HELP! I AM ARTIST Podcast

Bianca Lever exchanged the lowlands of The Netherlands for the rolling hills of Italy where she now lives and works as a full-time artist. In this episode, Bianca discusses her challenges transitioning from a hobby to a professional artist, her inspiration, and what she is doing to attract new audiences.

If you love making art and you're secretly wanting to embrace the life of an artist. Then listen up! In this episode, I chat with UK artist Jane Beaumont. After a fulfilling career as a teacher and therapist, Jane finally took this step herself. Find out how a love note from her husband encouraged her to take the first brave steps, how she started sketching every day, soaking up inspiration on social media, and intentionally steered herself towards life as a professional artist. Mentioned in this episode: Quote: David Whyte, "Will you have confidence in what you love?"  Artists: David Hockney & William Kentridge  Connect with Jane Instagram: @janesbeaumont  Website: www.janebeaumont.art

Mish Maudsley aka Mishfit's art occupies the hinterland between street art and fine art painting. An active part of UK street art for over 15 years, she has since painted internationally from the streets of Melbourne to Europe's biggest street art festival, Upfest. Her most recent foray into the world of London art fairs follows an incredible array of live painting venues over the years. From her studio in Brighton, she is now embracing a more refined approach, combining spray paint and oil paint, to create an energetic style that captures the raw process of creativity. Clashing traditional methods with a fresh contemporary urban art edge. Inspired by the forces of nature, and a deep sense of wanderlust, Mishfit has developed a vibrant visual language of dreamlike luminous cloudscapes as a metaphor for human emotion. Sometimes interwoven with obscured figurative elements, she creates poignant, exuberant paintings which celebrate the commonalities that make us human. Enjoy Part 2 of our conversation. Website: www.mishfit.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mishfit_art/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mishfit_art

Mishfit's art occupies the hinterland between street art and fine art painting. An active part of UK street art for over 15 years, she has since painted internationally from the streets of Melbourne to Europe's biggest street art festival, Upfest. Her most recent foray into the world of London art fairs follows an incredible array of live painting venues over the years. From her studio in Brighton, she is now embracing a more refined approach, combining spray paint and oil paint, to create an energetic style that captures the raw process of creativity. Clashing traditional methods with a fresh contemporary urban art edge. Inspired by the forces of nature, and a deep sense of wanderlust, Mishfit has developed a vibrant visual language of dreamlike luminous cloudscapes as a metaphor for human emotion. Sometimes interwoven with obscured figurative elements, she creates poignant, exuberant paintings which celebrate the commonalities that make us human. Enjoy Part 1 of our conversation. Next week Part 2 Website: www.mishfit.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mishfit_art/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mishfit_art

If you need some art fuel, listen to what South African artist Duncan Stewart says about art. I recently interviewed him for my podcast; his words are still resonating in my heart. 'Art is ingrained in our deepest being. Our collective experiences, DNA, genetic makeup, and contexts have made us all wonderfully unique. In our own right, every human being is a magnificent artwork.  Art can bypass our intellect and rational thinking, and it can penetrate the soul and we can be moved. It's a language by which we can connect on a deep level.' Good stuff! Now that should silence those nagging voices telling you why you even bother getting paint on your canvas, marks on your clay, or words on your paper.  You are not just making art. What you are creating has value. Without even trying, you are expressing your uniqueness (which is amazing) and you have that incredible ability to touch hearts.  If you are looking for support & connection as a working artist then definitely join us in THRIVE. Thrive is where artists meet, learn & grow to become their creative best. 

From graphic designer to working artist, Duncan Stewart walks us through his journey and shares what he's learned about living as an artist along the way. Coming from a traditional family of lawyers and bankers, Duncan never saw himself becoming an artist, even with an insatiable appetite to draw and paint. Though he studied, and later worked, as a graphic designer, he eventually gave himself the opportunity to explore the underlying desire to create. At 22 years of age, while working in an advertising firm, Duncan allowed himself to explore his artistic tendencies and attended art school in Florence.  Duncan gave himself two years to understand why the pull to art was so strong. In Florence, he found his answers. Creating art provided what he needed to build a sustainable life: personal expression, connecting with people, and financial stability. Duncan explains that working as an artist is not a straightforward path, but for him, a necessary one: “Art is a difficult journey, but it's [...] who I am.”  Without the funds for art school, Duncan had to get creative, and cycled from Johannesburg to Cape Town, gaining sponsors that allowed him to attend his first year. After running out of money, Duncan put on an exhibition with his student work and raised the funds necessary for his second year.   He explains his path has shown him who he is as a person and artist, and that being around great artists led him to challenge himself. Duncan notes, “[w]hen you go to Italy or when you choose your art school or when you choose the company you keep, I've realized that [you should] always aim as high as you can. Your own standard will then automatically be raised.” Duncan now works across all media. From painting in oil, sculpting, or fabricating works in bronze, ceramics, or stainless steel, he pulls inspiration from life's observations, and what's happening in current culture. He reveals that his art continues to shift, becoming less figurative, and more cerebral and expressive.  Duncan encourages young artists to never stop drawing. Once you know yourself as an artist, practice as an artist, and create a network along the way. Duncan highlights the importance of art, noting, “we are art [as unique individuals], and it is a language by which we can connect at a deep, deep level.” Whether invoking rage, curiosity, or love, art lets us relate to one another.     When asked what advice he would give to his younger self, Duncan wishes he would have guarded himself against others' opinions, and reminded himself to be okay with who he was. He muses he would tell himself to take more risks, taste and see as much as he can, and find mentors that grab his attention. The life of a working artist was not so much a choice for Duncan, but an inevitability. Being able to apply his natural talents let him explore the insistent internal voice that drew him towards art and creativity.      Join us next time for PART 2 of Duncan's story! *** If you want extra support in making, marketing, and building a business around your creativity then you are welcome to join me and a group of wonderful artists all over the world in THRIVE. For a limited time only I'm offering you all-access to THRIVE with immediate access to all the modules, courses, lessons, worksheets, community support, art expert & Q&A sessions for just €27.-/ month. Head over to www.sonjasmalheer.com/thrive to find out more.

As a visual artist, you love spending time creating your art. It's fun and exciting to turn what you are passionate about into something you can share with others. However, trying to find ways to promote & sell it effectively is another story altogether.  How can something you are so committed to do be so frustrating at the same time? This is a question serial entrepreneur, marketing expert & television producer Mauritz Briët asked himself. It struck him that the artists he knew were having a hard time connecting what they were creating with an audience ready to buy their art.  'Artists have colourful lives and great stories to tell, yet many don't know how to use their personalities to share and connect with their audiences.' Mauritz's fascination with the creative soul motivated him to start a brand spanking new online art selling platform, Artists Attic Online.  According to Mauritz, thousands of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and objects are stored in countless studios and attics. It's his mission to bring all that unseen art down from the dusty attic and showcase these artworks on his new online platform. In this episode, Mauritz shares his vision for art and artists including some hot tips for artists wanting to sell their art online. Enjoy our conversation.   Check out Artist Attic Online Looking for ways to Market & Sell your Art? Download your free guide here. ->https://www.sonjasmalheer.com Need extra support & connection. Join our artist group.

Can you remember where you were this time last year? How did you feel about your art? What were your aspirations for 2021? This year might have sprung you some surprises, but you hung in there, showed up, and got to work. Your journey as an artist won't always be smooth and easy. Your income will fluctuate, your energy will shift, and your focus will change as projects come and go. Growing as an artist is a continual process of anticipating, pivoting, and learning. Not all your actions will be as successful. It's often in these not-so-successful moments that real growth happens. As 2021 draws to a close, take a moment to envision where you would like to be this time next year? Where do you see opportunities & growth for your art practice? In this episode, I'll be highlighting five areas of your art practice that you can restructure and align to see more growth in 2022….no matter what is happening in the world.   Free Art Marketing Guide As a visual artist, you know better than anyone else that it's hard to stand out & sell your art.  The good news is getting your art seen & appreciated is not rocket science you just need to know how... and I'd love to show you. In my new E-Book, 10 Art Experts Share their Top Art Marketing & Selling Tips Download your FREE Guide today to future-proof your art practice & see more growth in 2022 Access your FREE GUIDE here  

You've carefully created your art and are ready to share it with the world. It's time to get your art into the hands of your potential buyers. Your next step is to market your art.   Marketing may feel overwhelming, but promoting your work can be just as creative and satisfying as making your art. It's never been a more exciting time for artists to promote and sell their art. The online space offers you powerful opportunities to connect with audiences you may never have considered before.   Your first step in creating an effective marketing plan for your art and getting more out of your social media is to understand better who your art audience is. Who is this mysterious art buyer?  Where can you find the right audience to promote and sell your art to? You may have heard the saying: 'If you plan to reach everybody, you will invariably reach nobody.' So true, especially when it comes to selling your art.   The more defined your art audience is, the easier and more effective you'll be able to reach them. In this episode, we'll be taking a closer look at how you can start to define your potential art buyers. Find out how you can use the online space to ask, listen to & survey your audience.  There is valuable information at your fingertips that you can use to refine your posting, adjust your marketing and fine-tune your message.   P.S. As a visual artist, you know better than anyone else that it's hard to stand out & sell your art.  The good news is getting your art seen & appreciated is not rocket science you just need to know how... and I'd love to show you.   In my NEW E-Book, 10 Art Experts Share their Top Art Marketing & Selling Tips   Download your FREE Guide today if you're ready to be more visible, get noticed & attract the right buyers   Access your copy here          

From a young age Dido had 2 big passions. Music & Art! In this episode, Dutch Artist, Dido de Beer shares her journey of how she turned these passions into a budding art profession. Dido found her niche. Take a listen and discover how getting really specific about her style helped her build her business and connect with the right art buyers. Find out what inspires her and what hot tips she has for all those creatives wanting to turn their hobby into the life of a working artist. BONUS: Dido has a special gift for all the Help I Am Artist Podcast Listeners.  Head over to https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/dido to access 2 of Dido’s favorite pop icon wallpapers which you can download as a musical background for your mobile device. 

When his parents celebrated their wedding anniversary Ramon surprised them with a special gift. He turned a block of plaster into his very first piece of sculpture. He loved the process so much that he simply kept making and creating. After being rejected by the art academy Ramon found his way and now tests the limits of his materials in his studio in The Netherlands where he makes personalized sculptures for private & business commissions both locally and around the globe. In this episode Award-Winning Dutch Sculptor Ramon Schalkx shares more about his artist story and what motivates him to make his art. This episode is filled to the brim with practical tips and valuable insights into how artists can successfully win and complete art commissions. As promised Ramon has prepared a special worksheet for artists looking to work on commissions. In this valuable document, Ramon explains the 4 steps that you can use to turn those often nerve-racking commissions into memorable occasions.  Head over to my website to download this free special worksheet. Go to www.sonjasmalheer.com/commission Find out more about Ramon: https://www.ramonschalkx.com https://www.instagram.com/ramonschalkx/  

A few years ago, a mutual friend introduced me to working artist, Rachel Teannalach.  Rachel is a contemporary landscape painter based in Boise, Idaho.  In this episode, she shares more about her artistic journey.  For as long as she can remember Rachel has loved to paint. She has turned her passion for painting into daily practices that have fuelled so much of her success.  Her work is characterized by bold, gestural brushstrokes and her ability to evoke the emotional quality of the places she paints. Rachels work is guided by the belief that the observation of nature revives our recognition of beauty and restores our sense of belonging in the natural world. Her work inspires viewers to become more conscious of their surroundings and take time to stop and take notice. Besides original works, Rachel has found clever ways to turn her art into reproductions which in turn has become a major source of her income.  Her focus over the last several years has been collaborations with conservation organizations, supporting their efforts to preserve the lands she loves to paint.  Rachel is known especially for her "tinyExpanse" daily paintings, which can be purchased on Etsy, along with small works and prints. Her work also encompasses large scale landscapes and occasional cityscapes and portraiture. Find out more about Rachel in the notes of the podcast: https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/blog/039

Cristian Aluas is a Romanian-born, Canadian living in New York where he works as a full-time artist, author, and educator. In this episode, Cristian tells his artist's story of finding his way in the competitive art world. He shares tips and practical insights on how you can earn a living as an illustrator, winning commissions, and finding those precious clients to purchase your art. Cristian shares his expertise as an illustrator and art entrepreneur in online courses and he has authored a book ‘It’s a living - Surviving as a freelancer in the 21st century.’ If you have ever wondered how you can earn a living as a freelance illustrator, what steps you must take to prepare to work on commissions or how you go about getting those happy clients?  Well then stay tuned! Happy listening.  

If you want to grow in your art and start to make a living as an artist then you need to take ACTION. If you're tired of making your art, only to have it sitting around your studio collecting dust then take a listen! If you're frustrated that all your social posting and your artist website is giving you little to no results and you want to move forward but you don’t know where to start.... then this podcast is for you.  Are you ready to make 2021 your best year ever? In this episode I break down your artist's success path into manageable, doable steps. To help you on your journey I’ve created a framework, a clear map for you to follow.   This framework is based on these 3 main areas: Who you are as an artist, What kind of art are you making, How are you going to connect that with an art audience?   When you get clear about these 3 things you will start to make your art with more confidence, promote it with more clarity and sell your art with more connection. In this episode I break these crucial parts so that you can beat the overwhelm and create momentum by breaking it all down into smaller steps, I have poured this success framework into my Working Artist Course.  This online training will give you all the steps you need to make and sell your art. I only open enrolment 1x per year and on February 15th 2021 I'll be opening up the doors to the 2021 edition of my 12 week course. Join the waitlist to receive updates and additional course information. Whatever you choose, your creative success won’t just happen by chance, it takes careful preparation and planning.  To get you excited about what is possible for your art and your art career I’ve created a special resource for you. The Artist Success Guide is here to help you take your NEXT STEPS.  The questions and tasks will give you more clarity as to how to connect your art with your potential art buyer.   Head over to my website to access this Artist Success Guide https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/artistsuccessguide   Each day (for 7 days) you'll get the next step of the 7-Step Framework, filled with inspiring examples, direct tasks and actions steps, sent directly to your inbox. If you commit to getting it done and taking action on the tasks, then you'll start to see results and have more eyes on your art by the end of the guide! Enjoy the podcast and be inspired as you take steps with the GUIDE.

While the pandemic is real and continues to keep us in it’s grip there is a still larger enemy lurking in the shadows. Whether you are aware of it or not there is a battle commencing.  The fight is for your attention.  1000’s of impulses nudges, pokes and pitches are thrown at you every minute begging you to stop and take notice.  This is without a doubt the biggest battle of our time. Those that scream the loudest, poke the hardest, come up as winners. Their prize is not only your attention but they plunder all that your 'attention' stands for. They steal your talents, rob your dreams, snuff out your passions and will hold your future ransom. All those distractions are costing you dearly. If you want to build that enjoyable, sustainable art business it’s important to detect who you are giving your attention to. Your time is precious. You may not have control over the rate those minutes, hours or days whiz by but you do have control over HOW you spend your time. When you become aware HOW and to WHOM you are giving your attention, then can you get the control back and use all of that precious time to build your dreams, make your art and live the life you love! In this episode we'll look at 5 hacks you can do today to find renewed focus to make and sell your art. This episode comes with a worksheet and is free for you to download here:

Exhibiting your art is one of the most exciting and important aspects of a working artists life.  For many artists, the validation and exposure of working with a gallery, is something they dream of and is often seen as the pinnacle of their artistic success.  But is this realistic? How does the gallery world work? There are many ways that you can exhibit your work and whether you choose a gallery or plan to only exhibit your own work, understanding gallery representation will help you find your best fit, plan ahead and make the best smart moves for your art and business. I had the privilege to interview Dutch gallerist, David van der Linden for this episode. David lifts the curtain to the world behind the gallery door and shares what artists need to know and understand when considering gallery representation.  Find out more about David and his gallery here: https://www.galeriebonnard.com/ In this episode David mentions these amazing artists, go & check them out: Tania Rivilis Mitzy Renooy Keimpe van der Kooi Sam Drukker *** How would you like to win a one-on-one virtual coaching session with me to discuss your art business? I know I would love to connect with you.    A one-on-one coaching call is a powerful way to help you move forward on your artist journey. Whether you need help thinking through your art website, setting up an artist routine or organising your first exhibition, a personal coaching session will help you take your next steps. Here’s how you can become a lucky winner...it's really simple. Head over to the Help I Am Artist Podcast Facebook Community. It’s my Brand spankin new community for visual artists who are wanting to connect with other creatives and me in a deeper more personal way.  I have started this group for artists who are ready to take bold brave steps to turn their creativity into a meaningful, sustainable art business. Each week you will find me in this group where I will be sharing live videos, new insights, practical tips and more about the featured Podcasts.  It’s a place of connection, learning and inspiration. To celebrate 

There is a reason why many parents discourage their children to attend art school. They have simply seen too few examples of happy, healthy, working artists. Statistic tell us that being a working artist, earning a living with your creativity, is the most difficult profession to be successful in.  Why is it so difficult to make living with your creativity? In this episode we will be looking at the economics behind the art business. The more understanding you have of the art market, the better prepared you are to make the necessary changes, so that you can do what you love to do and get paid for it! You can make the coolest art but this doesn't guarantee an income. If you're wanting to generate a revenue stream with your creativity you must be willing to be more than an artist. You need to adopt a business frame of mind. Building an art business is not a passive thing. Setting up those structures around your creativity takes intentional thought, strategic steps and bold, brave moves. Discover which of these 5 art money myths might be keeping you from growing your income and reaching your art potential.   This episode comes with a free artist resource: How to price your art just right. Click here to access this art pricing resource and find ways to get your art price just right. To celebrate my brand spankin new art community **I'm offering one lucky artist a FREE VIRTUAL ART COACHING SESSION. Join my art community today for a chance to win this one-on-one coaching session. At the end of the week I'll be drawing the lucky winner. **In this community you will find fresh inspiration, live teachings, extra art business resources and connection with other artists who are active in various visual art disciplines.       

WHY WAIT FOR THE NEW YEAR TO SEE MORE ARTISTIC SUCCESS WHEN THERE IS SOMETHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT TODAY! Take a listen. Find out how you can reclaim your art success with plans & goals you can still achieve this year! Start to take really smart art steps by downloading the free worksheet. This practical worksheet is here to help you breakdown your art dreams into manageable do-able steps: In this episode you will: Find out what a Smart Art goal is, Combine big & small goals to achieve more art success,  Reverse engineer your art plans into tasks you can do today, Find out what you need to achieve your art goals, Get control over your art career and steer it towards more artistic success. To access the WORKSHEET head over to https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/breakdownsheet for your free copy.  

Many artists struggle to make that transition of creating art as a hobby and becoming a happy, thriving working artist.  Making art use to be fun and something you did for pleasure. But now that you are venturing out, to turn your art into a job and a revenue stream, you need to consider things you never had to deal with before. The more prepared you are for this exciting transition, turning your creativity into a job, the easier it will be to keep your joy and get your art made. In this episode we'll be looking at the 8 things you need to consider when turning your creativity into a revenue stream. FIND OUT HOW READY YOU ARE TO BE A FULL-TIME WORKING ARTIST Download this insightful resource to access the areas you need to focus on to make that smooth transition to become a better working artist.   In this CHECKLIST you'll discover: If you are in the right headspace to transition from creating as a hobby to be a happy working artist, If you have what it takes to turn your creativity into a consistent revenue stream, Do you have a happy balance between creative thinking and a business mindset, How healthy your boundaries are to get your art made without heading for a burnout, How ready you are to handle the pressures that come with the working artist life.   Download the CHECKLIST here

The Internet has changed everything.  There has never been a more exciting time for artists to share and sell their work online. Even in these extraordinary times the internet has made it possible for artists to stay in business, connecting what they love to do with a receptive art audience willing to pay it’s worth.   ‘I work with artists that have sold more in the pandemic than any other time in their careers.’    Encouraging words from today’s special guest.  For many years this enterprising young woman helped international brands make the transition from the offline to the online space.  When the pandemic hit Stefanie Idrobo decided to help her artist friends and use all her marketing insights and online expertise to get their art seen and heard!  She created a platform that not only showcases inspiring, emerging artists but informs collectors how they can best invest in art.   Stefanie joined me from a beautiful location in Quito, Ecuador where she shares valuable tips and online strategies for artists, that may surprise you.   In this episode you will discover : Ways artists can connect with potential art collectors, What social platforms work best for artists, 3 top tips to successfully promote and sell your work online, Practical advice setting up payments and shipping your art, The importance of art and it’s value in these extraordinary times.   Get ready to get a fresh, new take on the world of social media and what it could mean for you and your art business. To find out more about Stefanie and her new artist platform go to: https://artwillsave.us https://www.instagram.com/stefidbs/ Because developing a strong Online presence has never been more important and I would love to see you succeed, I have prepared a new artist training: The Online Artist Bootcamp  On Thursday, September 17th 2020 I’m running this LIVE training and in just 2 hours I’ll teach you practical steps to create, record and share your work online.   And NO you don’t need to be a whiz kid or a rockstar to claim your online space.  If you are excited about all the internet has to offer and you are ready to take your next steps then I would like to invite you to join me for The Online Artist Bootcamp.  Go to www.sonjasmalheer.com/onlineartist to save your seat today.

'Your art and your art business is only as strong as your ability to connect that what you are making with others.' If you have chosen that bold step to take your creativity seriously and transform your art into revenue streams, you know better than anybody else that your creative endeavours start and end with you.  If you don't get going and make the work, your art will simply not get done! With 7.8 billion people on the planet, each with unique traits and personalities, it's safe to say we are all different. Not one single human is the same. We all have specific needs and wants. Are you clear about your artistic needs? Do you know why your art is important and what drives you to make it? Many creatives head straight into a burn-out because their inner needs don't align with their outer goals. The more you feel connected with yourself, the better you will understand of what you need to stay motivated, inspired and productive. In this podcast we will be looking at 3 specific area's in which artists can build valuable connections. Connecting with your Artistic Self, Connecting with your Support Base, Connecting your Art with your Art Audience. These connections will not only improve your life as an artist but enlarge the chances of getting your art the attention it deserves. The podcast comes with a special worksheet for you to download. Head over to https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/freeresource and find ways in which you can build bolder, braver art connections.

My name is Sonja Smalheer. I am an artist, art coach and course creator. When I graduated from the Art Academy I learnt how to paint, and how to draw but I had no idea how to earn a living with my creativity.  I was not prepared for a life as a working artist. This often left me quite frustrated.Sometimes on the verge of calling it quits, throwing away my brushes and giving it all up. But I am so glad I didn’t. After many failed attempts and valuable lessons learnt,  I discovered ways to turn my creative dream, of being a working artist, into a reality, now giving me the freedom to live the life I love. I created the Help! I Am Artist Podcast, because no matter where you are on your creative journey, whether you are just starting out or maybe you have been a working artist for a while, you too can take steps to turn your creative passions into a meaningful sustainable profession.  The Help! I Am Artist Podcast is filled with fresh inspiration, step by step practical insights and interviews with artists who are experts in their field. If you are a smart artist or one in the making, who is looking for new and exciting ways to get your art out of your studio and into the hands of an audience that's appreciative and willing to pay it’s worth, then you are in the right place. Happy Listening! P.S. Do you want access to more inspiring content then head over to https://www.sonjasmalheer.com

I hear artists say this all the time. 'If only I had a big break! If only I was so lucky.' Sure, sometimes circumstances work in our favour but generally we need to just show up and get to work for it. The sum of all the little things you do during your day will far outweigh the chances of a big break or a lucky strike to come your way. So instead of waiting for fortune to come knocking or some lightning bolt to boost your art career, it is far more effective to set a goal, make a plan and get to work. This starts by setting up an effective art routine. When you do something consistently, it will become second nature and overtime cost far less energy and effort. In this 2nd episode of the 'What Successful Artists get Right' Series I will be looking how setting up an art routine will help you build continuity which will become the driving force behind a successful art career. This episode comes with a free art resource and a worksheet including practical exercises to help you take your next steps toward making a living with your art and establishing an art career.  

Some artists just seem to have it all. They are getting all the attention and their art seems to be selling like hot cakes.  What are they doing that makes them stand out and get noticed?  In this series I will be taking an inside look at what successful artists are doing right. Often fear, insecurities and the drive to be perfect keeps us captive. We are unable to move past them and create with the ease and freedom we so long for.  In part 1 of this series I will be highlighting 8 artist types that find it difficult to move forward to find their creative best. Take a listen and find out what you can do to move past those things that limit you so that you too can turn your passions into a meaningful profession. This episode comes with a free art resource and a worksheet including practical exercises to help you take your next steps toward making a living with your art and establishing an art career.    

Artists can no longer ignore the amazing opportunities social media offers to promote and sell art. If done correctly artists can use the unique qualities of each platform to effectively connect with their art followers and start to build engaged art audiences. In this episode I share 10 tips how artists can use social media more effectively to stand out and get noticed. This episode comes with a special resource. If you want to find effective ways to use Instagram Stories to promote and sell your art then this resource is for you. Download your free guide on https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/story

In today’s episode we draw back the curtain and take a look at the role and work of an art curator.  Aniko Ouweneel is my guest and shares how she uniquely weaves together her expertise as a cultural historian and her vast experience as an art curator.  She has co-organized and designed more than 30 exhibitions, she has juried showed, authored books, lectures at universities and writes a regular art blog. She is a member of the A. Toth Sander Art Foundation in which she treasures the art of her grandfather, A. Toth Sander; safeguarding the legacy of this world renown avant garde artist who exhibited with artists like Picasso and Leger. I can safely say that she is an expert in her field and has art rooted deep within her DNA.  Recently I had the privilege to work closely with her when she commissioned one of my textile installations for an exhibition celebrating the 700th year of city rights of Culemborg in The Netherlands. I experienced first hand how the roles of curator, artist and themes intertwine to compose an art exhibition and I am convinced her insights will be of value to you. In this episode Aniko Ouweneel shares more about: The role of the curator, What artists need to know when working with a curator, The relationship between the theme, the art and the location, A huge international exhibition she recently curated in the inner city of Amsterdam which attracted more than 10 000 visitors, Find out what made this exhibition such a success. Aniko shares some valuable insights to help artists develop their skills and grow in their art career. This episode comes with a special resource. This practical guide is here for you to download and will help you find your pricing sweet spot and take the guessing out of pricing your art.  https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/price

Is your Artist Website working for you? Your website is the first impression many art buyers, curators, gallery owners or workshop students will have of you....long before they meet you in person. In this busy online world it is imperative to have a website that represents the best you have to offer. If you craft your website correctly you can use your online space to stand out and get noticed. To showcase your art and personality does NOT mean you have to fill your website with everything you have ever said or done. Using just the right images or arranging carefully picked words brings clarity and helps visitors quickly grasp who you are and what you are all about. In this episode I highlight 10 practical tips you can do today to take your artist website to the next level. Download the Artist Checklist and find out how effective your artist website really is. https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/checklist  

Her collectors call her refreshing, her teachers tenacious and her students inspiring. In this episode Dutch Master Painter, Mitzy Renooy shares her personal artist journey. What I love about her story is that at age 49, Mitzy went back to school and committed to study 5 years at the Classical Art Academy in The Netherlands.   She has since graduated and all that hard work is paying off. Her first solo exhibition was a huge success and I am convinced we will be hearing a lot more from this gentle, big-hearted artist.  In this podcast Mitzy shares insightful tips and practical advice for artists wanting to exchange their hobby for a life as a full-time artist. This episode comes with a Free Artist Resource You can download it on https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/ebook  

There has never been a better time for artists to share their skills. Teaching is not only a valuable experience for others but will give you the recurrable income and freedom you need to make your art. Podcast 022 is filled with practical tip's and idea's that you can implement in your art career.  This episode comes with a practical e-book. Follow the 'The Teaching Artist' Framework and start setting up your workshop today. https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/ebook  

Malcolm knew he wanted to be an artist yet chose to follow a career as a lawyer. In this episode he shares his artist journey of the steps he took to trade his law practise for life as an artist. This episode comes with a Free Artist E-Book www.sonjasmalheer.com/21

There has never been a more exciting time for artist's with a desire to teach and share their skills. The internet has changed everything. We have never been more informed about what is out there and information is readily accessible and available. On the other hand we spend so much time sitting behind our computer screens that there is an increased longing to make and create with our hands. It is as if a perfect storm is developing. And this is where the opportunities lie for artists.  Sharing your skills will not only be a valuable experience for those willing to learn from you but it is also a great source of additional revenue so that you can continue to make your art. Are you an artist and are you are thinking about sharing your skills with others? Or are you already teaching but you have trouble filling your workshops or art events? Then you are going to love this week’s episode. In this episode I take you through my 4 step Workshop Success Framework. This framework will help you: Find what workshop is best for you, What students are wanting to learn, What makes a good teacher great, How to outline your workshop idea, Find the best ways to promote your workshop, Stay connected with your students, How to sell more than just your workshop. This episode comes with a special workbook. Download the Workshop Success Framework and start taking bold steps to set up and run your own profitable art workshop.

Have you ever wondered what price you can actually ask for your art? Pricing art can sometimes be confusing and overwhelming.  You don’t want to undervalue your work or price it soo high that no one buys it. In this podcast I share art stories and discuss clear and practical guidelines to help you find your pricing sweet-spot. In this episode you will discover: More about my painting trip to Monet's gardens, Why a sketch, auctioned at $8,2 million, caused such a stir, 13 factors that influence your art price, How often and how much to raise your pricing, How to gauge your experience level, A tried & tested pricing formula, Do's and don't about pricing your art. The pricing formula mentioned in the podcast and notes will take the guessing out of pricing and help you sell your art with more confidence. If you have any questions or feedback then please let me know. You can send me an e-mail or drop me a DM on Instagram. This episode comes with a practical worksheet. Download it here and find your pricing sweet-spot.

"Great stories happen to those who can tell them." --Ira Glas As long as I can remember I loved stories. As a child my parents always read to us before going to bed. These magical moments transported me to another world. I could be the princess, the talking dog or even the villain, plotting how to steal my brothers sweets. In stories anything is possible. Stories are entertaining powerful tools that connect. Connect us with our past, or help us reflect on the present and show us what is possible in the future.   Stories are flight simulators of life where we can practice life lessons without getting injured. Stories are the reason I make my art, record my podcasts and travel the world. Stories teach me, inspire me and connects me to you. Whether I was living among the Hopi's in New Mexico or visiting a South African township it is the stories they told me that remain so vivid in my heart and mind. Artists are storytellers Our art is inadvertently connected with who we are, what we have been through and our hopes and dreams for the future. It is our stories that make us authentic and transports us to greater expressions.  For years I worked on human interest stories for the national television in The Netherlands.  First as researcher and later as producer and director of docu-drama's. What was a doing? Telling stories through images, emotions and words. Every time a new docu-drama aired I eagerly awaited for the responses, the 'new' stories that the programma's evoked as viewers watched on television. Stories and storytelling is a powerful tool "Storytelling is the most powerful way to put ideas into the world today." --Robert McKee In our fast pace modern world it is rare to actually sit around a fire and share stories like the bushmen ...or sadly that even sitting around a dinner table telling stories is becoming a rare occasion.   With all that noise out there it is our story that will keep us authentic and will help us as artists stay connected allowing our art audiences to identify and relate to us. Only you can tell your story. Only you can make your art. The power of stories is still very relevant today and are no longer limited to firesides and dinner tables.   Social media has introduced us to amazing channels and platforms in which we can share our artist stories. You may be thinking no not another blog about social media!!! Bear with me.  One of these powerful communication channels is Instagram and in particular Instagram Stories. Have you been using this tools to tell your story? Insta stories (as pronounced by the millennials) is a great way to connect with audience and to promote and sell your art. Here is why you should be using the powerful tools and it would be a waste if you were to ignore it. Did you know that : 500 million users now use Instagram Stories every day, That instagram is the second largest platform after Facebook, User of this app spend an average of 53 minutes connecting through Insta per day The possibilities on Instagram are just in it's beginning phased is going nowhere in the near future, That is it free. It will only cost you time and implementing a deliberate strategy.  Is not only for artists under 25, it is for everybody. Yes, you read that right, Instagram is for everybody. If you can follow a recipe to bake a cake then you can use instagram. The question is not if you can use Instagram but more do you want to use Instagram. Like so many things in life it is how you think about things that will determine your steps. If you decide you are going to embrace this platform you are going to see the results.   What is instagram? Instagram is a free photo and video sharing app available on Apple iOS, Android and Windows Phone. People can upload photos or videos to our service and share them with their followers or with a select group of friends. They can also view, comment and like posts shared by their friends on Instagram. Anyone 13 and older can create an account by registering an email address and selecting a username. There are three locations you can share your content: 1. Instagram Feed - visible a long as you want 2. Instagram Stories - visible for 24 hours 3. Instagram Television, also known as IGTV - here you can share video's between 60 seconds and 60 minutes In this blog and this podcast I want to focus on Instagram Stories.    What is instagram stories? Instagram Stories is an incredibly powerful sharing tool that you can use within the Instagram app. To share your content (art and insights) and start a conversation with your art audience. An Insta Stories is a great way to communicate snippets of what you do, start conversations, articulate what you want to say,  to promote not only your own work but also giving a shout out to other artists and friends. You can use photo stills and videos that are just 15 seconds long and they the great thing is that they disappear after 24 hours. You can add them to your highlight roll or save them for later. This takes all the pressure off. Especially those perfectionists out there. Instagram stories need to be authentic, real and relatable.   And if you are not familiar with video it is a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera but using the Instagram Stories Live option. Even though you can view the instagram feed and stories on your computer you can only upload your images, stickers and texts from your mobile device. So a smartphone mobile device is a must if you want to actively start using this tool. The best is to use vertical photography and videos. This takes some getting used to as we are so used to horizontal orientation. But with a little practice you will discover that vertical images and video's have their advantages too.  There are many resources online that you can watch or download to help you get a better gasp on how to use Instagram Stories. I have a created a free worksheet for you to download. This resource gives you a quick, step-by-step framework to get you started. It is easy to follow, just like that recipe when baking a cake.  This resource will also help you decide what you are going to share in your stories and what content you can add to the images.   Here are 6 DONT'S when it comes to sharing and promoting your art with Instagram stories. Don’t compare When you first start out scrolling through the Instagram feed and stories can be overwhelming. There are so many people doing such amazing things. But decide upfront that you are not going to compare. It will take time to find your own Instagram voice and your unique way of sharing your story. It is a lot like the steps to follow than finding your artistic voice. In the beginning you will try things, discover things, move from one style to another. You are in the exploratory phase . And that is fine. Of course you can learn from other. Take notes to what you like and how you could use what you see in your won stories. But do not make a value judgement of yourself by what you see. 2. Be your beautiful self You may think that you don't have anything to say and that nobody is waiting to see what you had for breakfast. This is also not the intention of Instagram Stories. You need to adopt a storytelling mindset. Think of images, captions or video (remember they are 15 seconds snippets) that share your story. You can try a day in the life of...  Using this social media app does not mean you have to share everything about yourself. Find a balance between what makes you, you and sharing something personal. In the worksheet I have added exercises to help you define where the border is between personal and private. 3. Don't waste your time with meaningless scrolling If you are active on social media you will be all too familiar to the traps of endless, mindless scrolling. remember those mobile phones and app have been designed for that purpose...it make it difficult for you to get off of it. It take some disciple. In order to use the Instagram Stories app successfully you need to use it with intention. What is you goal? What is your reason to use it? Decide who your audience is then set clear objectives and stick to it, consistently. Once you know who your art audience is, you can actively pursue them. When they do find you offer them something of value. Decide what your objective is? Is it to promote and sell your art then make this your focus. This take strategic thinking. Ask yourself these questions:  Define who you are as an artists and how you are going to communicate this through colour, words, captions, style? Who is your ideal art audience? Where do they hang out online? What profiles do they follow? What content are they consuming. It is your job to actively find them and bring them back to your content.  What content will help you connect with your potential art customer? Do they like quizzes, polls, images, quotes, insights, tours etc. What possibilities with the stories app will speak to them most of all? Once you have answers to these questions (remember this will take time and some investigation) you can edit your profile, use of photo's, filters and cations to connect with your audience. ' When you try and reach everybody, you will end up reaching nobody.' 4. It is not about perfection. but about connecting Contrary to what many people think Instagram Stories is a platform that you don't need to be perfect. It is not about perfectly curated photo's images and posts. It is about being you, finding your voice and sharing this in the best possible way. people connect on social media because they want to connect with real people. Why are you mom, sister or friends on social media. It is not because they want to see absolute perfection. They want to laugh with you, share moments with you and see life the way to really is. This is also true for your followers. They want to be able to relate to you. The good, the bad and the beautiful! 5. Don't obsess about the numbers. Instagram is not about about the numbers. Of course it is great to get likes, followers and  friends but this is not what it is about. It is about engagement and honestly is is cloth easier to understand your audience and converse with them when you don't have a huge following. All it takes is one. Talk to audience, ask them questions, get to know who they are and what they like. This is valuable information and also the beauty of this platform.  This is why I love this platform. I have such great conversations with people I have never met. My audience loves art and is busy building an art business. I love it when I hear how one single post has helped somebody pick up a brush and finish a painting that's been staring at them for months. I love it when I send a DM (direct message) about their work and get touched as they explain how there painting came to be. These moments can be priceless and ever so meaningful and there is an audience waiting to hear from you. But fist you need to believe this too. It is not the numbers that matter but the value you bring to those followers you already have. It is about connection, creating content that adds value to the other and that you are willing to create and share. Instagram stories is about building a bridge and can be powerful conversations starters. 6. Don't be a hit and runner The biggest mistake I see instagram users do and I am also guilty of this is using the hit and run method. You feel you need to post something, anything....because otherwise you are not hustling enough. You put together a post, slap on some hashtags, hit post and then shut your computer. You have just left valuable golden the table. This is where it starts. It is good to be active in the newsfeed liking, commenting and connecting with your audience before and after you post. Being active will get you more engagement and gives you the opportunity to directly connect with people. Don't make it just about yourself. You are not only posting to get more eyes on your art. You are there to share. it is about giving and taking. So don't try and sell a painting in every post. You need add value before you can nature a buyer and to have Instagram Stories work for you.    Some definite DO's when it comes to Instagram Stories Create a consistent visual identity. This ia achieved by the captions, the photo’s, the colours you use. Does your visual identity reinforce why they follow you? Do they see your post and know that this is from you? Become a giver not only a taker. Promote your art not only to sell your art but invite your audience into a conversation with you. If you are a visual artists tell the story behind the painting or sculpture. What made you make it and why? Add a personal note. Make sure you caption every video post because viewers are turning their sound off more and more. Add a CTA (call to action)to every story. Use a quizz, ask a question, make a poll, and spark engagement on DM. Harness the power of DM’s.  A DM is a direct message. Once people respond to your story you can DM them and thank them or ask them questions. A DM is a powerful added channel in which you can connect with your audience. In a DM you can use a personal - video, audio, custom content,  and quick reply's in order to connect with your audience.    Here are some questions you can ask yourself when you are ready to post something. Would you respond to the post you just created? Does it add value to your audience? Is it worth posting? Does your post reflect who you normally are? (If you normally don't say 'Hey babe', then don't use this in your posts) Will your viewers understand what you have posted? Is it inspiring, uplifting, encouraging and cultivate relationships, Does your post invite a conversation? Did you ask questions and invite others into your world.   10 Instagram Stories Artists can effectively use: Art piece of the week On my easel today Voting between two pieces or when choosing a frame, colours or title etc Share your latest news, or info about your upcoming show or workshop, A material list you use and who your suppliers are, A quick tour around your studio Ask questions about their favourite art, artist or medium? Ask why and try and connect it with your story, A quick video tutorial, (preferably live as this drives more traffic) Testimonial of the week, (what did a client say about your art) Inspiring artist quotes.   If you want to find out more about how to use Instagram Stories then you can download this free resource. The questions and task will help you define your Instagram objectives and start to communicate it with more confidence and clarity.   Mojo is great app's to help you design beautiful Instagram story posts   "Sometimes reality is too complex. Stories give it form." --Jean Luc Godard

Does it actually pay to specialise as an artist or should you create for many different markets. Find out what works and how you can create more demand for your art.

In this busy art market it is sometimes difficult to stand out. Discovering and developing your unique artistic style will help you create a coherent body of work that will set you apart from the rest. When we hear the names of Degas, Van Gogh or Mondriaan images immediately appear in our minds. We envisage their paintings in front of us. Artists that we remember and recognise have developed a distinct style. Have you ever thought about your own style? What makes your art unique? How do you use colour, or paint or translate your subject matter? There are many ingredients that determine our style. In this podcast and blog  I look at some of these ingredients and answer these questions: What makes our artistic style different than our artistic voice? Is our artistic style found or discovered? What keeps us from developing our own style? Can imitating help us discover our artistic voice? What three things can help us develop our own style? You are unique and only you can paint, draw, design and create like YOU! Enjoy this podcast This episode comes with a free worksheet. You can download it on: www.sonjasmalheer.com/mystyle    

What is the best way to sell your art? How do you win an artist commission? Is it best to sell your art online or through a gallery? If you need answers to these questions then this episode is for you. In part 2 Leonie E Brown, an award winning South African Fine Artist, shares more of her valuable insights about making and selling art. In this episode you will discover: How she won and worked on a large art commision, The key to working successfully with galleries, What she loves most about being an artist, What she absolutely dislikes about being an artist, Why art is important, Why her art school and teaching style is so unique, Which present and past day artists inspire her, Her views on African art and what we can learn from it, And more about her life and art vision. This episode comes with a Free ARTIST RESOURCE. This resource relays 5 principles that successful artists apply to their art and art business. Click here to access the Artist Success Guide.

Leonie E Brown is an award winning South African Fine Artist. Our paths crossed a few years ago in South Africa. I had seen a YouTube video of her explaining her fascination of colour, paint and art. I was hooked. Her animated gestures and her expertise resonated and I decided to find out more about her and she agreed to be my guest. In this podcast she shares more of her artist journey. And I can tell you it has been one big adventure. If you are an artist and you want to learn from an expert then stay tuned. Leonie shares many of her valuable art insights. In this episode you will discover: why she decided to study art, how art saved her life and gave her words, that there was a period in her life that she was afraid to paint, the motivation behind her paintings, what techniques she loves to use, how she approaches her creative process, the key to working successfully with galleries, more about her favourite commissions. This episode comes with a Free Artist Success Guide. This resource will help you get really clear and confident about your art and show you how to connect with your potential art customer. Click here to access the Artist Success Guide.

Just making strong, beautiful or meaningful art is not enough. If your art does not get seen by your potential art audience you will never sell your art consistently or successfully. I've written this 7- step Artist Success Guide for you to download. This guide is a powerful system to help you get more eyes on your art and to help you start to sell it. It is a step by step plan that will help you wherever you are on your artist journey. Maybe you're really want to make an income from your art, but you don't know where to start. Or maybe you've been creating for years but you have paintings flooding your attic that are not selling. You're getting no eyes on your art and you find it hard to make ends meet. Or maybe you've been selling successfully, but you've hit a dry spell and you just can't seem to get past it. The times have changed and what used to work in the past is just not so effective anymore. Wherever you are on this artist's journey, the Artist Success Guide is there to help you. When you get specific and clear about what you do you can start to connect with your ideal art audience. And invariably you'll start to get more eyes in your art and start to sell it. In this podcast, I will briefly go through what you can expect of this Seven Step Artist Guide to success.

Focus is a key ingredient you need to grow and develop in your art. But in order to do so you need to face and acknowledge your fears. Share them and do whatever you can to get past them. What can we learn from them and how can we turn them into artistic gains and strengths.  Dare to embrace your artistic dreams Decide what process you are going to put between your opportunities and your decisions. You can’t do everything. Start making decisions based on your values and  that will propel you towards your goals. Develop a continuity and consistency in your life. You art goals won’t materialize overnight but if you keep going even if it is baby steps you will get there. Discover what makes you unique. What is your story. What you need to stay motivated and focused.  Don’t hold back any longer but Start….just begin. What do you have to lose?  

An Artist Statement is a valuable document that articulates WHO you are and the MOTIVATION behind your art. The ability to communicate clearly about your ART builds trust and draws potential art buyers into a more in-depth connection with you and your work. To help you Write a Clear yet Compelling Artists Statement I have made a FREE RESOURCE for you to download. This insightful worksheet will give you the tools you need to start to articulate your art.      

Swiss businessman and artist consultant, Philipp Döbeli, shares valuable insights about marketing and selling your art. He shares the three golden rules that will help you boost your sales and help you grow your art business. There is a special worksheet for you to download that will give you a better understanding about your art audience and how to reach them more effectively. Download this on: www.sonjasmalheer.com/sellingart  

Artist, author and teacher, Marion de Jong, shares her inspiring story of how she  left her life as a secretary in pursuit of her passion for art and creativity. Even though she took art classes for years Marion was never satisfied with the results and this left her frustrated and unhappy about her art Something was missing and on a trip to Italy she realised what it was. This trip and her new found insights set her on a new path. It not only changed the way she executed her art but also the direction of her life. It lead her to start the Dutch Art Academy, an online school, where she passionately teaches art students the keys she discovered. Marion has made this special FREE worksheet for you to download. This practical and insightful resource will help you take your art and art career to the next level.

There is no golden rule when is comes to creating successfully. You have to find out what works for you. In this episode I will share 10 practical things artist can do to find a steady flow in their creativity and set themselves up for success.

Finding motivation is part of an Artist’s job description!  Only YOU are the motor behind your creativity and it takes courage to get up, show up and do the work. Even though you spend many hours in your studio creating you are never alone. You take your past, your friends, your critical sibling, the art world and your own ideas and thoughts with you. It is a crowded place. It is an art in itself and the challenge for every artist to quiet these voices and find peace with yourself so that you can feel motivated and get to work. When we have a better understanding of the forces that drive us (or don’t) we can get to work to finding and staying in our creative groove. In this podcast I share more about the creative process and how artists can find and stay in their creative flow.  

Have you ever heard of the starving artist syndrome? It is a romantic notion that artists are either desperate, destitute or despondent. Although this notion may work well in books or as a plot for a movie, in reality it is no fun! In last weeks episode #005 we had a brief look at the role of the artist through the centuries and in this episode I will identify and expose 5 myths surrounding artists today! These myths and misconceptions not only prevent many creatives from pursuing an art career but it also paralyses many working artists today.

The role of the artist has been at the heart of many heated debates and marvellous misconceptions. One would argue the artist a madman and the other a genius.   In this podcast you will get answers to these questions: Is there a connection between the way your grandmother thinks about art and the ancients Greeks? Did Mozart have divine skills or did he have to sweat bullets in order to compose his concertos? Why chaos broke out in Rome when Michelangelo revealed his' The Last Judgement'? Why artists left the confines of their studios and went to study at art academies? Why no genius's could ever come from Belgium or The Netherlands? What happened on 26 June 1988? If the answers to these questions will help you make better art? Happy listening!

Maybe you have asked yourself this question? Does art really matter? In this podcast I share stories of how art and art education is changing lives, neighbourhood's and even nations. Art is more important than we can suspect and removing art from our school curriculum is more detrimental than we think. As an artist you have the ability to transport the viewer beyond the ordinary and the mundane and show them a world through new eyes. If we learn to slow down long enough to see, to see beyond the surface of the ordinary and learn to cast our vision into powerful art, we can not only impact our audiences but even change our world.

Do you find it difficult to express your ‘true’ self? Do you find it hard to feel good about your art? Do you struggle to find a steady flow in your creativity? Chances are you are battling perfectionism. Perfectionism is one the biggest reasons we experience creatives blocks! Find out why we pursue perfectionism and the steps we can take to overcome it.

It is not like we come out of the womb with a label saying, ARTIST! It takes some discerning, dissecting and discovering to answer this question. In this podcast I share that the distance between being an artist and not being an artist is 30 cm (12 inches). It is the distance between your head and your heart. In this episode I help creatives recognize and acknowledge their artist heart. Download this free worksheet that will help you detect the creative blocks keeping you from pursuing your creative dream. Stay tuned…listen now…subscribe to itunes and be the first to receive my weekly podcast right their in your inbox.  

In this episode artist and podcast host, Sonja Smalheer, tells us her personal story about how art has impacted her life. She shares how winning an art competition, living with the Navajo Indians and the struggles she experienced during apartheid were all defining moments that catapulted her art career. She talks about how her love for art took her 6000 km north, from Cape Town, South Africa to The Netherlands where she now works and teaches other artists how to create with confidence, work with impact and understand the business of art. Don't forget to subscribe and get the latest podcasts!