Empowering The Artist Within

So many of us long to share our art, our voice, or even just a glimpse of ourselves online but when it comes to actually doing it, confidence crumbles. The inner critic kicks in, negative thoughts spiral, and before we know it, we’ve shrunk ourselves small again. If that feels familiar, this episode is for you. I open up about my own journey of building confidence; from barely being able to speak up on video calls, to recording podcast episodes without a script. Along the way, I share the practices and mindset shifts that helped me grow braver, and the importance of having community support when you’re learning to show up. Together we’ll look at: Why negative thoughts and limiting beliefs keep us quiet and small. How to reframe those stories into encouragement and possibility. Why giving yourself permission to be imperfect is one of the most freeing things you can do. The magic of sharing your work even if it’s messy, unfinished, or unpolished. How letting go actually makes space for new opportunities. You’ll walk away from this episode with encouragement to start showing up as you are, permission to be imperfect, and a reminder that your creativity is worth celebrating. Because your art is magic. And it deserves to be seen.----more---- With thanks to my supporters; @artistkaisahart  @annafmacdonaldart @sg_art_and_journals ----more----Connect with me - Liz Ross: For more inspiration & creative encouragement follow me on Instagram @artbylizross or sign up for my newsletter at artbylizross.com  ☕️ If you enjoyed this episode support the show by buying me a coffee  Grab my FREE Procreate Masterclass here

If you’ve enjoyed my art or podcast, you can now buy me a coffee ☕ to support me and keep the creativity flowing! Welcome to this week’s episode of Empowering the Artist Within with Liz Ross. I am so excited to bring you this extra special bonus episode this month. Today I’m joined by the incredible Louise Fletcher; Artist, mentor, and creator of the transformative courses Find Your Joy and Find Your Voice. In this honest conversation Louise shares her journey from overcoming her limiting beliefs to mentoring hundreds of artists worldwide, and how her work helps creatives break free from perfectionism to rediscover their authentic voice. We dive into the heart of her teaching: trusting your intuition, embracing mistakes, and showing up for your art consistently. We also explore the power of community through her Art Tribe membership, and how art can be a mirror for life - teaching patience, self-acceptance, and presence. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Rediscover Your Voice: Louise’s courses gently guide you out of perfectionism and back into your own creative flow, helping you trust and celebrate your unique artistic voice. Trust Your Intuition: How to move from copying to expressing yourself freely. Let your instincts lead the way and watch your art come alive with authenticity. Embrace Imperfection: The “mistakes” are often where the magic happens. Allow yourself to be messy, playful, and real, and your work will naturally become more expressive and personal. The Power of Community: Being part of Art Tribe reminds you that you’re not alone. Support, encouragement, and shared growth spark confidence and inspire experimentation in ways you can’t achieve on your own. Show Up Consistently: Waiting for the perfect moment or a burst of inspiration can hold you back. Showing up, even when it feels hard, builds momentum, trust, and a stronger connection to your creative self. Safe Sharing: Putting your work out into the world can feel vulnerable but it’s in that openness where connection, feedback, and real growth happen. 💡 Try This: Paint or draw for 20 minutes without judgment. Focus on process, not perfection. Notice what happens when you release expectations. Connect with Louise Fletcher: If you want to explore Louise’s teaching further, you can sign up for her free course here: https://www.louisefletchercourses.com/creative-reset and start your journey toward creative freedom today. Follow Louise; Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/louisefletcher_art/ Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/louisefletcherart Website; https://www.louisefletcherart.com   Connect with Liz Ross: For more inspiration & creative encouragement follow me on Instagram @artbylizross or sign up for my newsletter at artbylizross.com  ☕️ Loved this episode? Support the show by buying me a coffee 

Welcome to Empowering the Artist Within, the podcast that nurtures your creativity, builds your confidence, and reminds you that your art and your story matter. I’m your host, Liz Ross, and today’s conversation is a tender and expansive one with the wonderful artist and community builder, Kasia Hart. Together we explore what it really looks like to keep showing up for your creativity while navigating the realities of life. We talk about creative momentum, resistance, and the beauty of being witnessed by someone who just gets it. It’s open, honest, and full of those “me too” moments that make artist friendships so meaningful.   If you’ve ever questioned your pace, your voice, or your place in the creative world, this one’s for you.  What to Expect: Honest reflections on creative identity and self-doubt The difference between being productive and being present How to keep going when resistance shows up Why community and artist friendships matter so much Thoughts on showing up as yourself Talking about your work, showing your work, and letting it evolve Key Takeaways: Your art doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful. Artist friendships are medicine - you don’t need to create alone. It’s okay to grow slowly. It’s okay to start again. Your creativity doesn’t disappear - it transforms. Talking about your work helps you understand it. Showing up imperfectly is better than not showing up at all. Artists & Links Mentioned: Liz Ross @artbylizross | www.artbylizross.com Kasia Hart: galiaalena.com Lewis Noble: //www.lewisnoble.co.uk/   Louise Fletcher @louisefletcher_art | https://www.louisefletcherart.com/  If this conversation resonated: Subscribe to Empowering the Artist Within Leave a review; it helps others find this space Share it with an artist friend who needs encouragement Find more stories + support at artbylizross.com Follow me on Instagram: Join my mailing list for private podcast episodes.

Take a gentle pause in your day... In this grounding affirmation episode, I’m inviting you to soften. To breathe. To speak to yourself the way you speak to the people you love - with kindness.  If you’ve been hard on yourself lately, questioning your creativity, or caught in comparison, this is your reminder that kindness is strength and you are worthy of your own tenderness. These affirmations were written to help you reconnect with your self-worth, your voice, and your creative confidence. So let this episode be a soft landing for you, open up and give yourself time, space and the love you deserve.  🌸 You’ll hear affirmations for: Creative confidence and self-love Letting go of comparison and perfection Speaking kindly to yourself Trusting your creative voice Growing your art practice from a place of compassion This is for the artists who give so much, but forget to refill their own cup. Let this be that moment. 🎧 Take a breath, get still, and let’s begin. ✨ If this episode resonates with you, please consider:  Subscribing to Empowering the Artist Within Leaving a kind review - it helps other creatives find this space Sharing this with someone who needs a little gentleness today Let’s keep building a creative life rooted in connection, community, and freedom of expression -together. 💛 📍 Connect with me: Instagram: @artbylizross Website: www.artbylizross.com Join my mailing list for private podcast episodes.

Is it ever too late to become a full-time artist? In this episode, Host of Empowering the Artist Within, Liz Ross talks with painter and printmaker Sam Waters, Sam shares how she reignited her creativity after decades in corporate life and what it really took to rebuild her confidence, momentum, and art practice from the ground up. Liz and Sam explore how past experiences can support your creative future, why community and artist friendships matter, and the mindset shifts that helped Sam step into life as a working artist.  For anyone navigating the space between a creative calling and real-life responsibilities, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and honest encouragement.   Sam's encouragement; “It’s never the worst thing that happens. In fact, usually more opportunities open up.”   🎯 Key Takeaways You’re never too late. Creative energy doesn’t disappear - it waits. Your past is not a detour. Every job or skill can fuel your art life now. Treat your art like it matters. Know your worth, track your numbers, and plan intentionally. Creative friendships are fuel. Find your people - they’ll keep you going. Momentum is built, not found. Small actions; sketchbooks, shows, community - it all adds up. Give yourself freedom. Time spent organising, thinking, or pausing is still part of the process.   🔗 Links & Resources Sam’s Website Follow Sam on Instagram – @samwatersartist Connected Artist Club Waitlist – Listen to Episode 20 with Alice Sheridan   ✨ If this episode resonated with you… Share it with a friend who’s returning to their creativity. Leave a review - it helps other artists find the show. Join my newsletter for inspiration, private podcast and support for your art journey: I'm in! Explore more episodes at: artbylizross.com/podcast

How to Be Seen as a Sensitive Creative: Visibility Without Overwhelm Have you ever felt that lump in your throat when it’s time to share your work? Like you’re about to reveal a piece of your soul to the world? In this personal solo episode of Empowering the Artist Within, we explore the vulnerability of being visible as a creative, especially for sensitive souls, women, and those who’ve grown up with messages about staying quiet, small, or “perfect.” We talk about the fear of being seen, how past experiences and perfectionism feed that fear, and most importantly how to begin sharing your work in a way that feels safe, empowering, and true to you. This is a gentle space to reflect, feel understood, and take small steps toward being more visible without the overwhelm. Because showing up isn’t about being loud or flawless, it’s about being real and authentic. In this episode, we explore: Why visibility feels so uncomfortable and how to move through that fear with care The difference between expression and exposure and why you get to set the boundaries How to reframe vulnerability as a strength, not a weakness Gentle ways to practice “safe visibility” and build your confidence over time Why imperfect, raw creative work is often the most powerful A personal story from a year ago when I felt nervous speaking out, but did it anyway A reminder that your voice matters, even when it’s quiet, imperfect and ra Episode Takeaways Recap: Fear of being seen is natural, it means you care Visibility doesn’t mean baring all. You get to choose what, how, and when you share Vulnerability is courage in action Sharing your work helps you grow even when it’s messy or unfinished Safe, empowering visibility is something you can build gently, at your own pace Community matters, you don’t have to do it alone Every small act of showing up creates momentum You don’t need to be perfect to be powerful Connect with Liz Ross: Facebook Group; https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity Website; artbylizross.com. Tag me on Instagram @artbylizross and let me know what this episode brought up for you. I love hearing your reflections. 🎧 Prefer to listen to these reflections by email? I’m now offering audio versions of select newsletters stay subscribed and you’ll get access first! Sign up to my email list: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share

In this soul-nourishing episode, Liz Ross is joined by the incredible Alice Sheridan; artist, mentor, and founder of the Connected Artist Club. Alice has been a guiding light in my own creative path, and it was such a joy to sit down with her and explore what it truly means to live a creative life. We talk about how our art reflects the seasons we’re in, how it helps us explore who we’re becoming, and why creativity is never linear. Alice shares powerful insights on permission, process, and what it means to create from the heart. We also explore the origins and evolution of the Connected Artist Club and why Alice has always made space for both structure and softness, strategy and soul, in the way she supports artists. This episode is an open-hearted look at how we grow; not just as artists, but as humans. ✨ Takeaways from this episode include: Why art is a space to explore the parts of yourself that aren’t fully formed yet How your creative seasons shift with your life and that’s okay The value of community and why artists thrive when they're not isolated That you don’t have to monetize your art for it to matter The difference between gathering information and making real change The three pillars of growth inside the Connected Artist Club: Self, Studio Practice, and Structure Why Alice created a membership instead of a course and how it’s evolved over time How to make peace with going at your own pace That nurturing your creativity can be enough, it doesn’t need to be justified The value of slow, steady, heart-led growth 🌼 Listen in for a thoughtful, real and encouraging chat and don’t forget to check out Alice’s Connected Artist Club if you’re looking for long-term support in your creative life. You can find out more and put your name on the waitlist here; Connected Artist Waitlist    Find Alice Sheridan: www.alicesheridan.com | @alicesheridanstudio  Find Liz Ross: www.artbylizross.com | @artbylizross Find Kaisa Hart: www.kaisahart.com | @artistkaisahart  If this conversation resonated: Subscribe to Empowering the Artist Within Leave a review; it helps others find this space Share it with an artist friend who needs encouragement Find more stories + support at artbylizross.com Follow me on Instagram: @artbylizross  

In this calming episode of Empowering the Artist Within, we’re focusing on the power of kind self-talk. You’ll be guided through a gentle set of affirmations designed to support your mindset, boost your emotional wellbeing, and soften your inner critic. Whether you’re creating, reflecting, or simply need a moment of grounding, these affirmations will help you connect with your inner voice and speak to yourself with more compassion. Let this be a reminder: your words have power and you deserve to be on the receiving end of your own kindness 💖 Perfect for listening while journaling, making art, or starting your day.   🔗 Connect with Me & Explore More 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com 🎙️Empowering The Artist Within Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/empowering-the-artist-within 📸 Instagram: @artbylizross 📘 Facebook Page: Art by Liz Ross 🎥 YouTube: @artbylizross 📌 Pinterest: @artbylizross 🎵 TikTok: @artbylizross 💬 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community   💌Sign up to my email list: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share

In Part 2 of my conversation with minimalist artist and founder of The Organised Artist, Anna Macdonald, we dive even deeper into how she created clarity and calm in the midst of life’s chaos. Anna shares how her experience with ADHD, anxiety, and motherhood led her to seek a more peaceful, structured way of living and how her passion for minimalism, organisation, and creativity came together to support her own healing. Now she's helping artists to take control of their lives, through her membership - The Organised Artist. We talk about: The overstimulation creatives often experience and how to gently reduce it How physical space affects emotional wellbeing and creative focus The power of giving yourself permission to do what feels right Simple ways to create structure when time, energy, or brain space is limited How Anna discovered her gift and built a business around helping others do the same Whether you’re navigating overwhelm, ADHD, or just craving a more intentional way of creating and living, this episode offers both comfort and practical insight. 🌿 LISTEN NOW to hear how Anna turned personal challenges into a calm, connected creative life and how you can too. 💬 Connect with Anna: 🌐 The Organised Artist Website 📸 Organised Artist on Instagram 🌐 Anna F Macdonal Website 📸 Anna F Macdonald on Instagram 💛 Stay Connected with Me: 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com 📸 Instagram: @artbylizross 👥 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community 📌 Pinterest: artbylizross 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & your favourite podcast app.

In this heartfelt episode, I’m joined by minimalist artist and founder of The Organised Artist, Anna Macdonald. We dive into Anna’s creative journey, her experience living with ADHD, and the deep impact that anxiety, depression, and burnout had on her life. Anna shares openly about what it’s like to reach breaking point and how reconnecting with creativity, building meaningful friendships, and finding a supportive community helped her heal from within. This is a gentle, powerful reminder that you’re not alone, and that you’re worthy of being seen exactly as you are. This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. In part 2 we go deep into how organising her life led to clarity and calm and why she is so passionate about helping other creatives to organise their lives so they can feel the same. So grab a cuppa and settle in for a beautiful and honest exchange about art, healing, and the courage to keep going. 💬 Connect with Anna: 🌐 The Organised Artist Website 📸 Organised Artist on Instagram 🌐 Anna F Macdonal Website 📸 Anna F Macdonald on Instagram     💛 Stay Connected with Me: 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com 📸 Instagram: @artbylizross 👥 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community 📌 Pinterest: artbylizross 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & your favourite podcast app.

Welcome to Empowering the Artist Within! I’m Liz Ross, and in this gentle, grounding episode, I’m inviting you to step away from pressure and perfection and reconnect with the joy of creating from the heart. These affirmations are here to support your creative journey; to help you release fear, honour your voice, and make space for honest, imperfect expression. This episode is your reminder: you don’t have to be perfect to begin. You’re enough, just as you are. ✨ Affirmations: Creating Without Fear I release the need to be perfect. My creativity flows with ease and truth. I give myself permission to create freely and messily. I trust the process, even when the outcome is unclear. I honour progress over perfection. I allow my art to be honest and raw. I am safe to express myself exactly as I am. My creativity is valid, even in its roughest form. I make art from my soul, from a place of joy, not stress. I am enough, not when it’s finished, not when it’s polished—right now. I honour my voice, just as it is. Every time I share, I grow stronger. 💬 Connect with Me: ✨ Instagram: @artbylizross ✨ Facebook: Art by Liz Ross 🎨 Join the community: Empowered Artist Facebook Group 🌐 Website: www.artbylizross.com If this episode resonated with you, I’d love it if you’d subscribe, leave a review, or share it with a fellow creative. Your voice and your presence here matter. Let’s keep showing up, messy and magical. Until next time keep creating, keep exploring, and most of all, keep believing in yourself. 💫

Welcome to Empowering the Artist Within! I’m your host, Liz Ross, and in this solo episode, we’re diving into the heart of perfectionism; what it looks like, where it comes from, and how it silently holds us back as artists and creatives. If you’ve ever felt frozen by the fear of “not getting it right,” this episode is your reminder that your art is enough; messy, real, and true.  In this episode, I share: What perfectionism looks like in creative practice Why we tie our worth to the “outcome” How I’ve navigated this in my own journey Joyful ways to create without pressure Affirmations and journal prompt to change your beliefs and get you thinking.  "You don’t need permission to make something imperfect and powerful." Key Takeaways: Episode Takeaways Consider sharing these in your show notes and as a social carousel post. Creating freely is more powerful than creating perfectly. Perfectionism often stems from fear and comparison not truth. Your art is enough even when it’s messy, raw, or unfinished. Setting a time limit allows us to keep the joy flowing. Visibility doesn’t require perfection, it just needs honesty. Perfectionism is a habit, but so is playful, imperfect creating. You don’t need permission to make art that feels good to you. Affirmations can gently guide your mindset into more freedom. You are not alone, so many creatives are working through this too. Let your work reflect your heart, not perfection or pressure. I'd love to connect with you: ✨ Instagram: @artbylizross ✨ Facebook: Art by Liz Ross 🎨 Join the community: Empowered Artist Facebook Group 🌐 Website: www.artbylizross.com

Join me, Liz Ross for this gentle and uplifting affirmation episode of Empowering The Artist Within. Today I'm inviting you to slow down, tune in, and reconnect with your creative spirit. Through a calming mini meditation and 10 powerful affirmations, this episode is here to remind you: you are enough exactly as you are. You don’t need to be perfect to be worthy, visible, or creative. Let these words help you release self-doubt, embrace your imperfections, and show up with courage and authenticity in your art and your life. ☕ Take a moment for yourself, breathe deep, and press play.   🔗 Connect with Me & Explore More 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com 📸 Instagram: @artbylizross 📘 Facebook Page: Art by Liz Ross 🎥 YouTube: @artbylizross 📌 Pinterest: @artbylizross 🎵 TikTok: @artbylizross 💬 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community

Welcome to Empowering The Artist Within. I'm Liz Ross and in this honest and encouraging solo episode, I’m sharing what it really means to be seen before you feel “ready” and how showing up imperfectly can lead to amazing things.  I explore the fears that come with visibility, the pressure to “have it all together,” and how I’m learning to embrace the messy, beautiful process of being seen as I am. If you’ve ever held back your voice, your art, or your ideas because they didn’t feel “perfect” yet, this one’s for you. ✨ Let this be your reminder: showing up imperfectly is still showing up. And that is more than enough. Liz Ross 🔗 Connect with Me & Explore More 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com 📸 Instagram: @artbylizross 📘 Facebook Page: Art by Liz Ross 🎥 YouTube: @artbylizross 📌 Pinterest: @artbylizross 🎵 TikTok: @artbylizross 💬 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community

Start your day with affirmations designed to help you reconnect with your creativity, nurture your inner artist, and find the courage to be seen. This gentle, uplifting episode weaves together a short guided meditation and 10 powerful affirmations inspired by themes of healing, self-expression, and creative rediscovery. Remember; your creativity is always waiting for you. Liz Ross 🔗 Connect with Me & Explore More 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com 📸 Instagram: @artbylizross 📘 Facebook Page: Art by Liz Ross 🎥 YouTube: @artbylizross 📌 Pinterest: @artbylizross 🎵 TikTok: @artbylizross 💬 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community

In this episode of Empowering the Artist Within, we explore how creativity can become a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery during stressful and uncertain times. Liz Ross and Kaisa share honest reflections on the courage it takes to show up and create, even when fear and doubt try to hold us back. We discuss how personal growth, healing, and creative freedom often emerge when we make space for ourselves and reconnect with the creativity we've always had inside. This episode offers you gentle encouragement to take small steps and embrace your unique artistic voice.   Important Links;  Liz Ross @artbylizross  (FB, Instagram, Tik Tok, YouTube) https://www.artbylizross.com Sign up to my email list for more art inspiration https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share Kaisa Hart  @Kaisahartart Instagram  https://kaisahart.com/

If you're looking for a boost of confidence and a gentle reminder of your worth, this short and powerful affirmation episode is for you. Here to help you reconnect with your inner strength and creativity. Join me, Liz Ross, as I guide you through 10 affirmations for self-love and empowerment. The perfect way to start your day, take a mindful break, or wind down with positivity. ✨ Take a breath. ✨ Repeat the words. ✨ Let them sink in. You are powerful. You are worthy. You are enough. 🎧 Press play, and give yourself a few minutes of calm, connection, and self-celebration. — 💛 Connect with me on Instagram: @artbylizross 🌐 More creative inspiration: www.artbylizross.com Check out my website for my gorgeous affirmations prints and homeware   Sign up to my email list for weekly inspiration and FREE affirmation prints 🥰 and be the first to know when new products drop!!  https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share

Trigger Warning: This episode includes personal reflections on illness, cancer, and the experience of facing death. Please take care while listening and feel free to skip this episode if it feels too tender for you right now. 💛 In this heartfelt episode, I’m sharing the story behind my art and what led me back to creativity after experiencing deep trauma. I’m joined by my lovely friend Kaisa Hart, who gently guides the conversation so I can open up about the twists, turns, and healing moments that shaped my journey. We talk about what it means to reconnect with your creative self, how art became a powerful tool for healing, and why I’m so passionate about inspiring others to express themselves too. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and join us for this tender and inspiring conversation.   I’m an artist passionate about blending creativity with empowerment. I create affirmation prints that inspire self-belief, mindfulness, and personal growth. My work combines layered textures, vibrant colours, and uplifting words, designed to be daily reminders of strength and possibility.   My goal is to spark creativity and help others cultivate positivity in their lives.   Check out my website for my gorgeous affirmations prints and homeware www.artbylizross.com   Sign up to my email list for weekly inspiration and FREE affirmation prints 🥰 and be the first to know when new products drop!!  https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share

In this calming affirmation episode, I’m sharing a collection of supportive affirmations to help you step into your creativity with more courage, clarity, and self-belief. These affirmations are here to guide you. Use them whenever you need a boost before creating, sharing your work, or simply showing up as your most authentic self. Take a moment to breathe, listen, and reconnect with your creative power. If this episode resonates with you, I’d love if you subscribed, left a review, or shared it with a fellow creative soul. Follow for more; @artbylizross  (FB, Instagram, Tik Tok, YOu Tube) www.artbylizross.com Sign up to my email list for more creative inspiration, and early access to new products! https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share

In this raw and open episode, I’m talking about the courage it takes to show up; especially when it feels scary or vulnerable. I share personal stories about finding my voice, the impact of creative community, and how confidence often grows slowly, one small brave step at a time. Join me for this gentle episode where I remind you that you’re not alone and that you belong, just as you are. Listen in for honest reflections, encouragement for the quieter creatives, and a celebration of the power of connection, compassion, and creative courage. 🧡 10 Gentle Takeaways from this episode: You don’t need to be confident to start. You just need to start. Community offers strength, support, and safety. Everyone’s journey is different, don’t compare your Chapter 1 to someone’s Chapter 20. Being nervous doesn’t mean you’re not brave. Confidence grows in safe, encouraging spaces. It’s okay to take small steps, like joining with your mic off. You are not alone, many creatives feel this way. Receiving encouragement helps us see our own value. Showing up, even quietly, is still showing up. You are worthy of being seen, supported, and celebrated; just as you are. Follow for more; @artbylizross  (FB, Instagram, Tik Tok, YouTube) www.artbylizross.com Sign up to my email list for more creative insights. https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share