Your Art Matters

Ever wonder why I'm always talking about pineapples? I am a huge believer in the power we have to design our own lives.  Our thoughts, feelings and decisions shape the life we live today.  Every action we take and what we pay attention to matters. This is where the pineapple comes in. It started as a bit of fun during a workshop—but it's become something much deeper. A symbol of joy, focus, community, and creative freedom.

Join us for a powerful live conversation with artist and educator Alain Picard, as he shares the moment that changed everything in his creative career. For years, Alain travelled the world teaching workshops and painting commissioned portraits. On the surface, it looked like success. But behind the scenes, he was stretched thin — constantly on the move, trading time for money, and missing out on the everyday moments that mattered most. Then came a shift. A decision to stop doing it all the hard way. Alain reimagined his art business and began building something that could grow with him — an online membership and education platform that now supports thousands of artists across the world. In this live episode, Alain opens up about: The turning point that took him from burnout to balance How he scaled his impact without losing connection or creativity Why the creative process can bring hope, healing and joy Whether you're an artist dreaming of more freedom, or someone curious about what's possible when you choose a new path — this conversation will speak to you. Explore more from Alain: https://www.picardstudio.com/learn-with-alain

Last weekend, I wore a pineapple on my head—and it completely changed the way I saw myself. I know that sounds wild, but stay with me. In this episode, I'm sharing the powerful shifts I've experienced recently—deep visualisations, unexpected realisations about my younger self, and a moment that literally stopped me in my tracks at a ceramic art show. It's about how art connects us, not just to others, but to ourselves. How the seemingly small moments—using  a nice towel, meeting someone new, or wearing a fascinator—can reveal big things about our self-worth and what's really holding us back. This one is all about coming home to yourself, and the surprising ways art, community, and a little bit of fun can open the door to abundance and joy. Click below to listen, watch or read. https://www.unitedartspace.org/the-power-of-being-utterly-yourself-and-owning-it/ Let us know on Instagram what you think of this episode: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJoNeshSZ12/?igsh=enh3Zjk2bmFpbGFz

What if earning a million as an artist wasn't just a wild dream—but a real, achievable goal? I know, it can sound outrageous. I used to think the same. But after years of surrounding myself with artists and creatives who've done it—and doing it myself—I've seen that it is possible. In this episode, I'm sharing three clear paths artists are using right now to build wealth doing what they love, plus the mindset shifts that open the door to even bigger possibilities.   Don't miss out! Sign up to learn more about how to start a membership: https://membershipworkshop.com/register?ref=p7gq1

Have you ever wondered if it's actually possible to make a living from your art—without having to be connected, represented, or selling in galleries? Years ago, I had this wild dream. I wanted to make art on my own terms, work from anywhere in the world, be around creatives, and somehow still make a living. At the time, it felt completely absurd. But then I discovered this whole world I didn't even know existed—a way to take what you know, love and do… and turn it into recurring income every month. And that's what we're talking about in today's episode. I'm joined by someone who has been a huge part of my journey—Stu McLaren. He's helped thousands of people, including artists, turn their passions into sustainable memberships—some of them bringing in tens of thousands, even millions. This one's packed with inspiration, real-life stories, and the kind of encouragement we all need sometimes to dream a bit bigger.   Thinking about starting your own membership? Stu's FREE workshop walks you through the basics and beyond. SIGN UP NOW: https://membershipworkshop.com/register?ref=p7gq1  

What if you could earn money every single month from your creativity—without burning out or compromising what you love? For years, I thought being an artist meant selling work in bursts, hoping each month would be enough. But everything changed when I discovered the power of a membership site. In this episode, I'm sharing how I built a membership that fits around my life, why it's been a total game changer—and how you could do something similar in your own way. Click below to listen, watch, or read: https://www.unitedartspace.org/how-to-earn-money-every-month-from-your-creativity/   Join us for the membership experience, which is a free event I took nearly 10 years ago and changed my life forever. https://membershipworkshop.com/register?ref=p7gq1  

Ever feel like money just comes in and goes straight back out—like no matter what you do, you're stuck? I've been there. I used to think that hitting a certain financial goal would change everything. But when I finally reached it, I realised… nothing really changed. That's when I started to rethink my whole mindset around money and abundance. In this episode, I'm sharing the two biggest shifts that have helped me move from scarcity to clarity—simple steps that can change the way you approach money and open up new possibilities.  

Last week, I found myself scrolling through social media—something I don't do often—and within minutes, I was bombarded with conflicting opinions. One post told me I should be making art every day. Another said galleries were a waste of time. Someone else had a completely different take on pricing. It was a flood of “you should do this” and “you must do that.” And suddenly, I started questioning everything. That's when I realised: this is exactly how we lose touch with ourselves. The sheer volume of information out there can cloud our judgment, pull us in different directions, and make us doubt what we already know deep down. So today, I want to talk about how we can navigate this world of constant input while staying true to ourselves—how to filter through the noise, avoid overwhelm, and reconnect with our own intuition.

START SELLING YOUR ART Q&A - How can I price? - How do I keep momentum going when I feel burnout? - What do I do if I want consistent commissions? - Is there really a place for artists in the artworld? These are a few examples of the questions we tackle in this live podcast

Can I buy your artwork?? We often don't hear this question in the early stages of someone deciding if they want to buy from us.  This question remains in the buyer's mind. So, we need to answer this question before they ask it. Considering your customer journey and how easy it is to find information that helps the buyer decide if they want to buy. I break down the customer journey in this week's podcast, you can listen in 15 mins, read or watch on double speed here: >> CAN I BUY YOUR ARTWORK PODCAST START SELLING YOUR ART

Sign up for Start Selling Your Art here: https://unitedartspace.lpages.co/ssya/

Last week, I fell on a steep mountain of snow and got stuck. I was skiing and took a tumble that then led me to realise that in life, when we are faced with a challenge we can often choose actions that feel right but we are doing them because we are in a state of desperation of panic. Especially true when it comes to making money and selling art.  We can find ourselves trying all sorts of things because we feel we have to.. Perfecting a website  Getting into a gallery Winning an award We can go down roads that just aren't right and even worse is when things don't work, we then escalate the thoughts into panic.  What if I lose all my money? What if I never make it as an artist and all if this wastes my time? I was stuck on a mountain having the same thoughts, and I share the power of a tiny action that is usually staring us in the face but we are focusing on all the wrong things, so can't see it!   YOUR ART MATTERS BOOK In this episode, I mention the Your Art Matters book that is out now, you can buy your copy here: >> https://yourartmatters.com

Ever feel completely overwhelmed, like you have no idea what day it is? Same. But over the years, I've built a safety net that helps me go from chaos to clarity—and today, I want to share it with you. In this episode, I'll walk you through the exact system I use to stay on track when everything feels like it's falling apart—and how you can create your own.

Struggling with guilt when making art? You're not alone. This episode explores why creative guilt happens and how to overcome it. Learn to remind yourself why your art matters, set boundaries with unsupportive people, and recognise that guilt often comes from within. Your art is important—don't let criticism or self-doubt hold you back. Listen to discover how to create without guilt.

I  share everything I did to overcome my many years of financial struggle and finally surpass my BEST financial goals. From: How to set financial goals  How to approach money goals  How to work out what you need to make to hit your goals The steps you need to take after you have created a money goal. This was a live podcast and part of our Design Your Life series.   Would you like to learn how to start selling your art? Click here for our Start Selling Your Art workshop with a pricing bonus! >> START SELLING YOUR ART

Today, we're diving into the power of reflection as we review 2024 together. Using the reflection worksheet, we'll explore how looking back helps us understand our journey and make intentional strides toward what's next. As Steve Jobs said, “You cannot connect the dots looking forward. You can only connect the dots looking backwards.” Reflection isn't just about nostalgia – it's about growth. It's what helped Lindsay look back at 2021 and realise she had achieved more than she ever imagined. And Lisa? She returns to this process year after year, pinching herself as she lives as she designed. Join me as we uncover your wins, learn from the challenges, and prepare for the event that will shape your future: Design Your Life in 3 Days – Vision, Plan, Action, starting January 20th. Ready to connect your dots? Let's get started.   If you haven't signed up for the event yet, click here: https://unitedartspace.lpages.co/byy/   We will send you the prep straight away so you can get started today.

Happy New Year! We are excited to kick off 2025 with our FREE event this month. Here are the details:   WHAT: DESIGN YOUR LIFE IN 3 DAYS (Best Year Yet) WHEN: 20th - 222nd Jan (live reflection on 13th Jan) WHERE: Live on our FB and YT channels with replays available until 26th Jan. HOW MUCH: This event is free, but there is an option to upgrade and unlock resources and extra bonuses.   You have the power to design your own life, and during this event, we will show you how to: Reflect on the past and use it to design your future Create a vision using a good, better, best framework Create a plan and habits that actually carry you through the year and not just January This event is about setting you up with a mindset that believes anything is possible and gives you a can-do attitude. We want you to feel connected to what you truly want from 2025 and give you practical steps on how to get there.   Click here to learn more and sign up for your free ticket: >> GRAB YOUR FREE TICKET HERE WATCH, LISTEN OR READ HERE FACEBOOK REMINDER YOUTUBE REMINDER

If you want help creating a vision for 2025, you are invited to join our annual Best Year Yet workshop where thousands of us come together to connect with what is most important to us and find out ways to design our lives with intention. It's one of my favourite events as we all get clear on our top 3 for the year and remove overwhelm. We start on 20th Jan, and you can sign up here: >> SIGN UP FOR THE EVENT HERE > LISTEN, READ, WATCH HERE

I know for many, this time of year is hectic, so I am landing in your inbox with a gentle question to ask yourself as you prepare for the New Year.   What do you want to leave behind in 2024? What do you want to take forward into 2025?   OK, two questions - but two really lovely questions I ponder this time of year so I get clearer on what I truly want.   BEST YEAR YET Our annual FREE event is happening 20th Jan onwards - this is such a brilliant event where thousands of people from around the world come together to set intentions for the coming 12 months.  It's a workshop to help you live on purpose instead of letting life happen to you. A workshop is full of positivity, inspiration and practical actions you can take to design your life and plan your future. If you have already planned out your year, like me it's still a fab event for getting crystal clear on blocks getting in your way or getting clear on your next 3 steps. I love this event so much as I am living a life I have designed, and I work on it often. >>> SIGN UP HERE CIRCLE ANNOUNCEMENT

At this time of year, I head into a slight panic.  I feel the pressure of all the tasks, gifts, school plays, all the school activities that require payment, the list goes on. I then start to feel anxious about the lack of funds and lack of time.  It can send me into a panic, and when I feel this happening, I like to turn it around quickly. Otherwise, I end up in the maze.  You know the maze? When you're in there, it takes ages to get out and you literally go around in circles with the same destructive thoughts. To overcome these feelings, I return to mindset work and connecting with my vision, gratitude and abundance as opposed to lack, scarcity and fear. I am on day 8 and I can't tell you how much better I feel in all aspects of my life already!!!! In today's episode, I read a statement from The Abundance Book written by John Randolph Price that I am following: “Money is not my supply. No person, place or condition is my supply. My awareness, understanding, and knowledge of the all-providing activity of the Divine Mind within me is my supply. My consciousness of this Truth is unlimited, therefore, my supply is unlimited.” I share all in today's episode. Have a great week,  Michelle

Have you ever paused to consider the messages hidden in your own art? Every piece we create has something to teach us—not just about the world, but about ourselves. In this episode, we'll explore how the act of creating is both an expression and a mirror, showing us feelings, questions, and truths we might not even realise we carry. I call this send and receive.   Some of my art is just about making, I don't reflection it - it's a tool.  Yet, the more I create the more I have learned how to reflect over the years and really listen to what my art has to say.  It reveals parts of myself I hadn't noticed.  Through this process I have learned to love all parts of my art making and creativity as it's who I am.  I have also learned more about myself from taking time to ‘receive' read and listen to my art.   YOUR ART MATTERS BOOK I go into more depth in the Your Art Matters book, where I give you access to tasks to help with this process.  If you haven't seen the book yet, you can learn more here: yourartmatters.com If you have read the book, I would love to hear how you have found it by leaving a review on Amazon or posting on social media with the hashtag #yambook

Do you have an Instagram account? Do your followers see your posts? Are you finding it hard to grow your following? If you want to learn our top Instagram tips, this week's podcast is for you! Every month, we invite a guest expert into our members' area. This month, we had the pleasure of featuring Instagram expert Emily Masterson. Emily, who works for Meta, shared incredible insights on how to make the most of the platform. With just a few small tweaks, you can create a big impact on Instagram. In this episode, we discuss: Hooks Analytics Re-using content How keywords are now replacing hashtags

Have you ever been rejected? It can be tough hearing no after no after no. Imagine being rejected 9 years in a row! This is what happened to the amazing artist Lloyd Lewis. He was rejected year after year when applying to be on Portrait Artist of The Year! Then, in the 10th application, he was accepted. We are going live on Monday to talk with Lloyd about this incredible journey of repeatedly applying and what it was like being on the show. We will dive into why he was so persistent, what he's learnt from the rejections and experience, plus what's next! You can watch Lloyd on Portrait Artist Of The Year series 11, episode 1 on Sky Arts or Now TV. You can learn more about Lloyd Lewis here: https://www.instagram.com/lloydlewisartist https://www.youtube.com/c/LloydLewisArtist To see the submitted artwork that was accepted in Portrait Artist Of The Year,  click here: https://www.instagram.com/p/C0BiQeGIJHB/?hl=en&img_index=1

Have you ever imagined a life where paying your bills is easy? Where you walk into your solo show with confidence, sell 80% of your work, and have people knocking on your door to feature you? Or maybe you picture a life where you simply feel comfortable in your own skin, creating art that resonates with others… But then, you shoot down the dream because you realize you're “not qualified enough,” “not consistent enough,” or “not confident enough.” Maybe you even find yourself thinking, that life is for others, not for me. Well, you're not alone. Many of us in this community feel exactly the same way—and it's completely normal. But we don't want you to hold yourself back when there's another question you could ask: Why not me? Why not look at all the reasons it is possible? Part of that shift is learning to feel your dream instead of just seeing it. I love having these conversations because this kind of thinking turned my life around—from a dark place of despair to a life filled with fulfillment and excitement for what I do. So, here's today's episode—enjoy!  

I was doing an exercise with my 7 Keys students this week, where we challenged ourselves to ask, “What will life look like when I hit my big money goal, or 10x my dream?” I made a list of what I would be, do, and have, and it was amazing to see all the ways I would live my life. This got me thinking—why am I not doing this now? Yes, a lot of it comes down to money. But, sometimes we have a perception that we need money, time, or resources to make something happen, and a dream turns into a 10-year plan, when in fact, we can make it happen today! Or at least, we can start taking small baby steps now. The point is not to delay and wait for a day that may never come. That's exactly what I'm talking about in today's episode.  

I was driving down the motorway/highway at 70 miles per hour on my way to the Lake District in the UK, along with hundreds of other drivers all driving at the same pace - wondering how on earth we all got to this point.   If we stop to think about it, it's a speed that is pretty dangerous. You're in a metal box, moving faster than our bodies were ever designed to go. Yet, most of us do this daily without a second thought. We become so used to it that our perception of danger fades away. This is a perfect example of tolerance. The first time you drove on the highway, it probably felt intimidating, right? But with time, you adjusted. Your tolerance level for that speed increased, and what once seemed risky is now just another part of how we commute. I then had a conversation with a friend about buying a second home. It was interesting to hear the tolerance levels as she spoke of all the many reasons why buying a second home would be problematic and difficult.  This is what I talk about in today's episode, how you can notice your tolerance levels and start increasing them.

Have you ever felt guilty as you are not making art on a regular basis? or, you didn't post on social media for a while? Or, that you were doing so well with reading a book every week, and now you have stopped?? I think this pressure to be consistent all the time can put enormous pressure on us. Actually, I have huge periods where I am inconsistent, and it's great! I talk about why in today's episode.

Summer found us a few years ago at a time when she wasn't sure why she just couldn't seem to sell her art. She loved creating, that wasn't an issue - but she was forever finding it difficult to make money doing what she loved. We are celebrating hard as just a few months Summer made the leap to full-time selling artist and makes more money now than when she was employed full time!!! She has built an incredible life, making money from what she loves. Summer took part in our 7 Keys program and that's when she started to break through blocks and learn the next steps she needed take.  Guess what, she doesn't stick to the same subject matter either !!  She paints all sorts of things - listen in to find out how she is able to do this. Despite all the crazy set backs, and she had a lot of those !! Listen to the full story now! Click here to learn more about of 7 Keys to Make Art A Living course: >> LEARN MORE ABOUT 7 KEYS HERE

What does it mean to make a living from art? Does it mean pay the bills? Does it mean it has to come only from art sales? This is what I talk about in today's episode. What making art a living means Whether you can make art a living The different ways you can make money and impact from your art If you want my step-by-step framework so you can learn how to make art your living, I am running a free workshop from September 2 to September 9. Here are the details: >> ACCESS FREE WORKSHOP  

My book Your Art Matters hit the number one best-seller list within 12 hours of releasing it! Firstly, thank you if you were one of the people who bought it - you helped make this happen!! I have been asked, how did you do it? If you are launching a book, selling art, or having an artwork in a public space that took a lot of work and you want people to know about it, then you need people. Fact. People are everything. I built a strong village of people around me during the whole book writing and marketing process.   Now, I did create some fun activities during the launch of the book with prizes and made it fun - but ultimately, this only worked as there were a group of people who believed in me. This is where it all starts - growing your village. I talk about this in today's episode, and we will be doing this together in my next FREE workshop: Make Art Your Living which starts on 2nd September.

This was a question that came in last week, and I receive this same question on a weekly basis. When you ask this question, it's so broad - it's like asking, how do I travel? There are so many answers depending on where you are and where you want to go. So, to answer this question, you must dig deeper under the surface. ‘You can't be seen until you learn how to see' - Seth Godin This is a quote from my new book, Your Art Matters, which explains it beautifully - we have to look inwards. I explain this in today's podcast and also invite you to join our next free event: Make Art Your Living.

From Sleepless Nights to Starry Heights: How Kristine Richer turned midnight hours into a thriving art career. Join us for a live podcast talk with Kristine Richer, a Milky Way photographer who transformed late-night parenting challenges into a flourishing career. In this episode of 'Your Art Matters,' Kristine shares he remarkable journey going from selling prints for $50 to $2000!! Kristine will share how she found her voice and purpose through an unexpected twist of fate, turning sleep deprivation and homebound evenings into opportunities for creative growth. She'll reveal the steps she took to build her niche in Milky Way photography and how she's now helping others do the same. Expect practical insights on: Embracing life's constraints to fuel creativity Finding your unique artistic perspective Building a successful career from an unusual starting point Scaling your art business from hobby to full-time income Educating and inspiring others in your field Whether you're an aspiring artist, a parent juggling responsibilities, or someone seeking inspiration to pursue your passion, Kristine's story will light the path to turning challenges into opportunities.  Connect with Kristine Richer:  Website: https://kristinerosephotography.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristinerosephotography  

Should you stick to drawing one thing? Or creating art only using pencils? This is a topic that can make people really angry! I understand why because some people think that niching down artwork means focusing on one thing for the rest of your life and nothing else. But it doesn't have to mean that. I saw someone share a post the other week saying, ‘DON'T NICHE YOUR ARTWORK'. This is such a broad statement that it really doesn't mean anything. If you want to niche your art and become known for something specific, do it. If you don't want to focus, you don't have to. I talk more about this in today's episode.

Today's podcast is a little different. I hosted it live and made it an open Q&A. I had no idea what we would talk about, which is always a nice surprise. The conversation ended up going in the direction of: What happens when you don't quite believe you are good enough to write, make art, or whatever you create - and you feel you have extensive areas of improvement? What happens when you pour your heart and soul into your work and the fear of it being criticised - or just the fear of sharing it full stop can make you feel incredibly anxious? Whether critique sessions actually work  Why it's important to understand why your art REALLY matters.   We also talked about how external pressures can influence the work we create and we pondered this question together: If you could make any art without fear, judgement or external pressures - what art would you really make??? I don't actually know the answer to this myself, but when I ponder this question, I do know that there is a part of my art-making or creativity that hasn't been released. I know there is a part of me that would make art against the norm—whatever that is. A seed has been planted for sure.

Have you ever felt like one of your goals is just impossible? A money goal you just can't seem to achieve, or a level of standard in your work you just can't get close to? Last week, I had an experience with a mattress that really got me thinking about how to make impossible goals possible.  When you feel you repeatedly hit a wall, and then BAM - the answers present themselves. I share this in today's episode, plus two ways to immediately start moving from impossible to possible. Enjoy!

Have you ever worried about falling victim to an online scam as an artist?  We share a real story from our community about a member who fell victim to a scam but handled it with remarkable resilience. We discuss practical steps to identify and avoid scams, such as verifying email domains, checking for legitimate websites, requesting references, and using secure payment methods.  Additionally, we emphasize the importance of staying engaged and building trust with potential buyers while encouraging artists not to let fear prevent them from sharing their work.  Join us as we offer guidance, support, and inspiration to help you navigate these challenges and continue thriving as an artist. P.S: This is where you can get more support and information on scamming and protecting yourself, this is a UK site but the advice is relevant to all.

In the book 10X Is Easier Than 2X by Dan Sullivan and another co-author, the idea of aiming for goals that are ten times larger than your current ones is explored. This concept challenges you to think and act on a much larger scale, whether it's creating more artwork, earning more money, or collaborating with more people. Applying this to my own goals, such as selling 5,000 copies of my book, I found the idea both exhilarating and intimidating. The fear of aiming higher reveals internal barriers that might also be hindering smaller goals. By setting a 10X goal of 50,000 copies, I started asking different questions, considering new strategies, and thinking creatively about reaching larger audiences. This shift in mindset normalizes the original goal, making it seem more achievable. Even if the 10X target isn't reached, the process of aiming higher transforms your approach, potentially leading to greater achievements than initially expected. I challenge you to 10X your goal. Reflect on the thoughts and fears that arise, and explore how you could make the seemingly impossible possible. Share your journey with friends or within your accountability group, and let's support each other in breaking through our self-imposed limits.

I‘ve had the same big financial goal for the last 3 years, and for a long time, it has felt like I'm getting further away from it than closer to it. Have you ever experienced this? You set a financial, art-related or personal goal, and you just can't seem to hit it.   It might be that you want to make your first sale, be more visible, or make more money. I reflected on this extensively in January and significantly changed how I approach my financial goal. I am starting to see a shift and am getting closer to hitting it. Three big factors have helped me, and I shared them in this week's podcast. You can watch or listen here  

The BIG day has arrived.  The publication date of my book, Your Art Matters is 6th August. Our official book launch event is 16th August - we would love you to join us for this. In this episode, I share the importance of understanding why your art matters as it relates to the work you make, your purpose in life, who you connect with and how you sell.   This is why I am so passionate about this book that will help you find your voice, purpose and people. I explain the book, the event and how I overcame the barrier to create an event in this episode.  

Being paid to: Have a community of people around you. Make art all day. Use your studio space. Learn from you. Have a break. These are some of the ways you can create a membership platform where people pay you on a monthly, quarterly, 6 monthly, or annual basis. I know this sounds incredibly daunting and scary to many, as it did for me when I first started!  I have had many questions about knowing if a membership is the right decision for you and your art - so I am giving the download it today's episode. I also take you through the steps Sharon took to create a pop-up membership that earned more that £15,000 in one month. Stu's Full Membership Experience Course has opened for enrollment, click >>here

Wow - this was a bumper LIVE episode as we talked with artist, Bonny Snowdon. Bonny broke down her whole journey from not making art in 30 years to self-taught, fully booked artist with thousands of students. Bonny kindly shared how she managed to increase her pricing by building a waitlist and managed to exit her fulltime job to fulltime artist within 12 months. Celebrating £ 1 million in turnover this year, Bonny has overcome challenges and set backs but found success as she works daily on her mindset and beliefs. Bonny spoke of her success and credits her mindset and the people she has around her.   This was such a great episode, we may have to bring Bonny back for a round 2 as we could have kept talking. If you want to learn more about Bonny, click here: https://www.bonnysnowdonacademy.com https://www.instagram.com/bonnysnowdonacademy Want to learn to draw an otter in 7 days? Bonny is hosting a coloured pencil week where you will do just this :) https://www.bonnysnowdonacademy.com/coloured-pencil-week-may-2024  

This was a live podcast where I brought in my mentor, Stu McLaren. We talked about my past and how Stu has impacted my life in the most profound way ever. We talk about how you can use your creativity to impact others and make money at the same time. Imagine being paid to make art? With money coming in month after month.  I get paid to make art, and I don't have to sell it - how crazy is that ? This episode is super special to me as Stu has shown me ways of living I never knew possible and I have a feeling some of you need to hear this - so enjoy. Here are what others are saying about this episode: I am SO GRATEFUL I didn't miss this - Nikki McDiarmid I discovered you during a painful moment in my life 4 years ago, you have helped me believe that my art not only matters to me but to others too.  I am following your recommendations and growing as an artist.  Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart - Lia Pintaryrelajar2206 (YouTube)

In today's podcast, I set out to talk in-depth about how a free training I took back in 2016 changed my life in the most profound way. Although I do talk about it - I don't go into detail as I find it emotional to talk about. To think that back in 2016, when I signed up for a free workshop with Stu McLaren, and how my life is unrecognisable now moves me to tears. I spent years in emotional turmoil, lost and struggling financially. Stu taught me not only how to create a membership platform, but how to find myself, teach others, build confidence and armed me with incredible knowledge. In today's episode I share insights into how you can use what Stu teaches to not only make more money from your creativity, but to enrich your life  

My son was getting quite angry and upset as he wanted to buy an Xbox but didn't have the money.  We can all relate, I am sure - there are many things I want but don't have the money :) So, our motto is every problem has a solution - and so we created a project plan and worked out how he could earn the money. He decided to sell his art and we broke down the steps of how he could do it. I share behind the scenes today of what we created as the lessons here relate to us all as it comes down to setting a financial goal and finding a way to hit it.

What if I told you the mistakes you make are increasing the value of your art? We often disregard our mistakes, which can impact our confidence negatively.  Yet, our trials and errors are what make our art great. This is what I talk about in today's episode. What if you are a beginner? With no trials and errors? Does this devalue your work?? Nope, I also talk about this in the episode.

Making art that sells - a term some people love and for some it brings feelings of guilt, shame and a sense of selling your soul. This week, I explore this topic as it relates to making art with the intention of selling. For me two primary considerations contribute towards sales: Making art (or anything) that is like you - by this I mean leaning into what makes you unique.  Your art reflects you, and the more you understand this, the more you can communicate this.  This applies to what you make, identifying what makes your work different to everyone else, and also leaning into your story - as there is a story behind every artist and every artwork. Learning what people want - this means either getting to know your audience, if you have one and learning what sells.  A particular frame?? A certain animal??  Or if you don't have an audience, it's about looking at a particular area of art you are interested in and looking around to see what works.  Taking note of scale, frames, patterns, colours and so on. This what I talk about in today's episode. If you haven't signed up to the next FREE art workshop called The Art Of Your Life, click here to register: This workshop is run by Nicholas Wilton and it starts on 4th March.  It's delivered over 3 days and replays are available. It is an entire week of teaching from Nicholas, designed to help you make art that is stronger and more like you. A lesson in how to make art that stands out from the crowd.  

I remember looking at my painting and wondering what was wrong with my creation. It didn't seem right, but I couldn't determine why.   It was like when I had found an inspirational image and tried to replicate what I saw but failed miserably.   I've taken courses in drawing, acrylic, life drawing, watercolour, textiles, collage, ceramics - the list goes on. The one thing I have learned over time is that art is a language.   It doesn't matter how many courses you take; if you don't learn the fundamental elements that contribute to what art is, you will always struggle.   I've learned this is a surprisingly common challenge…    So common, in fact, that my friend Nicholas Wilton has decided to address it in his upcoming FREE workshop. Click here to save your seat in the free Art of Your Life Workshop! Specifically, he will be covering the first 3 (and most important) stages in the Art2Life Process, including DESIGN: Why so many people with lots of education, degrees and experience still struggle to make art they love How to master composition in a way that will quickly elevate your art   VALUE:  How to strengthen your discernment — that internal compass — that tells you when to go further, pivot, or pull back with your art How to create a beautiful kind of depth and balance in your art   COLOUR:  How to add a vibrant new level of dimension AND subtleness to your work with a perspective on color you haven't heard before! How to feel more confident in your creative choices — so you can begin making art MORE like YOU.

A wonderful talk with artists as we delve into the success they have experienced since working with us. We discuss hoe they use the Best Year Yet process and how their journeys have evolved over the years from taking action. Lisa shared how she was shaking like a leaf when it came to sharing her only drawing with us - this was 3 years ago.  Today, Lisa sold work and sat in her studio on the call. You can learn more about today's featured artists here: Simone Paterson Jane Powell Lisa Potter Jenny Stevenson  Enjoy

A wonderful live podcast episode where we bring in artists who share how they plan their year ahead. We talk about having goals, not having goal, having a calendar, not having a calendar and all the different ways you can adapt our best Year Yet training to design your life in your own way. A super session if you are keen to do more of what you love in 2024.  

I know this title may make some people feel uncomfortable - those who give give give and never put themselves first, for example. However, when we break this down - it's simply connecting with what truly matters in life and focusing on this. You can do more of what makes you happy. It's not about greed or hurting people along the way so we can satisfy our needs only.   When you feel content, fulfilled and happy - this will impact everyone around you.  In this episode, I will share the steps I take when ‘getting what I want'. I will talk about  Wishing and Dreaming  Planning and focusing  How to have faith when you don't believe  How to handle fear  IF YOU WANT TO SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE EVENT, HERE IS THE LINK   

Let's reflect on 2023 together.   One of the best ways to move forward and achieve success is by reflecting and today's podcast was recorded live.   We took time to:   Consider what you want and don't want.   Get clear on what you really want in 2024. Learn from mistakes and from what went well.   Most of all, paying attention to how far you have come.   When you reflect on what's happened, you can do more of what works, do less of what doesn't work, and aim for what you REALLY want.   If you want to download the reflection worksheet that accompanies this episode, you can sign up to Best Year Yet and receive instant access here:   >> SIGN UP TO BEST YEAR YET