Art & Cocktails

Do you need a fresh start? I sure did. In this episode, I share some of the changes and healing that I had gone through in 2020. I explain the need for a rebrand for this show, my personal art evolution, the fear of change, when to let go, and digging into deeper, more soul-based dreams. Thanks for joining me! Tag me on Instagram @katerinaspopova!

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat interviews the talented Zafira Rajan, a seasoned copywriter and digital marketer with over a decade of experience supporting leading online entrepreneurs and course creators. Known for her personality-driven copy and sensory storytelling, Zafira has helped countless clients transform their marketing from "stiff and boring" to something that truly resonates and feels authentic.   What We Discuss: Tips for Creatives to Become Better Writers: Simple yet powerful strategies to enhance your writing skills, whether it's for your art, business, or personal projects. Using Your Voice: How to authentically express yourself in your writing and connect deeply with your audience. Reconnecting with Reading and Writing: The importance of reading for writers and how it can inspire and improve your writing practice. Personality-Driven Copy: Infusing your words with your unique personality to create engaging and relatable content. Sensory Storytelling: Techniques to make your stories come alive, creating a full-body experience for your readers. Balancing Creativity and Business: Navigating the challenges of being a creative entrepreneur and maintaining your artistic voice while achieving business success.   Free Resources: Design Your Custom Writing Ritual: Does sitting down to write feel more like a chore than a joy? In this mini-journal, Zafira guides you towards uncovering a writing ritual that gets you "in the zone," excited and inspired... So that you can create a nourishing writing practice that truly feels good! Access the resource at zafirarajan.com/writing-ritual.   Join Zafira's Membership: The Tide Pool: A creative writing membership where you can practice writing in real-time, receive prompts to keep you inspired, and gain tips and book recommendations. Find out more at tidepool.zafirarajan.com.   Connect with Zafira Rajan: Website: zafirarajan.com Instagram: instagram.com/zafira.rajan Substack: zafirarajan.substack.com   Tune in to discover how you can elevate your writing, engage your audience, and balance your creative and business endeavors with expert insights from Zafira Rajan. Enjoy the episode!   https://www.createmagazine.com  

In this inspiring episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova welcomes the talented Emily Jeffords, an abstract impressionist painter, creative educator, and writer from Greenville, South Carolina. Together, they dive into Emily's journey of learning to sell and market her art independently, creating eco-friendly art practices, and discovering a fulfilling creative process. Emily shares her path from art school to building a thriving career outside the traditional gallery system, offering insights for artists eager to navigate the art world on their terms. She discusses the importance of local art scenes, connecting with collectors, and pricing art confidently. Emily also opens up about the deeply personal transformation in her creative practice, fueled by finding peace and grace in her studio. In addition, Emily reveals her passion for hosting artist retreats, creating spaces where artists can immerse themselves in creativity and connection. This episode is filled with advice on embracing authenticity, fostering resilience, and building a sustainable art practice.   Topics Covered: Navigating the art world without gallery representation Building confidence and finding local art opportunities Eco-friendly practices for artists The value of creating authentic, process-driven art Emily’s retreats and their impact on artists Advice for emerging artists on pricing, marketing, and connecting with audiences   Links:   Learn more about Create! Magazine at www.createmagazine.co   The Non-Toxic Studio Guidebook Sign up for the Goal Setting Workshop (with free download for the Goal Setting Workbook) Learn more about the MAKING art WORK Masterclass Learn more about The Collective membership for artists & creatives Shop Emily's Art Collection Connect with Emily on Instagram   Tune in to discover valuable tips, heartfelt stories, and practical advice for artists at all stages! Learn more about Create! Magazine at www.createmagazine.co

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, join us for an inspiring conversation with art collector and curator Sonia Borrell, founder of the Tryson Collection. Sonia shares her journey in the art world, discussing her passion for discovering new artists and building a collection that resonates on a personal level. She offers invaluable advice for artists on creating authentically and for new collectors on how to start a collection with meaning and purpose.   Key Takeaways: Art as a healing and transformative force Collecting what you love over following market trends The importance of authenticity for artists How artists can curate their website and social media to attract collectors and galleries Tips on using social media to connect with collectors and build a community How to navigate the art world as a beginner   Whether you’re an artist looking to stand out or a collector eager to find meaningful pieces, this episode is packed with insights on how to approach art with intention, passion, and heart. Listen now for a refreshing take on art, connection, and creating from the heart.   Follow Sonia Borrell: Instagram: @soniabblondon Website: www.soniabblondon.com   Grab your copy of Sonia Borrell’s book, Art in Real-Time: Collecting Tomorrow’s Masters, and explore the world of art collecting with insights from an expert. https://amzn.to/3NWc9EL   Visit our website to learn more about Create! Magazine and Art & Cocktails Podcast www.createmagazine.co  

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova is joined once again by curator Gita Joshi. Together, they explore how artists can take control of their careers by curating their own exhibitions and creating opportunities rather than waiting for art world recognition. Ekaterina and Gita share highlights from their recent trip to Paris, where they explored both Art Basel and the thriving indie art scene, revealing how large art fairs and intimate pop-up shows can coexist and enrich the art community.   They discuss the importance of independent initiatives, the power of artist-led shows, and why now is the time for artists to take control over their creative destiny. For emerging artists feeling the pressure to "make it" or gain gallery representation, Ekaterina and Gita offer practical advice on how to establish visibility, build connections, and foster a meaningful art practice.   In this Episode, You’ll Learn: Insights from Art Basel Paris and the indie galleries that stood out How artist-led initiatives can serve as stepping stones toward larger opportunities Why curation isn’t just for gallerists—how artists can be their own curators Tips on mounting your own exhibition, finding accessible venues, and attracting media attention The role of community and collaboration in an artist’s journey How to maintain motivation and resilience in challenging times   Special Offer: Join Ekaterina and Gita’s program, Your Own Art Show, to receive step-by-step guidance on curating your exhibitions, marketing them effectively, and making a powerful impression on your audience. Enroll before the end of the month to access exclusive bonuses, including one-on-one feedback on your press release, PR support, and visualizations to help you plan your body of work. Join Your Own Art Show Program today! Don't miss our special limited time bonuses.   Links & Resources: Your Own Art Show Program Connect with Gita Joshi: Website | Instagram Connect with Create! Magazine: Website | Instagram   Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who needs a creative boost!

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Tim Fowler, a full-time artist based in Leicester, UK. Known for his bold, semi-abstract paintings bursting with vivid pinks, teals, and blues, Tim opens up about his creative journey, from experimenting with portraits and cityscapes to finding his voice in botanical themes inspired by his Caribbean heritage. We discuss how a serendipitous encounter with banana plants in his studio led him to explore the intersections of art, history, and cultural identity. Tim shares invaluable insights on developing creative confidence, the power of taking risks, and his philosophy of painting for the gallery you want, not the one you have. He talks candidly about balancing commercial success with personal exploration, staying prolific, and pushing through self-doubt. If you're an artist looking to break free from creative blocks, embrace new challenges, or scale up your work, this episode is a must-listen.   Key Takeaways: How Tim discovered his passion for large-scale botanical paintings The importance of self-belief and making your own opportunities in the art world Practical tips on staying motivated, navigating setbacks, and maintaining creative authenticity   https://www.timjfowler.co.uk   Sponsored by: Create! Magazine: Your source for contemporary art and opportunities for artists. Visit www.createmagazine.com to explore open calls and get published.

In this insightful episode, Dr. Aubry Alvarez Bakker shares her expertise in using breathwork and creativity to manage stress, regulate the nervous system, and enhance overall well-being. She discusses how these practices can improve performance and support the manifestation of personal goals. The conversation explores the synergy between science and spirituality, focusing on how nervous system regulation can help individuals move beyond survival mode, embrace creativity, and foster a mindset of abundance. Dr. Aubry and Ekaterina Popova examine the healing potential of art, explaining how creativity serves as a medium for self-expression, emotional regulation, and personal growth. Dr. Aubry also introduces her new program, Breath and Body, aimed at empowering individuals with tools for breathwork and emotional balance.   www.instagram.com/dr.aubry/   Get a free trial of Breath & Body: https://certified.movmntmethod.com/sign-up-to-the-free-trial   Visit Create! Magazine to subscribe or submit your work:  Save 20% off by using the code 'NEWREADER' to subscribe to our digital magazine https://www.createmagazine.co     Key Takeaways: Breathwork for Stress Relief: Simple breathing techniques help manage stress and anxiety, signaling safety to the heart and promoting physiological balance. Creativity as Growth Catalyst: Engaging in creative work encourages personal healing, expression, and can counteract scarcity mindset. Nervous System Health: Regulating the nervous system is crucial for peak performance, creativity, and successful goal-setting. Abundance through Art: Creativity offers a channel for personal empowerment, establishing a safe space to explore deeper emotions. Overcoming Creative Blocks: Regular creative practices and breathwork can help artists and creatives move beyond creative “freeze” states.   Sound Bites: "Stress, scarcity, and lack are incompatible with a creative mindset." "Breathwork and creativity are essential for managing stress." "Art and abundance go hand in hand." "Creating something is a powerful way to overcome scarcity." "The act of creating art fuels a sense of empowerment."   Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Stress Management and Creativity 03:10 – Dr. Aubry’s Background and Creative Journey 05:48 – Breathwork and Nervous System Regulation 09:09 – The Science Behind Breathwork 12:00 – Practical Steps for Incorporating Breathwork 14:55 – Moving Beyond Survival Mode 17:47 – Creativity’s Incompatibility with Scarcity 21:30 – Embracing Abundance through Creative Practice 24:49 – The Healing Potential of Art 28:22 – Art as a Tool for Nervous System Regulation 30:44 – Navigating Creative Blocks 38:35 – Introduction to the Breath and Body Program   This episode offers valuable insights for artists, creatives, and anyone interested in using breathwork and creativity as tools for personal and professional growth.

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, I’m (host Ekaterina Popova, Kat) sharing my personal reflections on the power of art after an amazing experience at Art Basel Paris. I’ll dive into the joy of reconnecting with my art community, the inspiring conversations I had, and some of the most meaningful moments from the fair. This isn’t just about what I saw—it’s about how art connects us, helps us grow, and why it’s more important now than ever. So, join me as we explore how we can all embrace our unique creative paths and make art a bigger part of our lives. Blog Post: https://www.createmagazine.co/blog/why-art-matters-today-reflections-from-art-basel-paris-2024 Call For Art: https://www.createmagazine.co/call-for-art Become a Subscriber and Support Indie Art Publishing: https://www.createmagazine.co/magazine   Key Takeaways: Art is a remedy for survival and thriving. Connections made through art are invaluable. AI cannot replace the human experience in art. Smaller works can be just as impactful as larger ones. Art serves as a bridge across cultures and languages. The art community thrives on collaboration and support. Art is essential for expressing complex emotions. Artists should respect their own work and its value. Art can provide a break from societal challenges. Creativity is vital for personal and collective growth.   Chapters: 00:00 - The Transformative Power of Art 03:42 - Experiencing Art Basel Paris 06:25 - Connections and Community in the Art World 09:29 - The Role of Technology in Art 12:20 - Reflections on Art's Importance 15:38 - Invitation to Embrace Art's Gifts 17:29 - Outro

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova speaks with Chelsea Pippen-Mizzi, author and tarot reader, about the fascinating intersection of tarot and creativity. Chelsea shares her personal journey from skeptic to tarot enthusiast, discussing how tarot can serve as a powerful tool for artists and entrepreneurs. Together, they explore practical tips for beginners, the importance of personal exploration, and how tarot can help overcome creative blocks without fostering fear. Chelsea also delves into her book Tarot for Creativity, offering valuable insights and exercises designed to spark inspiration in any creative practice.   Key Takeaways: Tarot is a powerful tool for overcoming creative blocks. Chelsea's tarot journey began as a skeptic and evolved into a passion. Understanding tarot through storytelling and archetypes enhances creativity. Personal exploration is essential when navigating spirituality and tarot. Tarot for Creativity provides practical exercises for artists to explore. Tarot acts as a mirror for self-understanding and personal growth. Approach tarot with curiosity, playfulness, and openness. Choosing a tarot deck is a personal and creative experience. Everyday activities, like walking, can inspire creativity and offer clarity. Tarot is accessible to everyone—anyone can buy a deck and get started. 38:30 - How Daily Life Activities Can Spark Creative Inspiration Perfect for artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs curious about using tarot as a tool for self-discovery, inspiration, and overcoming creative challenges!   Links Website: https://tarotforcreativity.com Substack: https://theshuffle.substack.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pipcardstarot Tarot for Creativity: https://lnk.to/tarotforcreativity (Out October 1 in North America, Nov 7th globally)     Other books: The Shadow Path: https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/chelsey-pippin-mizzi/the-shadow-path/9781035055685 (out in the UK/EU January 2 2025) The Tarot Spreads Yearbook: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-tarot-spreads-yearbook/chelsey-pippin-mizzi/9781446309643 (Out now)     Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Welcoming Chelsea Pippen-Mizzi 02:45 - Chelsea's Journey into Tarot: From Skeptic to Enthusiast 07:15 - Using Tarot to Overcome Creative Blocks 12:10 - The Role of Archetypes and Storytelling in Tarot 16:45 - Exploring Tarot for Creativity: Practical Exercises for Artists 21:30 - Interpreting Tarot in a Way That Fosters Creativity 26:00 - The Importance of Personal Exploration and Spirituality 31:05 - Approaching Tarot with Curiosity and Playfulness 34:55 - Choosing the Right Tarot Deck for Your Journey     www.createmagazine.com

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova shares a personal update as an artist and entrepreneur. She dives deep into the challenges of balancing business and creativity, the importance of self-care, and the joy she’s found in returning to the basics of direct art sales. Ekaterina emphasizes the need to reconnect with your artistic roots and nurture your creativity to overcome burnout and rediscover abundance. Tune in for inspiring insights on personal growth, mindfulness, and the power of simplicity in your art practice. Key Takeaways: Success can be a distraction; stay focused on your personal vision. Art requires presence and a quiet mind. Rebuilding life after burnout can help rediscover creativity. Direct sales bring joy and connection to the art process. A mindful morning routine can improve mental clarity. Self-care is essential for maintaining a creative flow. Building a deep relationship with your art fosters abundance. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Personal Update 03:03 - Navigating the Balance Between Business and Art 05:53 - Rebuilding Life and Creativity After Burnout 09:02 - Returning to Basics: The Joy of Direct Sales 12:13 - The Importance of Connection and Creativity

In this inspiring episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat sits down with Antonio DeAscanis, founder of BlkOps Fitness, Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, and fitness coach. Antonio shares his powerful journey from his time in the Marine Corps to becoming a successful gym owner, blending his passion for fitness, community, and creativity.   Episode Highlights: Antonio's Early Life & Inspiration: Learn how a strong sense of adventure and early life experiences shaped Antonio’s drive to create something unique in the fitness world. Marine Corps Influence: Antonio discusses his journey through the Marine Corps, overcoming challenges, building leadership skills, and how this shaped his approach to fitness and entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurial Journey: Discover the humble beginnings of BlkOps Fitness and how Antonio integrated various experiences from his military service, love for music, and DJing into creating a gym that feels more like a creative space than a traditional fitness facility. Creative Vision for BlkOps Fitness: Antonio’s gym is known for its unique aesthetic, featuring murals, neon lights, and a vibe that combines the best of fitness and art. He shares the inspiration behind his design choices and how art and fitness can intersect in meaningful ways. Building a Strong Community: Antonio talks about the importance of creating a supportive, inspiring environment at BlkOps Fitness, where individuals from different walks of life come together and push each other to achieve their goals. Navigating Challenges: From building a business from scratch to handling the pressures of entrepreneurship, Antonio offers invaluable insights on perseverance, branding, and standing out by embracing your uniqueness. Advice for New Entrepreneurs: Whether you're an artist or an entrepreneur, Antonio shares practical tips on starting with limited resources, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of staying true to your vision.   Key Takeaways: Life experiences, even the tough ones, can fuel creativity and entrepreneurship. Branding is personal—don’t let external noise distract you from who you are and what you want to create. Perseverance and community-building are critical elements in sustaining a successful business. There’s no blueprint for creativity; sometimes, breaking the mold is what makes your brand stand out.   Connect with Antonio: Instagram: @blkopsfitness  Website: blkopsfitness.com   If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram for more inspiring conversations with creatives and entrepreneurs!

In this mini episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova (Kat) shares practical strategies for artists and creatives to generate quick income in their businesses. She explores the importance of being resourceful and creative, especially with the unpredictable nature of the art market. The episode offers actionable ideas like hosting workshops, selling limited edition prints, and offering one-on-one mentoring sessions to help listeners find financial stability while staying true to their artistic passions. Key Takeaways: Be resourceful and creative in your business approach. The art market may be unpredictable, but opportunities for quick income exist. Host mini workshops to share your skills and generate revenue. Limited edition prints create urgency and offer value to your audience. Treat your art business like a form of creativity and enjoyment. Record your ideas for future projects.   Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Quick Cash Strategies for Creatives 03:07 – Understanding the Current Art Market Landscape 06:12 – Practical Ideas for Generating Quick Income 08:50 – Embracing Creativity in Business and Conclusion       Join my free masterclass:  Discover How to Become a Full-Time Artist https://www.theartqueens.com/pl/2148259578  

In this solo episode of Art & Cocktails, your host Ekaterina Popova, artist and founder of Create! Magazine, explores how your art and the joy you find in creating can lead to true abundance in your career. Kat dives into the science behind creativity and joy, referencing the book Your Brain on Art, and shares personal experiences of how following her passion brought unexpected success. She also discusses the power of manifesting through authenticity and explains how shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance can open up limitless opportunities for artists. If you’re ready to stop chasing money and start leading with joy, this episode is for you! Timestamps: 00:40 – Intro and overview 04:00 – The neuroscience of creativity and joy (Your Brain on Art) 09:30 – Manifesting success through passion and authenticity 14:00 – The abundance mindset vs. scarcity mindset 18:00 – Personal examples and closing thoughts Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Create! Magazine. Discover their open calls for artists at www.createmagazine.co.

Summary: In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova and Gita Joshi discuss the powerful intersection of mindset and practical strategies for artists. They delve into the importance of energy work, understanding your true desires, and how to navigate the inevitable frustrations of the art world. The conversation highlights the need for artists to embrace their personal power, reframe their relationships with galleries and commissions, and focus on mindset shifts to achieve success. The episode concludes with actionable tips for artists to reclaim their power and align their actions with their true goals.   Grab our free exhibition marketing checklist: https://createmagazine.mykajabi.com/pl/2147654601   Takeaways: Mindset work is crucial for artist success. Understand how your energy influences your work and opportunities. Clarify what you truly want in your art career. Avoid letting frustration and negativity block your progress—find positive spaces. View gallery commissions as marketing fees, not losses. Maintain pricing consistency to build trust with collectors. Recognize your power as an artist—don’t feel victimized by the market. Cultivate self-worth and confidence to attract the right opportunities. Reframe negative experiences as opportunities for growth and learning. Understand your decision-making process to enhance your creative journey. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Art & Cocktails 02:52 – The Importance of Mindset in Art 10:42 – Desires vs. Reality in the Art World 18:37 – Navigating Frustration and Negativity 25:45 – Reframing Gallery Commissions 32:59 – Understanding Your True Desires 54:48 – Final Tips for Artists   Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will help you shift your mindset, reclaim your power, and make strides in your art career!   About Gita Joshi: Gita Joshi is an independent curator, art dealer, and coach for artists. She is the founder of The Curator’s Salon, where she provides practical business advice, mindset support, and mentorship to help artists build sustainable, profitable careers. With a background in both curating and finance, Gita has a unique approach that blends practical strategies with energy work to help artists elevate their creative practices and gain visibility in the art world. She is also the author of Show Your Art and hosts The Curator’s Salon podcast. For more information, visit The Curator's Salon. @thegitajoshi      

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova welcomes back artist Kristy Gordon to discuss her new book, Become a Great Artist. Together, they chat about the importance of authenticity, overcoming creative blocks, and developing the mindset necessary for artistic success. Kristy offers practical tips for artists, including the significance of dedicating just 25 minutes a day to their craft, and shares an exciting preview of what readers can expect from her upcoming book, set to launch on November 5th. Summary Kristy Gordon returns to Art & Cocktails to discuss her book Become a Great Artist. She and Ekaterina explore key themes such as staying authentic in one’s work, consistently overcoming creative challenges, and adopting a mindset that fosters artistic growth. The conversation provides listeners with practical advice for nurturing their creativity and maintaining inspiration. Kristy also offers a sneak peek into her book, sharing how it will benefit artists across all mediums. Takeaways Creating authentic work is fundamental to artistic success. Following what excites you will guide your artistic journey. Overcoming creative blocks requires regular practice and patience. Inspiration often comes from daily engagement.   https://www.createmagazine.co/call-for-art www.kristygordon.com Pre-order the new book: https://www.down2art.com/book-launch Instagram: @kristygordonart

In today’s episode of Art & Cocktails, we dive deep into the power of mindset with Amy van Meijl, a money coach, teacher, and host of the Manifesting Millions podcast. If you’ve been struggling to feel abundant or need a little money pep talk, this episode is for you! Amy shares her transformative journey of shifting her financial mindset, turning traditional advice on its head, and building wealth by empowering herself and other women. We also explore how to navigate tough seasons, rebuild trust in yourself, and create a thriving relationship with money. Amy breaks down the barriers to financial wisdom and shares practical tools that can help you reclaim control and confidence in your financial journey. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or someone ready to rewrite their money story, this episode offers wisdom, insights, and actionable steps to begin your own journey towards abundance.   Create! Magazine Open Call for Artists: https://www.createmagazine.co/call-for-art   Key Takeaways: How to shift your mindset around money and see debt as leverage rather than a burden. The importance of small wins and celebrating progress, no matter how tiny. How to navigate difficult times and trust that everything is happening for you, not to you. Practical tips on building wealth and transforming your financial mindset.   Guest Info: Amy van Meijl is the host of the Manifesting Millions podcast and creator of the transformational money program Building Fempires. With over 20 years of financial study, she’s passionate about breaking down the barriers to financial knowledge and empowering women to take control of their financial futures. Follow Amy: amyvanmeijl.com  Building Fempires: amyvanmeijl.com/money Instagram & TikTok Handles are both @amyvanmeijl (Instagram link) (TikTok link) And the podcast is: Manifesting Millions (Spotify link)

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, we sit down with Reese Evans, the visionary behind Yes Supply, to explore the transformative power of combining science and manifestation. Reese shares her inspiring journey from a chaotic home life and toxic retail job to creating a thriving business that empowers others to tap into their full potential. We dive deep into the science behind manifestation, discussing how our thoughts and intentions shape our reality, backed by research and real-life examples. Reese offers practical advice for artists and creatives on how to elevate their mindset, create opportunities, and align with their highest selves. Whether you're looking to manifest your dreams or are curious about the science behind it all, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable steps. Key Takeaways: The impact of mindset on reality and how to shift your perspective. The importance of saying "yes" to yourself and creating your own opportunities. How to navigate imposter syndrome and stay aligned with your vision. Practical steps to normalize wealth and success in your life. Insights into Yes Supply’s coaching certification and how it equips you to help others while transforming your own life. Links Mentioned: Learn more about the Yes Supply Method Certification  Free Masterclass Aligning to Abundance Masterclass Access the "Yes, It's Yours" course: yesupply.co/yes-its-yours Follow Reese on YouTube for free resources: YouTube Channel   Tune in to discover how you can transform your reality with the power of manifestation and science!

In this must-listen episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova is joined by the phenomenal Amie McNee, artist, author, and the creative force behind the Instagram sensation @inspiredtowrite. Together, they have an honest and empowering discussion about the transformative power of self-acceptance and why now, more than ever, it’s crucial to stop hiding your art and start sharing your unique voice with the world.   Amie candidly shares her journey from self-doubt to self-publishing success, offering invaluable insights into navigating the challenges of the creative process, dealing with online misunderstandings, and the importance of diversifying income streams as a creative. She also gives us an exclusive preview of her highly anticipated upcoming book, We Need Your Art, a guide designed to help artists break through creative blocks and fully embrace their potential.   Whether you're an emerging artist or a seasoned creator, this episode is packed with actionable advice, inspiration, and the push you need to stop f*king around and start making your mark. Don’t miss out on this deep dive into what it truly means to be a creative in today’s world.   Sponsored by: Create! Magazine – Your go-to online platform for creative business support, education, and publishing opportunities. Unlock your potential at Create! Magazine.   Use the code "NEWREADER" to save 20% off digital subscriptions.   Next Steps:   Pre-order Amie McNee's upcoming book We Need Your Art, releasing on March 13th 2025. https://www.amiemcnee.com/we-need-your-art-book Share the episode on Instagram and tag @inspiredtowrite and @createmagazine. Learn more at www.amiemcnee.com   This conversation will inspire you to embrace your creativity, overcome self-doubt, and boldly share your art with the world. 

In this special episode of Art & Cocktails, host Kat (Ekaterina Popova) welcomes the incredible artist, writer, and mystic Rebecca Campbell. Dive into an inspiring conversation that explores the profound intersection of creativity and spirituality. Rebecca shares her journey from a successful career in advertising to fully embracing her soul’s calling, offering powerful insights on trusting the creative process, navigating change, and the importance of creating from the heart rather than producing for external validation. Kat and Rebecca delve into the challenges artists face in today's fast-paced, content-driven world and how to reconnect with the deeper essence of creation. Rebecca's mantra "Be the mystic, not the machine" serves as a guiding light for creatives feeling overwhelmed by societal pressures. Discover how to honor your unique pace, embrace the cyclical nature of creativity, and find the courage to release what no longer serves you. Tune in to hear about Rebecca’s latest book, Your Soul Had a Dream, Your Life Is It, a powerful exploration of change, rebirth, and the sacredness all around us. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to align with their true creative path.   Powerful Quotes: "Create, don’t produce. The world may push you to keep producing, but true magic comes from creating from within." "Our time here is precious; trust the spark and let your creations originate from you, not from external demands." "Be the mystic, not the machine. Stay in your potency and create for yourself, not for validation."   Connect with Rebecca Campbell: Website: RebeccaCampbell.me Preorder Your Soul Had a Dream, Your Life Is It here https://rebeccacampbell.me/yoursoulhadadream/ Follow Rebecca on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/rebeccacampbell_author  

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova sits down with Michigan-based artist Sara Glupker for a powerful conversation on how to build and grow an independent art career without relying on galleries. Sara, who operates her art business from a lovely remote studio next to a cornfield, shares her journey of becoming a successful artist while balancing the roles of a mother and wife. Her vibrant, nature-inspired paintings and her ability to thrive outside of a traditional urban art scene serve as a testament to the possibilities for artists everywhere.   Kat and Sara explore essential strategies for building an independent art career, focusing on the importance of cultivating a strong email list, leveraging personal relationships, and embracing collaboration as key tools for success. Sara reveals how she transitioned from working with galleries to selling directly from her studio, discussing the freedom and challenges that come with this shift. She offers practical advice on how to maintain work-life balance, stay motivated, and create meaningful connections with collectors.   Sara also introduces her upcoming workshop, "How to Create and Sell Your Artist Calendar," where she shares her proven methods for generating a new income stream through artist calendars. She discusses the benefits of pre-sales, the importance of creating memorable customer experiences, and how to strategically market art products without overwhelming oneself with inventory.   Whether you're an artist looking to take control of your career, find new ways to connect with collectors, or explore alternative income streams, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.   In this episode, you’ll learn: How Sara built a successful art business outside of a major city. The importance of an email list and personal relationships in growing an art career. Strategies for transitioning from gallery representation to independent sales. Tips for balancing family life with a thriving art business. How to collaborate with other industries to expand your reach. Details on Sara's workshop on creating and selling artist calendars.   Resources mentioned: Sign up for Sara’s Calendar Workshop: https://www.saraglupkerart.com/store-1/p/calendarworkshop Use Code: CREATE at checkout to receive 20% off the workshop (before August 20th)   Find Sara Glupker here: Website: https://www.saraglupkerart.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraglupker Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaraStrongGlupkerArtist I Like Art Podcast: https://ilikeart.libsyn.com Follow I Like Art Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ilikeart.podcast    Connect with Ekaterina: Visit Create! Magazine for more inspiration and resources. Follow Ekaterina on Instagram: @katerinaspopova   Tune in to hear how you can wow your collectors and build a thriving, independent art career on your own terms!