The Art Biz

Host Alyson Stanfield reveals an uncomfortable truth in this solo episode: the problem isn't that you don't know enough. The real challenge is building the confidence to act on what you already know. After 23 years of teaching artists, Alyson has realized she's been contributing to information overwhelm when what artists actually need are practices that build steady confidence.

In this episode, you'll discover:

host: Alyson Stanfield

In this coaching-style episode, host Alyson Stanfield coaches Ebony Iman Dallas through the challenges of building a sustainable public art career while navigating motherhood, a regional market, and the fear of rejection.

Ebony makes 90% of her income from public art but struggles with systems, marketing that highlights events instead of her work, and waiting for opportunities instead of creating them. If you've ever felt stretched between creative work and life responsibilities—or stuck in a local market—you'll recognize yourself here.

HIGHLIGHTS

01:30 Ebony's journey from advertising to opening the...

What happens when you realize the way you've been working isn't sustainable? When you've built something successful but it's costing you sleep, peace of mind, and the very things you set out to protect?

In this solo episode, host Alyson Stanfield gets really vulnerable with a question most artists face at some point: Who am I if I change the way I've always done things? It's about the pressure to maintain what you've always done because that's what you identify with, the FOMO that makes you say yes when your gut says no, and the overwhelm that...

host: Alyson Stanfield

In 2020, Dawn Trimble was laid off from her interior design job during the pandemic while navigating a divorce—and she felt relief. That moment became a turning point. Within months of painting full-time, she launched her first collection, which sold out in days and matched her corporate paycheck.

Dawn talks about the practical steps she took to build momentum, what she brought from her design background into her art business, how she thinks about creativity as service rather than self-expression, and why she believes the most important thing any artist can do is...

host: Alyson Stanfield

Alicia Bailey and Melinda Laz are part of a four-artist collaborative group in Denver that's been working together for years because it's made them better artists.

In this conversation, they share the practical realities of collaboration: the systems that keep things organized, the communication that prevents problems, and the trust that makes it all possible.

If you've ever wondered whether working with other artists is worth the effort, this episode will show you what's possible when you get it right.

🔦HIGHLIGHTS

01:50 How their friendship evolved into col...

In part one of this conversation (episode 247), Stephanie Brown shared how she strategically funded her education and built her early career foundation. Now it's time to talk about what happens next: the messy, real, day-to-day work of sustaining an art practice.

Stephanie breaks down her actual income streams with host Alyson Stanfield—sharing her five-year vision for gallery representation and explaining how becoming a mother made her bolder and more focused rather than holding her back.

🔦 HIGHLIGHTS

03:50 Stephanie's income percentages from consulting, speaking, art sales, workshops, and grants

07:30 When paying for a resi...

Too many artists graduate from art school with crushing debt and then spend years figuring out how to make money while trying to maintain a studio practice. Stephanie Brown did the opposite. She graduated from a private art school debt-free, secured a fully funded MFA, and has been treating her art career like a business from day one.

In this conversation with host Alyson Stanfield, Stephanie breaks down exactly how she did it, and why being strategic about money doesn't make you any less of an artist.

🔦 HIGHLIGHTS

02:00 Why interactive art transforms viewers int...

Your art doesn't exist in a vacuum. Where and how you show your work shapes how people perceive its value before they even look closely at the piece itself. The venue, the lighting, the labels, the other work nearby—all of it sends signals about whether your art should be taken seriously.

In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield explores what falls within your control and what doesn't, and why understanding that difference can transform how collectors see you and your work.

She encourages you to vet opportunities before committing, establish non-negotiables to...

host: Alyson Stanfield

La Vaughn Belle is a visual artist based in St. Croix whose interdisciplinary practice explores colonial histories and Caribbean identity.

Host Alyson Stanfield talks with La Vaughn about building a thriving art career outside traditional art centers through strategic networking, intentional collaboration, and the bold decision to hire a publicist for her monument project I Am Queen Mary.

La Vaughn reveals

Working with a gallery means putting your art, reputation, and trust in someone else's hands.

That relationship can be transformative (or tense) depending on how it's managed on either side.

In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield talks with Katherine Hébert, founder of Gallery Fuel, which helps small and mid-size galleries strengthen their businesses.

Katherine has seen both sides of the artist–gallery dynamic and knows what helps these relationships thrive: communication, transparency, and mutual respect.

You'll hear:

When Alissa Quart's 90-year-old mother received a terminal diagnosis, she faced a daunting question: what to do with 400 paintings created over three decades. Her solution was unconventional, distributing the work directly to neighbors, friends, and anyone who wanted to live with her mother's art.

The story she shares with host Alyson Stanfield touches on something much larger: what artists actually need to sustain their practice and how we think about legacy when the traditional art world isn't an option.

You'll learn:

host: Alyson Stanfield

Artist and activist Malene Barnett joins host Alyson Stanfield to unpack how she balances a multidisciplinary practice while designing work that "holds memory" in space. Malene shares the planning, community, and process-sharing that keep a long, installation-driven practice moving, and she offers a resonant lens on clay as a tool for liberation grounded in Caribbean and West African heritage.

Bits of her wisdom:

host: Alyson Stanfield

Pinterest isn't just for recipes and home décor—it's one of the most underutilized marketing tools for artists. In this episode, host Alyson Stanfield talks with artist coach Hayley Price about how she's still getting traffic from pins created years ago and why Pinterest should be part of your long-term strategy. Discover how to turn your existing content into evergreen visibility for your art.

Host Alyson Stanfield talks with Katie Hunt about the findings from her 2025 State of the Product Industry survey.

While Katie's audience includes product-based artists and makers, many of the themes—pricing pressures, burnout, and the need for stronger systems—apply across the creative sector.

They explore what's really happening behind the scenes of creative businesses right now: why some are thriving while others are closing or stalling, how tariffs are complicating planning and profitability, and the surprising number of businesses still not using email marketing.

Katie and Alyson reflect on the connection between sust...

host: Alyson Stanfield

Artists thrive on creative expression, but that same impulse can scatter your marketing. Without consistency, collectors are left confused about who you are and what you stand for.

In this solo episode, I share why identity comes before design, what goes into a brand kit, and how it saves time while building trust.

Your next collector is just one connection away. Make it a memorable one.

✨ HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 When artists relied on printed packets

02:40 Why tactile marketing materials still matter today

05:40 The tough lov...

host: Alyson Stanfield

Waiting to be discovered isn't a strategy. A gallery might help, but it won't solve everything. What you really need to build a thriving art career are conscious connections. These are intentional relationships that open doors, create opportunities, and sustain you for the long run.

In this solo episode, host Alyson Stanfield explains what conscious connections are, why they matter more than ever, the barriers that hold artists back, and how to start cultivating your own unique network with a list that only you could create.

00:00 Why waiting to be...

host: Alyson Stanfield When someone is ready to buy your art, the last thing you want to do is make them go on a treasure hunt. Every extra click, unanswered question, or missing price is a barrier that can cost you the sale. In this solo episode, I talk about how you can take charge of the buying process—because while you can't control the economy or trends, you can control how easy it is for people to pay you. Key Ideas Collectors don't just buy art—they buy into the artist. Relationships matter, but clarity in the buying process is n...

Most artists focus on growing their email list—but what if the real power comes from trimming it?

In this solo episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield walks you through why and how to clean your email list. This isn't just about numbers—it's about improving deliverability rates, boosting engagement, and building trust with the people who are actually listening.

If you want to email with more confidence—and stop second-guessing who's on the other end—this episode is for you.

IN THIS EPISODE

You've shown up. You've posted, emailed, exhibited, maybe even launched something. And yet... the sales aren't coming.

In this solo episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield walks you through six insight areas to investigate when your art isn't selling like it used to—or like you believe it should. These aren't quick fixes, but reflective prompts that can lead to real clarity and intentional next steps.

Whether you're feeling stuck, confused, or just curious about how to improve your results, this episode will help you pause, reflect, and reassess—with empathy and a prac...

Sculptor and installation artist Marianne Lettieri creates intricate, meditative work from salvaged and domestic materials. In this episode, she shares her journey from marketing to art, and how she has centered her practice around intention, discernment, and clarity—rather than urgency or trends.

She talks with host Alyson Stanfield about how she defines success, the importance of showing up in the studio (even if it's just to sweep the floor), and why research, ritual, and creative constraint are essential to her process.

HIGHLIGHTS

01:50 – Marianne's career shift from PR to full-time artist

03:54 – Why Ma...

Thoughtful artists often hesitate to share their work publicly—not because they're lazy or unclear, but because they don't want to contribute to the "noise" online.

In this solo episode, host Alyson Stanfield unpacks that fear and explain why it's often a mask for perfectionism. You'll hear why your content doesn't need to be perfect, polished, or viral—it just needs to be true.

She also shares mindset shifts to help you move from performance to presence, broadcasting to connection, and perfection to permission.

Whether you're struggling to post, over-editing everything, or just tryi...

Wildlife artist James Corwin has built a thriving art business by putting his originals first—and building everything else around them. In this episode of The Art Biz, he talks with host Alyson Stanfield about how he strategically developed multiple income streams through prints, commissions, and galleries, all while prioritizing his painting time.

James shares the mindset shift that helped him focus, the failures that taught him the most, and why nurturing collector relationships is a cornerstone of his success. His perspective as both an artist and gallery owner offers valuable insight for anyone seeking representation—or thin...

The biggest mistakes artists make aren't about doing the wrong things—they're about doing nothing at all. Avoidance. Waiting. Hoping something will change on its own.

In this solo episode, host Alyson Stanfield revisits and reframes one of her most popular articles, updated with a decade of insight and experience. These are not dramatic failures, but subtle patterns of inaction that can quietly keep your art business stuck.

Alyson shares 7 common mistakes, grouped into 3 themes:

Mindset. Connection. Structure.

Each is paired with a powerful inquiry to help you take honest inventory—and...

A retired police captain turned artist, Jennifer Steck realized she didn't have to wait for opportunities to come to her—she could create them.

Seeing a gap in what was available for artists to sell their work, Jennifer founded Artburst Studios, an online gallery that's part pop-up show and part community hub for artists. She had zero experience running a gallery, but that didn't stop her.

Armed with curiosity, a clear vision, and plenty of determination, Jennifer (at the time of this recording) has helped over 80 artists sell more than $174,000 of art in just a fe...

What if titling your art is actually part of your creative practice? One that helps you better understand your work, connect with your audience, and prepare your art for life beyond the studio?

That's the beautiful perspective offered by artist and writing consultant Fran Gardner. In this episode, host Alyson Stanfield talks with Fran to explore the idea that titles aren't just labels—they're bridges. They link your creative intention to the viewer's experience and give your work a voice when you're not there to speak for it.

Fran shares her own turning point with ti...

It's easy to assume that people will visit your artist website once it's built. But websites don't always attract attention on their own. You have to give people reasons to show up.

In this solo episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield shares 11 simple, low-effort strategies to guide more people to your site—plus a way to download the full list of 22 ideas.

These are real, artist-friendly actions that work in the background of your art business to increase traffic over time.

In this episode, you'll hear:

What does it take to stick with one creative project for more than a decade—and still feel inspired by it?

Michelle Fung has been immersed in The World of 2084 since 2015. What began as a vivid dream in a coffee shop became a sprawling, interdisciplinary art project imagining five futuristic nations and their cultural, ecological, and political identities.

In this conversation with host Alyson Stanfield, Michelle shares how she builds these imagined worlds through woodcut painting, animation, books, and research—and how her commitment hasn't wavered in 10 years. She talks openly about the tension between conc...

Getting gallery representation isn't just about having great work—it's about preparation, professionalism, and relationships.

At Gabba Gallery in Los Angeles, those values are at the heart of how things run. For more than a decade, owner and director Jason Ostro has led the gallery's mission to elevate emerging and mid-career artists, while curator and manager Elena Jacobson makes sure every show runs smoothly. Together, they bring a practical and deeply human perspective to the artist-gallery partnership.

In this conversation, host Alyson Stanfield talks with Jason and Elena about:

Building a sustainable art business requires more than just making good work. It requires showing up consistently, connecting with the right people, and staying true to a long-term vision—even when that means setting difficult boundaries.

In this conversation, Noelle Phares returns to talk with host Alyson Stanfield about the structures she's put in place to support her thriving art career. From smart use of assistants and art festivals to strategic decisions around galleries and commissions, Noelle has built her success by staying fiercely committed to audience building.

Here's what's ahead:

Building an art career with intention doesn't always start with a plan. Sometimes it starts with a gut feeling that something isn't working.

That was true for Noelle Phares, who left behind a structured science career to follow her creative instincts—eventually leading to a solo museum exhibition and a thriving, self-directed art business.

In this episode (part 1 of 2), host Alyson Stanfield talks to Noelle about how she transitioned from environmental data science into full-time painting, and how her rigorous research background continues to shape her studio practice.

The conversation centers around 2024 solo sh...

host: Alyson Stanfield

It's easy to think that being a full-time artist means struggling financially. But painter Mary Erickson is proof that with discipline, long-term thinking, and a deep love of both art and business, it's possible to build a creative life that's both fulfilling and financially secure.

In this conversation, recorded several years ago and lightly edited for re-release, Mary shares how she transitioned from painting before and after work at a frame shop to selling 500 watercolors, managing 8 gallery relationships, and investing in real estate—all while keeping her commitment to living simply and gi...

You work hard on your art. You want people to discover it. But if you're relying entirely on social media to be found, you're building on shaky ground.

Search engines like Google, YouTube, and even Pinterest remain powerful tools for helping people find you and your art—but only if you're strategic about how you show up there.

In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield talks with her go-to SEO coach, Meg Casebolt, about what artists need to know about Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and how to take ownership of your content on...

Writing about your art isn't easy—but it's one of the most important things you can do to clarify your vision and connect with others. In this solo episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield walks you through a comprehensive guide to writing an effective artist statement that truly reflects your work.

You'll hear why artist statements still matter, how to approach the writing process without getting overwhelmed, and what to avoid in your final draft. She also shares specific journaling prompts to help you uncover what's most essential about your art—and how to put your...

Guest: Ruby Lopez Harper, Executive Director of CERF+

In this episode of The Art Biz, Ruby Lopez Harper, executive director for CERF+ (the Craft Emergency Relief Fund) joins host Alyson Stanfield to discuss the vital work CERF+ does to support artists before, during, and after emergencies. As CERF+ celebrates its 40th anniversary, Ruby shares the history of the organization, its spirit of mutual aid, and how it has expanded its services over the years.

Most importantly, Ruby and Alyson want to encourage artists to research, plan, and prepare in order to protect their art businesses—sh...

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:

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 wha...

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...

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 an...

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:

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: Over...

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...

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 re...

From sketchbook notes and letters, to authoring her own exhibition catalogues and eventually publishing a memoir, to her thoughtful weekly Substack newsletter, The Lifeboat, Samantha Clark reflects on how writing fosters clarity and confidence for herself and the artists she mentors.

In a conversation with host Alyson Stanfield, Samantha discusses how writing can deepen one's creative practice, the value of opening conversations, and how she maintains a writing schedule alongside her work in the studio.

They also delve into the practicalities of living and working in a remote location and how artists can view marketing...

This episode is for you if you enjoy writing or aspire to do more of it.

Host Alyson Stanfield interviews Ann Miller, who has found a powerful way to merge her creative passions with her love for writing while growing her audience. Using Substack, she refines ideas for books, shares insights into calligraphy and design, and engages her audience with educational content.

Substack has become integral to her process, helping her manage projects, organize thoughts, and extend her teaching. By offering free content to build community, and exploring paid options, Ann balances creativity with income...

Peek inside the elite art world.

Host Alyson Stanfield speaks with Michael Findlay, a long-time art dealer and author of the new memoir, Portrait of the Art Dealer as a Young Man: New York in the Sixties.

They discuss his extensive career, insights into the evolving art market, and memorable stories, including an amusing anecdote about Andy Warhol.

Findlay emphasizes the importance of immersive, in-person art experiences and the qualities that make a great art collector. He also reflects on changes in the relationship between dealers and artists over the decades and the...

This is a letter I wrote in 2017 to help a concerned father support his introverted artist son. I wanted to help him—and anyone else who wants to help an artist—understand the struggles of artists and how they can be most helpful.

My 7 pieces of advice (outlined in the timestamps below) isn't given lightly and is based on decades of experience working with artists.

host: Alyson Stanfield

00:44 Dear Loved One 01:33 Insight 1: Accept Me as I Am 02:34 Insight 2: Respect the Way I Work 03:32 Insight 3: Acknowledge the Difficulties 04:41 Insight 4: Ask About My Goals 05:32 Insight 5: Offe...

host: Alyson Stanfield

Artist and advocate Virginia Broersma talks with me about her efforts to support fellow artists through practical resources. Virginia shares how she founded The Artist's Office to help artists manage administrative tasks and created The Artist's Contract, a free tool for artist protections.

We also explore her Studio Loan program, which connects artists needing temporary studio space. Virginia's work highlights the importance of collaboration, transparency, and empowering artists to navigate their careers confidently.

00:22 Meet Virginia Broersma 
01:16 Virginia's Recent Projects and Initiatives
02:15 The Evolution of Virginia's Career
03:49 The A...

Host Alyson Stanfield delves into the necessity of creating demand for your artwork in order to achieve a certain level of success.

She discusses the balance between ambition and practicality in the art market and offers five essential tips to assess and cultivate demand effectively.

Alyson stresses the importance of setting realistic expectations, refining your unique artistic voice, and nurturing genuine relationships. Through examples from past episodes and insightful advice, she aims to help artists understand and thrive in their respective markets.

00:29 Understanding the Art Market 01:46 Being Unrealistic in Your Art Marketing Strategies 02:48...

A deep discussion about the significant impact of the internet on the arts economy and the evolving role of artists in today's market that is ruled by the internet.

Host Alyson Stanfield talks with William Deresiewicz, author of The Death of the Artist: How Creators are Struggling to Survive in the Age of Billionaires and Big Tech.

Bill discuss the challenges of discoverability and financial instability while emphasizing the importance of community support as artists navigate this changing landscape. Bill offers valuable insights on adapting to new opportunities in the digital era, helping artists feel...

Host Alyson Stanfield talks with artist Joan Chamberlain, whose creative journey has taken many twists and turns. Joan shares her story, from her early days as a botanical artist and licensed illustrator to her time as a product developer and dentist.

Now living in Eugene, Oregon, Joan reflects on how moving has impacted her art, her lifestyle, and her happiness.

Joan discusses:

Host Alyson Stanfield talks with Iris Scott, a talented artist who has had tremendous success on social media. A large portion of the discussion was driven by questions from her dedicated followers.

Iris shares how the social media landscape has evolved since the early days of her art career and how she adapts to those changes today, including her approach to TikTok and paid advertising.

The insightful conversation also touches on:

host: Alyson Stanfield

In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield talks with Debra about her dynamic journey as an artist and entrepreneur.

Debra reflects on her career that spans teaching, studio work, decorative painting, and involvement with various communities.

She shares the challenges she faced navigating the competitive art world, her time running Artifactory decorative painting studio in the Bay Area, and her eventual move to Los Angeles to support her husband's acting career, which also opened new opportunities for her.

Debra emphasizes the importance of enthusiasm, showing...

In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield chats with artist Julie deBoer, founder of Mastrius, a mentorship platform for artists.

Julie shares her journey of discovering her unique style with the help of a mentor, and how she resisted what was coming out of her until she began understanding where it came from.

She discusses the challenges of working with galleries, transitioning to solo sales, and the importance of community in the artist's journey. Julie also delves into how Mastrius differs from other online learning platforms by focusing on personalized mentorship and...

host: Alyson Stanfield

In the 200th episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield explores the deeper motivations behind artists' desires for more recognition and sales.

She emphasizes the importance of pursuing true fulfillment in art, beyond external validation and social media metrics.

Alyson shares her personal journey of prioritizing happiness over career stability and discusses various forms of fulfillment for artists, such as making their best work, gaining gallery representation, and receiving positive feedback. She encourages artists to exhibit their work in public more frequently and to engage with their audience to...

In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield talks with author and artist Alyson Sheldrake.

Every month for ten years, Alyson Sheldrake has published Snapshot!, an extensive digital magazine that promotes her work, her husband's photography, and local businesses. The most recent edition was 128 pages!

In her words, Snapshot! covers art, photography, books, reviews, events, interviews, rescue dogs, authors, and news about the beautiful Algarve in Portugal. That's a lot of territory, and, as you'll see, she has plenty of story ideas for future content.

Writing, designing, and publishing the magazine...

Future plans, deadlines, and accountability are a necessary part of your success.

Host Alyson Stanfield of Art Biz Success explains how artists can get stuck in cycles of procrastination without a structured calendar filled with exciting commitments.

Alyson shares practical examples from her own life as well as from her experience with students and clients, and details how deadlines and accountability partners, including coaches and community groups, can help maintain momentum.

Key takeaways include the importance of setting attainable milestones, self-review processes, and embracing external support systems to drive progress and achieve creative...

host: Alyson Stanfield

In order for the art ecosystem to work, many rejections must be handed out. That means to have a successful art business and career, you must learn to deal with rejection.

More to the point, in order to be successful in life, you have to learn to deal with rejection, regardless of your vocation.

In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield talks with Megan Wimberley, who wants to help you move past rejection. As both an artist and a founder of the Cowgirl Artists of America organization...

What do we do about all of the art materials that are harming you and the planet? Kelly O'Brien has taken this concern to heart and completely changed how she makes work.

She grows and uses biomaterials for her sculpture.

Host Alyson Stanfield talks with Kelly about:

🔸 What biomaterials are and how they show up in Kelly's new work.

🔸 The aesthetics of biomaterials.

🔸 Why Kelly isn't concerned about the work lasting forever.

🔸 What you can do to incorporate more sustainable sources in your work.

Kelly also discusses h...

Host Alyson Stanfield is joined by Jeff Schaller, who started an open studio tour in Pennsylvania at the height of the recession. It is still growing and supporting the participating artists.

As he'll tell you, Jeff is an artist first and foremost. Somehow he has created this other job for himself because he believes that artists can do well by connecting directly with collectors who visit them in their studios.

Jeff and Alyson talk about:

Host: Alyson Stanfield

If you've ever thought about sharing your artist story on a podcast—or pitching to anyone for publicity—this episode is for you. Join host Alyson Stanfield as she dives into the value of being a guest on The Art Biz and provides solid tips for pitching your art to any podcast for maximum publicity. (This information can also be adapted for any pitch you make for any reason.)

Every artist has a unique journey, and sharing it can attract more fans, followers, and collectors. Alyson provides straightforward advice on how to craf...

It's possible to make more money and find a little more peace of mind by making a few tweaks in how you approach your art business.

In this episode of The Art Biz, host Alyson Stanfield talks with Monique Carr about how she has done it.

When she reached out to Alyson a couple of years ago for a private coaching partnership, Monique was aiming for doing half the work, making twice the money, and having fun in whatever she did.

She's not quite at the twice the money part, but things have...

host: Alyson Stanfield

Originally from a large metropolitan area, Tracey Hewitt married a rancher and, like Lisa Douglas in Green Acres, said goodbye to city life.

But she never said goodbye to her art.

Host Alyson Stanfield wanted to talk with Tracey because every encounter she has ever had with her as a member of our Art Biz Connection community has been positive. Tracey is funny, warm, and generous. And she knows how to live life to its fullest.

Tracey helps run the family cattle business in the Australian bush, which...

What "game" are you playing in your art business and in life?

Artist-writer-speaker Jason Kotecki makes the point that you have a unique game plan to follow—one that can't be compared to another artist or online personality.

In a conversation with host Alyson Stanfield, Jason shares his experience of overcoming comparison and jealousy, emphasizing the importance of focusing on your unique talents and contributions. He talks about the pivotal moment in a Philadelphia ballroom that led him to merge his art with his speaking engagements and how this fusion has shaped his career.

...

host: Alyson Stanfield

It might help (but isn't necessary) to start this episode by listening to episode 189, which is an encore of a 2019 interview I did with Ali Cavanaugh when she was making big changes in her work life.

In this episode, Ali and I catch up with all that has transpired in the last 5 years. We discuss:

host: Alyson Stanfield

In 2014, Ali Cavanaugh had 11 galleries representing her work throughout the U.S. and even overseas. It was all she could do to paint fast enough to supply these galleries with new work. What a great problem to have! But it was still a problem.

Then she started asking for it to be returned to her. She was rethinking her art and what her business model looked like.

She worked hard to get to that point, the way things were going no longer worked well for her. She decided to take...

host: Alyson Stanfield

Elizabeth LeMaster, my guest for this episode of The Art Biz, has, like so many of us, more to balance than her studio practice and business. She has a family. A young family. A big family. A growing family.

How do you find time for working on your art when you have 6 kids under the age of 8? 😳

Elizabeth and I talk about how she has done it because she wanted to share her tips with all artist-mothers out there. She is also very honest about the bumps along the road.

host: Alyson Stanfield

My utter bliss is to help artists make business systems that streamline their lives so they can spend more time in the studio. So when Skip Hill said he needed a system for following up with his collectors and important relationships, I knew I wanted to help.

In this encore episode of The Art Biz, I walk Skip through the steps to create a plan for nurturing his relationships.

We go through these steps to create his plan:

host: Alyson Stanfield

I want to talk about something that I think gets in the way of how you think about what a successful art business is or can be.

I want to help you reframe your daily decisions, actions, and results (or lack thereof)—to embrace the volatility of an artist life. To understand that there will be highs and lows, and that just comes along with the territory.

One of the most-used business metaphors is the ladder of success, which is problematic for two reasons:

host: Alyson Stanfield

Some artists are fine working by themselves in their studios. Other artists need to move their art beyond the studio walls and into the public in order to be fulfilled.

My guest for this episode is Marilyn Fontaine, a multidisciplinary artist who lives and works in East London. Her work is spiritual with a strong foothold in feminine themes.

She has begun marrying that work to the history of the local community—in particular, the stories of those who share her Afro-Caribbean roots.

Marilyn and I talk about th...

Host: Alyson B. Stanfield

For so long, I asked artists Why they make art.

Some artists have a Why.

For other artists, being asked why they make art is unfruitful—even debilitating. They feel unworthy if they can't come up with a good Why.

A better strategy is to focus on the people who will be viewing, talking about, and living with your art.

How does your art make people feel?

Bernadette Jiwa says, "People don't buy why you do something. They buy how it makes them fee...

Host: Alyson B. Stanfield

In this episode of The Art Biz I talk with Lori Sokoluk and Susan Purney Mark, who met in my coaching group many years ago and started a collaboration during the pandemic.

When I teach about collaboration, I'm usually talking about an exhibition or event. Lori and Susan took it to the next level and collaborated on the artwork itself—resulting in a two-person exhibition that recently closed.

I wanted to know what the artmaking process was like when you're presented with someone else's marks on the canvas. I th...

Host: Alyson B. Stanfield

Your list is something unique to you and your career. No one has this same list. No one makes art like you do; no one knows the same people as you do; and no one has the exact vision that you have. Nobody! Your list is almost worthless to anyone else, yet it's invaluable to you.

It is the primary tool you use to share your art with the world. It's your #1 marketing asset, but worthless if you're not using it.

The definition of a mailing list isn't as...

Host: Alyson Stanfield, Art Biz Success

My guest is Janice Mason Steeves, author of Bloom: On Becoming An Artist Later in Life. Which, as I say in our interview, is "a lovely mix of insights from a questionnaire, gentle guidance from someone who teaches and leads artist workshops all over the world, and wisdom from academics, professionals, and spiritual advisors."

Janice has been in my orbit for a long time and I have been dying to talk with her about this book, the seeds of which she mentioned to me about 4 years ago. It's a b...

I believe in the power of daily affirmations. I first used them a number of years ago to increase my income and it worked. I increased my income 40% that year. And while I am not now as dedicated to reciting them daily, I know should be! I attribute the majority of my success back then to these affirmations.

What possessed me to stop? 🤷‍♀️ I do not believe that reciting affirmations alone will move the needle. You must have the commitment to your goals in the first place and take appropriate action to move forward. I encourage you to try th...

If you're like a lot of the artist-clients that I work with at Art Biz Success, you would love someone to help you with social media. Or your website. Or maybe anything else to help lighten the load.

Having any kind of help sounds like a dream. It may seem like an impossible dream. You might be looking for someone like my guest for this episode of The Art Biz: Hallie Edlund, a virtual assistant for artists.

We discuss how she started doing this work and how she helps artists with social media and their...

In this episode, I have something a little different for you.

I want to share a tool I found a number of years ago that helps me in life and in my business. And it's helped many of my clients.

It's a life map, of sorts, called Human Design.

Jahje Ives is an artist and a Human Design coach and guide. While I have worked with Human Design guides in the past, Jahje is the first artist I have met in this realm.

I wanted her insights as to how knowing...

Two things are clear when it comes to pricing your art.

1️⃣ It's a struggle for most artists.

2️⃣ There's a good chance that your prices are too low.

There are 5 reasons to raise your prices:

🔸 You've done the math and realized you aren't paying yourself.

🔸 Your pricing has become uneven over time.

🔸 The cost of your materials has increased.

🔸 You can't keep up with the demand for your art.

🔸 You start selling through galleries.

I cover all of these in this episode and then tell you...

I like to say that your art isn't complete until someone else experiences it. Until you're standing in front of it and talking about it with people who are interested.

In real life. Digital-only viewing doesn't count.

Every person who sees your work brings themselves and their background to your work—adding new layers of meaning to your original intention.

My guest for this episode is Susan Abbott, and she recognizes the importance of getting her work out of the studio and in front of people.

We cover a lot of gr...

So many artists are down on their galleries and considering leaving them.

There are absolutely many reasons not to stick with your gallery, but that's a different episode.

I wanted to share the story of an artist who is thrilled with her gallery.

My guest for this episode is Evita Tezeno—an artist who has grand ambitions for herself. Not content with the status quo, Evita aims for recognition by prestigious honors like the Guggenheim Fellowship and the MacArthur Fellowship, the so called "genius" grant.

She knows she can't get there by...

Your artist website is your portfolio these days. It's usually the first place people go to get a full picture of you and your art. They might initially find you on Instagram and scroll through the images there, but when their interest is piqued and they want to know more, they'll click that almighty link in your bio.

Your website is the 1 piece of virtual real estate that you have 100% control over. You select what people see and define how they will navigate the experience.

Are you ready for them?

In this episode...

This episode isn't for artists who want to dabble and keep art as a hobby. I so respect your desire to enter and exit the studio whenever you feel like it, but this isn't for you.

This isn't even for artists who want to set up a side hustle of selling art here and there to make some extra cash. Again, I respect the fact that you want or need to do that, but what I share here isn't for you.

This is for anyone who is serious about building and living the life of...

My guest for this episode of The Art Biz is Kamal X.

Kamal recently released his book, Black Astronaut, which is a collection of photographs he started after the murder of George Floyd. It was, as you recall, the height of Covid and like many, Kamal was hesitant to travel and be in crowds.

But, as he said, he knew he had to risk it all because the moment was bigger than him.

In our conversation, you'll hear about how and why Kamal learned photography and how he approaches his subjects on the...

Carol MacConnell has built a strong business foundation over her long art career. I was particularly interested in talking with her about how she works with interior designers.

You'll hear us discuss:

You'll also hear me plead my case for contracts that spell...

As we learned when diagramming sentences in 4th grade, verbs are where the action is. No verb, no action.

The first iteration of my newsletter for artists back in 2002 included a specific art business action at the end of each issue.

My book, I'd Rather Be in the Studio, is broken down into 16 "actions" rather than chapters.

I'm all about action, but am no longer interested in it in the form of obsessive hyper-productivity. I'll leave that to the bro motivators out there. Action at all costs isn't healthy.

But action—eve...

In this episode I talk with David Sandum who was driven to take up art personally and then professionally after being hospitalized with depression in 2001.

His journey through depression led him to the works of Vincent Van Gogh and Edvard Munch—finding solace and a deep connection with their expression of raw emotions.

We discuss how art continues to be a lifeline in his struggle with depression and his memoir, I'll Run Till the Sun Goes Down: A Memoir About Depression & Discovering Art.

David and I touch on the tension between making art fo...

In this episode of The Art Biz I talk with Nanci Hersh about an exhibition she organized with 25 artists from multiple states and countries.

The show used the central theme of tears to explore empathy, compassion, and understanding within a sacred space—a metaphorical chapel. She says, as artists "we are so fortunate that we can use our art to make sense of life experiences."

Nanci and I discuss:

Dare you have a sale of your art?

I acknowledge that having a sale of original work might be unpalatable. It feels as if you are cheapening the work you put so much effort into. I get it.

In just the last episode of The Art Biz (#166), I talked with Bri Larson about the mindset around raising prices and why it was important to do so.

In this episode of The Art Biz I discuss the psychology and process around having a sale of your art or any products that you might sell...

In this episode, Bri Larson and I talk about her decision to raise her prices and how she overcame the mindset that her art needed to be affordable.

We also discuss:

There's no neat way to explain what success is because it's different for every artist. I hope this episode is the start of an ongoing conversation on the subject.

💡HIGHLIGHTS

Sally Hirst was born to teach.

Fortunately, she was also born an artist.

Like most of us, she adapted to the new reality that she was faced with at the beginning of the pandemic. Well, actually, she did more than adapt. She thrived. She took the challenge head on and has been thriving ever since.

Sally and I discuss what her income sources looked like before Covid and look like now. Specifically, we talk about her teaching:

This episode is a remix of episode 36 from 2019. It is such an inspiring interview that I wanted more people to hear it.

Adele Sypesteyn has been making a living from her art for four decades. Listen in as she takes us through her journey of selling her art, from the traditional process of applying to galleries to a more strategic approach that involved teaching herself about business and pivoting in the face of economic downturns. Adele also shares how she transitioned from galleries to the antique show in Round Top, Texas, where she made excellent connections with...

Lately, I've been diving into money on The Art Biz. As much as I do NOT want to talk about money, I know it's necessary. I also know it's more necessary for some artists to make money from their work than for others.

If you're lucky enough to have outside support for your art business—even if it's from a day job—count your blessings. Because the pressure on the work is real when you don't have that extra source of income, which is why I will continue to bring up the topic of money.

Let...

In this episode, I'm doing something different and sharing my money odyssey from an interview with Parker Stevenson of The Bottom Line podcast by Evolved Finance.

I reveal:

Heather Beardsley's art has been influenced by extensive travel and residencies in diverse cultures. This started with her year in Vienna as a Fulbright Scholar and then continued for several years until the pandemic shut down her residency in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Like everyone else, Heather had to pivot upon returning to the U.S. She used the downtime to her advantage by getting organized and shaping her career path.

In our conversation in this episode of The Art Biz, you'll hear how she managed to transform her social anxiety into opportunities—realizing that real growth co...

In this episode, I want to start a conversation about one of those things that can get in the way of feeling successful: Money.

In particular, I want to dive into income sources for artists.

Where does the money come from?

I discuss:

📖 To read more, see...

In this episode, I talk with Jan McCarthy, who wants you to know that there is plenty of life to live after 50. And even 60.

She describes herself as a maker because, in her eyes, that term encompasses more than the word "artist."

Jan has started businesses, founded organizations, designed interiors, organized fundraisers, dinner parties, retreats, and workshops, and made plenty of products and art.

Jan and I discuss:

In this episode, I talk with Sarah Becktel about her sources of income and how she has increased her income by 25% in the last 3 years by being very deliberate about where and how she shows her work.

Sarah does sell through galleries, but she has recently increased her self-sales by 400% by focusing on 3 specific types of indoor shows every year. She breaks them down as follows:

You'll hear Sarah discuss...

In this episode, I talk with Kimberly Santini about a variety of topics, including how she used Covid as a sabbatical to figure out what she really wanted from her art.

We also touched on her dedication to blogging and why she continues the habit after so many artists have given up or neglected their blogs.

The bulk of our conversation focused on how Kim uses Patreon to teach and build a community of artists.

We discuss:

I can say with confidence that artists who happily embrace their role as CEO of their businesses do better than artists who fight it and wish they didn't have to deal with the grind. Wishing won't make it go away. It only makes you more frustrated, anxious, or resentful.

This doesn't mean that you need to fake joy whenever you're paying bills.

It means that you accept that it comes with the territory. You rise to the challenge because you know it's a necessary step toward achieving your goals.

There are ways to be h...

While not everyone will be interested in your art, you can choose to focus on those who genuinely love your work. To embrace what is rather than wishing for it to be different.

In this episode Cathy Nichols went from 5,000 to 107,000 Instagram followers in 3 years by researching who they were and why they were following her. She shares valuable insights about how she continues to grow her art business with joy and authenticity.

We discuss: