Episodes

  • Welcome to part 2 of my interview with G.J. Gillespie.

    In this episode we discuss ways to improve your art, pricing your art, his art supply business, his company's Trusted Creator program, and his best advice for artists seeking exposure for their art. And don't forget, you can watch the full video of this interview, see examples of Gary's work, and get links to everything we discuss in the interview at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode98.

    If you haven't yet listened to part 1, I recommend listening to that first, to hear Gary's bio and our discussion on getting published in journals and other tactics Gary uses to get exposure for his art. We also talk about his creative process as well as his creative voice. It's available now at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode97.

  • Welcome to my interview with G.J. Gillespie.

    Having been published in over 90 publications, this is one prolific artist. The interview ran over an hour, so I've broken it into two parts for listening convenience. Check out part 1 for Gary's bio and discussion on getting published in journals and other tactics Gary uses to gain exposure for his art. We also talk about his creative process as well as his creative voice. And don't forget to check out the show notes for this episode to see the full video of the interview, examples of Gary's work, and to get all the links mentioned in our conversation. The show notes for part one can be found at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode97.

    Check out part 2 for our discussion on the ways to improve your art, pricing your art, his art supply business, his company's Trusted Creator program, and his best advice for artists seeking exposure for their art.
    Part 2 is available now at passionatepaitnerpodcast.com/episode98.

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  • This demo on how I paint using marble dust mixed into linseed oil instead of using solvents is for my listeners who've asked to see a demonstration after watching my interview with internationally acclaimed artist and author Kimberly Brooks in Passionate Painter Podcast episodes 70 and 71.

    Kimberly is the author of The New Oil Painting: Your Essential Guide to Materials and Safe Practices. Her book is a how-to on clearing out your studio of dangerous toxins, with tons of useful advice.

    I've been painting with minimal use of gambol solvent since reading the book, and I'm pleased with the results. The only time I use it these days is if I need to give my brushes a cleaning swoosh before their final wipe when I'm done with my painting session, and I'm phasing out even these brief instances as well.

    After posting 70 and 71, I was surprised that my interview with Kimberly generated so much controversial buzz. Many questions about whether using marble dust is in fact less safe than using solvent.

    For myself, I am comfortable using it, and this demo will show you how I use it in what I consider a safe manner. That said, I recommend Kim's book for a thorough explanation of the process. You can also reach out directly to Kim with questions through the contact page of her website at https://www.kimberlybrooks.com/about/contact

    Now before we get started, disclaimer:
    I am not an expert on the use of marble dust and linseed oil as a substitute for solvents. I am showing you how I personally use them and the precautions I take because you, my listeners are asking for a demo.

    I am not a hazardous materials expert and cannot tell you that marble dust is 100% safe. You should be careful not to stir the dust into the air where you may breathe it in, as it is not safe to inhale.

    This video is purely for informational and entertainment purposes, to provide some recommendations on keeping its use as safe as possible.

    As we get started please note that I am wearing an N95 face mask, just as a precaution, and you will see I am careful not to stir up the dust or use it in large quantities.

    I am also wearing gloves, as I always do. This is unrelated to using marble dust, however, it is because I am keeping my hands away from the paint, which is likely to trigger a reaction on my skin due to allergies.

    In addition to the mask, I do keep an air purifier in my studio to help keep the air as clean and safe as possible. My model is a wind PlasmaWave 5500-2 with HEPA Filter, designed to Reduce VOCs or volatile organic compounds, such as solvents, as well as to catch airborne particles. I got mine at winixamerica.com, which I'll link to in the show notes. This is not an affiliate link — I am simply sharing my satisfaction with this product. You can also purchase them from amazon.com and other online marketplaces.

    Having this filter doesn't mean I can be careless in stirring up stone dust or leaving solvents uncovered. I am still cautious with both whenever I use them, and I do recommend this type of air purifier when in a studio in which VOCs and/or stone dust or other particles you won't want to breathe are present.

    Read the complete transcription of this video at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode96

    Until Next time,
    Go make something.

    #passionatepainterpodcast
    #kimberlybrooks
    #solventfreeoilpainting

  • Welcome to part 2 of my interview in progress with Rachel Druckenmiller. She's a singer and founder of Unmuted, the platform through which she encourages people to stop hiding their dreams and step into the light.

    If you haven't yet listened to part 1, you might want to go back to that first, to hear Rachel's bio, and lots of inspiring advice.

    As you know, this podcast focuses on visual artists, specifically those in the fine art realm. As I mentioned at the beginning of the video, I've brought Rachel — both a singer and motivational speaker — to you to share her message of encouragement and inspiration to build your confidence as a creative and pursue your dreams in spite of roadblocks and fear. Her message is one we can all benefit from, and the fact that she sings during parts of this interview makes it even more magical. Enjoy.

    Since the interview ran to an hour, I've broken it into two parts for listening convenience. Part 1 is available now at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode94.

    #passionatepainterpodcast
    #racheldruckenmiller
    #unmuted

  • Welcome to my interview with Rachel Druckenmiller. She's a singer and founder of Unmuted, the platform through which she encourages people to stop hiding their dreams and step into the light.

    As you know, this podcast focuses on visual artists, specifically those in the fine art realm. As I mentioned at the beginning of the video, I've brought Rachel — both a singer and motivational speaker — to you to share her message of encouragement and inspiration to build your confidence as a creative and pursue your dreams in spite of roadblocks and fear. Her message is one we can all benefit from, and the fact that she sings during parts of this interview makes it even more magical. Enjoy.

    Since the interview ran to an hour, I've broken it into two parts for listening convenience. Part 2 is available now at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode95.

    #passionatepainterpodcast
    #racheldruckenmiller
    #unmuted

  • Welcome back to my interview in progress with American painter Lisa Daly Kansas. Please note there's a point in the interview that I jump off the mic to quickly grab something to show Lisa in our Zoom call. For those of you listening in audio-only format, it's a framed photo of two paper checks I received in the mail. You'll understand the rest when you hear it.

    That said, don't forget the full video of this interview can be seen on the show notes page for either episode at passionaterpainterpodcast.com.

    And if you haven't yet listened to part 1, you might want to go back and listen to that first to hear Lisa's bio and learn about her origin as an artist, how she began selling her work, her social media strategy, and advice on art fairs.

    You can find it at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode92.

  • Welcome back. Before I introduce my guest, I want to thank all of my listeners for your loyalty and encouragement. I love creating episodes to encourage you to chase down your art dreams and keep moving forward. That's why it's been a difficult decision to put the show on something of a sabbatical for the near future, to give me time to advance my own art career.

    Producing a quality show is extremely important to me and I enjoy it, but it takes a lot of time. I do plan to continue, though at a more spaced-apart pace. As I make progress on my own fine art journey, I'll produce shows to share my experiences with you in hopes of helping you along your own path.

    I appreciate each of you, and as a thank you, I will be giving away two scholarships to my complete masterclass, the portrait code on March 26th, 2023. Sign up for my email list to be automatically entered to win by going to the sidebar of passionatepainterpodcast.com

    The course comes with modules on design, composition, anatomy, perspective, color theory, mixing skin tones, a full portrait demonstration, and so much more, including a seven-lesson module on confidence.

    Now, on to today's guest. I am happy to introduce you to an artist who is nothing short of a fireball. She began painting full-time in 2017 and in just a few short years seems to be everywhere in my adopted hometown of Escanaba and Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

    She's fearless and tenacious and upbeat. And in the short time, I've been here in Northern Michigan, I'm happy to say, she's also become a friend. When I asked Lisa Daly Kansas — known professionally as LDK — to come on the show, I explained that you, my beloved listeners, are in all stages of your art journeys. She's got great advice to share from her experience of being largely self-taught and getting her work into the world. And I know you'll find inspiration and encouragement from her take no prisoners, never say die energy, and optimism.

    This interview rand long, so I've broken it into two episodes for listening convenience.

    Part two is available now at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode93.

  • Welcome to part 2 of my interview in progress with internationally acclaimed painter Mark Shasha. If you haven't yet listened to episode 1, you might want to go back and listen to that first, to hear Mark's bio, his career adventures, his biggest fear, and his unique approach to commissions. You can find it at passioantepainterpodcast.com/episode90.

    And check out the show notes at the same link, to see the full video interview, read Mark's bio, see some of his work, and get links to his website and other information mentioned on the show.

  • Today I'm happy to share my interview with internationally renowned painter Mark Shasha.

    Mark is a fearless multi-passionate creative very comfortable in the limelight. This interview offers inspiration, encouragement, and actionable tough love advice. Mark knows who he is and has a terrific knack for communicating his boundaries to clients I think we can all learn from. His enthusiasm is contagious and hanging out with him was a true privilege. Don't forget you can see the complete video of this interview on the show notes page for part one or part 2, as well as a slideshow of Mark's work and links to his website and valuable video courses. As usual, show notes can be found at passionatepainterpodcast.com

    The show ran over an hour, so I've broken it into two episodes for listening convenience. Be sure to check out part 2 to learn about marketing your work, getting into and working with galleries, Mark's biggest struggle as an artist, and so much more. Part 2 is available now at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode91

  • Welcome to part 2 of my interview in progress with Fine artist, painter, author, and educator, Kristin Cronic. In addition to all of these pursuits, Kristin served for ten years as an officer in the United States Navy.

    The interview ran long, so I've broken it into two parts. In part two, we talk about:

    The power of curiosityFeeling worthy as an artistLive wedding paintingKristin's biggest challengeHow Kristin allocates her time in the facets of her businessThe different themes behind her workGetting into and working with galleriesHer new book in partnership with Ballast Books

    If you haven't yet listened to part 1, you won't want to miss episode 88. We talk about:

    Kristin's struggle against the pull of art during her career in the military and how she carved out time for painting, even aboard Navy shipsHow art helped her cope with adversityOvercoming impostor syndromeHow Kristin makes a living at her artCommunication and boundaries in your relationships around your art and critiquesTwo reasons many artists procrastinateKnowing when your artwork is finished

    Check out the video of the entire interview, read Kristin's bio, and see images of her work in the show notes at:
    Part two is available now at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode88
    #passionatepainterpodcast
    #artpodcast
    #artists

    Don't forget to join my podcast insider's circle for free downloadable ebooks, cheat sheets, and checklists, exclusively for my insiders and students. You'll also receive a reusable coupon for the lowest price available on all of my self-paced online courses.

    Sign up for free in the sidebar at passionatepainterpodcast.com

  • Welcome back. I'm happy to introduce you to Fine artist, painter, author, and educator, Kristin Cronic. In addition to all of these pursuits, Kristin served for ten years as an officer in the United States Navy.

    We talk about her struggle against the pull of art during her career in the military and how she carved out time for painting, even aboard Navy ships. We also talk about:

    How art helped her cope with adversityOvercoming impostor syndromeHow Kristin makes a living at her artCommunication and boundaries in your relationships around your art and critiquesTwo reasons many artists procrastinateKnowing when your artwork is finished

    The interview ran long, so I've broken it into two parts. In part two, we talk about:

    The power of curiosityFeeling worthy as an artistLive wedding paintingKristin's biggest challengeHow Kristin allocates her time in the facets of her businessThe different themes behind her workGetting into and working with galleriesHer new book in partnership with Ballast Books

    Check out the video of the entire interview, read Kristin's bio, and see images of her work in the show notes at:
    Part two is available now at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode88
    #passionatepainterpodcast
    #artpodcast
    #artists

    Don't forget to join my podcast insider's circle for free downloadable ebooks, cheat sheets, and checklists, exclusively for my insiders and students. You'll also receive a reusable coupon for the lowest price available on all of my self-paced online courses.

    Sign up for free in the sidebar at passionatepainterpodcast.com

  • Welcome back. If you're listening to this on our about its release date at Christmas, 2022, I wish you happy holidays and a very happy and creative new year. As we wrap up this year and look forward to our plans for 2023, It's the perfect time to reflect on our accomplishments this past year and take an honest look at the roadblocks that may hold you back as an artist.

    Check out the show notes at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode87 for a free download and helpful links, and to see the painting discussed in this episode.

    #artistroadblocks
    #productivity
    #motivation

  • Welcome back. I'd like to wish all of you out there a very happy holiday season, and I'd like to thank every one of you for tuning in to the podcast and making it a success.

    To show my gratitude I’m running a Black Friday sale from Black Friday through the end of the day on December 10, 2022, for 40% of any of my courses. Just use the code FRIDAY at checkout.

    This means you can get some of my spotlight courses for under $25. They make great stocking stuffers. You might even consider gifting yourself the masterclass. Remember, once you purchase the course, it's yours to return to as many times as you like to hone your skills as an artist.

    If you’d like to purchase a course as a gift, just send me an email at [email protected] and I’ll send you a link to download a gift certificate you can give with instructions on how to transfer the course to the recipient. Go to passionatepainteracademy.com to learn more.

    Today I get to introduce you to American Artist Emily Ozier. Emily, otherwise known as "EMYO" is an incredible talent. Her paintings are addicting. She tackles deep subjects with a free, loose touch that grips your attention while holding you lightly. Her paintings are buoyant with hope!

    Emily touches on so many important elements of her journey to becoming a professional artist. And what keeps coming to the forefront is don't worry about racing to the point where you feel you've "made it."

    An out-of-context look at Emily's success is pretty daunting — she's in over half a dozen galleries, she sells on commission, she sells prints, she works with a coterie of designers who buy for their clients AND she's in the middle of launching a children's book.

    What you'll hear from Emily's own lips, however, is that each of these elements took time. She'll be the first to tell you her own career is an evolution, and if you keep showing up, you'll find your path.

    And, please note that when EMYO says "for anyone who is very young in their art career" she's speaking specifically about your art career, not your age. Your art career can be young later in life if you're just getting started with making or selling your work.

    I think you'll find this interview as inspiring as I did. Enjoy.
    To read Emily's bio, get her contact information, and check out her work, check out the show notes at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode86.

  • Welcome back. I am excited to introduce you to American Painter Dan Knepper. Influenced by his background as a glass blower, Dan is fascinated by the effects of light and a master at painting light into sparkling landscapes.

    During our conversation, Dan provides great insight into getting your career off the ground. We talk galleries, art auctions, competitions, selling your art online, and more.

    What I love most about this interview is that it kept circling back to the concept of worthiness and how artists can overcome the insecurities that so often hold us back. I'm sure you'll get a lot from our conversation.

    To watch the video of this interview, read Dan's bio, get his contact links, and see his work, check out the show notes at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode85

    And don't forget to check out my online masterclass and individual spotlight classes, starting as low as $37, at passionatepainteracademy.com

    Until next time, go make something.

  • Welcome to part 2 of my interview in progress with American Painter Amy Peterman. In this second half, we talk about how Amy sells her art, keeping production costs down, selling prints, where Amy turns for mentoring, and so much more.

    If you haven't yet listened to part 1, I recommend you go back and listen to that first, to hear Amy's bio and hear about her background, her process, making time for her art, her biggest challenge, and so much more. You can find it at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode83.

    Amy and I met at the 2022 Waterfront Arts Festival in Escanaba, up here in the lovely Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I was honored to be asked to judge the paintings at this year's festival, where many talented artists exhibited and sold their work.

    I discovered Amy was a kindred spirit, having a professional background in graphic design and freelancing for a living, like me, while working on her paintings. We were also both raised by craftsman parents who worked with furniture, glass, and fabric. We both gave up studying a string instrument in high school to spend more time in art, and enjoyed exposure to a wide range of techniques before college.

    We're practically twins. If she'd told me she'd also gone on a secret mission to rescue a chicken in her freshman year at university, I definitely would have been creeped out.

    Amy's expressionistic landscapes are captivating, with strong compositions and fearless brushwork. I was struck by how many paintings she had on display, in addition to prints, each more beautiful than the next. I was grateful artists were required to designate one for consideration in the best-in-show category. I never could have picked one from the others.

    In looking at her work, I could see Amy's unflagging commitment to making her art despite any obstacles or demands on her time. She is prolific, professional, and organized. I was truly inspired and I knew you would love to hear from her.

    Needless to say, Amy took the prize that day, and I can confirm she deserved it. She has since become a good friend and agreed to come on the show. It's full of great information and encouragement.
    #artpodcast
    #artbusiness
    #arttraining
    #passionatepainterpodcast
    #carolineitaliacarlson
    #amypeterman

  • Welcome back. Today, I have the pleasure of sharing my interview with American Painter Amy Peterman.

    Amy and I met at the 2022 Waterfront Arts Festival in Escanaba, up here in the lovely Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I was honored to be asked to judge the paintings at this year's festival, where many talented artists exhibited and sold their work.

    I discovered Amy was a kindred spirit, having a professional background in graphic design and freelancing for a living, like me, while working on her paintings. We were also both raised by craftsman parents who worked with furniture, glass, and fabric. We both gave up studying a string instrument in high school to spend more time in art, and enjoyed exposure to a wide range of techniques before college.

    We're practically twins. If she'd told me she'd also gone on a secret mission to rescue a chicken in her freshman year at university, I definitely would have been creeped out.

    Amy's expressionistic landscapes are captivating, with strong compositions and fearless brushwork. I was struck by how many paintings she had on display, in addition to prints, each more beautiful than the next. I was grateful artists were required to designate one for consideration in the best-in-show category. I never could have picked one from the others.

    In looking at her work, I could see Amy's unflagging commitment to making her art despite any obstacles or demands on her time. She is prolific, professional, and organized. I was truly inspired and I knew you would love to hear from her.

    Needless to say, Amy took the prize that day, and I can confirm she deserved it. She has since become a good friend and agreed to come on the show. It's full of great information and encouragement.

    In part 1, we talk about her background, her process, how she promotes her art her biggest challenge, and more. You can read Amy's bio see her work, and get her contact links in the show notes for this episode at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode83.

    The conversation ran to an hour, so I've broken it in two for your convenience. Don't miss part 2, available now at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode84.
    #artpodcast
    #artbusiness
    #arttraining
    #passionatepainterpodcast
    #carolineitaliacarlson
    #amypeterman

  • In this interview, I get to introduce you to my new friend Jacob Bartanus, a fellow resident of the upper peninsula of Michigan.

    Jacob reached out to me with a comment about the show. I checked out his work and was blown away by its dynamic energy and many layers, both literal and figurative.

    Jacob's got a story that is fascinating and inspiring, and I can't wait to share his upbeat, curious outlook with you. He's a very bright light.

    Jacob is currently showing his work at coffee shop and art gallery Palette Coffee & Art in Grand Rapids, MI, as a participant in this year's ArtPrize show. ArtPrize is hosted once a year in the town, with local businesses sponsoring artists. The work is judged by a panel and by the public. The show runs from Mid September to Mid October.

    You can find the video of the complete interview on the show notes page along with images of Jacob’s work at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode81.

    This interview ran long, so I've broken it into two parts for listening convenience. Part two is available now at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode82.

  • Welcome to part 2 of my interview in progress with American painter Jacob Bartanus of the upper peninsula of Michigan.

    If you haven't listened to part 1, you might want to go back to that first to hear his bio, catch his origin story, and find lots of inspiration. You can find it at at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode81.

    Jacob is currently showing his work at coffee shop and art gallery Palette Coffee & Art in Grand Rapids, MI, as a participant in this year's ArtPrize show. ArtPrize is hosted once a year in the town, with local businesses sponsoring artists. The work is judged by a panel and by the public. The show runs from Mid September to Mid October.

    You can find the video of the complete interview on the show notes page along with images of Jacob’s work at passionatepainterpodcast.com/episode82.

  • Welcome Back. In today's podcast, I get to introduce you to my new found soul sister American Painter Ciara Barsotti.

    Ciara is a creative force whose work successfully intertwines the soulful and the playful.

    We touched upon many areas I know you'll resonate with, from finding your voice to making time for your art to pricing and selling your work on your terms.

    Now if you're a regular listener, I'm sure you've heard me say there's no right way to be an artist. And it's true. But, there are definitely some common traits successful people of any practice share, and Ciara has them in spades.

    I'm talking about curiosity, flexibility, and self-awareness. All the things that you need to have a growth mindset.I know you'll enjoy hearing from Ciara as much as I did.

    Make sure you swing by the show notes for this episode to check out Ciara's work and all the links we mention, including a downloadable page from Ciara's personal planner. If you're a self-professed organization geek like me and Ciara, you're gonna love it. Enjoy the show.

    Be sure to grab your copy of Ciara's personal planner at passionate painter.com/episode80

  • In today’s episode, I’m going to talk about recognizing when something’s getting in the way of our creativity and learning to use that discomfort as a roadmap to move past it.

    Struggling with impostor syndrome?
    Insecurity?
    Overwhelm?
    Compare and Despair?
    Uncertain about your next step?

    Me too.

    But I’m working on it. And I’m getting there. I think confidence is a verb and we need to practice it to move forward.

    So today, in my no fear episode, I’m going to share with you some of the helpful things I’ve learned in my art journey about moving forward not without fear but in spite of it. As always, take what you can and leave the rest.