keeping her happy.

I also share my mistakes. I’m sure there are more that I’m unaware of, but I can tell you about those I know.

I get a little vulnerable and a lot sentimental. I’m sharing the story because I don’t know of a single artist who wouldn’t like a little more help with their business. Perhaps you’ll benefit from my experience.


I'm grateful that Mesa and I have dedicated so much energy to greasing our systems. All tasks are properly documented in our Notion app, and we've spent three weeks poring over them to make sure that someone else could take over the tasks.

THAT's why I love systems so much--because they help my business run (almost) on autopilot.

If your systems are broken or, worse, non-existent, I invite you to take a look at the Art Career Success System, an intensive program that guides you through the systems you need for a successful art business.

Whether you need to create an income plan, find new venues, write an artist statement, or improve your marketing, I've got you covered in the ACSS. See the individual courses, calls, and download a suggested syllabus at http://artcareersuccesssystem.com .


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 59).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Jul 16, 2020
Why wouldn't you make it easier for people to buy art directly from you?

That's what Lynn Goldstein thought. She built a shopping cart for her website earlier this year. And the sales rolled in immediately after the March launch.

To date, Lynn has sold 18 original paintings and about a dozen reproductions directly from her site, and I wanted to find out how.

It must be said that neither Lynn nor I are not experts in all of the options you have for shopping carts. I wanted to share Lynn's experience and, above all, her results.

Listen in if you're curious about how she did it.

See Lynn's art: https://lynngoldstein.com.

Follow her on Instagram: @lynngoldstein_art.


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program for artists, the Art Career Success System.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will address repeatedly throughout your art business and career—like rewriting your artist statement, submitting exhibition proposals, developing content, and nurturing your connections.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation that will last throughout your career.

Please join our community of ambitious artists. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com.


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com.

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 58).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield.

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Jul 9, 2020
Adri Norris was born in Barbados and raised in New York and New Mexico. A former U.S. Marine, she says she was raised to be a leader—to help people and improve lives.

Adri is on a mission to tell stories of women who have made history. She does so through her art, her teaching, and her speaking.

She is especially interested in shining a spotlight on women of color that have been overlooked in our history books.

In this episode of the podcast, I asked Adri about her work, her teaching, and her activism.

Less than one month ago, Adri was asked to design and direct the Black Lives Matter street mural in front of the Colorado State Capitol building. She selected the words Black Lives Matter Remember This Time for the mural. We discuss those words, as well as the symbolic colors she chose and how she involved community members in its making.

I also asked Adri what steps white artists can take to be helpful right now.

See Adri's art on her website: https://afrotriangledesigns.com/.

Support her work: Patreon or send a donation to Afro Triangle on Venmo.

Follow her on Instagram.


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program for artists, the Art Career Success System.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will address repeatedly throughout your art business and career—like rewriting your artist statement, submitting exhibition proposals, developing content, and nurturing your connections.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation that will last throughout your career.

Please join our community of ambitious artists. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com.


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com.

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 57).

Follow me on Instagram: @AlysonStanfield and Facebook: @ArtBizSuccess.

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

 

Jun 25, 2020
One of the first steps an artist makes when turning professional is to decide on an art business name, and many new artists make this more complicated than it should be.

Allow me to bottom line this entire podcast episode: If you are a fine artist, your first choice is to always use your given name for marketing your original art.

I understand it isn't always this easy. There are sometimes reasons for not using your own name, including, as I've learned, reasons of physical and emotional safety.

Setting those very real concerns aside, the most frequent arguments against using given names for an art business are the following.

  • My name is too common / Someone else already owns the URL with my name [And she’s a porno star!]
  • My name is too hard to spell
  • I sign my name as X on my paintings, but I want to be known as Y

I consider these objections one by one and give you tips for overcoming them in this episode of the Art Biz Podcast.


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program for artists, the Art Career Success System.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will address repeatedly throughout your art business and career—like rewriting your artist statement, submitting exhibition proposals, developing content, and nurturing your connections.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation that will last throughout your career.

Please join our community of ambitious artists. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 56).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Jun 18, 2020
Sandra was born in Mexico City and received her BFA from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design in 1995. She uses lines, marks, patterns, and textures to speak metaphorically and poetically of things that make no reference to the physical world. Her art constructs a sensual surface that weaves a path between process and narrative, mark and meaning, intention and abstraction.

When Covid-19 struck, Sandra wanted to make a difference. She started a twice-weekly Instagram Live program, Tap Into Your Creativity.

On it, Sandra interviews artists at home in their studios—hoping to inspire and to be a light amid all the darkness. The artists, in turn, agree to donate a 10"x10" painting to be auctioned to benefit Feeding America.

On this episode of the Art Biz Podcast, Alyson talks with Sandra about how she makes it happen.

See Sandra's art: https://sandrafeleart.com.

Follow her on Instagram and watch her show there: https://instagram.com/sandrafeleart.

Follow #armyofartists


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program for artists, the Art Career Success System.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will address repeatedly throughout your art business and career—like rewriting your artist statement, submitting exhibition proposals, developing content, and nurturing your connections.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation that will last throughout your career.

Please join our community of ambitious artists. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com.

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 55).


Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Jun 15, 2020
This is a special episode of the Art Biz Podcast, which features my recent comments about #BlackLivesMatter on social media and to my students and subscribers.

I don’t know where I’ll be going from here, but, as I said, I won’t be silent. And, what I know is that I’m not the person you should be listening to about this topic. However, I am the person who is happy to ask questions of those you should be listening to.

That said … I’m looking for new voices who would like to speak up on this podcast. I’d love to share this platform with you. Not just in this moment, but at any point in the future. You'll find my contact info below.


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program, the Art Career Success System, a program I have perfected for more than 17 years working with artists.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will do over and over again throughout your art business and career. That’s why it’s a SYSTEM.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation using my video and audio lessons, worksheets, and transcripts. And you will be part of a community of artists who are forward-thinking and forward-moving.

Join us now and grow your art business. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com.


Read a complete transcript of this special episode, see featured artists, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 54).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Jun 11, 2020
Born in California, raised in Mexico City, Carmen Mariscal had been living in Paris for many years when our paths crossed. She's been sheltering in place with her family in the north of France during Covid, but will soon be returning to London, where they resettled a couple of years ago.

I've watched Carmen's career soar as she devoted herself to serious projects and exhibitions. Along the way, it's been my pleasure to guide her when she needs it.

Carmen has been working on Chez Nous, a large installation for a number of years, which was to be installed in March of 2020 near the high-trafficked area of the Louvre in Paris. It happened just in the nick of time—hours before shelter in place orders were given for France. But she couldn't have predicted what would happen next.

I had to share this story with you. It speaks to the power of art and the fact that you, once you put your art out into the world, have no control over how it's perceived—over what it comes to mean to others.

Please enjoy my conversation with Carmen Mariscal.

See Carmen's art: https://www.carmenmariscal.com/en/work

Read about Chez Nous: http://cheznousproject.com

Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/car_mariscal/


"I think of you frequently when painting and thank my lucky stars that I worked my way through the Art Carer Success System and went from a sad, insecure artist who could not get into a group show to a confident one who is is invited to be in group and solo shows and even museum shows." - Susan McLaughlin

I can’t begin to tell you how much it means for me to read messages like this one from Susan. THIS is why I keep doing the work that I do after all of this time! So that I can be around long enough to see artists transform their work and their lives. To see them gain confidence in their purpose.

I’d love to work with you, too, in my Art Career Success System. This business training program is designed for serious artists who want to present themselves in the most professional light. It’s all on demand and you can begin immediately.

See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 53).


Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

May 22, 2020
For the past 11 years, Jan Heaton has been grieving at the same time she has had an active art career. First was the 10 years of her daughter's illness. Then, in 2019, her daughter's passing.

I felt it was a good time to discuss the topic of grief since so many artists are grieving during Covid-19. Artists share grief over lost plans, opportunities, studio spaces, human connection, routines, and travel. And probably a lot more.

Born in Michigan, Jan Heaton is a watercolorist who calls Austin and Laguna Beach home. She has studied at Wayne State University, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the University of Texas - Austin. Heaton’s watercolors are abstract, but her creative process is inspired by the structure, color, and pattern of elements in nature that are often overlooked. Her work isolates details and exposes the viewer to an everyday object or place seen from a new viewpoint.

Jan is represented by the Davis Gallery in Austin, along with art dealers and galleries in San Antonio, Marble Falls, Houston, Atlanta, Santa Barbara, and San Francisco.

This is a huge topic and Jan wants to be very clear that she isn’t an expert on grief. I asked her to be on the show just to talk about her experience in hopes that it might be helpful—even if for only one person.

See Jan's art: http://janheaton.com/

Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janheatonwatercolors/


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program, the Art Career Success System, a program I have perfected for more than 17 years working with artists.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will do over and over again throughout your art business and career. That’s why it’s a SYSTEM.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation using my video and audio lessons, worksheets, and transcripts. And you will be part of a community of artists who are forward-thinking and forward-moving.

Join us now and get your business in shape. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode #52).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

May 7, 2020
On the Art Biz Podcast I usually talk with artists who have a studio practice and a business lesson to share. But I’ve been changing things up during Covid-19, as I’ve wanted to focus on what you can do now to stay in control of your art business. This control is important since there are so many things that are out of your hands.

Join in this conversation using #ArtBizNow on Instagram.

This episode is a recent conversation that I had with Cynthia Morris on Facebook Live, and I thought it might work well as an audio-only version.

Cynthia and I talked about the types of journals we think are best for this process, why it’s important to write by hand before moving to the computer, a structure for your journaling process, and how to use prompts to get your ideas down.

Remember that we recorded this as a video conversation with one another. Some things might not translate. For example, we did show and tell about our journals. Luckily, you can easily access the accompanying video, along with images. Visit ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts and look for episode #51.

Connect with Cynthia at https://originalimpulse.com or follow her on Instagram @CynthiaMorris.


This episode is sponsored by my signature business-building program, the Art Career Success System, a program I have perfected for more than 17 years working with artists.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will do over and over again throughout your art business and career. That’s why it’s a SYSTEM.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation using my video and audio lessons, worksheets, and transcripts. And you will be part of a community of artists who are forward-thinking and forward-moving.

Join us now and get your business in shape. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com.


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 51).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Apr 30, 2020
In this episode I want to talk about a document you can revisit (or perhaps face for the first time) that gives you power (control) over how your art is perceived.

Yes, I’m talking about your artist statement.

Don’t be scared! This is important. And if you don’t want to listen, you can read every word at YourArtistStatement.com.

This pandemic has caused so many people to be introspective. If you're one of them, you might want put this time to good use and work on your statement, regardless of whether you're updating it, rewriting it, or facing it for the first time.

There's no way around it if you want to show your art at a high level. When you want to become part of the critical discourse—to have others consider your work for venues, grants, residencies, and articles—you can't neglect writing your artist statement.

Highlights

  • My definition of an artist statement (3:00)
  • Why you need a statement (3:40)
  • Collecting words that contribute to your statement (6:40)
  • Journaling prompts for your statement (8:00)
  • Guidelines for artist statements and what tense to use (11:30)
  • The ultimate test for a successful artist statement (15:00)
  • How to write your first draft (16:55)
  • What to look for (and delete) in the editing process (17:50)
  • How and where to use your statement (22:10)
  • What to do when instructions don't match what you've heard here (24:44)

This episode is brought to you by my Art Career Success System. It’s a year-long business training program designed for serious, ambitious artists. When you do the work in the courses, you’ll have a strong foundation on which to build a successful art business.

You will also have an artist statement you can be proud of. That’s because the Art Career Success System is divided into 4 self-contained courses. In the one called Magnetic You, I walk you through a process for not only writing your artist statement, but also writing other marketing material you need and clarifying your visual branding. All of the lessons (about 40 per course) are bite-sized videos (usually under 10 minutes) that you can sneak into pockets of your busy day.

If, during this pandemic, you have the time to work on your art business or if you feel it’s important to make the time visit http://artcareersuccesssystem.com.


I need you to be part of the conversation. I need to hear from you! Please join me on Instagram using #ArtBizNow and bookmark ArtBizNow.com as a hub for art business resources during this crisis.


Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

Join in the conversation #ArtBizNow

Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

All podcast episodes are posted at https://artbizsuccess.com/podcasts. You'll find a post with the complete transcript for this episode (#50) there.

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Thank you for listening. I am grateful for your trust.

Apr 23, 2020
Daryl D. Johnson gathers inspiration for her paintings of clouds from kayaking, gardening, and motorcycling. The views are familiar, but the subtext is the underlying chi, the sweeping momentum.

She was the first girl to take mechanical drawing in her high school, having to plead with the guidance counselor for permission to enroll. She likes to tell the story of her first day in class when Mr. Ruthizer took out a drawing implement and said, “This is a pencil. I am going to show you how to sharpen it." She knew immediately she was in the right class.

In this episode of the Art Biz Podcast, Alyson talks with Daryl about what she calls her year of cleaning, prompted by a decision to move from her longtime New Hampshire home to New Orleans.

Daryl talks about a life-changing event that led to a very different relationship with things. When you listen, you'll discover why the plan took an entire year to implement (it's brilliant).

You'll also find out how Daryl made a big wad of cash by selling things through carefully selected channels.

See Daryl's art: http://daryldjohnsonartist.com/artist/

Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daryldjohnsonartist/


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program, the Art Career Success System, a program I have perfected for more than 18 years working with artists.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will do over and over again throughout your art business and career. That’s why it’s a SYSTEM.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation using my video and audio lessons, worksheets, and transcripts. And you will be part of a community of artists who are forward-thinking and forward-moving.

Join us now and get your business in shape. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com


Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 49).

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Apr 16, 2020
During the Covid-19 outbreak, the Art Biz Podcast will focus on what you can do now to stay in control of your art business.

Before you can even begin to think about business at a time like this, you might need to come to grips with the existential questions: Why make art at all? Why is it important to keep making art now?

In this episode, I share at least 5 reasons why it's important to keep making art now.

  1. Art is why you're here.
  2. Art encourages us to go within.
  3. Art reminds us that we are all connected.
  4. Art completes our humanity.
  5. We need you to tell the story.

I need you to be part of the conversation. I need to hear from you! Please join me on Instagram using #ArtBizNow and bookmark ArtBizNow.com as a hub for art business resources during this crisis.

****

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

Join in the conversation #ArtBizNow

Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

All podcast episodes are posted at https://artbizsuccess.com/podcasts. You'll find a post with the complete transcript for this episode (#48) there.

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program, the Art Career Success System, a program I have perfected for more than 17 years working with artists.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will do over and over again throughout your art business and career. That’s why it’s a SYSTEM.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation using my video and audio lessons, worksheets, and transcripts. And you will be part of a community of artists who are forward-thinking and forward-moving.

Join us now and get your business in shape. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com.


Apr 8, 2020
During the Covid-19 outbreak, I am taking a break from the usual format. The Art Biz Podcast will focus on what you can do now to stay in control of your art business.

This episode has a huge happiness factor because it's about using real mail: Why you should use it, who to send it to, and what to send.

I need you to be part of the conversation. I need to hear from you! Please join me on Instagram using #ArtBizNow and bookmark ArtBizNow.com as a hub for art business resources during this crisis.


This episode is sponsored my signature business-building program, the Art Career Success System, a year-long course and community that you can start immediately to help you stay focused during these uncertain times.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation using my video and audio lessons, worksheets, and transcripts. And you will be part of a community of artists who are forward-thinking and forward-moving.

Join us now and get your business in shape. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com.


Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

Join in the conversation #ArtBizNow

Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: Wildermiss.com

All podcast episodes are posted at https://artbizsuccess.com/podcasts. You'll find a post with the complete transcript for this episode (#47) there.

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Mar 25, 2020
For the foreseeable future, I’m dedicating the Art Biz Podcast to what you can do now to stay in control of your art business. It’s just going to be me talking. Episodes will be shorter and more frequent. There will be no music. No bells and whistles. My goal is respond to the situation quickly and to keep you going at the expense of a fancy, professionally engineered audio program. I hope you understand.

I need you to be part of the conversation. I need to hear from you! Please join me on Instagram using #ArtBizNow and bookmark ArtBizNow.com as a hub for art business resources during this crisis.

So, staying in control of your art business. It sounds like a simple theme, but it’s profound.

So much of what is happening right now is beyond your control. You can’t control how many people get sick. You can’t control how fast the virus spreads. You can’t control what our leaders do (though you can vote and I strongly urge you to do that).

But you can control how you react. It’s critical for your well being that you pay attention to what is in your control. This is going to make you feel much more optimistic about the future, and give you fuel to carry on.

I want to begin this series by discussing how you spend your time every day, hour, and minute—even if you have kids at home.

In this episode, I discuss why having structure is so important right now and review 6 activities that you can schedule in order to stay in control of your art business.

****

This episode is sponsored by my signature business-building program, the Art Career Success System, a program I have perfected for more than 17 years working with artists.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will do over and over again throughout your art business and career. That’s why it’s a SYSTEM.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation using my video and audio lessons, worksheets, and transcripts. And you will be part of a community of artists who are forward-thinking and forward-moving.

Join us now and get your business in shape. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com.

****

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

Join in the conversation #ArtBizNow

All podcast episodes are posted at https://artbizsuccess.com/podcasts. You'll find a post with the complete transcript for this episode (#46) there.

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

Mar 12, 2020
Cynthia Morris helps writers, artists and entrepreneurs make their big dreams a powerful reality. Cynthia is a certified coach, teacher, author and artist. In 1999, she founded Original Impulse, a boutique coaching company that empowers creative people to focus, follow through and finish projects that matter. The author of the The Busy Woman’s Guide to Writing a World-Changing Book, Cynthia has published seven e-books on writing and creative travel as well as the Paris historical novel, Chasing Sylvia Beach.

She is a watercolor artist and visual journal keeper who uses art as a way to express joy and consistently access inspiration.

Back in 2016 Alyson sat down with Cynthia to discuss an affliction many of their artist-clients suffer from: Impatience. Especially around making money.

This was the first episode in what became the Art Biz Podcast.

The conversation started with a consideration of the pitfalls of impatience, and quickly launched into a variety of topics that all have to do with what it takes to be a professional artist.

Visit Cynthia Morris: https://originalimpulse.com

Follow her on Instagram: https://instagram.com/cynthiamorris

Check out her podcast, Stumbling Toward Genius: https://www.originalimpulse.com/podcast/

****

This episode is sponsored by my signature business-building program, the Art Career Success System, a program I have perfected for more than 17 years working with artists.

All of the lessons you learn in the Art Career Success System are tasks you will do over and over again throughout your art business and career. That’s why it’s a SYSTEM.

In the ACSS you will build a strong foundation using my video and audio lessons, worksheets, and transcripts. And you will be part of a community of artists who are forward-thinking and forward-moving.

Join us now and get your business in shape. See http://artcareersuccesssystem.com.

***

Music for the podcast is by Wildermiss: http://Wildermiss.com.

Read the show notes, see photos, and leave a comment at https://ArtBizSuccess.com/podcasts (episode 45).

***

Follow me on Instagram @AlysonStanfield

Facebook @ArtBizSuccess

#ArtBizSuccess

If you have enjoyed this or other podcasts, I would so appreciate it if you would leave a rating and comment wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps!

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