Extraordinary Creatives

In this episode, Ceri talks about cultural curation with Salma Tuqan, Director of Nottingham Contemporary. From her early days at Art Dubai to influential roles at the V&A and beyond, Salma shares her views on how cultural institutions can evolve, adapt, and remain relevant in challenging times. Salma explores everything from collection strategies to institutional sustainability while highlighting the importance of collective effort and generosity in creating inclusive cultural spaces. KEY TAKEAWAYS Salma's leadership philosophy focuses on building collective effort, demonstrated through her work at Nottingham Contemporary where she leads a team of 70, prioritising collaborative decision making and community input. Throughout her career at the V&A, Salma challenged traditional museum structures by working to integrate Middle Eastern art across departments rather than isolating it, showing her commitment to breaking down institutional silos. Drawing from her Palestinian heritage and early exposure to diverse cultural practices, Salma approaches curation with an understanding that Western categorisations of art aren't universal. In her role at the Delfina Foundation, Salma developed innovative funding models for under resourced regions, creating pools of resources from multiple small contributions to support artists from areas like Central America. At Nottingham Contemporary, Salma prioritises long term artist relationships over one off exhibitions, allowing creative partnerships to evolve naturally from small collaborations to major shows. Rather than arriving with preset plans at new institutions, Salma's approach is to first listen and understand the existing ecosystem before developing strategies collaboratively. Through projects like "While We Wait," Salma demonstrates her commitment to considering the afterlife of exhibitions and ensuring local communities can access the art they inspire. As a director facing multiple contemporary challenges, Salma emphasises the importance of maintaining joy as a form of resistance while building solidarity networks with other cultural leaders. BEST MOMENTS "I'm a big believer in collectively working, and that's a big part of the ethos of my leadership style as well. I believe that things happen with people." "When we look around the world and with everything that's at stake, there's never been a moment where the role of institutions is as important as it is." "There's a lot of focus around the public facing aspect of institutions, particularly thinking about the artistic program and what does that mean when you're platforming artists who are talking about labour issues and simultaneously cutting the hours of the lowest paid workers." "I think joy is also a key form of resistance too." "The V&A is a huge entity, a huge institution, and I spent a lot of time developing relationships first and listening to people." "I really believe that the best work happens and is developed collectively." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: www.salmatuqan.com Instagram: @stuqan PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri talks with Lisa Cooley, a former New York gallerist turned art advisor. Lisa shares how she went from being an accidental gallery worker to running her own acclaimed Lower East Side gallery for nine years. With remarkable honesty, she discusses the challenges of managing a gallery through a recession, the toll on mental and physical health, and the complexities of artist-dealer relationships. Now working as an art advisor and launching a new podcast called Oko, Lisa gives her experiences and thoughts on relationship building, collecting, and navigating the art world's unspoken rules. KEY TAKEAWAYS Throughout her career, Lisa discovered that running a gallery wasn't just about selling art; it required building genuine human connections that couldn't be scaled or rushed, even as the art world grew increasingly commercial. Lisa developed a unique approach to evaluating artwork, insisting on both an intellectual response and visceral visual pleasure, refusing to compromise on either aspect when choosing artists to represent. After closing her gallery, Lisa learned that being honest about failures and challenges - though often discouraged in the art world - ultimately led to deeper, more meaningful professional relationships. Through difficult experiences with artists, Lisa came to understand that gallery-artist relationships work best when treated as business partnerships, allowing for clearer boundaries and communication. Lisa's experience running her gallery during the 2008 recession taught her that sometimes working harder isn't the answer. When Lisa's health began suffering from overwork, she made the difficult but necessary decision to close her gallery, learning that physical and mental wellbeing must take precedence over art world pressures. As an art advisor, Lisa discovered that building collector relationships requires a 4-6 month period that's less about art education and more about understanding how people communicate and make decisions. Lisa found that small, thoughtful gestures, from handwritten notes to carefully chosen chocolates, often proved more effective in building lasting business relationships than grand gestures or aggressive sales tactics. BEST MOMENTS "Being candid is highly, highly punished, and I think it's only now with a lot of distance where I really feel comfortable trying to share as much as possible."  "The gallerist-artist relationship is not a marriage. It is not family. It is a business relationship... A marriage is very different. It's reciprocal. And gallery-artist relationships are frequently not reciprocal." "Sometimes galleries just aren't that supportive..." "You can scale everything in the art world... but you can't scale the human relationships. That's impossible to scale." EPISODE RESOURCES IG @lisacooleynyc www.lisacooley.com www.ask-oko.com PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Artist Mastermind CircleThe Artist Mastermind Circle is a focused group coaching programme for mid-career contemporary artists ready to take their practice and career to the next level. You’ve built a solid foundation, and now it’s time to refine your strategies, increase your income, and tackle new challenges with confidence. This exclusive, application-only programme provides expert guidance from Ceri Hand and the support of a trusted community to help you achieve greater recognition and expand your opportunities.Apply Now **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

In this special end of year solo episode, Ceri answers questions from her mastermind community members. From exhibition planning and pricing artwork to connecting with collectors and maintaining social media boundaries, she gives her expert advice from her extensive experience in the art world. KEY TAKEAWAYS When planning exhibitions, start with self-reflection about your goals and desired outcomes before engaging with collaborators or institutions. Consider what you want to optimise for, press coverage, commissions, or collector engagement? Price artwork based on market research and ecosystem participation rather than production costs or time invested. Research comparable works and understand that value in art is based on perceived worth within the social system. Building relationships with collectors requires authentic connection rather than direct pitching. Research their interests and engage naturally through shared networks and events. When updating your website during a practice transition, focus on quality over quantity. Edit work to show your best pieces that reflect your current direction while maintaining coherency with past work. Create psychological safety in professional relationships by showing genuine interest before making any asks. Start with appreciation and sharing relevant content before discussing your own work. Exhibition planning needs adequate time for idea development before production. Avoid rushing into execution without proper conceptual exploration with collaborators. Social media should be approached strategically as a tool for community building rather than passive consumption. Set specific goals for engagement and research. Documentation and legacy planning are crucial for exhibitions - ensure high-quality photography and materials that can continue generating opportunities after the show closes. BEST MOMENTS "The art market is such an unusual thing because it's all based on perceived value. It's not like we're breaking down the costs, say with coffee... when it comes to art, the market really is dependent on how many people want that thing." "The worst thing you can do as an artist is to squirrel yourself away in a cupboard and come out with an idea like, ta-da. What do you think? It's really about you having the idea to the best of your ability to a point and then opening up." "Sometimes less is more. So I love asking myself this question: What's the simplest thing I could do that would give me the biggest return on my time invested?" "If you want to be collected by serious collectors who are participating in that ecosystem, then I would encourage you to evaluate what else is being sold at a similar price that you think your work may be being sold at." "Every exhibition is a publishing moment. It's not the only moment, but it's the start of another opportunity coming down the pipeline." "Put the social back into social media, which is really about you being deliberate with what your goals are whilst you're there." "If you want some love, you have to show the love first." PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Artist Mastermind CircleThe Artist Mastermind Circle is a focused group coaching programme for mid-career contemporary artists ready to take their practice and career to the next level. You’ve built a solid foundation, and now it’s time to refine your strategies, increase your income, and tackle new challenges with confidence. This exclusive, application-only programme provides expert guidance from Ceri Hand and the support of a trusted community to help you achieve greater recognition and expand your opportunities.Apply Now **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri speaks with polymath Louise Gray, whose creative career spans textiles, fashion, costume, sound, and writing. Louise shares her experiences in fashion, textile design, and education, discussing her bold aesthetic choices, fearless approach to creativity, and commitment to authenticity. Her journey from establishing her own fashion label to teaching at Central Saint Martins, and currently venturing into new creative areas, provides insightful guidance for anyone on their own artistic journey. This discussion explores sustainability, the significance of creative freedom, and the necessity of staying authentic to your own values. KEY TAKEAWAYS Having grown up in rural Scotland, Louise learned to see extreme colours in nature, which later influenced her distinctive colour palette in fashion, combining contrasting hues that both clash and complement She deliberately kept her fashion label small and focused on high-quality, handcrafted pieces rather than bending to industry pressure to make more commercial products or use digital printing Louise views collaboration as essential for creative growth, seeking out artists and creators who challenge her while still maintaining her unique vision and voice Rather than trying to please everyone, Louise focused on creating work that excited her personally, knowing that authenticity would attract the right audience who truly connected with her aesthetic When teaching at Central Saint Martins, Louise rewrote the MA Fashion curriculum to emphasise sustainability and encouraged students to deeply question their identity and values as designers After closing her fashion label, Louise took delivery jobs to fund her creative work, choosing financial freedom over prestige to make art on her own terms She approaches textiles as a feminist practice, seeing it as a way to amplify historically overlooked women's work while pushing boundaries of what textile art can be Louise has learned to separate her sense of self-worth from her creative work, leading to more artistic freedom and joy in the making process BEST MOMENTS "I'm not trying to be you, I'm trying to be me. I'm interested in creating something that I know will talk to other people, because it's interesting." "I've had to really detach my sense of value from my work because I thought that they were the same thing, and since I've detached them, there's so much more lightness to the work that I do." "Joy is about connecting with other people, like true joy is always about other people.” "I'm so grateful that I have chosen a creative path. It is not easy. I didn't need it to be easy. I haven't learned from easy." "I liked making things which had multiple technique fabrics. I wasn't trying to make it accessible to people, I was trying to make the most beautiful things that I could dream of." "Sometimes just saying this is who I am and this is how I want to do it is good." "If you can make work that makes somebody feel something, you've won." EPISODE RESOURCES www.iamlouisegray.com@louisegray__ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Artist Mastermind CircleThe Artist Mastermind Circle is a focused group coaching programme for mid-career contemporary artists ready to take their practice and career to the next level. You’ve built a solid foundation, and now it’s time to refine your strategies, increase your income, and tackle new challenges with confidence. This exclusive, application-only programme provides expert guidance from Ceri Hand and the support of a trusted community to help you achieve greater recognition and expand your opportunities.Apply Now ****Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.  

Ceri speaks with Lady Skollie, a bold South African artist who fearlessly challenges artistic conventions. From her early days at a specialist art school to becoming an internationally acclaimed painter, Lady Skollie shares her journey as a modern day cave painter and gives her experiences of gallery relationships, motherhood, and maintaining artistic integrity. Her original perspectives on the art world, cultural identity, and creative authenticity make this the perfect episode for anyone interested in the intersection of art, culture, and personal truth. KEY TAKEAWAYS Lady Skollie maintains creative freedom by creating physical distance from city centres and setting clear boundaries with galleries, emphasising the importance of separation between artists and collectors. Her work is deeply rooted in her identity as a descendant of the indigenous people of South Africa, reimagining traditional cave paintings on a larger scale. Success in the art world for her, came through strategic support, including a partner who gave her two years to focus solely on art, leading to international gallery representation. Lady Skollie has found that physical fitness and consistent creative practice have been crucial elements for maintaining artistic productivity and mental well being. She challenges the modern trend of artist accessibility, advocating for maintaining mystery and separation between artists and collectors. Her perspective on showing work internationally reveals how art is received differently across cultures, particularly regarding themes of sexuality and cultural identity. She approaches commercial work by comparing potential earnings to what she could make painting, ensuring her time is valued appropriately. Lady Skollie also emphasises the importance of having freedom from financial pressure to maintain artistic integrity and make authentic work. BEST MOMENTS  "I've always wanted to be an artist." "If you're going to go for white money, you should go for very old white money." "I'm not someone who draws all the time, but I consistently create... I constantly think about art." "I'm of the opinion if you're not based in a place like South Africa, it's really hard to understand what drives people here." "Sometimes pressure makes diamonds. But I think for me, it just makes lunacy. I need freedom." "Back in the day, I used to be known as the pawpaw and penis girl because I would just paint pawpaws and penises." "I consider myself a modern day cave painter." "If you don't like something, then just look away from it, but you cannot control how other people experience something."   EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links:  Instagram:  @LadySkollie PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

In this episode, Ceri speaks with Jennifer Higgie, whose evolution from painting lemons to shaping Frieze magazine spans more than two decades. She opens up about the realities of the art world, the necessity of creative discipline, and her mission to respect artists' work with authenticity. Through her shift from art critic to author uncovering hidden women artists in art history, Jennifer demonstrates what it takes to build and sustain a creative life. Her thoughts and experience of writing's emotional toll and the exposure of sharing creative work resonate deeply, while her practical experience serves as both a roadmap and reminder for other creatives.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Jennifer developed her disciplined approach to writing through 23 years at Frieze, treating it like a ‘normal’ job with strict deadlines and word counts while learning the importance of stopping at the right time to maintain quality She deliberately positioned herself as an "enthusiast" rather than a critic, choosing to write primarily about work she felt passionate about rather than producing negative criticism To sustain her writing career, she worked as a waitress for 15 years, preferring this to desk jobs as it didn't interfere with her creative headspace She built and maintained vital creative networks across London, Berlin and Australia that have supported her throughout her career transitions After experiencing burnout and anxiety, she sought CBT support, which helped her learn to distinguish between real and hypothetical anxieties Her research into overlooked women artists led her to discover how much messier and more inclusive art history is than she was taught As reviews editor at Frieze, she developed a systematic approach to balance coverage between established institutions, emerging artists and everything in between. Her experience taught her that writing requires accepting that most work goes into a void of silence, with rare but meaningful moments of connection with readers BEST MOMENTS "Writing is very much like dropping a pebble into a very deep pool or well, and very occasionally you hear a faint splash, and that's about it" "The idea of super bohemian artists going wild and drinking or taking lots of drugs... you can't last very long if you do that" "Paintings are like portals, you look in, you look into them, and you go into them, and then you travel around a bit, and you come out again" "Everyone has a story...and it's your responsibility to find out what that story is" "Art history was for too long taught as if it was carved in stone" "I'm infuriated by the idea that history was written as if it was all about white male achievement" EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: https://www.jenniferhiggie.com/ Instagram @jennifer_higgie Book Link: https://www.weidenfeldandnicolson.co.uk/titles/jennifer-higgie/the-other-side/9781474623322/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri brings together three artists who transformed the Green Man Festival into a magical artistic playground. Lexi Zelda Stevens, Megan Broadmeadow, and Angela Davies share their experiences of creating ambitious installations in challenging outdoor environments. From holographic fans in the woods to midnight performances on rafts, they reveal the intricate dance of artistic vision, technical expertise, and weather management. The trio and Ceri give practical advice and inspiration about producing large scale public art and talk about the importance of building strong support teams. KEY TAKEAWAYS Lexi believes the key to successful festival art programming is having meticulous contingency plans while giving artists complete creative freedom to lead their vision Megan discovered that having triple the expected technical support proved crucial when personal emergencies arose during installation of her holographic installation Transforming her gallery work for an outdoor festival context opened up new possibilities for Angela's performance and audience engagement. Producing festival art requires creating a calm, supportive environment amid chaos, focusing on safety while letting artists maintain creative control. Festival audiences interact with art differently than gallery visitors - some prefer to simply observe, while others want to understand the technical details. Angela realised that staging work next to water created unexpected opportunities for reflection, both literally and metaphorically, in her practice. Lexi's experience showed her that the best commissioned work comes from trusting artists who haven't worked outdoors before rather than playing it safe. Through her midnight performance, Angela discovered that festivals can create intimate, quiet moments of connection even within a busy event environment. BEST MOMENTS "Being a producer is kind of like saying sorry and thank you a lot. And maybe I hear you as well in there." "Don't work alone. You're going to need some friends. You're going to need support. Use people's expertise." "I was laying on this body of water where the film was projecting kind of beyond me... it was quite magical." "Creating imagery that transcends the festival... and forgetting that you're even at a festival, that was really powerful." "Just dream big" "Don't try and make the art. My role is very clear in that I'm leading on safety and passing over audience experience." "The opportunity to make something potentially super large scale that sat next to this body of water, this pond, on the estate... it was really incredible." EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.greenman.net Guest links:  Angela Davies https://www.angeladaviesartist.co.uk/ @angeladaviesartist Lexi Zelda Stevens:  https://www.lexizeldastevens.com/ @helpingartistsmakework (producing)  @LexiZeldastevens (own practice)  Megan Broadmeadow https://meganbroadmeadow.com/ https://www.instagram.com/meganbroadmeadow_artist/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri speaks with Dhikshana Turakhia Pering, who has over 18 years of experience in museums, galleries and the wider cultural and creative world. As Head of Creative Programmes at London Museum, Dhikshana talks to Ceri about her journey from Science Museum explainer to cultural leader and reveals how her neurodiversity shaped her approach to leadership. She discusses the importance of joy and hope in creative programming, authentic leadership and making culture accessible to all. Throughout the episode, it is clear that Dhikshana’s mission is closely aligned with her own experiences and upbringing, giving her authentic passion in everything she does. KEY TAKEAWAYS Dhikshana manages her neurodiversity through good preparation, practising presentations three times, detailed scripting, and developing organisational systems that help her lead effectively while maintaining high standards Throughout her career, Dhikshana has developed programming based on starting from a place of empathy and respect, actively listening to communities, and ensuring representation becomes embedded in institutional structures Her leadership style evolved from recognising that being authentic means maintaining consistency across all interactions while learning to set boundaries between her professional and personal life She created the "triangle model" framework at London Museum, focusing on intellectual depth, lived experience, and universal themes to build strong creative programmes that resonate with diverse audiences Her involvement with Museum Detox has shown her the vital importance of professional networks in providing support, solidarity, and advocacy for diversity in cultural institutions Dhikshana's career transitions were guided by listening to her gut instinct while building support systems that allowed her to make bold moves when necessary At London Museum, she combines programming that sparks joy and hope while addressing serious social issues and civic action, drawing from her personal experiences growing up in Camden Her approach to team leadership focuses on creating psychological safety while maintaining clear structures, drawing from both positive and challenging experiences throughout her career journey BEST MOMENTS "If you can hold the attention of 14 year old boys while you're on stage delivering a show about digestion, where you're talking about poo, like you can pretty much hold the attention of anyone." "I'm glad we're in a world now where 12 year old me right now somewhere would find out they were dyslexic and be like, cool. Like, what do I need? How do I do it?" "I was told I would never be a leader because I smile too much...The smile is a big thing. It makes people feel welcome and comfortable with me. And then they tell me lots of stuff that's really helpful." "Being your authentic self means being genuine to everyone around you...They know, they meet you, they hear you, they hear what you're interested in and how you're going to do this." "The way I am, my empathy, the way I love chatting to people, the way that I can listen to someone and then retain loads of information is really important."   EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Resources: https://www.londonmuseum.org.uk/ https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dtpering PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri interviews Gavin Wade, the visionary artist curator behind Eastside Projects and Senior Research Fellow at Birmingham City University. From his early love of comics to founding one of the UK's most innovative art spaces, Gavin talks to Ceri about transforming the art world through collaborative practices. His story of creating a new kind of gallery space, winning a £120 million market redevelopment project, and maintaining artistic integrity while pushing boundaries is both inspiring and practical for anyone interested in making their creative mark. KEY TAKEAWAYS Gavin's approach to artist collaboration shows how repeated engagements over time create deeper, more meaningful projects - rather than rushing one off exhibitions, he builds lasting relationships that allow ideas to naturally evolve into innovative work. Through establishing Eastside Projects, Gavin demonstrated how to create a new kind of art space by selectively adopting elements from commercial galleries, museums and artist run spaces while rejecting conventional limitations. His early immersion in comics and DIY culture shaped his understanding of self publishing and community building, providing foundational principles that continue to influence his approach to art making and curation. Gavin's success with Eastside Projects stems from his ability to balance ambitious international programming with local artist development, he recognised that both elements are essential for meaningful impact. His revolutionary perspective on gallery spaces rejects the notion of neutral containers, instead treating them as living artworks that continuously evolve through each exhibition and intervention. Gavin built his confidence in the art world through consistent action. Each successfully organised show and new connection strengthened his position and opened up fresh opportunities. His involvement in the Smithfield Market project demonstrates how artists can meaningfully influence city development when they're involved in early planning stages rather than being brought in as an afterthought. Gavin maintains creative sustainability through clear boundaries - implementing regular working hours, extending installation periods, and prioritising family time, proving that balance enhances rather than diminishes artistic output. BEST MOMENTS "As soon as I was on my degree, I just thought, well, I'm an artist, I might not be as good yet, but I'm trying." "There is no such thing as an individual artwork. There is always a relationship between the artwork and its environment and other artworks and other things that have appeared in that space in the past or will appear in the future." "I didn't even know what a sculptor was particularly at that point. There was a little bit of modelling, like clay modelling and stuff, which felt a little bit boring, like I could do it, but it wasn't that exciting." "The art world is about supporting artists and careers and trying to come up with ideas, but to do it, it needs to reinforce societal status quos that are very aristocratic." EPISODE RESOURCES Artist Links: Eastside Projects, Birmingham https://eastsideprojects.org/ Instagram: @eprjcts Gavin Wade  Instagram: @gavin_wade_ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri speaks with Nick Ryan, an Emmy and BAFTA award-winning sound artist who has revolutionised how we experience sound. From his early days experimenting in his garden shed to creating interactive radio dramas and transforming public spaces with sound installations, Nick's journey is all about creative evolution. Nick talks to Ceri about confidence, collaboration, and the importance of asking for help. The conversation reveals how his personal experiences, including early loss and bullying, shaped his innovative approach to sound art and his understanding of human connection through audio experiences. KEY TAKEAWAYS ·       Early experiences with materiality and experimentation, encouraged by his grandmother and science teacher, laid the foundation for Nick's creative approach to sound design ·       The transition from visual art to sound happened organically through fashion show soundtracks, leading to Nick’s pioneering work in interactive audio ·       Public realm sound art can transform spaces and experiences in ways that traditional urban planning doesn't consider ·       Confidence issues are universal among creatives - even those who appear most confident often struggle the most ·       The importance of asking for help and being vulnerable can lead to unexpected opportunities and support for all creatives. ·       Nick’s technical innovation in sound has created new ways of storytelling and audience engagement ·       Sound art is unique in that it's always a collaboration between the artist and the listener's internal experience ·       The value of working with supportive people and learning to recognise when a collaboration isn't the right fit! BEST MOMENTS "Everyone's got confidence issues and the people that don't seem to have confidence issues, with a few exceptions, are generally the people that have the most issue with confidence." "No one ever says no if you ask for advice." "If you're trying to make something for other people that's a recipe for disaster. It's just about being true to yourself." "The atmosphere outside the listener is only one half and the other half is the atmosphere inside the listener." "Don't work with people you don't like. Something else will come along.” "As a sound artist, you can never author more than 50 percent of the experience." EPISODE RESOURCES Guest Links: https://www.nickryanmusic.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nickryanmusic/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Technology meets art as Ceri is joined by Mexican-Canadian media artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, whose works are in collections worldwide such as MoMA, Guggenheim, TATE, Reina Sofía, and Hirshhorn. He shares his journey from nightclub owner's son to internationally acclaimed artist and how it shaped his unique approach to creating participatory experiences. From transforming the US-Mexico border to making climate change audible through 481 speakers, Rafael gives his thoughts about managing ADHD, building a successful studio, and the delicate balance of working with major brands while maintaining artistic integrity. KEY TAKEAWAYS Early exposure to nightclub culture and theatrical environments influenced Rafael's approach to creating participatory art installations that come alive only when people engage with them. The democratisation of technology has transformed media art from being institution dependent to being more accessible, leading to an explosion of digital creation worldwide. Managing ADHD has been both a challenge and an asset for Rafael; he credits his condition for helping him work under pressure and maintain the necessary denial to tackle seemingly impossible projects. The artist's studio operates like a theatrical production, with Rafael as director rather than a solitary creator, involving specialists from 10 different countries. Environmental consciousness has become central to his practice, including scientific collaboration to minimise the impact on migratory birds and transition to more sustainable technologies. Rafael uses three key filters for project selection: intellectual/philosophical interest, time investment required, and economics, maintaining about 20% of work as non-profit. The relationship between art and corporate sponsorship requires careful navigation to maintain artistic legitimacy while ensuring financial sustainability. Art institutions face a tension between meaningful engagement with digital art and the temptation to use technology merely for spectacle and attendance numbers. BEST MOMENTS  "My talent is more in getting teams together. And there is a name for this, it's like a theatrical director... there's still a vision, it's the director's vision, that is followed." "Ultimately what I'm interested in art is in creating a good party, it is only when people come in that the party really begins, it really is dependent on participation." "I got off of Ritalin so that I could continue a life of denial because it's the only way to lie to yourself that these things can actually be accomplished." "I am not interested in growth. I want de-growth...I don't want to become a massive company, but what I do want is not to grow in personnel or space. I want to grow in time." "The genius artist who did something and then out of this one idea created a career doesn't exist. It's the perseverance." "You'll never be satisfied. You'll always think that the next artwork is better than anything you've done in the past." EPISODE RESOURCES @lozanohemmer https://www.lozano-hemmer.com/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri is joined by Marine Tanguy, the pioneering founder of MTArt Agency. From managing a gallery at 21 to founding the art world's first talent agency at 25, Marine shares her journey of revolutionising how artists are represented and supported. Ceri and Marine talk about building resilience, visual literacy, and creating new opportunities for artists. Marine also opens up about overcoming personal challenges, including a public hate campaign while pregnant, and shares her innovative approach to artist representation. KEY TAKEAWAYS Marine built MTArt Agency on a philosophical foundation first, establishing clear manifestos about the future relationship with the arts and the alignment of medium and concept before focusing on business applications At 25, Marine created a new business model in the art world by shifting focus from gallery spaces to a service based agency, enabling broader opportunities for artists beyond traditional art sales Marine's experience of managing a hate campaign while pregnant led her to find strength in ballet, demonstrating how physical practice can help manage the mental challenges of leadership Coming from a teaching family background, Marine approached her financial education systematically, surrounding herself with knowledgeable investors who could contribute expertise beyond just funding Marine's approach to talent spotting comes from genuine enthusiasm - she describes herself as someone who rushes back to the office excited to champion new artists she's discovered and thinks that much of the art world today is lacking this type of enthusiasm. As one of the first B Corp certified companies in the art world, Marine used this framework to create measurable accountability in an industry that traditionally lacks formal regulation. Despite managing 50 artists and over 300 projects, Marine maintains a "log in, log out" approach to social media. Marine's company has grown to a £35 million valuation by creating opportunities across multiple sectors from public art to brand partnerships, whilst many more traditional galleries are struggling in the current market. BEST MOMENTS "We are in the art world where being enthusiastic is something that's actually quite rare. It's seen as either quite young or naive or too keen to a degree. But I love my enthusiasm." "The traditional way is really being challenged as we speak." "I haven't studied finance, but I was aware it was something that therefore I was not knowledgeable in, so I made a point of becoming knowledgeable in it." "I think realistically with talent, it's really a balance of hard work, ethics and research, but it's also a question of talent." "You just know when an entrepreneur walk into a room versus someone that has put a deck together with a few clever facts versus someone that has really walked in and you know that they can deliver what they're saying." "Making sure that they diversify, that they reach out as much to public art commissioners, to brands, to digital partners, like they really think outside the box." "Ballet is also muting your brain for an hour and a half, which is really good for your anxiety." EPISODE RESOURCES Marine is represented by United Talent Agency for her writing and TV career. Instagram: @marinetanguyart PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri explores the world of digital art and creative leadership with Tom Higham, Creative Director and founder of Mediale. Tom shares his knowledge and experience, from film festivals to cutting-edge digital projects, and gives his thoughts on artist development, community engagement, and the challenges of running a creative organisation. Ceri and Tom also talk about personal health, leadership styles, and share their visions for the future of arts and technology. KEY TAKEAWAYS Tom's career highlights the importance of networking and seizing opportunities in the arts, from volunteering to leadership roles. Effective creative leadership involves balancing artistic vision with practical considerations like funding, stakeholder management, and team dynamics. Community engagement in arts projects requires a genuine interest in people's stories and a collaborative approach between artists and local groups. The digital art sector is very international, presenting both opportunities and challenges for UK based organisations and artists. Successful arts organisations need to adapt their leadership and project approaches based on the specific context and scale of each initiative. Tom stresses the importance of clear communication and boundary setting in leadership, while maintaining flexibility and empathy to be successful. Personal health management, including addressing invisible disabilities is essential in sustainable creative leadership. The arts sector should critically examine the impact and sustainability of large scale cultural events versus ongoing, community focused initiatives and what they can alternatively offer. BEST MOMENTS  "I always found I would tend to let the work expand to fill the time I give it." "Talking, communicating to different people outside of your inner sphere is quite a skill and there aren't that many people in the arts who do that well, I don't think." "You have to build the trust to be able to take that risk, I think that's really important, but also to build that trust, you have to tell a compelling story." "The hardest stuff about being an arts leader is probably, I'm imagining, similar to the hardest stuff about being a leader in the energy sector or in the retail sector. It's people." "I think you've clearly done so well over your career is actually that trust and that deep love that you have for the artists and their idea, but then finding the language and the synergy, those kinds of moments of alignment with somebody else." "Clarity is kindness, you know, and sometimes that means even if you're saying clearly, actually, no, that doesn't work for me, it actually helps people to understand and take action accordingly." "I would suggest to artists that you have to figure out what you want to pursue and figure out how to talk about it." EPISODE RESOURCES Connect with Tom Higham: Instagram: @tomhigham14 LinkedIn: Tom Higham Website: tomhigham.net For more information about his work with Mediale, visit mediale.org.uk or follow @mediale_uk on Instagram. PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!  https://cerihand.com/membership/  **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Join Ceri as she interviews acclaimed artist Emma Talbot. From her childhood drawings to art installations, Emma shares her experiences of finding her authentic voice, transforming personal experiences into universal art, and creating without external validation. KEY TAKEAWAYS Emma's early drawings were a form of escape and freedom during a challenging childhood, highlighting art's therapeutic potential and laying the groundwork for her artistic path. Art school and early career struggles masked Emma's authentic voice, which she only then discovered after experiencing profound personal loss. Abandoning the pressure to be an "artist" led to Emma's creative breakthrough. Witnessing her partner's death inspired Emma to explore consciousness and shared human experiences in her work. Navigating institutional collaborations and budget negotiations became crucial skills in creating Emma's ambitious projects. Managing multiple international exhibitions requires Emma to focus on the interconnectedness of her work and adopt a methodical approach. Embracing her true artistic identity and interests liberated Emma's creativity, making her work more enjoyable and authentic. BEST MOMENTS "Drawing is, can be, a kind of avoidance, it's like a space you can go into, where it's like everything else disappears, and you, you get to invent what you want." "All we have is this period of time of consciousness and all we do is share the experience with one another." "I don't feel uncertain about my work at all. Because I know what it's doing is just doing what it's doing." "Finding joy is a choice. It sounds so corny to say it out loud, but it is, it is, and you can, and I find that I'm able to do that." "Each person tailors the work to themselves. You know, the work has to be something that suits you." "I think for me a big part of understanding my work was just accepting who I am." "Emma's story is a powerful reminder that creativity is not only a tool for self expression, but also a way to process profound personal experiences "Art is not just about what you make, but about the connections you foster with those who experience it." EPISODE RESOURCES Artist Links: https://www.emmatalbot.org.uk Instagram @talbot.emma Gallery representation:  Gallery Onrust, Amsterdam https://www.galerieonrust.nl/artists/emma-talbot PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now!  https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri explores the dynamic creative journey of Connal Orton, a versatile talent who's traversed theatre, television, and psychological thrillers. Connal shares his knowledge and personal experiences of creative leadership, embracing risk, and finding joy in the process. From directing plays to executive producing hit TV shows and now crafting gripping novels, Connal's story is a masterclass in adaptability and creative evolution. KEY TAKEAWAYS Embrace serendipity and be open to unexpected opportunities. Many of Connal's career-defining moments came from chance encounters and being willing to try new things. Creative leadership involves articulating the big picture while allowing team members the freedom to handle details, fostering a collaborative environment. Building a loyal audience is crucial. Try to focus on creating emotional connections rather than chasing numbers or trying to appeal to everyone. Feedback is essential, but timing is key, seek input at the right stages and from trusted sources to refine your work effectively. Authenticity in your creative voice and marketing approach can help you stand out and build a dedicated fan base. Playfulness and pushing boundaries can lead to innovative ideas; don't be afraid to be cheeky or irreverent in your work. Transitioning between creative fields can be advantageous, allowing you to apply skills and experiences in fresh ways. Surrounding yourself with talented people and fostering a supportive creative community can elevate your work and open new opportunities. BEST MOMENTS "I often think of the stuff on the wall as being like my sort of holiday photos, which is that they remind me a bit of my own kind of journey." "I want to write something that I think lots of people are going to read and I want those people to find it and love it." "Be your authentic self, if you're going to fail, fail on your own terms and at least believe in the stuff that you're making." "You can't make comedy without enjoying yourself. It's like you don't know whether a joke's funny unless you're laughing at it or not." "Your job very often is to articulate the big stages and let other people look after the detail." "I think what I've kind of learned is...you can be really risqué with things if you do it in the right way and with real confidence." EPISODE RESOURCES @calebcroweauthor @connalo @inkubatorbookshttps://www.calebcrowe.com/ PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now!  https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

This special episode is an audio version of a talk Ceri gave the brilliant Working Class Creatives Database in collaboration with Second Act Gallery funded by Arts Council England. Ceri talks all about the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome among creative professionals. Drawing from her extensive experience in the arts, Ceri offers practical help and ideas to overcome self doubt and build creative confidence. From reframing negative thoughts to embracing your own unique perspective, Ceri gives proven advice to help artists and creatives thrive in their careers, tackling imposter syndrome head on. KEY TAKEAWAYS Imposter syndrome is common among creatives, affecting even highly successful individuals. Recognising these feelings as normal is the first step to overcoming them. Separate feelings from facts. Feeling inadequate doesn't mean you are. Practice reframing negative thoughts with positive, empowering ones. Visualise your success and practice power poses to boost confidence. These techniques can reduce performance related stress and enhance self assurance. Focus on finding your tribe, 10 to 12 champions who genuinely appreciate your work can significantly boost your career and confidence. Embrace your unique perspective and creativity. Don't try to fit into spaces that don't align with your values or artistic vision. Prepare thoroughly for challenging situations, but also learn to improvise. Confidence is built through taking action and learning from experiences. Practice self compassion and celebrate your achievements, learn to acknowledge and reward yourself for your accomplishments. Surround yourself with supportive people who are excited by your talent and want you to succeed. Your wellbeing and confidence are paramount. BEST MOMENTS "The difference between those who experience imposter syndrome and those who don't is their mindset during triggering situations. They think different thoughts, which is encouraging because it means we can learn to think like a non-impostor." "Perfectionism has its place. Caring deeply about your work is good. Strive for excellence when it matters most, but don't dwell on routine tasks and forgive yourself for mistakes." "View this as a skill, not a sign of ineptness. The essence of 'fake it till you make it' is to act confidently, take risks, and let your behaviour build your confidence over time." "Confidence is a process, not an end game. Sometimes you have to improvise." "Every single one of you has got something important and useful and gorgeous to contribute in the art world and beyond in society. You are our thinkers, our makers, our see-ers." "If you want more love, you have to give more love. It's really that simple. That goes with increasing your network, increasing your connections with people." "Life is 50/50, right? None of us get out of here alive. So we go through good times, we go through bad times and success for me means that I can deliberately choose on purpose when I get to enjoy the moment." "You deserve to be in the meeting, in the show, at the private view, and your contributions are important." PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. In Partnership with Working-Class Creative Database and Second Act Gallery The Working-Class Creatives Database (WCCD) CIC is a volunteer-led in-person and online community for working-class creatives in the UK. It was founded in 2021 to provide a platform for working-class creatives, to establish a strong community between working-class artists and tackle classism within the arts. @workingclasscreativesdatabase https://www.workingclasscreativesdatabase.co.uk/ Funded by Arts Council England @acegrams THE SECOND ACT is a young contemporary gallery with roots in the North of England and East London.  @second_act_gallery https://www.secondactgallery.co.uk/  **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now!  https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/**** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri speaks to Ana Maria Caballero, a Colombian-born literary artist who is breaking boundaries in the world of poetry. From selling a poem at Sotheby's to collaborating with AI, Ana Maria's journey reflects the power of persistence and innovation. She talks about balancing creativity with practicality, embracing collaboration, and reimagining classic literature for new generations, to inspire creatives across all disciplines. KEY TAKEAWAYS Ana Maria balances creative growth with practicality, starting in finance before moving onto journalism and working for the Colombian vice president. Her experience in the press office built resilience and taught her the value of feedback, crucial for her development as a writer. She emphasises the importance of maintaining a beginner's mindset in creative practice and embracing the personal as a gateway to the universal. You have to be resilient as a creative, Ana submitted her work to 50 publishers before winning a poetry prize! She explores the translation of ideas across different mediums, from traditional poetry to digital art and AI collaborations. Ana Maria advocates for reimagining classic literature through technology to engage new generations beyond traditional educational methods. There are challenges and opportunities of being a pioneer in merging poetry with new media and blockchain technology. This can be seen as quite controversial in the creative world. Ana Maria emphasises the importance of honest self-expression in writing, using her work as a means of self-preservation and connection with readers. BEST MOMENTS "I'm very truthful. I really try to be honest. Thank you. And I let myself write the hard truth and let it be there and not delete it, not edit it." "There is a difficulty sometimes as a writer to allow someone else to mess with your writing. And I have found that the best work that I've really put out there has been Much of it, beside an editor who understands, respects, but also, you know, is willing to cut what you've done." "I wanted my work to have this pulse beyond the page, and I've really been able to find that by engaging with new media because the new media community is a vibrant, thriving community." "I think that ripping apart attacks, playing with it, cutting and pasting and putting into stable diffusion, turning it into an artwork to really connect with one single text in a very meaningful way is so much more important than to read... You know, 10 books in a semester and write five paragraph essays on them." "I submitted it probably 50 different places until it finally won a National Poetry Prize." "I started writing this book when I was pregnant with my daughter who's turning nine next week actually. So it's been a long, long process." "I really do see my work as a, as a means of self preservation. So it's like I save myself and regain my centre by writing them." EPISODE RESOURCES Ana María Caballero: Twitter: @CaballeroAnaMa Instagram: @anamariacaballero Website: anamariacaballero.com theVERSEverse (Digital Poetry Gallery): Website: theVERSEverse Poetry Society of America: Website: Poetry Society of America Ashmolean Museum: Twitter: @AshmoleanMuseum Instagram: @ashmoleanmuseum Gazelli Art House: Instagram: @gazelliarthouse PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now!  https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

In this episode, Ceri talks about the art of connecting with art collectors. She breaks down the three main types of collectors, offers strategies for engaging each, and shares her knowledge on building genuine relationships in the art world. Ceri gives tips and examples as she decodes the complex world of art collecting, making it accessible and actionable for creatives at any stage of their career. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding the three main types of art collectors: casual, serious, and institutional, is essential for tailoring your approach and marketing strategies. Casual collectors are driven by personal enjoyment and aesthetic pleasure, often seeking affordable pieces that resonate emotionally or complement their lifestyle. Serious collectors are connoisseurs who strategically build curated collections, often becoming influential figures in the art world and supporting artists' careers long-term. Institutional collectors, such as museums and corporations, acquire art aligned with their mission, often guided by specific policies and multiple stakeholders. Building relationships with all three types of collectors is possible but requires a strategic approach tailored to each group's unique motivations and preferences. Engaging storytelling and consistent online presence are more effective than cold pitching, fostering genuine connections and demonstrating the value of your work over time. Successful artists often maintain a presence in both high-end art markets and broader consumer markets, offering a range of works that cater to different collector types. Research and understand potential collectors' interests before reaching out, enabling more targeted and meaningful engagement that can lead to productive interactions and opportunities. BEST MOMENTS "Casual collectors are driven by a desire for personal enjoyment and aesthetic pleasure. They seek artworks that resonate with them on an emotional level, often drawn to pieces based on factors such as colour, materiality and scale." "Serious collectors approach acquisitions with a strategic mindset. Often setting or following trends while conducting thorough research, they frequently consult with art advisors, curators, gallerists and museum directors to refine their choices." "Institutional collectors purchases are typically guided by limited budgets, staff resources, curatorial decisions, long term value and alignment with their existing collection or institutional goals." "Cold pitching often fails because it lacks the personal touch needed to build a meaningful connection. Engaging storytelling on social media and on your website allows potential collectors, institutions and art professionals to get to know you and your work over time, fostering genuine relationships." "By sharing your journey, your inspirations and behind the scenes content, you create a narrative that resonates with an audience, making it more likely they'll remember you and engage with your work." "Regularly updating your social media and website with engaging content helps keep your work in the public eye, increasing visibility and maintaining interest." "Engaging storytelling and consistent content creation fosters long term relationships rather than short term gains. By investing in building a robust online presence, you establish a foundation for online connections of future opportunities." EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now!  https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Join Ceri as she explores the multifaceted factors that determine an artwork's value. From artist reputation to market dynamics, Ceri demystifies the art world's pricing mechanisms, offering invaluable knowledge for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts alike. If you'd like this episode in written form, subscribe to receive this week's Beat the Block for the full transcript: https://cerihand.com/subscribe/. KEY TAKEAWAYS Artist reputation, biography, and CV significantly impact artwork value, with factors like education, exhibitions, and awards playing crucial roles. The artwork's intrinsic qualities, including subject matter, medium, scale, and quality of execution, contribute substantially to its price. Market dynamics, such as supply and demand, rarity, and the artwork's "freshness" in the market, influence valuation. Provenance, or the artwork's ownership history, can dramatically affect its value, especially if associated with notable collectors or institutions. The primary and secondary art markets operate differently, with artists benefiting directly only from primary market sales. An artwork's historical context and its creator's place in art history can significantly enhance its value. The time-related aspects of an artwork, including its age and the period of the artist's career it represents, impact its worth. Networking and championing by influential figures in the art world can boost an artist's career and the value of their work. BEST MOMENTS "Generally speaking, demand determines price. However, the art market is an economic model with more variables than just supply and demand." "A market is developed for an artwork and artist if their contribution to the contemporary art world or creative community becomes recognised by curators, collectors, press, artists and writers." "The truth is, we really do get there quicker together. Sharing knowledge, skills, contacts, resources, all help an artist's visibility with their peers." "Bigger doesn't necessarily mean better when it comes to price, as not everybody wants to live with, ship or store large works of art." "Collectors and curators are often introduced to new artists through the Artist Network." "When a unique work is scarce, its desirability increases, leading to a higher price." "Provenance is more than just a record of ownership. It's a critical component that affects an artwork's value, authenticity and significance." PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now!  https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri Hand interviews painter Eleanor Moreton, exploring her artistic journey from childhood to her current practice. Eleanor's rebel spirit, unique approach to creativity, and commitment to her craft shine through as she discusses her influences, challenges, and success. From navigating art school to finding her stride in painting, Eleanor's story is both inspiring and realistic, offering valuable lessons for artists at any stage of their career. KEY TAKEAWAYS Eleanor's upbringing in a suburban environment significantly influenced her artistic themes, particularly her interest in family life and the 1950s-60s era. Eleanor compares her artistic process to "herding a swarm of bees," juggling various ideas and influences until they coalesce into a cohesive work. Embracing beauty in her paintings was a decades-long process for Eleanor, overcoming the art school taboo against creating beautiful work. Collaboration with poet John Hegley provides Eleanor with a different creative outlet, balancing her solitary studio practice with performance and music. The year 2007-2008 marked a significant turning point in Eleanor's career, with multiple achievements affirming her place in the art world. Don't underestimate the importance of artists identifying their ideal audience and platform for showcasing their work. Eleanor stresses the value of showing up consistently to work, even during challenging periods or creative droughts! Artists need to view themselves as custodians of their work, responsible for sharing it with the world rather than focusing on personal ego. BEST MOMENTS "My mind is always alert to new things that will come in and there's some kind of detector that will, you know, detect something, even when I don't know why or where it fits with other things." "There isn't one art world, there are many. And I think it's in a quite practical sense to say, where would I like to show, who would I like to show my work to?" "Freedom is incredibly important to me, particularly mental freedom and I get quite irritated when gallerists or people who visit the studio sort of frown and say that something doesn't connect to something else." "It's not called a practice for nothing. You know, you do it over and over” "I love Eleanor's rebel spirit and her willingness to embrace discomfort, pushing both her practice and life." EPISODE RESOURCES PODCAST HOST BIO With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now!  https://cerihand.com/subscribe/ **** Build Relationships The Easy WayOur self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.