The Creative Kind

In this episode I’m talking with painter Alyssa Monks about how feedback, both internal and external, shapes an artist’s work and confidence.We explore what kinds of critique have helped her over her career and how she learned to distinguish useful feedback from noise. Alyssa shares how critical comments that bother you can sometimes be the most revealing.We also dive into the psychological side of creativity: transforming your inner critic from an adversary into a problem-solving partner, trusting your own vision while staying open to perspective, and why asking who you ask for feedback matters.Alyssa reflects on navigating personal and professional critiques, choosing when to ask for input, and why hope and curiosity are essential ingredients in the studio.You can find Alyssa here at her website:  alyssamonks.com,  Here on instagramAnd here on PatreonVideo Available here:If you'd like to watch this conversation, you can find selected episodes of The Creative Kind on YouTube and on Substack. Later this year I should be able to publish videos on Apple and Spotify and will update this feed then too.  Just search The Creative Kind Podcast or follow the link in the show notes to watch the full interview with Alyssa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by artist and writer Diana Weymar, whose practice involves textiles, language, and collective participation. Diana is best known for the Tiny Pricks Project, an ongoing body of embroidered text works responding to political language, poetry, and cultural moments.We talk about what it means to make and share work when the world feels overwhelming, and how artists decide what deserves their attention. Diana speaks about translating words into thread, the difference between reacting and observing, and why slowness can be a powerful artistic tool in a fast-moving information landscape.We also discuss criticism, community, and the tension between wanting to speak out and recognising you can’t respond to everything. Diana shares how the project evolved from a small personal experiment into a global participatory archive of over 5,000 pieces, and why she’s comfortable letting a project change shape over time.This conversation explores political art, creative responsibility, and the quiet but profound impact of making something by hand. We talk about uncertainty, nuance, and the idea that art doesn’t always need to resolve issues, sometimes it simply holds space for them.Find Diana Weymar  here on instagram and also over at @tinypricksprojectand her website here at www.tinypricksproject.comYou can find the podcast here on Instagram & here on substackThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by landscape painter Debbie Mackenzie, who lives and works on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. Debbie shares how her paintings grow out of the places she spends time in, and how her ideas evolve naturally as she works toward a solo exhibition.We talk about what it means to build a body of work rather than individual paintings, and how each piece can influence the next. Debbie explains her unusual process of photographing inspiration and then never looking at the images again, relying instead on memory and feeling to guide her compositions.We also get into the realities behind the scenes; logistics, deadlines, long studio days, balancing family life, financial gaps between shows, and the emotional comedown that can happen after finishing a major series. Debbie also reflects on consistency, why she rarely changes her palette, and how small shifts like music or brushes can spark experimentation without disrupting cohesion.You can find Debbie on instagram here, her website here: www.debbiemackenzieart.comShe is represented bySYDNEY - Michael Reid Gallery - Southern Highlands & Michael Reid Northern BeachesMELBOURNE - Kelli Lundberg GalleryYou can find the podcast here on Instagram & here on substackThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by Sydney based curator, writer, and artist mentor Amber Creswell Bell to talk about what it really means to be an artist right now, particularly in a slower market.Amber brings a broad perspective from working closely with emerging artists, running a national art prize, curating exhibitions, and spending years inside the commercial gallery system. We discuss what artists can focus on when sales slow, how to think more strategically about your practice, and why relying on luck alone rarely leads to sustainable outcomes.We talk about treating your art practice as a small business, understanding your audience, and using social media with intention rather than comparison. Amber shares her thoughts on what artists often spend too much energy on, how to research galleries and opportunities more effectively, and why being visible doesn’t have to mean chasing every trend. We also discuss the role of networking and community, the importance of finding a distinct visual language, and how art prizes can help artists build confidence, credibility, and new connections.Find Amber  here on her website or here on instagramYou can find the booking link hereUpcoming Masterclasses:MELBOURNE 13th MarchSYDNEY 28th MarchPOMONA (Sunshine Coast) 29th AprilBYRON BAY 30th AprilBRISBANE 20th JuneCANBERRA: to be announced soonYou can find the podcast here on Instagram & here on substackThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

n this episode of The Creative Kind, I sit down with artists Fleur Woods and Hannah Jensen Fox to talk about the impact and significance of art workshops. Fleur, a fiber artist and paint carver Hannah, share their experiences teaching workshops and how these sessions have benefited their practices and personal growth.We explore the dynamics of workshops, the invaluable connections and community that form, and the surprising ways teaching has strengthened their own skills and confidence.  We also touch on the logistical and financial challenges of running workshops, and the rewarding ripple effects of teaching. Our conversation highlights their shared belief in the transformative power of creativity and the joy of fostering a safe, encouraging, and collaborative environment for artists.Find Fleur Woods here on her website or  here on instagramYou can find more information about Fleur’s courses hereFind Hannah Jensen Fox here on her website or here on instagramYou can find more information about Hannah’s courses hereYou can find the podcast here on Instagram & here on substackThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the showRecommendations from this episode:Fleur Recommended:Song Sung Blue - The MovieThe Alchemist by Paulo CoelhoHannah Recommended:Trent Dalton Audiobooks; Lola in the mirror and Love StoriesJulie Recommended:The Get Seen Artist Workbook by Carrie Scott Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the theme of experimenting and how it shows up across different art practices and life stages. Featuring returning guests Laura Brinin, Robyn Rich, Jenni Stringleman, Kate Owen, Ashley Longshore, and Salma Price-Nell, we look at the many ways artists approach play, curiosity, and taking creative risks.Across these conversations, we discuss what experimentation looks like in practical terms, from changing mediums and revisiting older works, to navigating the tension between intuition, commercial pressures, and personal capacity. The artists share how factors such as parenting, time limitations, and energy levels affect their willingness to take risks, and how small acts of play can keep a long or complex project moving.We also cover the importance of staying connected to a sense of discovery, even in established practices. Whether it’s exploring film, returning to ceramics, testing new colour palettes, or seeking moments of flow, each guest offers insight into how experimentation supports growth, confidence, and momentum.Find Laura Brinin at Side Gallery, website here and their instagram here:Find Robyn Rich's website here and on instagram hereFind Jenni Stringleman's website here and her newsletter here Find Kate Owen's website here and on instagram hereFind Ashley Lonshore's website here and on instagram hereFind Salma Price-Nell's website here and on instagram hereYou can find the podcast on instagram hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the showIf you've got a question you'd like me to explore- you can ask it here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode, I’m talking with Hilde Lynn Helphenstein, the mind behind Jerry Gogosian, about the current state of the art market and the realities artists are facing right now. We discuss the recent market correction, how quickly prices can rise and fall, and what that means for artists whose work becomes tied to hype cycles. Hilde talks openly about dramatic price fluctuations, pricing as an emerging artist and why artists should build lives that support their practice, not the other way around.We also cover Hilde's thoughts on the unexpected careers people can discover when they step outside the art world, and the false pressure to measure success solely through big-name galleries or institutions. Hilde shares what she would do if she were an emerging artist starting out in 2026, from keeping living costs low to prioritising making the work itself.Resources & LinksYou can find Hilde’s substack here, website here and on instagram as Jerry Gogosian hereYou can find the podcast instagram hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the showMentioned in the show:Magnus ReschDavid Sedaris If you've got a question you'd like me to explore- you can ask it here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m talking to Melbourne based miniatures artist Robyn Rich, whose work captures intimate, tiny worlds in reused and recycled objects. We talk about what it’s like to create art while living with chronic illness, and how limitations have shaped both her practice and her perspective.Robyn shares how art became a way to find her voice, to connect with others, and to make sense of her own experiences. We discuss the emotional power of small objects, the beauty of creating in a contained space, and the ways she’s built community through projects, Instagram, and her own miniature gallery.We also explore resilience, the lessons that come from rejection and illness, and how she navigates the tension between pushing herself creatively and taking care of her health. Robyn talks candidly about the challenges of sharing her work, asking for help, and finding ways to stay connected while honouring her own limits.You can Robyn’s website here and on instagram hereYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with Jenni Stringleman and Frank Gordon to talk about painting, illness, and the practical realities that shape an artist’s work. Jenni shares how her ovarian cancer was discovered, and how it’s changed the pace and priorities of her studio life.Jenni chatted about how that experience changed her priorities: she moved quickly to paint what she wanted to paint, reduced studio output at times because of physical limitations, and now chooses projects with more personal meaning.We discussed some of the coping strategies, everyday rituals and practical support that helped Jenni through this time and the complicated path of finding her new normal.You can find Jenni here and her newsletter here and her earlier interview episode here:You can find Frank Gordon here, and my previous episode with him here:You can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I speak with Kate Owen about the process of finding your market as an artist. Kate shares how trial and error has shaped her approach, from choosing the right galleries to refining the way she communicates with collectors. She talks about the importance of asking questions, and recognising when a particular avenue isn’t the right fit.We also look at the practical tools that support this process, including cataloguing artwork, building a mailing list that rewards collectors with early access to new work. Kate reflects on experimenting with newsletters, giveaways, and social media, and how paring things back over time has helped her focus on what really works. We chat about how her experience has required some experimenting and trying different strategies, seeing what sticks, and honing in on the things that align with her practice and life.Find Kate Owen website here and on instagram hereYou can find the podcast hereResources & LinksGreenhouse InteriorsCory (Corey) Huff — author / The Abundant Artist — Maggi / Maggie McDonald (artist / creative coach) —Louise King — Arlington Milne+1Bluethumb ArtArt Lovers Australia Artwork Archive Artlogic Bravery Co.Jumbled Paper PearThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Creative Kind I speak with Laura Brinin from Side Gallery in Brisbane, who also works at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Laura shares insights into what it really means to approach a gallery, from making contact in a thoughtful and personal way to understanding what galleries actually do for artists. She talks about the importance of fit, the role of community and the value of supporting your gallery as much as they support you.We also dive into the realities of confidence and perfectionism and why action builds momentum. We dip into the logistics too- Laura and I chat about contracts and deadlines. What stood out for me is her reminder that there’s no single formula for building a career, and that the work itself should always remain at the centreFind the Side Gallery website here and their instagram here:You can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the showMentioned in the show:Laura Brinin & Side GalleryDesign Front Last episode with Laura Brinin & Andrew Sleeman:Jessica Nothdurft, Kitty horton & Carolyn V Watson'The Gap' quote from Ira Glass Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I chat to Salma Price- Nell, also known as the Salsa Creative. Salma is a UK-based Cape Malay, South African artist and parent. We delve into the challenges and intersections of motherhood and maintaining an art practice. Salma discusses her primary medium of ink on paper and how her artwork, which often features organic forms like trees, has evolved since becoming a mother. We talk about the difficulties of finding time for art amidst parenting, the shift in priorities, and the therapeutic nature of creating art. Salma shares how she managed her creative practice while caring for her newborn, the importance of self-care, and the need to stay focused and present. We also touch on the impact of social media oand the lessons learned from navigating identity and productivity as a parent. Resources & LinksYou can find Salma’s website here and on instagram hereLetting Go by DavidHawkinsArt of Accomplishment by Jo HudsonYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the showIf you've got a question you'd like me to explore- you can ask it here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I talk with artist Cindy Rizza about the realities of having a creative career while parenting. We cover how becoming a mother shifted her perspective on time, discipline, and the need to treat her practice as a career. Cindy speaks about the pressures that come with both roles and how comparison and stereotypes can be hard to shed and often get in the way when every artist’s circumstances are so different.We also talk about asking for help and why that can feel so difficult, the role of community and support, and how boundaries can protect space for making. Cindy shares her thoughts on managing expectations, both internal and external, and the importance of small, consistent steps.We talk about the guilt, uncertainty, and Cindy reflects on the parts of her practice are grounding and why art-making is “that one space that is mine.”Resources & LinksYou can find Cindy’s website here and on instagram hereYou can find Cindy’s episode with the Artist/Mother podcast hereYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the showIf you've got a question you'd like me to explore- you can ask it here: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Creative Kind, I’m joined by New York-based mixed media artist Ashley Longshore. Known for her larger-than-life personality and equally bold pop-infused paintings, Ashley’s work collides Hollywood glamour, consumerism, and cultural icons.Ashley discusses her defiance of the traditional art world by building her own company to avoid the standard 50% gallery cut, stating that this move was driven by her business-minded approach rather than confidence. The conversation delves into her journey of marketing and selling her art independently, using creative strategies that bypass conventional gallery systems. Ashley emphasizes the importance of grit, resilience, and a strong inner monologue, sharing her experiences of starting out with minimal resources and networking creatively to sell her work. She highlights the role of self-love, authenticity, and the necessity of learning to discuss money openly as an artist. Additionally, Longshore touches upon her charitable efforts, such as the Ashley Longshore Charitable Trust, which supports young artists. Find Ashley here on her website or  here on instagramYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we dive into the topic of taking breaks, exploring the 'whens,' 'whys,' and 'hows' of stepping away from work. Joined by returning guests Anna Gibbs, Michael Fox, and Brandy Salmon, we discuss various perspectives on breaks, including the importance of planning downtime, financial and tax considerations, and personal strategies for recognising when it's time to pause. From mental and physical self-care to the impact of breaks on creativity and productivity, this episode highlights how artists balance their professional commitments with the need to recharge. We also explore practical advice on transitioning back to work post-break and the evolving landscape of the art world.Find Anna’s website here and on instagram hereYou can find Michael Fox's Accountant and Art Valuation website here and the Fox Galleries hereFind Brandi here on her website or here on instagram Find her wedding painting instagram page hereYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This podcast episode discusses taking breaks. This season's guests Laura Brandon, Sally Bulling, and Maria Stoljar share their different perspectives & experiences, including the differences between planned and unplanned breaks, and their impacts on professional and personal well-being. The conversation delves into the necessity of taking intentional breaks to avoid burnout, the benefits of physical and mental rest, and practical strategies for reengaging with work after a hiatus. The guests share personal anecdotes and how they manage their time and breaks. We talk about the importance of recalibration, and how breaks can lead to renewed creativity and productivity. Find Laura Brandon’s website here and on instagram hereFind Sally here and on instagram hereIf you want to find out more about Maria Stoljar & Talking with Painters, go and check out:her instagram or website  Podcast on apple, spotify (plus all the others) And her You Tube channelYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I chat with Brandi Salmon, a Wiradjuri and Tongan artist based in Lutruwita Tasmania about commissions. We talk about the ups and downs of working on commissions, from pricing and client expectations to protecting your creative energy and building long-term confidence.Brandi shares how she approaches work including landscapes, murals, portraiture to live wedding painting, and how the mix of commission and personal work has helped her grow artistically. She also opens up about the emotional and logistical sides of working with clients, why written boundaries are essential, and how she uses forms and automation to stay sane. We also dig into the impact of mentorship and the importance of finding peer support, especially as a young or emerging artist.Mentioned in this episodeArts Law- Artists in the BlackNgarrimili Find Brandi here on her website or here on instagramFind her wedding painting instagram page hereYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m talking about commissions with NZ artist Sally Bulling, who specialises in mirror paintings incorporating a variety of materials like paint, resin, and stickers. We discuss the delicate balance between commissioned work and personal pieces,and the ways commissions can push an artist’s practice in unexpected and rewarding directions. We talk about the financial upside of a commission and how they can allow experimentation with new materials and ideas. We also chat about the importance of maintaining relationships with galleries alongside commissions and Sally shares insights on managing client expectations, communicating clearly, and the benefits of taking time with commissioned pieces.Find Sally here and on instagram hereYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Creative Kind, I talk with Michael Fox, an experienced Australian arts accountant and director of Fox Galleries, about tax and accounting issues specifically for artists. We discuss the importance of treating an artistic practice as a business for tax purposes. Michael clarifies the tax reporting requirements for artists in different circumstances, including when activities transition from hobbyist to business status. The conversation also touches on common mistakes artists make in tax reporting, the significance of claiming expenses correctly, and the practical steps for managing receipts and bookkeeping. Michael emphasizes the critical role of good record-keeping and timely submission of tax returns to avoid penalties. We also explore topics like superannuation for self-employed artists and the nuances of GST for artists. We talk about the importance of clear communication between artists and galleries about financial transactions and practical advice on navigating the complexities of tax systems tailored to the arts sector.You can find Michael Fox's Accountant and Art Valuation website here and the Fox Galleries hereYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Creative Kind, I speak with Sydney-based art consultant and educator Laura Brandon about artist opportunities beyond the gallery wall. With over 20 years of experience across public art, education, archiving, and exhibition development, Laura brings deep insight into how artists can meaningfully connect with new platforms, spaces and collaborators.We talk about everything from public art projects and artist statements to grants, residencies and building your own art ecosystem. Laura offers practical tips for tailoring applications, finding your own voice in written materials, and identifying the opportunities that are actually a good fit for you and your work.We also talk about what makes a strong application, and how to make the most of mentors, peers, and support systems around you.Find Laura Brandon’s website here and on instagram hereResources & LinksHere are a few useful organisations and platforms mentioned in this episode:ArtsHubMuseums & Galleries of NSWCreative AustraliaNational Association for the Visual ArtsArtSupport AustraliaArt Prizes (@artprizes) • Instagram Art Prizes PlannerCouncil websites such as:Opportunities for artists - Inner West CouncilArts opportunities | Bondi PavilionArts & culture - Waverley CouncilYou can find the podcast hereThanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.