How do I stay productive as an artist without burning out?

The Three-List Habit That Keeps My Creative Life Sane

As artists, we juggle so much more than people realize. Some days feel like a beautiful flow… and others feel like we’re drowning in all the things we should be doing. For years, I tried to fit everything into one day—create, market, plan, ship, dream, build. And honestly? I burned myself out.

Then something simple shifted everything.

The Tasks We Enjoy

The studio time. The experimenting. The freedom to make a mess and follow an idea just because it feels right. These moments remind us why we’re artists in the first place.

The Tasks We Need to Do

They’re not glamorous, but they keep the engine running: emails, website updates, organizing, shipping, marketing. I may not love these tasks, but I know they matter.

The Tasks That Build the Future

These are the quiet, powerful tasks—applying for opportunities, refining your portfolio, planning ahead, building relationship...

Join us on a captivating solo episode hosted by artist Drew Harris as he takes you on a remarkable journey through the unexpected twists and turns of the pandemic era. In the midst of isolation and uncertainty, Drew's quest for inspiration led him to step outside his comfort zone and into the outside world.

Hailing from Canada but residing in Malaysia, Drew's artistic journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. The pandemic forced artists worldwide to adapt to new realities, and Drew was no exception. Seeking fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, he stumbled upon a video that would change the course of his creative path forever – Breakfast with Sergio.

Intrigued and captivated by Sergio's insights, Drew reached out to him, embarking on a journey of artistic collaboration and transformation. The story that unfolds is filled with surprising twists and turns that you won't want to miss. From exhibitions to becoming a collaborator in the Art NXT Level program, Drew's connectio...

How can I gain fresh insights and improve my art when I feel stuck or overwhelmed by the constant demands of my creative process and promotion?

 If you've ever found yourself immersed in the whirlwind of creative life – painting, marketing, and scrolling through countless art pieces on your phone – you're not alone. I've been there too, but recently, I stumbled upon something profound. Something that's been right under my nose but took a temporary step away from my studio to truly appreciate.

For the past few weeks, I've had to hit the pause button on my artistic endeavors due to an impending move. The chaos of packing and organizing has temporarily led me astray from my beloved canvas. At first, I missed my paints and brushes like an old friend, but then, something remarkable happened.

New Perspectives, Fresh Insights

As artists, we're often caught in the never-ending cycle of creating, promoting, and seeking inspiration. It's a beautiful but hectic dance that can sometimes drown ...

How can I find inspiration and make progress in my art career amidst the chaos of daily life?

In the last few days, I've embarked on a journey of quiet reflection, and it's been nothing short of magical. You see, life has a way of getting loud – the endless notifications, daily chores, and the hustle and bustle can drown out the whispers of inspiration. But, guess what? Amidst this chaos, I found something extraordinary.

Silence, the Canvas of Imagination

When we intentionally embrace silence, it's like opening a door to a world of endless possibilities. I've realized that those moments of tranquility are when our minds can roam freely, conjuring up fresh ideas for paintings, projects, marketing, and beyond. It's where the magic truly happens!

Let's talk about your art career. It's a precious gem that deserves your time and commitment. In the frenzy of daily life and the ever-enticing world of social media, it's easy to lose track of where you're headed. But don't forget, your d...

How can I effectively promote my art and make sure I'm remembered in a crowded creative space?

When it comes to navigating the realm of art marketing, let's keep things refreshingly simple. Let's break it down together: Marketing's ultimate goal is as clear as daylight – it's all about being seen to be remembered. Yep, you heard that right! If your work isn't grabbing attention, it's bound to fade into the background. And let's be real, we're all after those thoughts – the ones that open doors to opportunities and introduce our art to enthusiastic admirers.

Your Art's 24/7 Presence

Here's an intriguing thought: even while you're catching up on your beauty sleep, your marketing game can be wide awake. How's that possible, you ask? Well, it's about showing up on your audience's radar consistently – through your vibrant social media posts, engaging emails, your cozy online hub, and yes, even in person from time to time.

Here's a nugget of inspiration: each time someone invests in your...

By Sergio Gomez

I've noticed that many of you in our artistic community often wonder about the best type of content to create for your online marketing. It's a question that lingers in the back of our minds, as we strive to connect with our audience in meaningful ways. Well, let's dive into this topic together and uncover some insights that may help you find your path.

Riding the Wave of Trends: Platform-Specific Content

The first aspect to consider is the platform you're using. In this ever-evolving landscape of social media, trends come and go like the ebb and flow of a painter's brush. So, pay attention to what's hot and trending, because that's where you'll find the most organic reach.

As of now, short Instagram Reels are stealing the spotlight, captivating viewers with their bite-sized, visually enticing content. So, if you haven't explored Reels yet, it might be worth giving it a try and seeing how it resonates with your artistic style.

Unleashing Your Artistic Superpower...

On this captivating episode of the Artist Next Level Podcast, join Sergio Gomez, Elise Wagner, and Drew Harris as they delve into the exhilarating yet challenging experience of moving studios. Whether it's just a few blocks away or a daunting journey across the country, these three artists share their personal stories and insights on the process.

Moving studios can be a whirlwind of emotions, logistics, and creative adaptation. In this episode, you'll gain invaluable knowledge on how to effectively prepare for the big move. Discover practical tips and expert advice on what to expect during the transition and how to seamlessly settle into your new artistic space.

The hosts bring their own unique perspectives and experiences to the table, sharing firsthand accounts of the joys and hurdles encountered during studio relocations. Their collective wisdom will provide you with a wealth of information, whether you're in the planning stages, in the midst of a move, or have recently settled...

By Sergio Gomez

You've probably heard me say, "You have to show up to be remembered," and I still stand by that statement. But today, let's delve deeper into what it means to show up as an artist. It's not just about making videos or creating content for the masses. Sometimes, showing up can take a quieter, more personal approach.

Embrace the Art of Gratitude

One way to show up is by expressing gratitude. Have you ever considered the impact of a simple thank-you note? Taking the time to write a heartfelt message to a collector or curator can make all the difference in your art career. It shows that you appreciate their support and value their contribution to your artistic journey. So why not pick up a pen and let them know how much their presence means to you?

Reconnect and Rekindle

Another powerful way to show up is by reaching out to people you haven't connected with in a while. Life gets busy, and it's easy to lose touch, but sometimes a small gesture can reignite a meaningful ...

By Sergio Gomez

Hey there, fellow artists! Today, I want to share with you a season I'm currently experiencing - a season of waiting. You know that feeling, right? It's that in-between phase of life where things are uncertain and the answers seem far away. As I sit here writing this message, I find myself anxiously waiting for our big move from the bustling streets of Chicago to the vibrant shores of Miami. Let me tell you, relocating my home, studio, and gallery businesses has turned into quite the journey.

In the Art World, Waiting is Part of the Journey

Now, let's talk about those waiting seasons in our art careers. Maybe you're eagerly anticipating the outcome of a show you entered, or perhaps you're anxiously checking your inbox for news about a residency program you applied to. It could even be that you're waiting for a response to an email you sent to a gallery. We've all been there, my friends, and it's during these waiting periods that we often find ourselves learning the m...

By Sergio Gomez

Today, I want to share a personal experience that recently took me on a nostalgic trip down memory lane. As I was tidying up my studio, I stumbled upon a hidden treasure—a box of slides containing my art, neatly organized in binders. It was like stumbling upon a time capsule of my creative journey.

A Glimpse into the Past

Curiosity consumed me, and I couldn't resist the urge to revisit those early days when I was immersed in the world of art school. With sheets in hand, I held them against the light, peering into the rich hues and intricate details of those paintings from the early 90s. It was an incredible experience, like rediscovering a part of myself that had been quietly tucked away.

The Threads That Connect

As I immersed myself in these visual time capsules, something remarkable happened. I noticed that some of the artistic elements I use in my work today had their origins in those early paintings. It was a powerful realization that my creative evolution was ...