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Welcome to the 100th episode of Extraordinary Creatives! One hundred thousand listeners, nineteen months and now ranked in the top 1.5% of podcasts and in this episode, Ceri wants to remind you what being an extraordinary creative is all about. KEY TAKEAWAYS You keep showing up, even when it’s messy. You sit with the dualities. You know risk, failure, and mistakes are part of the deal. You ask curious questions. You stay open. You feel deeply, and it all goes into the work. BEST MOMENTS "You know that consistency doesn’t mean doing it perfectly. It means turning up with curiosity, with vulnerability, and with the willingness to try again, even if yesterday felt like a failure.” “You make because you have to, not for applause, not for approval but because there is something in you that refuses to be silenced.” “You’re not trying to make safe work, you’re trying to make true work and there’s nothing more courageous than that.” “You know that the clues to your best work are usually hidden in your foundations, in the early obsessions, the weird childhood drawings, the thing you couldn’t stop doing when no one was watching.” “You don’t need to be louder. Or quicker. Or more polished. You just need to keep choosing creativity in a world that’s constantly nudging you to quit. You’re not behind, you’re becoming and we’re lucky to witness it.” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri interviews Sherry Dobbin, a cultural strategist whose work spans continents and iconic spaces. From starting in theatre to transforming Times Square, Sherry shares how she crafts meaningful cultural experiences that change how we engage with public spaces. She reveals the secrets behind successful public art, innovative funding models and her approach to helping people engage and not feel intimidated by public art. KEY TAKEAWAYS Sherry's journey began in theatre, where she learned to embody multiple perspectives through mask work, establishing her passion for crafting environments where people can explore and connect. Successful public art needs three levels of engagement: aesthetic appeal that draws in the casual observer, deeper resonance for those knowledgeable about art and dialogue with important contemporary issues. Creating clear frames or visual cues in public spaces helps people understand how to engage with art, allowing them to feel confident rather than confused or intimidated. Sherry advocates for meeting people where they are by providing simple instructions about what to do rather than what not to do, giving audiences the confidence to engage with even the most challenging art. Developing cultural spaces in commercial developments can work when both parties understand value beyond direct financial transactions, arts organisations bring people, energy and identity to developments. Cultural organisations should rethink funding models by considering their total operational needs rather than focusing on rigid categories, opening up to partnerships where both parties maintain integrity while addressing shared interests. When developing cultural spaces, look to the youngest creators to understand future trends, focus on how artists create rather than what they create to anticipate evolving needs. Embracing ‘healthy naivete’ allows for innovation, asking questions and trying approaches that go against expectations can lead to breakthroughs when done with respect and genuine curiosity. BEST MOMENTS "That early understanding of occupying different spaces and identities has shaped her lifelong passion for crafting environments where people can explore, question and connect." "I was much better at taking really great directors and artists and helping them to push themselves, to think further, or how to support the work, or how to come up with solutions for them." "Being able to find alternative realities is how we can help to see solutions to problems." "It's this delicate balance between something being finite enough and clear enough you can focus on it, but it still allows this infinite number of ways in which it can be interpreted." "A lot of it is about giving instructions about what you want people to do. Don't put up don'ts. Everything can turn into an invitation." "Don't assume old sponsorship models anymore, people are really looking towards this matchmaking idea." "Cultural organisations are not the only entities that get free rent in commercial properties. So stop apologising for it and start understanding how you bring something to them." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: https://sherrydobbin.com/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Have you ever sat staring at your work, wondering why it’s not resonating? In this episode, Ceri talks about why you might be stuck in how you are being seen, or not seen and why this doesn’t mean you are failing. She shares six real-world strategies to help you shift gears and make your creative practice feel energised, intentional, and visible again. KEY TAKEAWAYS Share the real reason behind your work. Most artists can describe what their work looks like, but that is only surface level. Reveal what drives you to create meaningful connections. Stop hiding behind your artist statement. Authenticity matters, you need to sound human to build a connection and when people know what you care about, they will remember you and refer you. Speak clearly about your process, most people will first encounter your work online and being able to picture and imagine your process counts. Use your titles as an emotional hook. This is often forgotten, but it is a quick win. Make your work relevant to the now. Art isn’t separate from the world, so make sure people understand how your work connects with the world today. Be specific about what you want. Start with one goal and share it everywhere you are, including your bio and newsletters. BEST MOMENTS “Being stuck doesn’t mean you’re failing, it often means you’re ready to evolve.” “People don’t just connect with aesthetics, they connect with story. With purpose. With the why.” “Make your artist statement human, not academic.” “Clarity creates movement, it helps you focus your energy and opens doors because others can see exactly what you’re aiming for.” PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri speaks with Chantelle Purcell, a curator, producer, and visual artist who co-founded Hive Curates and Other Landz. Chantelle shares her experiences, from grassroots creative spaces to large public art projects, discussing how she manages the balance between community engagement, inclusive spaces and the art. With a passion for creating inclusive spaces and championing culturally diverse artists, Chantelle discusses her approach to curating with care at its centre. Ceri and Chantelle also discuss securing funding, building meaningful collaborations and creating a lasting legacy in public spaces. KEY TAKEAWAYS Creating inclusive environments in the arts means challenging traditional models, through initiatives like Other Landz and Hive Curates, Chantelle builds platforms that specifically support culturally diverse artists and those who haven't had opportunities to create work in public spaces. The power of 'meanwhile spaces' lies in their flexibility and community impact, Chantelle's BroadWorks project transformed a disused building in Liverpool Street into a vibrant cultural hub, supporting over 300 creatives and attracting more than 10,000 visitors in 18 months. The etymology of curate is rooted in care, which should extend to artist development, community engagement and creating accessible spaces that honour local contexts and heritage. Chantelle's work with Enfield Winter Lights and Light Up Kilburn shows how Light festivals can create community engagement. These types of events can change perceptions of public spaces and create platforms for showcasing underrepresented artists. Building relationships with local authorities and developers requires understanding their priorities. You should research cultural policies, understand community demographics and begin engagement 6-9 months before events to build meaningful connections. The role of curator includes both curation and production. Beyond selecting artworks, curators must understand fabrication, planning permissions, community engagement and the entire ecosystem of networks that support public art projects. Chantelle shares that project management fees typically run about 20-25% of total budgets, with artist fees guided by industry standards, ensuring resources flow back into local communities. Chantelle began with a passion project that evolved into a sustainable business, demonstrating how creatives can test concepts, iterate, and develop their unique approach over time and create their own opportunities. BEST MOMENTS "I was always passionate about creativity from a really early age. I was lucky that I had the support of my mum, I was raised by a single parent, but she always encouraged fine art and creativity." "Often we don't think of curation as being about care, if you think about the etymology of the words and the idea of care, I think we often forget this." "For me, curation has evolved. It's changed. When I was working in a commercial context, it was more about curating a body of works for an exhibition. Now it's really about creating legacy and working with local communities." "We realised that the physical interaction or encounter could happen in the public realm and so that's when we started to pivot." "My idea of curation is challenged by the context in which I'm working in." "It's being able to work with an artist, to give them all of the funding, perhaps the tools that they need to fabricate something that they have never fabricated before, to be part of that process EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.chantellempurcell.com/about PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
In this solo episode, Ceri talks about how museums decide what art to collect and how you can get your work chosen. She reveals the strategic thinking behind how museums select artwork, from collection policies to board decisions and gives advice for artists looking to get their work into prestigious collections. Ceri explains that successful museum acquisitions happen when artists help institutions understand the storytelling within their work and shares why building authentic relationships is the foundation of a sustainable creative career. KEY TAKEAWAYS Museum curators follow collecting policies approved by the institution and board, focusing on works that connect past collections with contemporary dialogues, unlock new stories, and address current social issues like climate justice. Successful museum acquisitions require artworks with multiple layers of storytelling that can work across various platforms, like exhibition spaces, press materials and learning resources. Artists should provide ’jumping off points’ rather than interpretations for their work, giving audiences different entry levels through Q&As, videos, quotes, or other ways that reveal process and motivation. Museums typically request a 20-25% discount when acquiring work due to the significant long term costs of preservation, storage, insurance and potential technological updates for digital works. Building your network effectively means focusing on 10-15 core champions rather than spreading yourself too thin, as quality relationships matter more than quantity. When reaching out to curators or artists you admire, reflect their work back to them first, show genuine enthusiasm and avoid tentative language, be direct about what you're proposing. For networking across multiple art worlds (animation, galleries, street art, etc.), start with one area, research and chunk your approach into manageable pieces rather than trying to tackle everything at once. Everyone in the art world regardless of their success level, experiences doubt and appreciates genuine recognition so sharing specific observations about what you value in someone's work creates a meaningful connection. BEST MOMENTS "Museums are the custodians of art for future generations and for the zeitgeist, they're thinking about how to share ideas of our time with future generations and unlock stories in the existing collection." "The works that generally get bought are works that have multiple layers of storytelling, not just within the process, but within the image itself, because that image then gets distributed across press, archives, internal communications." "Don't be shy and distant and aloof and just hope that the work does all the magic for you because that's putting a lot of responsibility on the artwork and assuming that everybody is literate in your language." "It only takes 10 to 15 core champions in order to have a sustainable, creative career. So when we think about less is more, it's better to go deep with a few people than to try and hit a ton of people all at the same time." "When we hesitate, it gives people an out. Instead, say 'I know we would have a brilliant conversation because I know there are amazing people not just in my network, but I know that you would resonate with some of the things that I'm thinking about.'" "Sometimes a curator and an artist work magic together and together they do extraordinary things. They come up with new ideas, so it doesn't look like the same curator and art partnership because they bring out the best in each other." EPISODE RESOURCES cerihand.com/courses PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri is joined by Richard Malone, a groundbreaking Irish artist whose work has been commissioned for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Permanent Collection and is held in MoMA. Coming from a working class background in Ireland, Malone talks about forging a unique creative path, rejecting conventional systems, embracing being an outsider and keeping artistic integrity despite opportunities for commercial success. KEY TAKEAWAYS The colours and materials in Richard's work connect directly to his experiences on building sites and his grandmother's textile work. Despite not following traditional paths, Richard's commitment to making work on his own terms has led to significant recognition, including being the first Irish artist commissioned for the Metropolitan Museum's Permanent Collection. Richard believes in maintaining complete creative control, rejecting commercial opportunities (including creative director positions) that would compromise his artistic integrity. For Richard, success means having the daily privilege to create in his studio rather than external validation, fame, or financial reward, which helps him maintain perspective. Richard views trust as essential to the creative process, crediting collaborators who created psychological safety for his most successful projects, including his Royal Academy installation. Coming from a working class background in Ireland has given Richard a different perspective on institutions like the Royal Academy, allowing him to approach them with both respect and necessary irreverence. Richard believes artists need to become comfortable with failure and rejection and accept things when they don’t happen the way you would like or expect. BEST MOMENTS "The further that you get from where you started, the more you realise the importance of those things in constructing who you end up becoming." "I think there is a part of me that really resists that art market in the way that I resisted the fashion system because it doesn't feel right to me.” "The real luxury and the real joy, which I don't think a lot of people understand now, is that I get to come and sit in a studio and make whatever I want in a day. That is unbelievable to me from where I have come from." "Like it reads immaculately, award, award, award, show, show, show, institution, institution, institution. But like, none of that was planned. And there's so much shit that's in between." "I've been rejected for everything at least once. And I think now when I get rejected for something, it means nothing. It means absolutely nothing to me. I'm just like, oh, it's just not in my path.” "Get off social media. It's not real and stop looking sideways." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: https://www.richard-malone.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richardmalone/?hl=en PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri talks about why many artists feel guilty about receiving support. Whether it’s financial, emotional backing or practical help, many struggle with feelings of guilt after asking for or receiving help. Ceri talks about how to shift from guilt to gratitude and embrace support as a fundamental part of the creative process. She also shares how to use reciprocity in a way that feels good for you and those who support you. Ceri ends the episode with a short exercise to help you reframe your mindset and truly own the support you receive. KEY TAKEAWAYS Support is not charity, it’s an investment. People believe in your work and its potential to make an impact. Your creative work deserves investment, in the same way businesses would find investors and scientists source funding for research. When you feel guilt from accepting help you aren’t allowing yourself and those who believe in you to grow. Artists work hard to help others make sense of life. They challenge perceptions and expand our understanding. They improve every aspect of our lives, often asking for nothing or very little in return. Another reason artists can feel guilt is because of unspoken expectations, be clear and define any reciprocation or expectations with those who support you. Money and creativity have a complicated relationship. Many of us internalise the idea that making money from art taints it or financial support means we’re not independent. But thriving in your creative practice often means finding a healthy relationship with money. Write down three instances where you’ve received support. It could be financial help, encouragement, mentorship or a practical hand with something related to your creative work. Then think about why you felt guilty about accepting it, what story you were telling yourself at the time and think of a reframed perspective, that acknowledges why the support was given and why you deserved it. BEST MOMENTS “Why do we feel guilty about getting support? So often, it’s because society loves the story of the self-made genius who did it all on their own.” “Whether it’s financial help, emotional backing, or practical assistance, many of us feel like we’re somehow on the backfoot or even a bit of a scrounger when people step in to help.” “Artists enrich culture, challenge norms, and hold up a mirror to society, often without the recognition or compensation that matches the profound impact they have. Your creative practice has value, your work is vital and those who support you are investing in something that helps move humanity forward.” “Often the person offering support isn’t looking for anything extravagant, they just want to feel appreciated and involved.” “Instead of apologising for being supported, embrace it as part of your creative ecosystem.” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri interviews award winning filmmaker Halina Dyrschka, whose documentary "Beyond the Visible: Hilma af Klint" brought worldwide attention to the pioneer of abstract art. Halina shares her creative experiences, from acting and classical singing to filmmaking, the challenges of securing funding for her documentary and her battle against institutional gatekeeping in the art world. She also talks about how artists can embrace true creativity by recognising the essentialness of exploration and that reality is often overrated! KEY TAKEAWAYS Halina's creative journey began in acting and classical singing, but frustration with the narrow minded theatre system led her to filmmaking, to maintain creative independence and tell stories that matter to her. When first seeing Hilma af Klint's work, Halina experienced an immediate emotional connection and became angry at how institutions had overlooked such powerful art, revealing systemic problems in museum culture. The art world often operates on institutional thinking rather than individual vision, people in museums across different countries think similarly because they prioritise career and success over the true purpose of art. Creating great work requires collaborating with people who will challenge you; Halina values working with editors and composers who bring different strengths and aren't afraid to push back when something isn't working. Funding is a major challenge for independent filmmakers, but Halina emphasises the importance of starting projects through self-funded research and following your enthusiasm before securing complete financing. After winning film prizes, Halina realised the happiness didn’t last and that what matters most is the inner journey and connecting with even one person who understands your work. Halina is drawn to extraordinary, overlooked biographies like Maria Sibylla Merian, a 17th-century female scientist and artist who travelled to South America to study insects when people were still burning witches in Europe. True creativity often emerges from spiritual exploration; both Hilma af Klint and James Howell (subjects of Halina's documentaries) were interested in spiritual questions. BEST MOMENTS "Reality is highly overrated. Especially as an artist.” "It would have been a completely different film if we had gotten funding immediately. It took me quite a long time, five years for the research and doing it. But those were important years because even in the last half year, things were discovered." "When my film was finished, I was refused from festivals for weeks, over months. Then I had an interesting moment; I felt that if I could just reach one person with it, that would be a huge success." "If you put yourself alongside people who you are happy to be challenged by, I think that's a really great and exciting creative environment, where someone can playfully tease you into another way of thinking." "The ego is the biggest problem for all of us. It's something we really have to get rid of, hopefully in this life." "If it happens, it happens. If it should be, it will be. And if not, it does not. You have to trust life a bit, always trust life." "The most important thing is that you trust yourself because then other people can trust you as well." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Resources: https://ambrosiafilm.de/en/film/jenseits-des-sichtbaren-hilma-af-klint/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative. .
Ceri talks about something that’s essential for every artist, how to spot your best work and see it objectively. She talks about why it is so important for your artistic career and how you can learn to make choices about your work, from submitting your work to group exhibitions. KEY TAKEAWAYS Step back and create distance. If you are too close to your work then you will never be able to see it objectively. Time separation is a great way to practice this, put your work away for days or even weeks before you look at it again. You can also separate yourself by creating distance, hanging it up for example or seeing it in a different context. Look at your work as an image first. View your work as an image on a screen as in most cases this will be the first way people will see your work. Flip the question, what is the work trying to do? Ask yourself, What’s it really about? Where does the energy sit, where do your eyes go first? Does it surprise you, or does it feel predictable?Are you holding onto this piece because it’s genuinely strong, or just because it was a nightmare to make? Get clear on your core line of enquiry. If your work doesn’t align with what you care about most, it’s probably not your best! Ask for feedback and be realistic about it. Don’t just ask friends or people you know already like your work, ask people who will give honest and real feedback you can work with. Use your own best work to compare with. Stop comparing yourself to other artists. Your goal should be to keep pushing your own boundaries, rather than measuring up to someone else. Trust your body’s response, your instincts often know more than your rational brain, so don’t ignore them BEST MOMENTS "When you’re too close to your work, it’s impossible to see it objectively.” “People are seeing your art as a digital image before they ever encounter it in person” “If your work is driven by rage at the destruction of nature but it comes across as calm and decorative, it’s not hitting the mark.” “You don’t need endless opinions that send you round in circles. But you do need to be prepared to hear something that challenges your assumptions.” “Be ruthless with yourself, not in a self-critical way, but in a strategic way. You’re not just making work to tick boxes; you’re making work to move your practice somewhere new, somewhere you haven’t been before. That’s where the real progress happens.” “Your body doesn’t lie. Even when your brain is trying to rationalise and talk you into liking something, your body’s reaction cuts straight through that noise.” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri interviews Rodolfo Groenewoud, co-founder of In4Art an institute pioneering art driven innovation. Rodolfo has secured funding for over 75 experimental projects, working between art and the sciences and industry. Rodolfo talks about how artists function as influential researchers, capable of changing businesses and scientific breakthroughs through their unique thought processes. He demonstrates how collaboration creates innovation when artists are given the psychological safety to experiment. If you want to know how to connect your creative work to industries beyond the arts and find new ways to secure funding, you won’t want to miss this episode. KEY TAKEAWAYS Rodolfo discovered artists were natural innovators during his honeymoon in Cuba, realising their studios weren't just creative spaces but laboratories of research and experimentation. This led him to establish In4Art to bridge artistic approaches with business and scientific innovation. Traditional innovation follows linear thinking, while art driven innovation allows for ‘meandering’, letting creators explore unexpected pathways that businesses typically avoid, resulting in breakthrough solutions when properly facilitated and protected. In4Art develops interdisciplinary partnerships between artists, scientists and businesses through an iterative process, beginning with small scale exploration phases before securing larger funding opportunities, ensuring all participants receive value regardless of project completion. Artists applying for collaborative opportunities should focus on communicating their motivation and vision rather than detailed project proposals. Showing genuine interest in collaboration and the subject matter is more compelling than technical details. Successful collaborative projects require psychological safety, with Rodolfo serving as a translator between corporate timelines and artistic processes, helping companies understand that apparent lack of progress often masks profound development happening. The most successful projects achieve recognition across multiple domains, appearing simultaneously in museums as artwork, at scientific conferences as research as well as in businesses as practical applications. Emerging artists should align their financial needs with their preferred working style, working out realistic income requirements before targeting opportunities, rather than applying to every available funding source. Art driven innovation creates more responsible and sustainable technology by encouraging reflection, questioning and testing. It also demystifies complex innovations like AI. Artists are essential collaborators in any development process. BEST MOMENTS "I wasn't just entering places where artists were being creative or painting or sculpting. I was entering places of research and experimentation and prototyping, very similar to the laboratories and companies I'd been working with." "The main word and how it differs is meandering. It's allowing for the possibility of meandering. Artists can go from step one to step four and then decide they want to spend two weeks thinking about step two B in order to reach step six afterward." "We slice up potential long term collaborations into phases and try to be open. We have this amount of money so we can get it to there, we'll search for more. If we have it, we can take the next step." "Artists are one of the most important groups we have that can help with testing, experimentation, questioning, and demystifying. For that alone, they should be a normal party in any innovation process." "When entering artist studios, I realised these were places of research and experimentation, similar to business laboratories I'd worked with - just smaller, often centred around one person or team." "I know of many organisations who are very restless and want to see results quickly. The biggest advice I have, give it a year or a year and a half. Don't try to judge too much what goes on in between." "My special sauce is that I'm an easy collaborator. I can easily work with people from very different walks of life, understanding just enough about every topic to avoid asking stupid questions." "Instead of going for everything, think about why it should be you to go for this opportunity. Most of the time, we can pick out the applications that have spent time thinking about their fit." EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
What if the biggest thing stopping you from selling your art is the way you think about selling? Join Ceri in this short solo episode as she talks about how you can fix your mindset around sales and sell more of your art. KEY TAKEAWAYS Selling your art isn’t selling out but about backing yourself. You will keep finding reasons you can’t sell if you are holding onto this idea. BEST MOMENTS "Selling your art isn’t about selling out” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri speaks to art collectors Darryl de Prez and Victoria Thomas about their art collection, their approach to collecting and their views on why the art world needs to start recognising the true cost of art. They share their 30 year journey from meeting at the Courtauld Institute to building a stunning contemporary art collection. They talk about how their home has become an intimate evolving gallery, reflecting their commitment to supporting artists and living with art in a very personal way. KEY TAKEAWAYS Art collecting for Darryl de Prez and Victoria Thomas isn't about investment or status but about supporting artists' practices and living with work that continues to reveal new meanings over time. They've never sold a piece and loan works freely to exhibitions. The couple prioritises work with layers beyond aesthetics, pieces that intrigue, unsettle and challenge them. They're drawn to art that feels slightly sinister or mysterious, with an absence of humanity that creates a space for potential. Their collection evolved organically from individual purchases to collaborative decisions. They often recognise instantly when a piece speaks to them both, sometimes watching video works repeatedly before deciding to acquire them. Gallery relationships are crucial to their collecting. They value gallerists who educate them about artists and provide insight into practices, acknowledging galleries' vital role in supporting artists. They buy work regardless of medium, from paintings to video installations. They embrace artists who work across different disciplines. They respect artists' evolving practices, believing an artist's distinctness remains recognisable even as their medium changes. When hanging work in their home, they initially placed pieces wherever space allowed but now arrange more thoughtfully, discovering that works naturally develop relationships and conversations with each other across themes and concepts. Budget constraints shape their collecting, typically spending under £5,000 per piece and relying on galleries' payment plans. They've noticed financial barriers can prevent artists from continuing their careers. The couple wishes the art world would recognise the true cost of creating art and compensate artists fairly. They advocate for supporting artists' ‘thinking time’ and value art for its own sake, not just for economic benefit. BEST MOMENTS "We're attracted to work where aesthetics are important, but there needs to be something behind it, something that intrigues, that takes you further than the surface image." "I spent a lot of time exploring all these items and creating a fantasy world around them. I think that's why with art, I'm very interested in things that are speculative narratives and realities." "The joy of living with art is that you can experience it in a way you can't if you're looking at it in a museum. Works change with the light, they change with the time of day, they change with my mood." "When Adham thanked us for buying his work because it enabled him to do further work, that got rid of all my bourgeois guilt about acquiring art." "We find it incredibly moving to know that our interest in someone's work has enabled them to further develop ideas and make work they otherwise wouldn't have been able to do." "The collection starts to have a mind of its own and it kind of dictates what you buy. We can see a work and think, 'we really love this,' but it wouldn't work with the other work we have." "I think artists should be realistic about what the true costs are for presenting art to the public in a way that is wonderful and serious and meaningful." EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
In this solo episode, Ceri talks about a common thing that holds artists and creatives back, waiting for funding, permission or the perfect time to get started. She shares why there is never a perfect time to start and how to succeed as an artist in any field, is just to begin and make things happen. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Work Comes Before the Money: Funding follows momentum, funders, collectors, commissioners want to back projects, not just ideas. The ‘Right Conditions’ Are a Myth: There’s this common belief that you need the perfect time, space, or set of skills before you can really commit to your work. But there is no perfect time. Exploration Leads to Evolution: No amount of planning can replace doing. Once you actually start, you learn what works, what excites you, and what you really need and the more you create, the more momentum builds. BEST MOMENTS “If your project only exists in your head, it’s incredibly difficult for anyone else to get excited about it.” “You don’t need ideal conditions, you just need to begin.” “Even just saying out loud what you’re working on makes it more real. Don’t let funders, gatekeepers, or circumstances dictate your creative momentum.” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri welcomes Emma Richardson, a polymath creative who seamlessly navigates music and visual art. Currently the bassist and vocalist for Pixies while maintaining her painting career, Emma talks about creative courage and change. She shares her experience with Band of Skulls, her pivot towards painting during lockdown and her unexpected invitation to join one of rock's most influential bands. Emma's story shows the power of following your creative instincts, even when the path forward isn't clear. KEY TAKEAWAYS Emma credits her early art teacher Mr. Malin for introducing her to diverse art forms and her tutor Clunie Reid for providing philosophical reading that expanded her artistic vision. The music industry and art world require different approaches but similar courage. Emma describes how transitioning from an established band to pursuing painting full time meant "being back to square one" but allowed her to reconnect with her original passion. The creative states of music and visual art have distinctly different energies. While performing music provides an immediate collective energy exchange with audiences, painting offers a private, contemplative flow state where Emma can explore deeper themes and take different kinds of creative risks. Performance involves a specific kind of energy management. Emma evolved from using alcohol to manage performance anxiety to developing much better self care including exercise and proper sleep, to be in the right headspace and have the right energy. Finding your creative community transforms solo practice. After reconnecting with painting through the Turps correspondence course and Ceri Hand Rocket Booster course, Emma discovered an essential group of fellow artists who provided both inspiration and practical support for her renewed career direction. Emma learned that passion alone isn't enough, understanding promotion, sales, and professional relationships is essential for building a sustainable creative career in any discipline. Saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities can lead to extraordinary growth. When invited to join Pixies, Emma embraced the challenge of learning their extensive catalogue and stepping into a legendary band, demonstrating how preparation meets opportunity in creative careers. BEST MOMENTS "Being given a book at school with Georgia O'Keeffe's work just really resonated with me, there was a feeling about her work that I got, which I loved." "At college, just learning different skill sets of drawing from life, drawing from still life... the thrill of that, being able to draw from life and make something appear out of nowhere, which looked actually real." "Being on tour is quite an intense experience. Early days, everything's new, you're seeing new countries and cities for the first time. There's usually quite a lot of alcohol involved for nerves. You have this sort of come up and then come down." "With painting, it's very much still a performance but because it's solo and you're on your own in a space and no one's watching you, you can get lost a bit easier and feel a flow in a sense." "When you're starting a different aspect of your creative practice, where you feel like you're at a different stage, it's those early stages of 'How do I promote myself? How do I sustain my practice? How do I sell work? How do I get shows?'" "It's being brave enough to go out and ask for help sometimes, or ask for knowledge, or to be able to understand the business side of the art world a bit more. You want to create, but earning and living from it is another beast." "I think from what you were saying earlier, that sort of delight when the gallerist invited you to be in the show. There's a shared commitment to sharing the work with a wider public, that that's something that you desire." "Sometimes to wait for great, we have to say goodbye to good. It can be tough to walk away from people, projects, or careers we love in order to explore what's truly possible for us." EPISODE RESOURCESEmma RichardsonWebsite: emmarichardsonart.comInstagram: @elrpainting Band of Skulls – I Know What I Am (Official Music Video), featuring Emma Richardson’s painting as a stunning animated backdrop, seamlessly blending her visual and musical worlds. PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
In this solo episode, Ceri talks about a truth many artists and creatives struggle with: Success won’t change your life. We’re told that success is the finish line, but this is far from the truth, success is fleeting and life carries on afterwards. Ceri talks about what success really means for creatives and artists and how changing your mindset around it can help you build and live a more fulfilling life and creative career. KEY TAKEAWAYS Success isn’t about reaching a final goalpost but about continuous growth. When you start measuring your progress by how much you’re evolving, rather than just ticking off achievements, everything changes. Most artists and creatives underestimate the power of slow-building momentum. You’re not just working toward some distant finish line; you’re constantly growing in ways you might not even notice. If you want to build a creative life that lasts, stop waiting for success to validate you. Instead: - Redefine success – What does progress look like for you? - Follow your curiosity – Chase ideas, not approval. - Celebrate small wins – Acknowledge every step forward. - Track your progress – Keep a journal, document your journey, and reflect on how far you’ve come. - Give yourself permission to change – Your creative path isn’t fixed. It’s fluid, and that’s a good thing. BEST MOMENTS “That external validation wasn’t the most important part, the real reward was in the process” "But the real joy? It comes from holding these goals like a roadmap, not a rigid itinerary. The destination helps plot the most scenic route, where you’ll meet incredible, funny, and inspiring people along the way.” “Have you had a conversation recently that sparked a new idea? Have you experimented with a technique or approach that felt exciting? Have you shared your work with someone and received valuable feedback? These are growth moments. And they matter just as much as a big career milestone.” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri is joined by Marcelle Joseph, an American independent curator and collector based in the UK whose collection champions female identifying and queer artists. Marcelle talks about her journey from corporate lawyer to art world innovator, revealing how early influences in material culture shaped her curatorial vision. With over 50 exhibitions curated since 2011, she discusses her feminist focused collection and her GIRLPOWER residency in France and gives advice for emerging artists. KEY TAKEAWAYS Marcelle's journey into art began with material culture influences from her grandmother's textile work and her father's entrepreneurial spirit. This now manifests in her current collecting of ceramics and textiles from female identifying and non binary artists. After leaving a successful corporate law career, Marcelle reinvented herself through a degree at Christie's Education and founded Marcelle Joseph Projects in 2011, eventually curating over 50 exhibitions that explore feminist theory and the performativity of gender. Studio visits are crucial exchanges where Marcelle connects with artists' influences and processes. She recommends artists prepare thoughtfully, demonstrating their practice range and sharing their theoretical inspirations. For new artists looking for opportunities, Marcelle advises maintaining a professional Instagram and comprehensive website showcasing at least five years of work, being selective with networking events as well as persistently applying for residencies and grants. Marcelle established a unique 50/50 collecting partnership with Kimberly Morris called the GIRLPOWER Collection, which expanded into a residency program in France that offers stipends, materials budgets and exhibition opportunities to three artists annually. The contemporary art market faces serious challenges, particularly for small to mid size galleries. Marcelle highlights Hauser & Wirth's model of offering small galleries a commission when signing their artists as a potential sustainability solution. Institutional governance work has been central to Marcelle's impact, including a former trustee at Matt's Gallery, Ambassador for the Royal Academy Schools, and Vice Chair at Mimosa House, which she values for championing marginalised voices. Marcelle's dream retirement project is to create a foundation in her hometown in upstate New York to introduce contemporary art to young people while offering artist residencies, giving back to the community that shaped her. BEST MOMENTS "I've adopted a lot of my father's mentality in my own career journey about deciding that I want to do something that's really brave and sort of outside of my comfort zone and just attacking it and making it happen." "I'm all about platforming those artists who have been marginalised or written out of the traditional Western art canon by the patriarchy." "I like supporting early career artists because it’s the most pivotal part of their career in my opinion. If they can’t get past being an early career artist, they’re not going to be an artist." "I often call my collection a collection of conversations, because almost all of the artwork is by artists that I know, that I've worked with, written about, done a studio visit with." "Don't be afraid to approach your heroes. What's the worst thing that can possibly happen? They turn around and walk away, right?" "I know websites are going out of fashion, but I find them so incredibly important to do my initial research on artists. A holding page is not enough. I like to see at least five years of their work." "Curating is all about caring for the artwork, but it's also about caring for the artist. That's really important to me." "Life is short so you shouldn't let any opportunity go by." EPISODE RESOURCES https://marcellejoseph.com @marcelle.joseph PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Tired of shouting into the void? In this episode Ceri reveals how creators can find their perfect audience without compromising artistic integrity. Using climate crisis art as a case study, Ceri demonstrates how identifying ideal clients can transform creative careers. Rather than changing your work to please others, it's about strategically connecting with those who already resonate with your message and using this in all aspects of your work, from creating to marketing. KEY TAKEAWAYS Defining your ideal client isn’t about changing your work or selling out. It’s about assessing what you already create, what you’re passionate about, and finding the people who care about the same things. Consider your clients demographics such as age, location and income. Psychographics are also important, things like their interests, values and beliefs and aspirations. Be as specific as possible, when you’re specific, you can tailor your marketing, your social media content and your pitches to speak directly to your ideal clients. BEST MOMENTS "You don’t need to change what you create. You just need to find the people who are already aligned with it.” “Who is most likely to resonate with your work? Think about age, occupation, lifestyle, and location.” “This isn’t about exclusion, it’s about making meaningful connections.” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri is joined by Rosalie Schweiker, a South German artist and cultural organiser reimagining how art can drive social justice. As co-director at Migrants in Culture, Rosalie shares her journey from EU citizen to confronting the UK's hostile immigration system and how this transformed her creativity. The conversation explores motherhood's impact on creativity, building collective driven organisations and dismantling oppressive systems while designing joyful alternatives. KEY TAKEAWAYS Rosalie structures her week meticulously since becoming a mother: two days of childcare, two days at Migrants in Culture and one day for "mopping up" life admin. This routine provides space for her creative process. Migrants in Culture operates as a design agency that creates capacity for organisers to imagine a world without borders, following design justice principles while ensuring their processes align with their values around migration justice. The traditional commissioning model for socially engaged artists often places them in an impossible position, expected to deliver transformative work with minimal resources while bearing all responsibility and getting paid less than everyone else involved. Building a collective helps shift from the unsustainable model of the individual artist to a more accountable, transparent system where decisions are made together, resources are shared and relationships are less disposable. Artists shouldn't view themselves as special or separate from broader societal pressures, instead recognising they are workers within a system helps adjust expectations and create more sustainable practices. Challenging the romanticised view of the artist, Rosalie suggests the system is intentionally designed to keep artists precarious while serving as "lightning rods" for organisational processes that otherwise can't be fixed. Motherhood has shifted Rosalie's artistic practice to focus on drawing as documentation and processing, showing how creativity adapts to life circumstances rather than requiring ideal conditions. The concept of "submerging" is as important as "emerging" for artists. Sometimes withdrawing from visibility to reflect, recharge, and develop work away from external pressures is essential to creative sustainability. BEST MOMENTS "I guess you find your people by just constantly showing up in a way. It wasn't like I had this as a vision for myself." “The art world can do whatever it wants to do. I am not here to fix that mess.” "When we make a report for an organisation or if we do graphic design and people are excited about it, you get quite direct feedback." "The system is designed to work. People, especially when they're first engaged with immigration, they're like, 'Surely that must be a mistake,' but if this mistake keeps reappearing all the time, we can assume that this is structural, and this is intended." "I really struggle with attributing value to what I do as an artist, as a person. I can only do that when other people are in conversation with me for some reason." "That idea of continuing the status quo by trying to fix it, solve it, work hard, graft, overcome it, is such a familiar story to so many of us listeners, I'm sure." "Submerging is as important as emerging, I would say." EPISODE RESOURCES www.RosalieSchweiker.info https://www.instagram.com/rosalieschweiker/ https://www.migrantsinculture.com/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ready to stop waiting for that elusive cash fairy and actually make 2025 the year your bank account catches up with your creative talents? Ceri explains how artists and creatives can rewire their financial mindsets to elevate their earnings in 2025. Ceri reveals practical accountability frameworks, goal setting techniques and mindset shifts that turn vague money hopes into tangible results. This episode delivers the financial reality check creative souls desperately need and teaches you how to hack your money mindset. KEY TAKEAWAYS Rewire Your Money Mindset. Say these out loud to yourself: "I can earn money." " I earn money." "I have money." "I spend money." Try saying these out loud every morning for a week. Notice what thoughts come up. Challenge them. Find a ‘Money Mark’. So a friend, colleague or mentor who’s also ready to level up. Here’s how to make it work: Set a financial goal for the year and share it. Meet monthly (or fortnightly) to check in, swap ideas, and keep each other motivated. Call out each other’s limiting beliefs. Use your collective brainpower to spot opportunities, collaborations, and new income streams. Set a Financial Goal and Actually Track It. Be specific, Define Your Number. Identify Your Income Streams the Sh*t Work – If it’s time-consuming, joyless, and underpaid, ditch it. Use a System to track your progress. Set Deadlines and Stay Accountable. Money goals only work if they have deadlines. Break it down like this: Annual goal. Quarterly check-ins. Monthly Milestones. Regular Money Mark meetings. Know Your Worth and Price Accordingly. Your prices should reflect the value you bring, not just the hours you put in. Charging properly doesn’t make you greedy, it makes you sustainable. The right people will pay your rates. Stop Hoping and Start Practising. Here’s the truth: getting better at making money is just like getting better at your creative work, it takes practice. BEST MOMENTS Most of us in the arts have been trained to believe that making money is for other people. That success stories are anomalies. That talking about cash is a bit icky. Money goals only work if they have deadlines. Otherwise, you’ll still be thinking about them in December 2025, wondering where the time went. "Your prices should reflect the value you bring. Price confidently, and your clients will recognise the worth of your offerings." “You’re not bad with money. You just haven’t trained yourself to think about it differently.” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri explores the future of cultural spaces with Seb Chan, the director & CEO of ACMI, where he is redefining how museums connect with their audiences. Seb talks about his evolution from experimental music producer to museum innovator and reveals how his background in creating immersive musical experiences has shaped his approach to museum design. Seb’s unique experiences and professional knowledge give a unique perspective on how museums can shape the future. KEY TAKEAWAYS Drawing from his experimental music background, Seb discovered that museums should move beyond traditional education to spark curiosity. His experience in underground music scenes taught him how to create environments where people feel empowered to explore the unfamiliar. Going from tech consultant to museum CEO, Seb developed a future focused philosophy. He now insists cultural institutions must be designed for the future, considering not just technology but also the skills future generations will need. Leading multiple international institutions taught Seb the importance of acknowledging diverse cultural contexts. His experiences across New Zealand, Australia, and America shaped his understanding of how museums can create inclusive spaces that transcend shared assumptions. Physical tools can enhance digital experiences. Seb’s work with these technologies revealed solutions for maintaining visitor focus in our distraction prone lives. Through years of visitor research and practical application, Seb developed strategic principles for creating memorable museum experiences. His approach integrates multisensory engagement with thoughtful space utilisation. Witnessing the erosion of societal trust, Seb recognises why cultural institutions are vital spaces for rebuilding connections. His leadership philosophy emphasises fostering genuine dialogue and understanding across communities. Despite facing resource constraints and pandemic exhaustion, Seb maintains his commitment to experimentation; continuous innovation is crucial for addressing complex societal challenges. Based on his transformative work at ACMI, Seb changed how they measure success. He shifted focus from traditional visitor counts to deeper engagement indicators, fundamentally changing how museums evaluate their impact. BEST MOMENTS "For me, music has a particular ability to transcend cultures and time and space too, it gives you a different sense of time. Going to a gig or going out to an event, that sort of sense of time shifts and time stretches and makes me think about things in other ways." "In the world we live in, where all our social relations and communities are run through media, museums have a vital role in helping people make sense of that complexity." "You can design spaces to change behaviour and to change people's openness and when you design them well, they work. I know a lot of artists are sort of thinking about this sort of stuff too." "Niche interests and the platforms that media is distributed on, and the way those platforms monetise attention as well is based on fragmentation and driving difference amongst that. And that can be very interesting and positive and also politically, it can be very destructive as well as we're seeing play out in various parts of the world." "Focus is hard now. I think people find there's lots of things vying for their focus. But again, using those design principles, I think you can design for focus." "We need to find ways to disagree about things... there was an ability to disagree without it becoming, your house getting swatted." "It's very easy to get someone interested in music that they didn't think they liked and it's probably the easiest art form to get someone interested in because it's so multisensory." "People are interested in lots and lots of different things and they're very up for things they're not familiar with if you don't make them feel like idiots." EPISODE RESOURCES GUEST LINKS: www.acmi.net.au IG: @acmionline PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Moving beyond the myth that bigger is always better, Ceri reveals what actually works: intentional, strategic, and well placed moves. Building the right relationships, choosing the right projects and being open to unexpected opportunities. In this short episode, Ceri shares the power of the "3P Exercise" (Possibility, Person, Place) and talks through how you can maximise your effort in the right way. KEY TAKEAWAYS Possibility: What’s One Move That Could Make a Real Difference? Write down one opportunity that could move things forward for you right now. Person: Who Could Help Expand Your View? Write down the name of one person you’d love to connect with. Someone who inspires you, whose work you admire, or who you think could provide a fresh perspective. Place: Where Inspires You? Think of one place, it could be a gallery, publisher, agency, festival, or organisation, that excites you. Somewhere you’d love to be part of. BEST MOMENTS "Smart moves aren't about cutting corners; they're about maximising your effort in the right way." "I committed to getting started rather than waiting until I was 'ready.' Now, here we are." "No ask, no agenda, just a genuine expression of interest. The result? We're now hatching a plan to work together." "The more deliberate your actions, the bigger the impact." EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri speaks with Claire Luxton, a British artist who is revolutionising the art world through her multidisciplinary approach. From self portraiture to large public installations, Claire shares her thoughts on pricing artwork, building authentic brand collaborations and maintaining creative integrity while achieving commercial success. KEY TAKEAWAYS Claire has developed a distinctive artistic process that merges performance and photography, choosing to capture everything in camera using a Hasselblad medium format camera rather than relying on AI, reflecting her commitment to authenticity in an increasingly digital world. Through her journey with brand collaborations, Claire has learned to evaluate opportunities by asking "Would future Claire say yes?" a self filtering approach that helps maintain her artistic integrity while building commercial success. Claire approaches every project with extensive research and preparation, believing that understanding context deeply enables her to create more meaningful and impactful work. Claire’s public art installation approach begins with historical research, allowing her to uncover and tell forgotten stories of each location, from decommissioned lighthouses to power stations, creating work that resonates with both place and community. Her experience with MTR Agency has changed how she views artist collector relationships, moving away from the traditional gallery model of separation to embrace direct connections with collectors, leading to more meaningful artistic dialogue. Claire's social media strategy evolved from posting frequently to carefully curating content that authentically represents her artistic vision, prioritising meaningful engagement over algorithmic success. After leaving exclusive gallery representation, Claire found her voice by exploring different creative avenues before ultimately returning to fine art with a clearer vision and stronger boundaries. She structures her editions thoughtfully, offering one off pieces for largest works and editions of three for smaller sizes, a strategy that reflects the value of her work and her desire to maintain its specialness. BEST MOMENTS "At the time, that was incredibly exciting and I was very green and fresh and I didn't really have any experience, any experience that I had was self generated, as both of my parents were secondary school teachers, so I had zero connections in the art world." "I want to make the art as true conversation and then there to be the by product of money from that." "Would future Claire say yes? So this future me that I picture, would I say yes to this in two years time, in five years time? Would I be happy that I did this?" "So many collectors are invested in not only the piece, but in yourself and having conversations with collectors about why they were interested in the piece in the first place is so incredibly valuable." "If something has a lot of conversations, to say there are a lot of comments and a lot of people having conversations, I feel like that's helpful and informative because it means that it's struck a chord." "Only you can do what you do. I know that there's lots of other people who can do similar things, but only you can do you." "Art is about problem solving so when you're given certain parameters, you then can fit your practice within those parameters and it kind of pushes you in different directions." "I want to make the art as true conversation and then there to be the by product of money from that. It's a difficult space to navigate, but I think at the core it's about finding those key values within your practice that really resonate with your voice and kind of sticking to your guns." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: www.claireluxtonart.com @claireluxtonart PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri examines how to liberate creative authenticity by offering ideas for artists who feel creatively blocked. She shares five actionable methods to escape creative paralysis and embrace your unique artistic voice. Ceri also provides examples from pioneering artists like Lindsey Mendick and Laure Prouvost, who dared to be different, and suggests exercises for practising these five ways to be bolder, braver, and weirder in your art. KEY TAKEAWAYS Bland is Boring – Stop Playing It Safe. If you don’t take risks, your work blends into the wallpaper of creative mediocrity. Push the thing that makes you Absurdity Unlocks Confidence. You don't have to make absurd, bonkers work but you do have to let yourself be surprised. Injecting a bit of the unexpected forces you into fresh territory—and that's where your best expression is waiting. Authenticity Attracts Your People. Stop second-guessing whether people will “like” your work. That’s not the goal. The goal is to make something only you could make. Embracing Mistakes Enhances Creativity. The fear of making mistakes is far more dangerous to your creativity than any actual mistake. If you’re constantly trying to avoid failure, you’ll never push your work into truly interesting, original territory. Trust Your Intuition. Overanalysing kills creative momentum. BEST MOMENTS “With AI churning out generic mush and tech pushing us towards sameness, what we need now is your gloriously weird, hyper-specific, totally you take on things.” “Playing it safe leads to forgettable work” “You don’t need everyone to love your work. You need your people to love it. The ones who get it.” “Your intuition is always talking to you. The trick is learning to hear and, more importantly, learning to trust it.” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri speaks with artist Erica Eyres, whose work masterfully balances on the edge of discomfort and revelation. Erica shares her creative process, including how she transforms found images into haunting portraits and creates ceramic replicas of mundane objects. The conversation explores the delicate dance between artistic freedom and commercial success and how understanding and overcoming your creative vulnerability shapes you as an artist. KEY TAKEAWAYS Erica embraces her compulsive need to make art constantly, choosing to produce abundantly and edit later rather than limiting her output. Her unique approach to video work requires complete solitude. She plays all characters herself and can only perform when entirely alone, highlighting how some artists need specific conditions to access their creative depths. Through her international exhibition experience, Erica has observed how cultural context dramatically shapes audience reception, particularly noting how her work dealing with childhood themes received starkly different reactions in Denmark versus Glasgow. She views gallery relationships as having organic lifecycles, similar to dating, and has learned to navigate these professional partnerships with both commitment and acceptance of their natural evolution. Experience has taught her to be strategic with social media, sometimes keeping new work private until ready for specific exhibitions, maintaining a careful balance between visibility and preserving work for shows. Teaching at university level has become both a financial anchor and creative stimulus for Erica, keeping her connected to emerging perspectives while forcing efficient use of studio time. Her journey has shown her that success in art isn't about dramatic breakthroughs but rather sustained practice through inevitable ups and downs. BEST MOMENTS "I've definitely had people tell me that I make too much work... but I've sort of also tried to just accept that this is just how I work, is to make quite a lot of work and then eventually edit it down." "It's almost compulsive, I suppose. I really just have this need to make stuff and I've always had that." "I think everyone has a time where things are going really well, like you see really successful artists that have downtimes as well." "The art world is so complicated and I still feel like I'm learning about it and all the kind of idiosyncrasies of it." "Most galleries want to show the best work that an artist could possibly make. That's what they're really looking for." "You never know who's looking... but it also doesn't matter. Do you love what you do enough whether someone's looking or not?" EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Join Ceri for a short solo episode where she details how you can create more time to do what you love as a creative. KEY TAKEAWAYS Conduct a time audit: Where is your time actually being spent currently? Track your time in 30 minute chunks for 3 days and see where your time is going. Categorise your time and look at how you can prioritise differently and amend to free up more time for creativity. Use time blocking and be strict with this, schedule your creative time. You can even set certain days for creative time and ring fence this from admin tasks. Systemising and automating can save you time and effort, for example using templates for contracts and emails. BEST MOMENTS "There’s so much admin, so many side gigs and a never ending to do list” “We all think we’re busy but are we spending time doing the right things?” “Clients of mine realised they were spending more time responding to enquiries and invoices than actually painting” EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
From growing up in the Middle East where theatre was banned to leading one of London's most innovative cultural spaces, Tarek Iskander's journey is a masterclass in transformative leadership. In this candid conversation, he reveals how his NHS background shapes his mission driven approach at Battersea Arts Centre, championing bold, experimental work while making art accessible through initiatives like "pay-what-you-can" ticketing. His insights on nurturing youth creativity, navigating institutional challenges, and reimagining the arts sector's future offer invaluable lessons for anyone interested in cultural leadership and social impact. KEY TAKEAWAYS Tarek had to radically shift his natural coaching leadership style during COVID-19. He took on more direct control to protect his team from difficult decisions, showing how crisis management can push leaders outside their comfort zones. Through Battersea Arts Centre youth programs, Tarek discovered that having staff who came from local communities mattered more than architectural changes or pricing strategies. His street teams of young people recruiting other young people proved more effective than traditional outreach. Having grown up where the theatre was banned, Tarek's conviction about art's vital role in society led him to transform BAC into a vaccine hub during lockdown while maintaining creative programming - demonstrating how arts venues can serve multiple community needs. Coming from outside the traditional theatre world, Tarek leveraged his outsider perspective to restructure BAC's financial model, generating 50% of income from private business while making performances accessible through pay-what-you-can ticketing. When faced with pressure to post black squares during Black Lives Matter, Tarek chose to commission Black artists to respond creatively instead of making performative gestures. This was a decision that initially received pushback but was later vindicated. Despite ticking only two of the ten criteria for the Arts Council job, Tarek spent a week preparing intensively for the interview, demonstrating his belief that hard work can overcome perceived qualification gaps. Rather than trying to do everything, Tarek made tough decisions to stop running BAC's museum and co-working space to focus on the core missions of supporting creativity in young people and artists. As someone who describes himself as "incredibly shy," Tarek had to overcome significant self-doubt to take on public-facing leadership roles, learning that internal demons often pose bigger challenges than external ones. BEST MOMENTS "Growing up in the Middle East where pretty much most of theatre or live performance was banned for most of my childhood... I had very little exposure to the arts." "I think we never think of our next gen or youth programs as an end to something else... If you believe that the world can be a better place, those new creative ideas are going to come from that next generation." "The biggest obstacles ahead of us are the ones we put up ourselves." "BAC is small enough to be naughty and not have to play by the rules necessarily, but maybe big enough that people often take notice when something happens." "I'm very allergic to things that feel performative or just words.” "Art and performance is so vital that keeping it going and supporting artists and audiences and young people to engage in those ways feels like really critical work." "Don't let the barriers up yourself. Let other people put them up for you." "Sometimes the demons within are probably much tougher than the demons without." EPISODE RESOURCES Instagram: @batterseaartscentre Facebook: @BatterseaArtsCentre bac.org.uk PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
I’ve been thinking a lot about how I can help more of you be braver, create the work you truly want to make, and stop second-guessing yourself. It feels urgent. So, I’m launching a new weekly short podcast episode called Beat the Block – a no-nonsense, straight-to-the-point shot of creative support. Each week, I’ll share three tips drawn from Donkey's years in the arts – learned from the incredible arts and business people I’ve worked with, interviewed, and coached, to the burning questions that come up daily inside my mastermind circles, membership and coaching sessions with artists and arts professionals worldwide. EPISODE RESOURCES Instagram: @batterseaartscentre Facebook: @BatterseaArtsCentre bac.org.uk PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Join Ceri as she speaks with Althea Greenan, curator of the Women's Art Library at Goldsmiths. From slide libraries to digital archives, Althea shares her experiences and activism through preserving and championing women's art for over 30 years. This episode is an exploration of how archives can be living, breathing spaces that inspire movements and create change. Through personal anecdotes and revolutionary projects, Althea reveals how small acts of documentation can spark massive cultural shifts and why archives are not just about the past, but about building feminist futures. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Women's Art Library began as a slide collection, where artists could submit documentation of their work for £8 per year, creating a democratic, non-hierarchical approach to archiving women's art. Throughout her career, Althea has maintained that archives should remain non-hierarchical and accessible, keeping the Women's Art Library's original mission of being open to all researchers, whether academic or independent. Through decades of work, Althea has witnessed how a single image or document can spark significant cultural change, proving that archives are not passive repositories but active agents of transformation. The transition from analogue to digital hasn't diminished the importance of physical archives; the tactile nature of slides, posters, and documents carries important historical and emotional context. Self-archiving was a revolutionary act for female artists in the 1980s and 90s, creating visibility and professional opportunities outside traditional art world structures. Contemporary artists and researchers continue to find new ways to activate and interpret the archive, proving its ongoing relevance to current artistic practice. The concept of "des oeuvre" suggests that artists' work extends beyond traditional studio practice to include teaching, curating, and institutional change. The power of feminist archives lies in their ability to create intimate encounters with ideas and spark movements, even through small scale interactions. BEST MOMENTS "Archives are living entities, sparking connection, care, and joy." "A lot of the labour and the care and the personal evidence of inscription that artists very carefully made on these slide mounts is not evident in collections that are digitised." "It's hard to be a thinker, a maker and be on the edges of society sometimes." "Sometimes all it takes is one person to say, 'Hey, I think you might like this,' to spark curiosity and shift someone's entire worldview." "When do you stop being an artist is the question and how much of this work that you're doing really should be seen as part of your artistic practice." EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.gold.ac.uk/make/ https://sites.gold.ac.uk/animatingarchives/ Yes to the Work!: The Women's Art Library https://www.art360foundation.org.uk/media - film by Holly Antrum commissioned by the Art360 Foundation PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri interviews internationally acclaimed artist Catherine Yass, whose groundbreaking lens-based work pushes the boundaries of photography and film. The conversation explores her innovative techniques, including her distinctive method of layering negatives and positives, her relationship with architectural spaces, and her thoughts on time, failure, and resistance in art. This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a Turner Prize nominee who continues to challenge conventional perspectives in contemporary art. KEY TAKEAWAYS Catherine discovered her signature blue colour through mistakes while learning to use a 5x4 camera, leading her to deliberately overlay negative and positive images to challenge the idea that photographs must represent reality exactly as we see it. Her early experiences cycling around a deteriorating swimming pool in Tower Hamlets while watching Canary Wharf being built shaped her understanding of architectural power dynamics and social inequality in London. Catherine views her deliberately slow working process with cumbersome equipment as a form of resistance, noting how the industrial revolution transformed time into a commodity that must be used efficiently. For the NHS Swimmers, she asked healthcare workers to perform the same swimming movements twice, creating a temporal doubling that she felt was crucial to avoid the work looking like an advertisement in a public space. Through her High Wire project, Catherine came to value the importance of failure when the performer couldn't complete the walk, realising that sometimes dreams are more valuable than their achievement. Having started by photographing rhinoceros at the zoo, Catherine's fascination with weight, structure and gravity has remained consistent throughout her career, from early sculpture to recent film works. She maintains her artistic freedom by teaching just enough to fund her studio, allowing her to pursue projects without complete dependence on art sales, which she's found can fluctuate dramatically. Her transition from making physical interventions in architecture to photographing spaces emerged from the practical reality that installations are temporary, leading her to document them with photography which then became its own form. BEST MOMENTS "The camera is very big player in it... It's quite like a third character in the room with you before you even start making." "I think through teaching you keep reading... there's a whole process of discussion and learning going on all the time, which is really rich." "Freedom isn't freedom if it treads on somebody else's freedom. So you have to protect people's freedoms." "I was interested in the idea of the subject not being whole, not being sort of complete or reliable or steady." "Slowing things down can be quite a resistance... working with that big camera makes you work in a very organised way." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: https://www.catherineyass.co.uk/ Instagram @catherine.yass PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
In this episode, Ceri talks about cultural curation with Salma Tuqan, Director of Nottingham Contemporary. From her early days at Art Dubai to influential roles at the V&A and beyond, Salma shares her views on how cultural institutions can evolve, adapt, and remain relevant in challenging times. Salma explores everything from collection strategies to institutional sustainability while highlighting the importance of collective effort and generosity in creating inclusive cultural spaces. KEY TAKEAWAYS Salma's leadership philosophy focuses on building collective effort, demonstrated through her work at Nottingham Contemporary where she leads a team of 70, prioritising collaborative decision making and community input. Throughout her career at the V&A, Salma challenged traditional museum structures by working to integrate Middle Eastern art across departments rather than isolating it, showing her commitment to breaking down institutional silos. Drawing from her Palestinian heritage and early exposure to diverse cultural practices, Salma approaches curation with an understanding that Western categorisations of art aren't universal. In her role at the Delfina Foundation, Salma developed innovative funding models for under resourced regions, creating pools of resources from multiple small contributions to support artists from areas like Central America. At Nottingham Contemporary, Salma prioritises long term artist relationships over one off exhibitions, allowing creative partnerships to evolve naturally from small collaborations to major shows. Rather than arriving with preset plans at new institutions, Salma's approach is to first listen and understand the existing ecosystem before developing strategies collaboratively. Through projects like "While We Wait," Salma demonstrates her commitment to considering the afterlife of exhibitions and ensuring local communities can access the art they inspire. As a director facing multiple contemporary challenges, Salma emphasises the importance of maintaining joy as a form of resistance while building solidarity networks with other cultural leaders. BEST MOMENTS "I'm a big believer in collectively working, and that's a big part of the ethos of my leadership style as well. I believe that things happen with people." "When we look around the world and with everything that's at stake, there's never been a moment where the role of institutions is as important as it is." "There's a lot of focus around the public facing aspect of institutions, particularly thinking about the artistic program and what does that mean when you're platforming artists who are talking about labour issues and simultaneously cutting the hours of the lowest paid workers." "I think joy is also a key form of resistance too." "The V&A is a huge entity, a huge institution, and I spent a lot of time developing relationships first and listening to people." "I really believe that the best work happens and is developed collectively." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: www.salmatuqan.com Instagram: @stuqan PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri talks with Lisa Cooley, a former New York gallerist turned art advisor. Lisa shares how she went from being an accidental gallery worker to running her own acclaimed Lower East Side gallery for nine years. With remarkable honesty, she discusses the challenges of managing a gallery through a recession, the toll on mental and physical health, and the complexities of artist-dealer relationships. Now working as an art advisor and launching a new podcast called Oko, Lisa gives her experiences and thoughts on relationship building, collecting, and navigating the art world's unspoken rules. KEY TAKEAWAYS Throughout her career, Lisa discovered that running a gallery wasn't just about selling art; it required building genuine human connections that couldn't be scaled or rushed, even as the art world grew increasingly commercial. Lisa developed a unique approach to evaluating artwork, insisting on both an intellectual response and visceral visual pleasure, refusing to compromise on either aspect when choosing artists to represent. After closing her gallery, Lisa learned that being honest about failures and challenges - though often discouraged in the art world - ultimately led to deeper, more meaningful professional relationships. Through difficult experiences with artists, Lisa came to understand that gallery-artist relationships work best when treated as business partnerships, allowing for clearer boundaries and communication. Lisa's experience running her gallery during the 2008 recession taught her that sometimes working harder isn't the answer. When Lisa's health began suffering from overwork, she made the difficult but necessary decision to close her gallery, learning that physical and mental wellbeing must take precedence over art world pressures. As an art advisor, Lisa discovered that building collector relationships requires a 4-6 month period that's less about art education and more about understanding how people communicate and make decisions. Lisa found that small, thoughtful gestures, from handwritten notes to carefully chosen chocolates, often proved more effective in building lasting business relationships than grand gestures or aggressive sales tactics. BEST MOMENTS "Being candid is highly, highly punished, and I think it's only now with a lot of distance where I really feel comfortable trying to share as much as possible." "The gallerist-artist relationship is not a marriage. It is not family. It is a business relationship... A marriage is very different. It's reciprocal. And gallery-artist relationships are frequently not reciprocal." "Sometimes galleries just aren't that supportive..." "You can scale everything in the art world... but you can't scale the human relationships. That's impossible to scale." EPISODE RESOURCES IG @lisacooleynyc www.lisacooley.com www.ask-oko.com PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Artist Mastermind CircleThe Artist Mastermind Circle is a focused group coaching programme for mid-career contemporary artists ready to take their practice and career to the next level. You’ve built a solid foundation, and now it’s time to refine your strategies, increase your income, and tackle new challenges with confidence. This exclusive, application-only programme provides expert guidance from Ceri Hand and the support of a trusted community to help you achieve greater recognition and expand your opportunities.Apply Now **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
In this special end of year solo episode, Ceri answers questions from her mastermind community members. From exhibition planning and pricing artwork to connecting with collectors and maintaining social media boundaries, she gives her expert advice from her extensive experience in the art world. KEY TAKEAWAYS When planning exhibitions, start with self-reflection about your goals and desired outcomes before engaging with collaborators or institutions. Consider what you want to optimise for, press coverage, commissions, or collector engagement? Price artwork based on market research and ecosystem participation rather than production costs or time invested. Research comparable works and understand that value in art is based on perceived worth within the social system. Building relationships with collectors requires authentic connection rather than direct pitching. Research their interests and engage naturally through shared networks and events. When updating your website during a practice transition, focus on quality over quantity. Edit work to show your best pieces that reflect your current direction while maintaining coherency with past work. Create psychological safety in professional relationships by showing genuine interest before making any asks. Start with appreciation and sharing relevant content before discussing your own work. Exhibition planning needs adequate time for idea development before production. Avoid rushing into execution without proper conceptual exploration with collaborators. Social media should be approached strategically as a tool for community building rather than passive consumption. Set specific goals for engagement and research. Documentation and legacy planning are crucial for exhibitions - ensure high-quality photography and materials that can continue generating opportunities after the show closes. BEST MOMENTS "The art market is such an unusual thing because it's all based on perceived value. It's not like we're breaking down the costs, say with coffee... when it comes to art, the market really is dependent on how many people want that thing." "The worst thing you can do as an artist is to squirrel yourself away in a cupboard and come out with an idea like, ta-da. What do you think? It's really about you having the idea to the best of your ability to a point and then opening up." "Sometimes less is more. So I love asking myself this question: What's the simplest thing I could do that would give me the biggest return on my time invested?" "If you want to be collected by serious collectors who are participating in that ecosystem, then I would encourage you to evaluate what else is being sold at a similar price that you think your work may be being sold at." "Every exhibition is a publishing moment. It's not the only moment, but it's the start of another opportunity coming down the pipeline." "Put the social back into social media, which is really about you being deliberate with what your goals are whilst you're there." "If you want some love, you have to show the love first." PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Artist Mastermind CircleThe Artist Mastermind Circle is a focused group coaching programme for mid-career contemporary artists ready to take their practice and career to the next level. You’ve built a solid foundation, and now it’s time to refine your strategies, increase your income, and tackle new challenges with confidence. This exclusive, application-only programme provides expert guidance from Ceri Hand and the support of a trusted community to help you achieve greater recognition and expand your opportunities.Apply Now **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri speaks with polymath Louise Gray, whose creative career spans textiles, fashion, costume, sound, and writing. Louise shares her experiences in fashion, textile design, and education, discussing her bold aesthetic choices, fearless approach to creativity, and commitment to authenticity. Her journey from establishing her own fashion label to teaching at Central Saint Martins, and currently venturing into new creative areas, provides insightful guidance for anyone on their own artistic journey. This discussion explores sustainability, the significance of creative freedom, and the necessity of staying authentic to your own values. KEY TAKEAWAYS Having grown up in rural Scotland, Louise learned to see extreme colours in nature, which later influenced her distinctive colour palette in fashion, combining contrasting hues that both clash and complement She deliberately kept her fashion label small and focused on high-quality, handcrafted pieces rather than bending to industry pressure to make more commercial products or use digital printing Louise views collaboration as essential for creative growth, seeking out artists and creators who challenge her while still maintaining her unique vision and voice Rather than trying to please everyone, Louise focused on creating work that excited her personally, knowing that authenticity would attract the right audience who truly connected with her aesthetic When teaching at Central Saint Martins, Louise rewrote the MA Fashion curriculum to emphasise sustainability and encouraged students to deeply question their identity and values as designers After closing her fashion label, Louise took delivery jobs to fund her creative work, choosing financial freedom over prestige to make art on her own terms She approaches textiles as a feminist practice, seeing it as a way to amplify historically overlooked women's work while pushing boundaries of what textile art can be Louise has learned to separate her sense of self-worth from her creative work, leading to more artistic freedom and joy in the making process BEST MOMENTS "I'm not trying to be you, I'm trying to be me. I'm interested in creating something that I know will talk to other people, because it's interesting." "I've had to really detach my sense of value from my work because I thought that they were the same thing, and since I've detached them, there's so much more lightness to the work that I do." "Joy is about connecting with other people, like true joy is always about other people.” "I'm so grateful that I have chosen a creative path. It is not easy. I didn't need it to be easy. I haven't learned from easy." "I liked making things which had multiple technique fabrics. I wasn't trying to make it accessible to people, I was trying to make the most beautiful things that I could dream of." "Sometimes just saying this is who I am and this is how I want to do it is good." "If you can make work that makes somebody feel something, you've won." EPISODE RESOURCES www.iamlouisegray.com@louisegray__ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Artist Mastermind CircleThe Artist Mastermind Circle is a focused group coaching programme for mid-career contemporary artists ready to take their practice and career to the next level. You’ve built a solid foundation, and now it’s time to refine your strategies, increase your income, and tackle new challenges with confidence. This exclusive, application-only programme provides expert guidance from Ceri Hand and the support of a trusted community to help you achieve greater recognition and expand your opportunities.Apply Now ****Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri speaks with Lady Skollie, a bold South African artist who fearlessly challenges artistic conventions. From her early days at a specialist art school to becoming an internationally acclaimed painter, Lady Skollie shares her journey as a modern day cave painter and gives her experiences of gallery relationships, motherhood, and maintaining artistic integrity. Her original perspectives on the art world, cultural identity, and creative authenticity make this the perfect episode for anyone interested in the intersection of art, culture, and personal truth. KEY TAKEAWAYS Lady Skollie maintains creative freedom by creating physical distance from city centres and setting clear boundaries with galleries, emphasising the importance of separation between artists and collectors. Her work is deeply rooted in her identity as a descendant of the indigenous people of South Africa, reimagining traditional cave paintings on a larger scale. Success in the art world for her, came through strategic support, including a partner who gave her two years to focus solely on art, leading to international gallery representation. Lady Skollie has found that physical fitness and consistent creative practice have been crucial elements for maintaining artistic productivity and mental well being. She challenges the modern trend of artist accessibility, advocating for maintaining mystery and separation between artists and collectors. Her perspective on showing work internationally reveals how art is received differently across cultures, particularly regarding themes of sexuality and cultural identity. She approaches commercial work by comparing potential earnings to what she could make painting, ensuring her time is valued appropriately. Lady Skollie also emphasises the importance of having freedom from financial pressure to maintain artistic integrity and make authentic work. BEST MOMENTS "I've always wanted to be an artist." "If you're going to go for white money, you should go for very old white money." "I'm not someone who draws all the time, but I consistently create... I constantly think about art." "I'm of the opinion if you're not based in a place like South Africa, it's really hard to understand what drives people here." "Sometimes pressure makes diamonds. But I think for me, it just makes lunacy. I need freedom." "Back in the day, I used to be known as the pawpaw and penis girl because I would just paint pawpaws and penises." "I consider myself a modern day cave painter." "If you don't like something, then just look away from it, but you cannot control how other people experience something." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: Instagram: @LadySkollie PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
In this episode, Ceri speaks with Jennifer Higgie, whose evolution from painting lemons to shaping Frieze magazine spans more than two decades. She opens up about the realities of the art world, the necessity of creative discipline, and her mission to respect artists' work with authenticity. Through her shift from art critic to author uncovering hidden women artists in art history, Jennifer demonstrates what it takes to build and sustain a creative life. Her thoughts and experience of writing's emotional toll and the exposure of sharing creative work resonate deeply, while her practical experience serves as both a roadmap and reminder for other creatives. KEY TAKEAWAYS Jennifer developed her disciplined approach to writing through 23 years at Frieze, treating it like a ‘normal' job with strict deadlines and word counts while learning the importance of stopping at the right time to maintain quality She deliberately positioned herself as an "enthusiast" rather than a critic, choosing to write primarily about work she felt passionate about rather than producing negative criticism To sustain her writing career, she worked as a waitress for 15 years, preferring this to desk jobs as it didn't interfere with her creative headspace She built and maintained vital creative networks across London, Berlin and Australia that have supported her throughout her career transitions After experiencing burnout and anxiety, she sought CBT support, which helped her learn to distinguish between real and hypothetical anxieties Her research into overlooked women artists led her to discover how much messier and more inclusive art history is than she was taught As reviews editor at Frieze, she developed a systematic approach to balance coverage between established institutions, emerging artists and everything in between. Her experience taught her that writing requires accepting that most work goes into a void of silence, with rare but meaningful moments of connection with readers BEST MOMENTS "Writing is very much like dropping a pebble into a very deep pool or well, and very occasionally you hear a faint splash, and that's about it" "The idea of super bohemian artists going wild and drinking or taking lots of drugs... you can't last very long if you do that" "Paintings are like portals, you look in, you look into them, and you go into them, and then you travel around a bit, and you come out again" "Everyone has a story...and it's your responsibility to find out what that story is" "Art history was for too long taught as if it was carved in stone" "I'm infuriated by the idea that history was written as if it was all about white male achievement" EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: https://www.jenniferhiggie.com/ Instagram @jennifer_higgie Book Link: https://www.weidenfeldandnicolson.co.uk/titles/jennifer-higgie/the-other-side/9781474623322/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri brings together three artists who transformed the Green Man Festival into a magical artistic playground. Lexi Zelda Stevens, Megan Broadmeadow, and Angela Davies share their experiences of creating ambitious installations in challenging outdoor environments. From holographic fans in the woods to midnight performances on rafts, they reveal the intricate dance of artistic vision, technical expertise, and weather management. The trio and Ceri give practical advice and inspiration about producing large scale public art and talk about the importance of building strong support teams. KEY TAKEAWAYS Lexi believes the key to successful festival art programming is having meticulous contingency plans while giving artists complete creative freedom to lead their vision Megan discovered that having triple the expected technical support proved crucial when personal emergencies arose during installation of her holographic installation Transforming her gallery work for an outdoor festival context opened up new possibilities for Angela's performance and audience engagement. Producing festival art requires creating a calm, supportive environment amid chaos, focusing on safety while letting artists maintain creative control. Festival audiences interact with art differently than gallery visitors - some prefer to simply observe, while others want to understand the technical details. Angela realised that staging work next to water created unexpected opportunities for reflection, both literally and metaphorically, in her practice. Lexi's experience showed her that the best commissioned work comes from trusting artists who haven't worked outdoors before rather than playing it safe. Through her midnight performance, Angela discovered that festivals can create intimate, quiet moments of connection even within a busy event environment. BEST MOMENTS "Being a producer is kind of like saying sorry and thank you a lot. And maybe I hear you as well in there." "Don't work alone. You're going to need some friends. You're going to need support. Use people's expertise." "I was laying on this body of water where the film was projecting kind of beyond me... it was quite magical." "Creating imagery that transcends the festival... and forgetting that you're even at a festival, that was really powerful." "Just dream big" "Don't try and make the art. My role is very clear in that I'm leading on safety and passing over audience experience." "The opportunity to make something potentially super large scale that sat next to this body of water, this pond, on the estate... it was really incredible." EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.greenman.net Guest links: Angela Davies https://www.angeladaviesartist.co.uk/ @angeladaviesartist Lexi Zelda Stevens: https://www.lexizeldastevens.com/ @helpingartistsmakework (producing) @LexiZeldastevens (own practice) Megan Broadmeadow https://meganbroadmeadow.com/ https://www.instagram.com/meganbroadmeadow_artist/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri speaks with Dhikshana Turakhia Pering, who has over 18 years of experience in museums, galleries and the wider cultural and creative world. As Head of Creative Programmes at London Museum, Dhikshana talks to Ceri about her journey from Science Museum explainer to cultural leader and reveals how her neurodiversity shaped her approach to leadership. She discusses the importance of joy and hope in creative programming, authentic leadership and making culture accessible to all. Throughout the episode, it is clear that Dhikshana's mission is closely aligned with her own experiences and upbringing, giving her authentic passion in everything she does. KEY TAKEAWAYS Dhikshana manages her neurodiversity through good preparation, practising presentations three times, detailed scripting, and developing organisational systems that help her lead effectively while maintaining high standards Throughout her career, Dhikshana has developed programming based on starting from a place of empathy and respect, actively listening to communities, and ensuring representation becomes embedded in institutional structures Her leadership style evolved from recognising that being authentic means maintaining consistency across all interactions while learning to set boundaries between her professional and personal life She created the "triangle model" framework at London Museum, focusing on intellectual depth, lived experience, and universal themes to build strong creative programmes that resonate with diverse audiences Her involvement with Museum Detox has shown her the vital importance of professional networks in providing support, solidarity, and advocacy for diversity in cultural institutions Dhikshana's career transitions were guided by listening to her gut instinct while building support systems that allowed her to make bold moves when necessary At London Museum, she combines programming that sparks joy and hope while addressing serious social issues and civic action, drawing from her personal experiences growing up in Camden Her approach to team leadership focuses on creating psychological safety while maintaining clear structures, drawing from both positive and challenging experiences throughout her career journey BEST MOMENTS "If you can hold the attention of 14 year old boys while you're on stage delivering a show about digestion, where you're talking about poo, like you can pretty much hold the attention of anyone." "I'm glad we're in a world now where 12 year old me right now somewhere would find out they were dyslexic and be like, cool. Like, what do I need? How do I do it?" "I was told I would never be a leader because I smile too much...The smile is a big thing. It makes people feel welcome and comfortable with me. And then they tell me lots of stuff that's really helpful." "Being your authentic self means being genuine to everyone around you...They know, they meet you, they hear you, they hear what you're interested in and how you're going to do this." "The way I am, my empathy, the way I love chatting to people, the way that I can listen to someone and then retain loads of information is really important." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Resources: https://www.londonmuseum.org.uk/ https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dtpering PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri speaks with Nick Ryan, an Emmy and BAFTA award-winning sound artist who has revolutionised how we experience sound. From his early days experimenting in his garden shed to creating interactive radio dramas and transforming public spaces with sound installations, Nick's journey is all about creative evolution. Nick talks to Ceri about confidence, collaboration, and the importance of asking for help. The conversation reveals how his personal experiences, including early loss and bullying, shaped his innovative approach to sound art and his understanding of human connection through audio experiences. KEY TAKEAWAYS · Early experiences with materiality and experimentation, encouraged by his grandmother and science teacher, laid the foundation for Nick's creative approach to sound design · The transition from visual art to sound happened organically through fashion show soundtracks, leading to Nick's pioneering work in interactive audio · Public realm sound art can transform spaces and experiences in ways that traditional urban planning doesn't consider · Confidence issues are universal among creatives - even those who appear most confident often struggle the most · The importance of asking for help and being vulnerable can lead to unexpected opportunities and support for all creatives. · Nick's technical innovation in sound has created new ways of storytelling and audience engagement · Sound art is unique in that it's always a collaboration between the artist and the listener's internal experience · The value of working with supportive people and learning to recognise when a collaboration isn't the right fit! BEST MOMENTS "Everyone's got confidence issues and the people that don't seem to have confidence issues, with a few exceptions, are generally the people that have the most issue with confidence." "No one ever says no if you ask for advice." "If you're trying to make something for other people that's a recipe for disaster. It's just about being true to yourself." "The atmosphere outside the listener is only one half and the other half is the atmosphere inside the listener." "Don't work with people you don't like. Something else will come along.” "As a sound artist, you can never author more than 50 percent of the experience." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: https://www.nickryanmusic.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nickryanmusic/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri interviews Gavin Wade, the visionary artist curator behind Eastside Projects and Senior Research Fellow at Birmingham City University. From his early love of comics to founding one of the UK's most innovative art spaces, Gavin talks to Ceri about transforming the art world through collaborative practices. His story of creating a new kind of gallery space, winning a £120 million market redevelopment project, and maintaining artistic integrity while pushing boundaries is both inspiring and practical for anyone interested in making their creative mark. KEY TAKEAWAYS Gavin's approach to artist collaboration shows how repeated engagements over time create deeper, more meaningful projects - rather than rushing one off exhibitions, he builds lasting relationships that allow ideas to naturally evolve into innovative work. Through establishing Eastside Projects, Gavin demonstrated how to create a new kind of art space by selectively adopting elements from commercial galleries, museums and artist run spaces while rejecting conventional limitations. His early immersion in comics and DIY culture shaped his understanding of self publishing and community building, providing foundational principles that continue to influence his approach to art making and curation. Gavin's success with Eastside Projects stems from his ability to balance ambitious international programming with local artist development, he recognised that both elements are essential for meaningful impact. His revolutionary perspective on gallery spaces rejects the notion of neutral containers, instead treating them as living artworks that continuously evolve through each exhibition and intervention. Gavin built his confidence in the art world through consistent action. Each successfully organised show and new connection strengthened his position and opened up fresh opportunities. His involvement in the Smithfield Market project demonstrates how artists can meaningfully influence city development when they're involved in early planning stages rather than being brought in as an afterthought. Gavin maintains creative sustainability through clear boundaries - implementing regular working hours, extending installation periods, and prioritising family time, proving that balance enhances rather than diminishes artistic output. BEST MOMENTS "As soon as I was on my degree, I just thought, well, I'm an artist, I might not be as good yet, but I'm trying." "There is no such thing as an individual artwork. There is always a relationship between the artwork and its environment and other artworks and other things that have appeared in that space in the past or will appear in the future." "I didn't even know what a sculptor was particularly at that point. There was a little bit of modelling, like clay modelling and stuff, which felt a little bit boring, like I could do it, but it wasn't that exciting." "The art world is about supporting artists and careers and trying to come up with ideas, but to do it, it needs to reinforce societal status quos that are very aristocratic." EPISODE RESOURCES Artist Links: Eastside Projects, Birmingham https://eastsideprojects.org/ Instagram: @eprjcts Gavin Wade Instagram: @gavin_wade_ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Technology meets art as Ceri is joined by Mexican-Canadian media artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, whose works are in collections worldwide such as MoMA, Guggenheim, TATE, Reina Sofía, and Hirshhorn. He shares his journey from nightclub owner's son to internationally acclaimed artist and how it shaped his unique approach to creating participatory experiences. From transforming the US-Mexico border to making climate change audible through 481 speakers, Rafael gives his thoughts about managing ADHD, building a successful studio, and the delicate balance of working with major brands while maintaining artistic integrity. KEY TAKEAWAYS Early exposure to nightclub culture and theatrical environments influenced Rafael's approach to creating participatory art installations that come alive only when people engage with them. The democratisation of technology has transformed media art from being institution dependent to being more accessible, leading to an explosion of digital creation worldwide. Managing ADHD has been both a challenge and an asset for Rafael; he credits his condition for helping him work under pressure and maintain the necessary denial to tackle seemingly impossible projects. The artist's studio operates like a theatrical production, with Rafael as director rather than a solitary creator, involving specialists from 10 different countries. Environmental consciousness has become central to his practice, including scientific collaboration to minimise the impact on migratory birds and transition to more sustainable technologies. Rafael uses three key filters for project selection: intellectual/philosophical interest, time investment required, and economics, maintaining about 20% of work as non-profit. The relationship between art and corporate sponsorship requires careful navigation to maintain artistic legitimacy while ensuring financial sustainability. Art institutions face a tension between meaningful engagement with digital art and the temptation to use technology merely for spectacle and attendance numbers. BEST MOMENTS "My talent is more in getting teams together. And there is a name for this, it's like a theatrical director... there's still a vision, it's the director's vision, that is followed." "Ultimately what I'm interested in art is in creating a good party, it is only when people come in that the party really begins, it really is dependent on participation." "I got off of Ritalin so that I could continue a life of denial because it's the only way to lie to yourself that these things can actually be accomplished." "I am not interested in growth. I want de-growth...I don't want to become a massive company, but what I do want is not to grow in personnel or space. I want to grow in time." "The genius artist who did something and then out of this one idea created a career doesn't exist. It's the perseverance." "You'll never be satisfied. You'll always think that the next artwork is better than anything you've done in the past." EPISODE RESOURCES @lozanohemmer https://www.lozano-hemmer.com/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri is joined by Marine Tanguy, the pioneering founder of MTArt Agency. From managing a gallery at 21 to founding the art world's first talent agency at 25, Marine shares her journey of revolutionising how artists are represented and supported. Ceri and Marine talk about building resilience, visual literacy, and creating new opportunities for artists. Marine also opens up about overcoming personal challenges, including a public hate campaign while pregnant, and shares her innovative approach to artist representation. KEY TAKEAWAYS Marine built MTArt Agency on a philosophical foundation first, establishing clear manifestos about the future relationship with the arts and the alignment of medium and concept before focusing on business applications At 25, Marine created a new business model in the art world by shifting focus from gallery spaces to a service based agency, enabling broader opportunities for artists beyond traditional art sales Marine's experience of managing a hate campaign while pregnant led her to find strength in ballet, demonstrating how physical practice can help manage the mental challenges of leadership Coming from a teaching family background, Marine approached her financial education systematically, surrounding herself with knowledgeable investors who could contribute expertise beyond just funding Marine's approach to talent spotting comes from genuine enthusiasm - she describes herself as someone who rushes back to the office excited to champion new artists she's discovered and thinks that much of the art world today is lacking this type of enthusiasm. As one of the first B Corp certified companies in the art world, Marine used this framework to create measurable accountability in an industry that traditionally lacks formal regulation. Despite managing 50 artists and over 300 projects, Marine maintains a "log in, log out" approach to social media. Marine's company has grown to a £35 million valuation by creating opportunities across multiple sectors from public art to brand partnerships, whilst many more traditional galleries are struggling in the current market. BEST MOMENTS "We are in the art world where being enthusiastic is something that's actually quite rare. It's seen as either quite young or naive or too keen to a degree. But I love my enthusiasm." "The traditional way is really being challenged as we speak." "I haven't studied finance, but I was aware it was something that therefore I was not knowledgeable in, so I made a point of becoming knowledgeable in it." "I think realistically with talent, it's really a balance of hard work, ethics and research, but it's also a question of talent." "You just know when an entrepreneur walk into a room versus someone that has put a deck together with a few clever facts versus someone that has really walked in and you know that they can deliver what they're saying." "Making sure that they diversify, that they reach out as much to public art commissioners, to brands, to digital partners, like they really think outside the box." "Ballet is also muting your brain for an hour and a half, which is really good for your anxiety." EPISODE RESOURCES Marine is represented by United Talent Agency for her writing and TV career. Instagram: @marinetanguyart PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri explores the world of digital art and creative leadership with Tom Higham, Creative Director and founder of Mediale. Tom shares his knowledge and experience, from film festivals to cutting-edge digital projects, and gives his thoughts on artist development, community engagement, and the challenges of running a creative organisation. Ceri and Tom also talk about personal health, leadership styles, and share their visions for the future of arts and technology. KEY TAKEAWAYS Tom's career highlights the importance of networking and seizing opportunities in the arts, from volunteering to leadership roles. Effective creative leadership involves balancing artistic vision with practical considerations like funding, stakeholder management, and team dynamics. Community engagement in arts projects requires a genuine interest in people's stories and a collaborative approach between artists and local groups. The digital art sector is very international, presenting both opportunities and challenges for UK based organisations and artists. Successful arts organisations need to adapt their leadership and project approaches based on the specific context and scale of each initiative. Tom stresses the importance of clear communication and boundary setting in leadership, while maintaining flexibility and empathy to be successful. Personal health management, including addressing invisible disabilities is essential in sustainable creative leadership. The arts sector should critically examine the impact and sustainability of large scale cultural events versus ongoing, community focused initiatives and what they can alternatively offer. BEST MOMENTS "I always found I would tend to let the work expand to fill the time I give it." "Talking, communicating to different people outside of your inner sphere is quite a skill and there aren't that many people in the arts who do that well, I don't think." "You have to build the trust to be able to take that risk, I think that's really important, but also to build that trust, you have to tell a compelling story." "The hardest stuff about being an arts leader is probably, I'm imagining, similar to the hardest stuff about being a leader in the energy sector or in the retail sector. It's people." "I think you've clearly done so well over your career is actually that trust and that deep love that you have for the artists and their idea, but then finding the language and the synergy, those kinds of moments of alignment with somebody else." "Clarity is kindness, you know, and sometimes that means even if you're saying clearly, actually, no, that doesn't work for me, it actually helps people to understand and take action accordingly." "I would suggest to artists that you have to figure out what you want to pursue and figure out how to talk about it." EPISODE RESOURCES Connect with Tom Higham: Instagram: @tomhigham14 LinkedIn: Tom Higham Website: tomhigham.net For more information about his work with Mediale, visit mediale.org.uk or follow @mediale_uk on Instagram. PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Join Ceri as she interviews acclaimed artist Emma Talbot. From her childhood drawings to art installations, Emma shares her experiences of finding her authentic voice, transforming personal experiences into universal art, and creating without external validation. KEY TAKEAWAYS Emma's early drawings were a form of escape and freedom during a challenging childhood, highlighting art's therapeutic potential and laying the groundwork for her artistic path. Art school and early career struggles masked Emma's authentic voice, which she only then discovered after experiencing profound personal loss. Abandoning the pressure to be an "artist" led to Emma's creative breakthrough. Witnessing her partner's death inspired Emma to explore consciousness and shared human experiences in her work. Navigating institutional collaborations and budget negotiations became crucial skills in creating Emma's ambitious projects. Managing multiple international exhibitions requires Emma to focus on the interconnectedness of her work and adopt a methodical approach. Embracing her true artistic identity and interests liberated Emma's creativity, making her work more enjoyable and authentic. BEST MOMENTS "Drawing is, can be, a kind of avoidance, it's like a space you can go into, where it's like everything else disappears, and you, you get to invent what you want." "All we have is this period of time of consciousness and all we do is share the experience with one another." "I don't feel uncertain about my work at all. Because I know what it's doing is just doing what it's doing." "Finding joy is a choice. It sounds so corny to say it out loud, but it is, it is, and you can, and I find that I'm able to do that." "Each person tailors the work to themselves. You know, the work has to be something that suits you." "I think for me a big part of understanding my work was just accepting who I am." "Emma's story is a powerful reminder that creativity is not only a tool for self expression, but also a way to process profound personal experiences "Art is not just about what you make, but about the connections you foster with those who experience it." EPISODE RESOURCES Artist Links: https://www.emmatalbot.org.uk Instagram @talbot.emma PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri explores the dynamic creative journey of Connal Orton, a versatile talent who's traversed theatre, television, and psychological thrillers. Connal shares his knowledge and personal experiences of creative leadership, embracing risk, and finding joy in the process. From directing plays to executive producing hit TV shows and now crafting gripping novels, Connal's story is a masterclass in adaptability and creative evolution. KEY TAKEAWAYS Embrace serendipity and be open to unexpected opportunities. Many of Connal's career-defining moments came from chance encounters and being willing to try new things. Creative leadership involves articulating the big picture while allowing team members the freedom to handle details, fostering a collaborative environment. Building a loyal audience is crucial. Try to focus on creating emotional connections rather than chasing numbers or trying to appeal to everyone. Feedback is essential, but timing is key, seek input at the right stages and from trusted sources to refine your work effectively. Authenticity in your creative voice and marketing approach can help you stand out and build a dedicated fan base. Playfulness and pushing boundaries can lead to innovative ideas; don't be afraid to be cheeky or irreverent in your work. Transitioning between creative fields can be advantageous, allowing you to apply skills and experiences in fresh ways. Surrounding yourself with talented people and fostering a supportive creative community can elevate your work and open new opportunities. BEST MOMENTS "I often think of the stuff on the wall as being like my sort of holiday photos, which is that they remind me a bit of my own kind of journey." "I want to write something that I think lots of people are going to read and I want those people to find it and love it." "Be your authentic self, if you're going to fail, fail on your own terms and at least believe in the stuff that you're making." "You can't make comedy without enjoying yourself. It's like you don't know whether a joke's funny unless you're laughing at it or not." "Your job very often is to articulate the big stages and let other people look after the detail." "I think what I've kind of learned is...you can be really risqué with things if you do it in the right way and with real confidence." EPISODE RESOURCES @calebcroweauthor @connalo @inkubatorbookshttps://www.calebcrowe.com/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
This special episode is an audio version of a talk Ceri gave the brilliant Working Class Creatives Database in collaboration with Second Act Gallery funded by Arts Council England. Ceri talks all about the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome among creative professionals. Drawing from her extensive experience in the arts, Ceri offers practical help and ideas to overcome self doubt and build creative confidence. From reframing negative thoughts to embracing your own unique perspective, Ceri gives proven advice to help artists and creatives thrive in their careers, tackling imposter syndrome head on. KEY TAKEAWAYS Imposter syndrome is common among creatives, affecting even highly successful individuals. Recognising these feelings as normal is the first step to overcoming them. Separate feelings from facts. Feeling inadequate doesn't mean you are. Practice reframing negative thoughts with positive, empowering ones. Visualise your success and practice power poses to boost confidence. These techniques can reduce performance related stress and enhance self assurance. Focus on finding your tribe, 10 to 12 champions who genuinely appreciate your work can significantly boost your career and confidence. Embrace your unique perspective and creativity. Don't try to fit into spaces that don't align with your values or artistic vision. Prepare thoroughly for challenging situations, but also learn to improvise. Confidence is built through taking action and learning from experiences. Practice self compassion and celebrate your achievements, learn to acknowledge and reward yourself for your accomplishments. Surround yourself with supportive people who are excited by your talent and want you to succeed. Your wellbeing and confidence are paramount. BEST MOMENTS "The difference between those who experience imposter syndrome and those who don't is their mindset during triggering situations. They think different thoughts, which is encouraging because it means we can learn to think like a non-impostor." "Perfectionism has its place. Caring deeply about your work is good. Strive for excellence when it matters most, but don't dwell on routine tasks and forgive yourself for mistakes." "View this as a skill, not a sign of ineptness. The essence of 'fake it till you make it' is to act confidently, take risks, and let your behaviour build your confidence over time." "Confidence is a process, not an end game. Sometimes you have to improvise." "Every single one of you has got something important and useful and gorgeous to contribute in the art world and beyond in society. You are our thinkers, our makers, our see-ers." "If you want more love, you have to give more love. It's really that simple. That goes with increasing your network, increasing your connections with people." "Life is 50/50, right? None of us get out of here alive. So we go through good times, we go through bad times and success for me means that I can deliberately choose on purpose when I get to enjoy the moment." "You deserve to be in the meeting, in the show, at the private view, and your contributions are important." PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. In Partnership with Working-Class Creative Database and Second Act Gallery The Working-Class Creatives Database (WCCD) CIC is a volunteer-led in-person and online community for working-class creatives in the UK. It was founded in 2021 to provide a platform for working-class creatives, to establish a strong community between working-class artists and tackle classism within the arts. @workingclasscreativesdatabase https://www.workingclasscreativesdatabase.co.uk/ Funded by Arts Council England @acegrams THE SECOND ACT is a young contemporary gallery with roots in the North of England and East London. @second_act_gallery https://www.secondactgallery.co.uk/ **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri speaks to Ana Maria Caballero, a Colombian-born literary artist who is breaking boundaries in the world of poetry. From selling a poem at Sotheby's to collaborating with AI, Ana Maria's journey reflects the power of persistence and innovation. She talks about balancing creativity with practicality, embracing collaboration, and reimagining classic literature for new generations, to inspire creatives across all disciplines. KEY TAKEAWAYS Ana Maria balances creative growth with practicality, starting in finance before moving onto journalism and working for the Colombian vice president. Her experience in the press office built resilience and taught her the value of feedback, crucial for her development as a writer. She emphasises the importance of maintaining a beginner's mindset in creative practice and embracing the personal as a gateway to the universal. You have to be resilient as a creative, Ana submitted her work to 50 publishers before winning a poetry prize! She explores the translation of ideas across different mediums, from traditional poetry to digital art and AI collaborations. Ana Maria advocates for reimagining classic literature through technology to engage new generations beyond traditional educational methods. There are challenges and opportunities of being a pioneer in merging poetry with new media and blockchain technology. This can be seen as quite controversial in the creative world. Ana Maria emphasises the importance of honest self-expression in writing, using her work as a means of self-preservation and connection with readers. BEST MOMENTS "I'm very truthful. I really try to be honest. Thank you. And I let myself write the hard truth and let it be there and not delete it, not edit it." "There is a difficulty sometimes as a writer to allow someone else to mess with your writing. And I have found that the best work that I've really put out there has been Much of it, beside an editor who understands, respects, but also, you know, is willing to cut what you've done." "I wanted my work to have this pulse beyond the page, and I've really been able to find that by engaging with new media because the new media community is a vibrant, thriving community." "I think that ripping apart attacks, playing with it, cutting and pasting and putting into stable diffusion, turning it into an artwork to really connect with one single text in a very meaningful way is so much more important than to read... You know, 10 books in a semester and write five paragraph essays on them." "I submitted it probably 50 different places until it finally won a National Poetry Prize." "I started writing this book when I was pregnant with my daughter who's turning nine next week actually. So it's been a long, long process." "I really do see my work as a, as a means of self preservation. So it's like I save myself and regain my centre by writing them." EPISODE RESOURCES Ana María Caballero: Twitter: @CaballeroAnaMa Instagram: @anamariacaballero Website: anamariacaballero.com theVERSEverse (Digital Poetry Gallery): Website: theVERSEverse Poetry Society of America: Website: Poetry Society of America Ashmolean Museum: Twitter: @AshmoleanMuseum Instagram: @ashmoleanmuseum Gazelli Art House: Instagram: @gazelliarthouse PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
In this episode, Ceri talks about the art of connecting with art collectors. She breaks down the three main types of collectors, offers strategies for engaging each, and shares her knowledge on building genuine relationships in the art world. Ceri gives tips and examples as she decodes the complex world of art collecting, making it accessible and actionable for creatives at any stage of their career. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding the three main types of art collectors: casual, serious, and institutional, is essential for tailoring your approach and marketing strategies. Casual collectors are driven by personal enjoyment and aesthetic pleasure, often seeking affordable pieces that resonate emotionally or complement their lifestyle. Serious collectors are connoisseurs who strategically build curated collections, often becoming influential figures in the art world and supporting artists' careers long-term. Institutional collectors, such as museums and corporations, acquire art aligned with their mission, often guided by specific policies and multiple stakeholders. Building relationships with all three types of collectors is possible but requires a strategic approach tailored to each group's unique motivations and preferences. Engaging storytelling and consistent online presence are more effective than cold pitching, fostering genuine connections and demonstrating the value of your work over time. Successful artists often maintain a presence in both high-end art markets and broader consumer markets, offering a range of works that cater to different collector types. Research and understand potential collectors' interests before reaching out, enabling more targeted and meaningful engagement that can lead to productive interactions and opportunities. BEST MOMENTS "Casual collectors are driven by a desire for personal enjoyment and aesthetic pleasure. They seek artworks that resonate with them on an emotional level, often drawn to pieces based on factors such as colour, materiality and scale." "Serious collectors approach acquisitions with a strategic mindset. Often setting or following trends while conducting thorough research, they frequently consult with art advisors, curators, gallerists and museum directors to refine their choices." "Institutional collectors purchases are typically guided by limited budgets, staff resources, curatorial decisions, long term value and alignment with their existing collection or institutional goals." "Cold pitching often fails because it lacks the personal touch needed to build a meaningful connection. Engaging storytelling on social media and on your website allows potential collectors, institutions and art professionals to get to know you and your work over time, fostering genuine relationships." "By sharing your journey, your inspirations and behind the scenes content, you create a narrative that resonates with an audience, making it more likely they'll remember you and engage with your work." "Regularly updating your social media and website with engaging content helps keep your work in the public eye, increasing visibility and maintaining interest." "Engaging storytelling and consistent content creation fosters long term relationships rather than short term gains. By investing in building a robust online presence, you establish a foundation for online connections of future opportunities." EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Join Ceri as she explores the multifaceted factors that determine an artwork's value. From artist reputation to market dynamics, Ceri demystifies the art world's pricing mechanisms, offering invaluable knowledge for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts alike. If you'd like this episode in written form, subscribe to receive this week's Beat the Block for the full transcript: https://cerihand.com/subscribe/. KEY TAKEAWAYS Artist reputation, biography, and CV significantly impact artwork value, with factors like education, exhibitions, and awards playing crucial roles. The artwork's intrinsic qualities, including subject matter, medium, scale, and quality of execution, contribute substantially to its price. Market dynamics, such as supply and demand, rarity, and the artwork's "freshness" in the market, influence valuation. Provenance, or the artwork's ownership history, can dramatically affect its value, especially if associated with notable collectors or institutions. The primary and secondary art markets operate differently, with artists benefiting directly only from primary market sales. An artwork's historical context and its creator's place in art history can significantly enhance its value. The time-related aspects of an artwork, including its age and the period of the artist's career it represents, impact its worth. Networking and championing by influential figures in the art world can boost an artist's career and the value of their work. BEST MOMENTS "Generally speaking, demand determines price. However, the art market is an economic model with more variables than just supply and demand." "A market is developed for an artwork and artist if their contribution to the contemporary art world or creative community becomes recognised by curators, collectors, press, artists and writers." "The truth is, we really do get there quicker together. Sharing knowledge, skills, contacts, resources, all help an artist's visibility with their peers." "Bigger doesn't necessarily mean better when it comes to price, as not everybody wants to live with, ship or store large works of art." "Collectors and curators are often introduced to new artists through the Artist Network." "When a unique work is scarce, its desirability increases, leading to a higher price." "Provenance is more than just a record of ownership. It's a critical component that affects an artwork's value, authenticity and significance." PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
Ceri Hand interviews painter Eleanor Moreton, exploring her artistic journey from childhood to her current practice. Eleanor's rebel spirit, unique approach to creativity, and commitment to her craft shine through as she discusses her influences, challenges, and success. From navigating art school to finding her stride in painting, Eleanor's story is both inspiring and realistic, offering valuable lessons for artists at any stage of their career. KEY TAKEAWAYS Eleanor's upbringing in a suburban environment significantly influenced her artistic themes, particularly her interest in family life and the 1950s-60s era. Eleanor compares her artistic process to "herding a swarm of bees," juggling various ideas and influences until they coalesce into a cohesive work. Embracing beauty in her paintings was a decades-long process for Eleanor, overcoming the art school taboo against creating beautiful work. Collaboration with poet John Hegley provides Eleanor with a different creative outlet, balancing her solitary studio practice with performance and music. The year 2007-2008 marked a significant turning point in Eleanor's career, with multiple achievements affirming her place in the art world. Don't underestimate the importance of artists identifying their ideal audience and platform for showcasing their work. Eleanor stresses the value of showing up consistently to work, even during challenging periods or creative droughts! Artists need to view themselves as custodians of their work, responsible for sharing it with the world rather than focusing on personal ego. BEST MOMENTS "My mind is always alert to new things that will come in and there's some kind of detector that will, you know, detect something, even when I don't know why or where it fits with other things." "There isn't one art world, there are many. And I think it's in a quite practical sense to say, where would I like to show, who would I like to show my work to?" "Freedom is incredibly important to me, particularly mental freedom and I get quite irritated when gallerists or people who visit the studio sort of frown and say that something doesn't connect to something else." "It's not called a practice for nothing. You know, you do it over and over” "I love Eleanor's rebel spirit and her willingness to embrace discomfort, pushing both her practice and life." EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.
In s3e63 of Platemark, podcast host Ann Shafer talks with collaborative printer Peter Pettengill. Peter founded Wingate Studio in 1985 on his family's dairy farm in Hinsdale, NH. Originally trained at Crown Point Press, Peter specializes in multi-plate color etchings. Now semi-retired, Peter's son James has taken over the operating of the shop, though Peter lends a hand when requested. They talk about Peter's early experiences at Crown Point Press, his work with celebrated artists such as John Cage, Sol LeWitt, and Walton Ford, and the technical and creative complexities of creating fine art prints. Peter reflects on his transition to semi-retirement, the passing of his studio to his son James, and the historical and artistic significance of their family farm turned artist residency. This episode offers listeners an insightful look into the dedication required in printmaking, the balance between creativity and technical skill, and the supportive community that underpins the art world. Platemark website Sign-up for Platemark emails Leave a 5-star review Support the show Get your Platemark merch Check out Platemark on Instagram Join our Platemark group on Facebook Robert Mapplethorpe (American, 1946–1989). Plate from the portfolio A Season in Hell, 1986. Photogravure printed with relief roll. Published by Limited Editions Club, photogravures by Jon Goodman and printed by Wingate Studio, text printed by Wild Carrot Press. Sol LeWitt (American, 1928–2007). Crown Point, 1980. Bound volume with photoetchings. Plate (each) 2 ½ x 2 ½ in.; sheet (each) 11 x 11 in. Published by Crown Point Press, printed by Kevin Parker. Joan Jonas (American, born 1936). Double Wheel, 1982. Color aquatint. Plate and sheet: 24 x 36 in. Published by Crown Point Press, printed by Peter Pettengill. Sol LeWitt (American, 1928–2007). Complex Forms, 1990. Hard ground etching. Sheet: 36 x 36 in.; plate: 30 x 30 in. Printed by Wingate Studio. John Cage (American, 1912–1992). Ryoku No. 4, 1985. Color drypoint. Plate: 18 x 24 in.; sheet: 18 x 24 in. Published by Crown Point Press, printed by Marcia Bartholme. John Cage (American, 1912–1992). EninKa, 1986. One of 50 smoked paper monotypes with branding on gampi paper chine collé. Sheet: 18 ½ x 24 ½ in. Published by Crown Point Press, printed by Marcia Bartholme. Walton Ford (American, born 1960). Swadeshi-cide, 1998–99. Six-plate aquatint etching with dry point, hard ground, soft ground, spit bite and sugar lift. Plate: 36 x 24 in.; sheet: 44 x 31 in. Published by Blue Heron Press, printed by Wingate Studio. Walton Ford (American, born 1960). Baba–B.G., 1997. Mixed media. 105 x 74 cm. Paul Kasmin Gallery. Walton Ford (American, born 1960). Bangalore, 2004. Six-plate aquatint etching with dry point, hard ground, soft ground, spit bite and sugar lift. Plate: 12 x 9 in.; sheet: 21 1/2 x 16 in. Published by Kasmin Gallery, printed by Wingate Studio. Ambreen Butt (American, born Pakistan, 1969). Plate from Daughter of the East, 2008. Six-plate aquatint etching with chine collé, dry point and spit bite. Plate: 13 x 18 in. ; sheet: 25 x 19 in. Printed and published by Wingate Studio. Ambreen Butt (American, born Pakistan, 1969). Plate from Daughter of the East, 2008. Six-plate aquatint etching with chine collé, dry point and spit bite. Plate: 13 x 18 in. ; sheet: 25 x 19 in. Printed and published by Wingate Studio. Ambreen Butt (American, born Pakistan, 1969). Plate from Daughter of the East, 2008. Six-plate aquatint etching with chine collé, dry point and spit bite. Plate: 13 x 18 in. ; sheet: 25 x 19 in. Printed and published by Wingate Studio. Xylor Jane (American, born 1963). Plate from Cat Hearts, 2023. Four-plate aquatint etching with sugar lift. Plate: 23 3/4 x 27 1/4 in.; sheet: 28 5/8 x 32 1/4 in. Printed and published by Wingate Studio. Xylor Jane (American, born 1963). Third Order Magic Square for Deep Sleep, 2014. Three-plate aquatint etching. Plate: 17 3/4 x 15 1/2 in.; sheet: 24 1/2 x 21 3/4 in. Published by Wingate Studio. Walton Ford (American, born 1960). Nantes, 2009. Two-plate aquatint etching with dry point, hard ground, and spit bite. Plate: 40 x 30 in.; sheet: 48 x 37 in. Published by Kasmin Gallery, printed by Wingate Studio. Daniel Rios Rodriguez (American, born 1978). South Parish, 2017. Single-plate aquatint etching with burnishing, dry point, electric engraving, hard ground and soft ground. Plate: 20 x 17 in. (oval); sheet: 22 x 30 1/2 in. Published by Wingate Studio. Gideon Bok (American, born 1966). Wingate Studio with Aldo's Press, Threnody for R.L. Burnside, 2005. Three-plate aquatint etching with burnishing, dry point, hard ground, sugar lift and white ground. Plate: 12 x 36 in.; sheet: 20 x 44 in. Printed and published by Wingate Studio. Photo: Stephen Petegorsky. Gideon Bok (American, born 1966). Wingate Studio with Aldo's Press, No Sleep 'Til Hinsdale, 2008. Five-plate aquatint etching with burnishing, dry point, hard ground, sugar lift and white ground. Plate: 12 x 36 in.; sheet: 20 x 44 in. Printed and published by Wingate Studio. Photo: Stephen Petegorsky. Louise Bourgeois (American, born France, 1911–2010). Les Fleurs, 2007. Soft ground etching, with selective wiping. Plate (in 2 vertical parts) (overall): 59 5/8 × 35 ¼ in.; sheet: 59 5/8 x 36 1/8. Published by Osiris, New York, printed by Wingate Studio. Louise Bourgeois working on I See You!!!. Louise Bourgeois (American, born France, 1911–2010). I See You!!!, 2007. Soft ground etching, with selective wiping. Plate: 55 1/2 x 21 5/8 in.; sheet: 59 1/8 x 24 1/8 in. Published by Osiris, New York, printed by Wingate Studio. Sebastian Black (American, born 1985). Composition with Registration Marks and Other Marks, 2017. Five-plate aquatint etching with burnishing, soap ground and spit bite. Plate: 24 x 18 in.; sheet: 31 ¾ x 24 1/2 in. Published and printed by Wingate Studio. L–R: Paul Singdahlsen, Peter Pettengill, Nanacy Anello, Kathan Brown, and Vito Acconci at Crown Point Press. L–R: Peter Pettengill, Ed Ruscha, Marcia Bartholme at Crown Point Press. Peter Pettengill (left) and James Pettengill working on a Sebastian Black print at Wingate Studio. Peter Pettengill working at Wingate Studio. Peter Pettengill (left) and Walton Ford working at Wingate Studio. Wingate's website: https://wingatestudio.com/ Wingate's FB page: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=wingate%20studio Instagram: @wingatestudio