The Professional Artist Podcast: Art Business Transformations

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, Australian-Colombian painter and sculptor Joshua Searle is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists.He shares how he has built a flourishing career exploring diasporic identity and the impact of colonization through his innovative and deeply personal art. A two-time Sir John Sulman Prize finalist and recipient of the 2024 Mason Family Trust Fellowship, Joshua has quickly gained recognition since his first solo exhibition in 2021, carving out a definitive space for himself in the contemporary art world.Known for blending cultural storytelling with bold creative risks, Joshua opens up about forging a career without formal training, finding mentorship in unexpected places, and pushing the boundaries of his artistic comfort zone to create meaningful work.From entering the art world on his own terms to the importance of seeking guidance and embracing the unfamiliar, Joshua offers inspiring advice for artists pursuing authenticity and growth in their creative journeys.“It's hard work and it will never stop being hard work. But if you love it, there's nothing better to do than work hard at something you love.”– Joashua SearleTimestamps:00:00 Introduction01:00 Joshua Searle’s Background and Artistic Focus02:07 Key Themes: Diasporic Identity, Memory, and Colonization03:20 Reflection on Early Work and Personal Memories04:45 Returning to Art: A Journey of Healing06:16 Evolving Practice and Key Creative Partnerships08:07 Exploring Diasporic Identity and Cultural Displacement09:50 Starting with Painting: Accessibility and Early Challenges11:00 First Exhibition in an Unconventional Space13:00 Recognition and Breakthrough Moments15:55 Grants, Fellowships, and Navigating Rejections18:33 Institutional Commissions: Creative Risks and Collaboration21:50 Mentorship and the Value of Asking for Help24:00 Building Community Through Collaboration25:17 Final Reflections on Hard Work and Loving the Process26:57 Closing Thoughts: Persistence, Curiosity, and Taking the First StepAccess the members-only full unabridged conversation here: https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/joshua-searleLinks to artworks discussed:His artworks can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here: https://youtu.be/aUmWX1vYIlYResources:Art Gallery of New South Wales - Sir John Sulman Prize: https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/prizes/sulman/Connect with Joshua:Website: https://joshuasearle.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshua_searle_artLearn more about The Professional Artist Association:Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letterJoin ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/joinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistacceleratorFree training and resources:Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following: https://professionalartist.com/find-your-next-3-fine-art-collectors/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=2025-06Free insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent: https://professionalartist.com/report/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=free_reportIf you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

 In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, fine art photographer Teresa Freitas is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists. She shares the mindset and methods that have helped her build a thriving career in photography. Teresa’s pastel-toned, cinematic images blur the line between dream and reality, and her work has reached audiences worldwide through collaborations with Netflix, Dior, Adobe, and a solo exhibition in Seoul that drew over 100,000 visitors.Teresa doesn’t hold back when it comes to practical advice. From breaking through on Instagram and negotiating with brands, to following your creative compass, this episode is packed with tools artists can use to grow with intention and professionalism.“ Speaking with people and exchanging experiences makes you realize…other creative people are going through the same things that you are and you're not alone in this world. Learning for me has always been one of the biggest advantages of being in a community.”– Teresa FreitasTimestamps:00:00 Introduction 01:00 Following Your Creative Compass and Staying True to Your Vision03:00 Iconic Gellert Baths Photograph and Approach to Color and Composition06:00 Early Influences: Painting, Color Theory, and Visual Inspiration08:00 Beginnings in Photography and First Steps on Instagram10:00 Growth on Instagram and Gaining Global Visibility11:00 Navigating Instagram Challenges and the Shift to Video14:00 La Muralla Roja Photograph and Breakthrough Visibility16:00 Early Brand Collaborations Through Instagram19:00 Negotiating with Brands and Setting Budgets22:00 Lessons Learned from Failed Collaborations25:00 Evolution of Style: Flower Projects and Documentary Approach28:00 Importance of Community and Collaborating with Others30:00 Staying Authentic and Redefining Success in the Art World32:00 Closing Reflections and Lasting Lessons from Teresa’s JourneyAccess the members-only full unabridged conversation here: https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/teresa-freitasLinks to artworks discussed:Her photographs can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here: https://youtu.be/AUp6iIlUhqYResources:Carolyn Drake (Photographer): https://carolyndrake.com/contactConnect with Teresa:Website: https://www.teresacfreitas.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teresacfreitas/Learn more about The Professional Artist Association:Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letterJoin ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/joinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistacceleratorFree training and resources:Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following: https://professionalartist.com/find-your-next-3-fine-art-collectors/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=2025-06Free insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent: https://professionalartist.com/report/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=free_reportIf you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode, land artist David Popa shares the pivotal moments and creative philosophies that have shaped his unique career. Known for his large-scale ephemeral earth frescoes, David combines ancient techniques with modern technology, crafting breathtaking works that are captured through drone photography and shared as visual narratives. His art, created with natural pigments such as charcoal and earth, often fades back into nature, echoing the transient beauty of life.David opens up about his early influences from fine art and street art, and the courageous leap of faith that led him to create a genre-defining practice. He also discusses how staying true to his vision has allowed him to collaborate with major global brands while still honoring the spiritual and adventurous aspects of his work.From blending creativity with nature to embracing the impermanence of his art, David offers profound insights for artists seeking to align their work with personal meaning and authenticity.“Don’t chase the money. That part comes after making the work you’re truly compelled to create. There’s something inside you that needs to come out… chase that. The audience who will resonate and emotionally connect with it will find the work.”– David PopaTimestamps00:00 Introduction01:00 David Popa’s Artistic Journey and Practice02:07 The Uniqueness of Ephemeral Earth Frescoes03:11 Merging Art, Nature, and Adventure04:10 Early Influences and Transition to Land Art05:12 Moving to Finland and Taking a Leap of Faith06:37 Overcoming Artistic Frustration and Experimenting with Materials09:00 Developing Drone Photography and Large-Scale Art11:00 Creating a Breakthrough Piece: Portrait on an Islet13:00 The Role of Self-Doubt and Artistic Persistence15:00 First Social Media Success and National Recognition17:00 Building a Global Audience Through Art Drops19:00 The Power of Emotional Resonance in Art21:00 Crafting Personal Narratives Through Social Media23:00 Using Vulnerability to Expand Artistic Reach25:00 Balancing Brand Collaborations and Authenticity27:00 Staying True to Core Values in a Monetized World28:00 Highlighting Key Collaborations29:50 Final Advice: Perseverance, Passion, and Authenticity30:40 Closing ThoughtsAccess the members-only full unabridged conversation here: https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/david-popaLinks to artworks discussed:David’s art can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.Connect with DavidWebsite: https://www.davidpopaart.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/david_popa_art/Learn more about The Professional Artist Association:Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letterJoin ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/joinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistacceleratorFree training and resources:Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following: https://professionalartist.com/find-your-next-3-fine-art-collectors/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=2025-06Free insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent: https://professionalartist.com/report/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=free_reportIf you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, nomadic plain air painter Lisa Lebofsky is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists.Known for her ability to capture the vulnerability of nature and humanity, Lisa blends abstraction and realism to document endangered and remote landscapes. Her art practice is deeply influenced by her travels to some of the most rugged and awe-inspiring parts of the world.Lisa she shares the approaches and philosophies that have shaped her nomadic art career and opens up about the dynamic energy of painting outdoors, the importance of artist networks, and how she is navigating uncertain times by recalibrating her art business. From fostering emotional connections with the landscape to generating new sources of income, Lisa offers valuable insights for artists striving to balance creative fulfillment with professional sustainability.“It's important to be in the studio, but you also have to be out in the world and talking to artists and talking to people outside of the arts. You have to have this community, these connections and really be passionate…because whatever you're feeling about what you're painting, that's going to come through.”– Lisa LebofskyTimestamps:00:00 Introduction01:13 Lisa’s Approach to Plen Air Painting and Capturing Vulnerable Landscapes02:00 Exploring Lisa’s Painting Melting Iceberg Seven06:40 Challenges and Techniques of Painting in Extreme Conditions09:54 Lisa’s Artistic Journey and Early Influences11:02 The Role of Collaboration and Artist Networks12:22 Navigating Social Media and Balancing Responsibilities14:22 Adapting to Economic Uncertainty and Developing New Income Streams25:42 The Emotional and Psychological Depth of Lisa’s Work28:32 Final Thoughts: The Intersection of Art, Life, and CommunityAccess the members-only full unabridged conversation here: https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/lisa-lebofskyLinks to artworks discussed:Melting Iceberg Seven, Atlantic Swell, and November Waves can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here: https://youtu.be/fldfBBZ49DoResources:SUNY New Paltz (State University of New York at New Paltz): https://www.newpaltz.edu/New York Academy of Art: https://nyaa.edu/Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.lisalebofsky.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisa_lebofskyLearn more about The Professional Artist Association:Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letterJoin ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/joinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistacceleratorFree training and resources:Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following: https://professionalartist.com/find-your-next-3-fine-art-collectors/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=2025-06Free insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent: https://professionalartist.com/report/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=free_reportIf you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, hyper-realist painter Denise Stewart-Sanabria is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists.She shares the mindset and methods that have helped her sustain a long-term career in the art world. In her strikingly detailed works, Denise explores themes of desire, history, perception, and human psychology. Her paintings are held in permanent museum collections, including the Tennessee State Museum and the Knoxville Museum of Art.Denise doesn’t hold back when it comes to practical advice. From building visibility and navigating gallery relationships to sharpening your self-awareness through critique, this episode is packed with tools artists can use to grow with intention and professionalism.“The biggest thing is just to do your own critiques. Is your work on the same level as what you're looking at in these other galleries?”– Denise Stewart-SanabriaTimestamps:00:00 Introduction01:17 The Importance of Self-Critique and Practical Advice for Artists02:25 Godzilla Plus Two and Themes in Denise’s Work06:33 Building Relationships in your Art Community07:43 Visibility Through Juried Shows, Art Fairs, and Gallery Representation13:14 18th Century French Pastoral Toile Culture Shock and Museum Acquisitions16:16 Networking, Volunteer Work, and Peer Support20:40 Residencies and Publications for Career Growth24:40 Conclusion: Persistence, Visibility, and Meaningful ConnectionsAccess the members-only full unabridged conversation here.Links to artworks discussed:Godzilla Plus Two, 18th Century French Pastoral Toile Culture Shock, and Untitled can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.Resources:Tennessee State Museum: https://www.tnmuseum.org/Evansville Museum of Art: https://www.emuseum.org/Knoxville Museum of Art: https://knoxart.org/University of St. Francis Gallery: https://stfrancis.edu/artgallery/Art Fields (Lake City, South Carolina): https://www.artfieldssc.org/ArtPrize (Grand Rapids, Michigan): https://www.artprize.org/How to Become a Successful Artist, Magnus Resch (Book)Beautiful Bizarre Magazine: https://beautifulbizarre.net/Vermont Studio Center: https://www.vermontstudiocenter.org/Connect with Denise:Website: https://stewart-sanabria.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denisestewartsanabria_/Learn more about The Professional Artist Association:Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letterJoin ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/joinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistacceleratorFree training and resources:Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following here.Free insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent here.If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, classical realist painter Andrew Tischler is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists. He shares the key strategies that have fueled his 20-year career as a full-time artist. Known for his meticulous landscapes, large-scale commissions, and commitment to teaching, Andrew has built a thriving international art practice and an online education platform, Tisch Academy, that supports artists around the world. He opens up about how discipline, mindset shifts, and a spirit of service have shaped his journey and allowed him to adapt and grow, even in moments of uncertainty.From structuring your day for creative flow to embracing major career pivots and building income through education, Andrew offers grounded advice for artists seeking longevity and purpose in their careers.“Don’t wait. Go. Make it happen. Grab it with both hands and jump in. Do not give up fighting. If you’ve got that dream, keep going until you break through.”– Andrew TischlerTimestamps:00:00 Introduction and Andrew Tischler’s Background01:38 Structured Creativity: Organizing for Artistic Flow01:58 Pivoting During Adversity: Reinventing as an Educator02:26 Milford Sound: Emotional Connection in Art03:20 Workflow and Discipline in Large-Scale Painting04:20 Embracing Digital Tools for Efficiency07:49 Balancing Art and Business Responsibilities09:27 Overcoming Resistance and Staying Persistent11:34 Lessons from a Major Setback: The Global Financial Crisis15:08 Diversifying Revenue Streams as an Artist19:15 Teaching as a Pathway for Artists22:15 Key Lessons for Professional Artists24:55 Final Reflections: Embrace Authenticity and Make an ImpactLinks to artworks discussed:Milford Sound can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.For high resolution versions of the artworks mentioned, access the members-only full unabridged conversation here.Resources:Tisch Academy: https://www.tisch.academy/Artwork Archive: https://www.artworkarchive.com/New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA): https://www.nyfa.org/Fractured Atlas: https://www.fracturedatlas.org/Sotheby's Institute of Art: https://www.sothebysinstitute.com/Art Renewal Center: https://www.artrenewal.org/Connect with Andrew:Website: https://tischler.nz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrew_tischler_artist/Learn more about The Professional Artist Association:Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letterJoin ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/joinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistacceleratorFree training and resources:Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following hereFree insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent hereIf you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, abstract painter Gwen Hollingsworth is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists.She shares how she blends spirituality and structure in her creative practice. Drawing from influences like Buddhism and Jungian thought, Gwen reflects on building a professional art career while staying true to her inner world. She shares insights from her solo show in New York, her experience at the Silver Art residency, and how business tools like a clear studio space, an elevator pitch, and consistent follow-up have helped her grow with purpose.“Rejection is protection. If something doesn’t work out, it’s often for a reason - and that opens the door for something better.”– Gwen HollingsworthTimestamps00:00 Introduction and Gwen's Artistic Philosophy01:11 The Importance of Studio Space02:16 Description of the Artwork Incantation03:23 Spirituality and Artistic Practice04:41 Residencies and Experimentation06:20 Building Connections in the Art World09:01 The Role of Social Media in an Artist's Career13:35 The Value of Peer Support and Community20:24 Applying for Residencies and Facing Rejection25:13 Financial Realities and Advice for Emerging ArtistsLinks to artworks discussedIncantation, Heartlines, and Siren can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.For high resolution versions of the artworks mentioned, access the members-only full unabridged conversation here.ResourcesSilver Art Projects: https://www.silverart.org/Artsy: https://www.artsy.net/New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA): https://www.nyfa.org/Connect with Gwen:Website: https://www.gwenhollingsworth.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gwenhollingsworth/Learn more about The Professional Artist Association:Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letterJoin ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/joinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistacceleratorFree training and resources:Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following here.Free insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent here.If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, painter Christopher Remmers is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists.He shares how he blends structure with soul building a thriving art practice while staying true to his creative vision.He talks about how adopting an entrepreneurial mindset doesn’t mean selling out. It means building a system that gives you time, freedom, and clarity.“Design the life that you want to be living, and then figure out what you need to do in order to live that life.”– Christopher RemmersTimestamps00:00 Introduction01:16 Time Management and Entrepreneurial Mindset02:02 Story of Annicha: A Pivotal Work04:45 The Creative Process: Structure and Intuition06:53 Building Systems for Creativity and Business10:10 Designing Your Life as an Artist13:08 Career Milestones and Zain17:19 Overcoming Challenges and Resistance21:38 Peer Support and Returning to Authentic Work24:45 Mentorship and the Conscious Creativity AcademyLinks to artworks discussedAnnicha, Zain and Untitled can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.For high resolution versions of the artworks mentioned, access the members-only full unabridged conversation here. Resources:Conscious Creativity Academy: https://www.christopherremmers.com/coursesArt Renewal Center (ARC): https://www.artrenewal.org/Connect with Christopher:Website: https://www.christopherremmers.com/Instagram: http://instagram.com/christopherremmersLearn more about The Professional Artist Association:Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letterJoin ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/joinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistacceleratorFree training and resources:Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following here.Free insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent here.If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

The art world is always changing. It's a dynamic space where creativity and business intersect. Staying true to your craft can feel overwhelming, and knowing where to start is never easy.Welcome to The Professional Artist Podcast. We’re your hosts, Miguel Mayher and Cristina Demiany. This show is all about what it really takes to build a successful, sustainable art career. With depth, nuance, and, most importantly, honesty, we pull back the curtain on the strategies that actually work.Each week, we invite incredible guests to take us on a curated audio journey through their work, the pivotal moments that shaped them, and the decisions that propelled them forward. We’ll also shine a light on the mentors and peers who helped them along the way.And we won’t shy away from the business side of things. From building strong gallery relationships to making the most of digital platforms and creating new income streams, we’ll explore how you can grow your career without ever compromising your creative vision. Whether you're emerging or already established, you’ll walk away with fresh inspiration and real, actionable advice.The Professional Artist Podcast is coming soon. Available wherever you listen.