The Art Biz

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 not as a chore but as an opportunity to build meaningful connections. 00:43 Meet Samantha Clark: Visual Artist, Writer, and Author 02:23 Samantha's Artistic Journey and Writing Integration 04:22 Living and Creating on Orkney Island 10:43 Balancing Art, Writing, and Mentoring 15:28 The Power of Writing for the Creative Practice 27:26 Weekly Writing Routine 28:39 Newsletter Content and Process 30:47 Why Samantha Transitioned to Substack 35:33 Monetizing and Community Building 43:08 Samantha’s Writing Schedule 47:39 Looking Forward to 2025 🎧 RELATED EPISODES Writing on Substack Can Be Integral to Your Creative Process with Ann Balaam Miller (210) Imperfect Journaling for Artists with Cynthia Morris (51) Guidelines for Your Artist Statement (50) Publishing a How To Book for Artists with Carol McIntyre (37) 📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/clark-writing ⭐️ Connect with Samantha, subscribe to her Substack, The Lifeboat, and see more of her art: https://www.samanthaclark.net/ 🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention. ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

Ann Balaam Miller is a versatile artist known for her calligraphy and graphic design, who now integrates writing on Substack into her creative journey. She shares how Substack has propelled her writing process, allowing her to engage her audience effectively while exploring various topics. Ann discusses the importance of diversifying income streams for artists and offers insights into managing projects and organizing thoughts. She emphasizes the balance between free and paid content and how this platform fosters community and personal growth.

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 impact of modern technology on art collecting and appreciation. 01:36 Michael's Early Art Experiences 08:07 Art Education and Its Impact 17:41 The Role of Curiosity in Art Collecting 27:14 Modern Art Collecting Challenges 29:54 Michael's Career and Gallery Work 39:45 Andy Warhol Stories 45:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   🎧 RELATED EPISODES Qualities Galleries Are Looking For in Their Artists with Jeremy Tessmer (ep. 123) Secrets from Copying a Masterpiece with Lilianne Milgrom (ep. 87) Focusing on the Art, Not the Art Business with Rebecca Welz (ep. 134)   📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/findlay-memoir ✅ While you’re there, click on the graphic to download a copy of my Comprehensive Exhibitions Checklist + Timeline—totally free with opt in. ⭐️ Connect with Michael Findlay: https://michaelfindlay.com ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

This 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: Offer Help 06:48 Insight 6: Support Me 08:01 Insight 7: Just Love Me 🎧 RELATED EPISODES How to Feel Like a Successful Artist (ep. 165) Being an Artist with Geoffrey Gorman (ep. 124) How Do You Know When You’re an Artist? with James Holmes (ep. 88)   📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/advice-for-helping-artists/   🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.   ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.   ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

host: Alyson Stanfield 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 Artist's Office: Supporting Artists 06:03 Navigating Opportunities and Challenges 07:36 Balancing Art and Administrative Work 08:41 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Studio Time 24:57 The Artist Contract and Studio Loan Program 34:57 Encouraging Artist Collaboration and Networking 🎧 RELATED EPISODES How to Legally Protect Your Creative Work with Kathryn Goldman (ep. 125) Artist as Problem Solver with Michael Gadlin (ep. 93) Risk, Rejection, and Resilience with Christine Aaron (ep. 114)   📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/broersma-contracts ⭐️ Connect with Virginia and see more of her art: https://virginiabroersma.com   🟪 I have a short webinar that would be a great resource for helping you to increase the perceived value of your work. It’s called How to Ask for More Money for Your Art. It's only $20. And the reason that I make it so affordable is because it's fundamental. I created How to Ask for More Money for Your Art because I noticed so many artists were sabotaging their work. If you need to increase the perceived value of your art, check it out.   ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

Explore the essential role of creating demand for your artwork in today’s competitive market. Discover the delicate balance between ambition and realism while cultivating your unique artistic voice. Learn practical tips to assess and boost demand effectively, alongside the importance of nurturing genuine relationships with your audience. Delve into the challenges that come with high demand and the benefits of being recognized in the art world. Get inspired to refine your strategies and enhance your visibility to thrive in the creative landscape.

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 less alone in their journeys. 00:54 The Reality of Being an Artist Today  03:43 The Economics of Art in the Digital Age  07:04 The Challenges of Self-Promotion 18:33 The Evolution of the Artist's Role23:49 The Fourth Paradigm: Producer  25:05 The Professional vs. The Bohemian  26:19 Financial Realities and Transparency in the Arts 27:39 The Cost of Being an Artist 31:25 Community and Collaboration Among Artists 33:55 The Role of Cities in Supporting Artists 38:07 Defining What It Means to Be an Artist 42:43 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts 🎧 RELATED EPISODES She Knows Exactly How Much Her Art Income Will be with Kelly Pelfrey (ep. 162) Increasing Self-Sales by 400% with Sarah Becktel (ep. 157) Self Sales, Open Studios, and Relationships with Interior Designers with Carol MacConnell (ep. 171) 📖 To read more, see images, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/death-of-the-artist ⭐️ Connect with William Deresiewicz and read his articles and books: https://williamderesiewicz.com 🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention. ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

Host Alyson Stanfield 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: How attending Alyson’s first live workshop in 2003 shaped her dedication to her art business. The positive impact the move has had on Joan’s art practice and why she insists that location matters for an artist. The challenges and benefits of transitioning to a new art community, and how volunteering helped her make key connections in Eugene. How Joan found her niche and is excited to develop more work in that direction. Her informal audience research to find the best market for her work, including the potential for reproductions. Whether you're thinking of moving, looking for a fresh perspective, or simply searching for joy in your art practice, this episode offers plenty of inspiration. 📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/chamberlain-community ✅ While you’re there, click on the graphic to download a copy of my Comprehensive Exhibitions Checklist + Timeline—totally free with opt in. 🍷 Connect with Joan and see more of her art: https://joancdesigns.com/ 🎧 RELATED EPISODES These episodes touch on what it’s like to reestablish your art business in a new location. Adapting through Curiosity and Connection with Debra Disman (ep. 202) Using Her Superpower and Biomaterials with Kelly M. O’Brien (ep. 196) Overcoming Anxiety about Making Art World Connections with Heather Beardsley (ep. 160) 🔸 STRENGTHEN YOUR ART BUSINESS FOUNDATION See my art-marketing intensive, Essentials for Artist Success full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/

Iris Scott, a talented artist celebrated for her success on social media, shares insights into navigating the evolving digital landscape. She discusses her transformative experience living in Taiwan, which helped shape her artistic journey. Iris emphasizes technology as a creative collaborator, integrating AI into her process. The conversation also covers the financial intricacies of art income, balancing career challenges with motherhood, and the potential of TikTok for organic reach, offering a fresh perspective on marketing in today's art world.

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 up daily, and the step-by-step process of building an art career. She also touches on the benefits of engaging with people, the power of reaching out, and the satisfaction of participating in jury shows and contributing to the community. 📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/disman-adapting ⭐️ Connect with Debra and see more of her art: https://debradisman.com/ 🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention. 🎧 RELATED EPISODES Boldly Reaching Out to Art World Influencers with Laurence de Valmy (ep. 108) Lessons from a Wildly Successful Pop-up Art Gallery Event with Mai Wyn Schantz (ep. 109) Overcoming Anxiety about Making Art World Connections with Heather Beardsley (ep. 160) ⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes. ~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~ This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/