

The Art Biz
Alyson Stanfield
Looking for art career inspiration and ideas while you’re working in the studio or schlepping your art across the country? Alyson Stanfield helps you be a more productive artist, a more empowered artist, and a more successful artist.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 17, 2024 • 9min
Advice for Anyone Who Wants to Help the Artist in Their Life (ep. 208)
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/

Oct 10, 2024 • 43min
Artist Contracts, Studio Loans, and Collaboration with Virginia Broersma (ep. 207)
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/

Oct 3, 2024 • 19min
Creating Demand for Your Art: Why It Matters and How to Start (ep. 206)
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.

Sep 26, 2024 • 46min
The Internet Might Be Ruining Artists' Livelihoods with William Deresiewicz
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/

Sep 19, 2024 • 42min
Establishing Yourself in a New Art Community with Joan Chamberlain (ep. 204)
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/

Sep 12, 2024 • 34min
Technology Is Your Colleague in the Studio with Iris Scott (ep. 203)
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.

Sep 5, 2024 • 32min
Adapting through Curiosity and Connection with Debra Disman (ep. 202)
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/

Aug 29, 2024 • 40min
Finding Your Artist Voice through Mentorship with Julie deBoer (ep. 201)
Julie deBoer, founder of the mentorship platform Mastrius, shares her artistic journey marked by challenges in finding her unique style and transitioning from galleries to solo sales. She emphasizes the transformative power of mentorship and community for artists. Dive into her insights on redefining artistic success, how personalized mentorship fosters growth, and the balance between mentoring others while pursuing her own art. The importance of meaningful connections in the artistic journey is a central theme, enhancing collaboration and personal fulfillment.

Aug 22, 2024 • 11min
What it means to be fulfilled as an artist (ep. 200)
In a milestone discussion, the host dives into the heart of what it means to be fulfilled as an artist. Emphasizing the pursuit of genuine happiness over external validation, the conversation reveals how misaligned goals can hinder joy. Personal experiences are shared, illustrating the importance of creating meaningful art and connecting with audiences. Gallery representation, public exhibitions, and positive feedback are explored as key elements of fulfillment. Ultimately, it's a celebration of the artistic journey and the quest for true contentment.

Aug 8, 2024 • 45min
Producing a Monthly Digital Magazine with Alyson Sheldrake (ep. 199)
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 is not a grind for Alyson. She loves doing it, referring to it as “The newsletter that thinks it’s a magazine.” It’s a comfortable way to market for her that just so happens to reach about 17,000 people with each edition. Key takeaway: through the magazine, Alyson promotes others who, in turn, help promote the magazine and her art. 📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/sheldrake-magazine ⭐️ Connect with Alyson and subscribe to her free Snapshot! magazine: https://alysonsheldrake.com 🎧 RELATED EPISODES Other artist-authors who have been my guests: Secrets from Copying a Masterpiece with Lilianne Milgrom (ep. 87) Publishing a How To Book for Artists with Carol McIntyre (ep. 37) How Two Artists Self-Published and Are Promoting a Successful Book Together (ep. 9) Beyond Comparison and Jealousy with Jason Kotecki (ep. 191) 🔶 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/