In this captivating episode of the Artist Next Level Podcast, hosts Sergio Gomez and Drew Harris sit down with the incredible Chicago-based artist, Kathleen Heitmann. Kathleen's journey into the world of art is a testament to the fact that it's never too late to pursue your passion. 

Tune in as Kathleen shares her inspiring story of how she embarked on her artistic path after her daughter left for college, embracing the canvas as her newfound companion. As a self-taught artist, Kathleen's determination to thrive in the art world is nothing short of remarkable. 

During this engaging conversation, Kathleen takes us through her artistic evolution, detailing the challenges she faced on her way to successful exhibitions, her very first solo show, and the joy of seeing her works find new homes with private collectors. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief.

As a proud member of the Art NXT Level program, Kathleen emphasizes the transformative role of this...

How can I expand my art career and tap into new opportunities beyond my comfort zone?

Today, I want to chat about something that's been on my mind as I've been journeying through the breathtaking landscapes of the South of Florida. Picture this: loads of brides spanning over serene seas, intricate canals, and tranquil lakes. These bridges, these magnificent structures, got me thinking about our artistic journeys and how they can benefit from a touch of bridge-building magic. So, grab your metaphorical hard hats, because we're diving into the world of building bridges in your art career.

Bridging the Gap, Artistically and Strategically

As I marveled at those bridges, I couldn't help but draw parallels to our artistic ventures. Just as those bridges connect separate pieces of land, our art needs its own connectors – bridges that span the gap between our creativity and the world. That's right, artists are more than just creators; we're bridge makers. Our art serves as a link between th...

Let's rewind the clock for a moment and take a trip down memory lane to our art school days. It feels like ages ago, doesn't it? Back then, we were passionately pursuing our creative dreams, fueling our souls with the magic of art. But one thing was curiously missing from our conversations – money.

Money, the Unspoken Taboo

Yes, you heard that right. Money was like a hushed secret in the art world. It was a big "no-no" topic that no one dared to touch upon. We were left to navigate the complexities of selling our art, managing our art business, and handling our finances all on our own. No wonder we felt lost.

Andy Warhol showed us that art and money are inseparable, like two sides of the same coin. Now, I've said it many times, and I'll say it again – art is not about money. It's about passion, emotions, and the sheer joy of creation. But here's the thing: to make the art that is not about money, we need financial resources. Money becomes the lever that opens doors to endless possib...

How can I actively create opportunities for myself as an artist?

Today, I want to dive into a topic that's close to our hearts—the way we perceive and approach opportunities. As creators, we all long for that breakthrough moment, a chance to showcase our talents and be recognized. But how exactly do we navigate the vast realm of opportunities? Let's explore three unique perspectives together.

Waiting for the Stars to Align: The Lure of Passive Expectation

There's a belief among some artists that opportunities should effortlessly land on our laps. We find ourselves waiting, hoping that fate will smile upon us and open the doors of success. It's the waiting game, the mentality of "I'll just sit here in my studio, and someday, something incredible will happen." While it's true that some opportunities may come knocking unexpectedly, relying solely on this approach can leave us feeling stagnant.

Becoming an Opportunity Hunter: Proactive Steps towards Success

Now, let's shift gears and ...

Welcome to Episode 353 of the Next Level Podcast, where hosts Drew Harris and Sergio Gomez sit down with Canadian painter Shirley Williams to unveil the top secrets of successful corporate art commissions. Shirley Williams, a renowned artist with nearly 30 years of experience, takes us behind the scenes and shares her valuable insights on working with corporate clients, meeting deadlines, navigating contracts, selecting materials, and much more.

Shirley Williams is celebrated for her captivating multi-layered abstract paintings, which draw inspiration from the organic rhythms of nature and the vibrant energy of colors. Her distinctive style has garnered international acclaim, with her work being exhibited across North America in prestigious solo and juried group exhibitions. Museums and commercial art galleries in Toronto, Detroit, Dallas, Austin, New York, San Francisco, and Naples have showcased her remarkable talent.

Notably, Shirley's artwork has found a home in major corpor...

How can artists improve their communication skills to enhance their artistic journey?

Today, let's delve into a topic that's close to my heart: the art of communication. As artists, we pour our souls into our work, but how often do we consider the impact of our words? Whether you're an extrovert who thrives on social interaction or an introvert who finds solace in solitude, honing our communication skills is a journey we should all embark on.

Embracing Human Connections

I vividly remember a conversation I had years ago with a dear friend named Ruth. She dropped a profound nugget of wisdom on me that still resonates to this day: "Everything is about people connecting with people." Those words struck a chord deep within me, reminding me of the essence of our craft.

No matter how many followers we have, how many exhibitions we've participated in, or how many accolades we've received, at the core of it all, we are human beings seeking genuine connections. So, the next time you sit dow...

How can I navigate the challenges of balancing opportunities and time commitments in my art career?

I have a confession to make. It's hard for me to say no. I'm naturally a "yes" kind of guy. When someone asks me to do something, I find it difficult to turn them down. But here's the thing: saying yes always comes at the expense of something else. Every time you choose to do something, you're inevitably choosing not to do something else. It's a trade-off we often overlook in the pursuit of artistic growth.

The Growing Artistic Journey: An Influx of Requests

As our art careers flourish and our connections in the art world multiply, we find ourselves being asked to participate in various projects and events. It's both exciting and overwhelming. Opportunities knock at our doors, presenting us with chances to make a difference, to contribute our talents to noble causes. Take, for instance, when a non-profit organization reaches out, requesting a donation of our artwork for their cause...

The Three Types of Artists: Which One Are You?

As someone who has had the privilege of working alongside talented artists for many years, I've come to a realization: when it comes to the business of art, there are three distinct types of artists. Each one has their own approach, their own quirks, and their own unique path to success. So, let's delve into this fascinating world together, shall we?

The Traditional Artist: Navigating the Gallery Scene

Ah, the traditional artist—the one who finds solace in the cozy confines of galleries. These artists cherish the opportunity to collaborate with established art galleries, but they may feel uneasy when it comes to selling their work independently. Without gallery representation, they often find themselves relying heavily on the marketing prowess of these galleries. It's a classic approach that has its merits, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.

The Independent Artist: Forging Your Own Path

On the opposite end of the spectr...

How can I stay motivated and focused on my art career?

If you've ever found yourself dreading Mondays, I have a little secret to share with you. Lean in closer—I love Mondays, and let me tell you why.

Carefully Aiming Your Bow

Mondays are like that moment when you carefully align your bow, preparing to take aim at your target. It's the start of a new week, a blank canvas waiting to be filled with your artistic endeavors. So, embrace this day with open arms and an adventurous spirit.

Shooting Arrows at Your Goals

As the week unfolds, it's time to unleash your arrows—one after another—with unwavering determination. Each arrow represents a step toward your dreams, and Mondays give you the opportunity to set your sights on a specific target.

Visualizing Your Goals

Take a moment after the weekend's respite to visualize what you want to achieve during the week. What is your number one goal? What's that one target you must hit? Imagine it clearly, feel the excitement bubbling within yo...

Welcome to Episode 351 of the Next Level Podcast, where host Sergio Gomez engages in an enlightening conversation with Myztico Campo, a visionary shamanic artist and Senior Logistics Consultant for InXpress. In this episode, they dive into the art of shipping art itself, offering best practices and insights to help artists navigate the complexities of shipping, insurance, and timelines. Myztico's dual expertise in art and logistics empowers artists to confidently manage the challenges of shipping while also providing a captivating introduction to his own artistic journey.

Sergio Gomez skillfully guides the conversation, expertly navigating between the logistics of shipping art and the exploration of Myztico's artistic path. Together, they create a dynamic and engaging dialogue that leaves listeners enlightened and inspired. Whether you're an artist seeking guidance in shipping or simply curious about the intersection of art and logistics, this episode provides a wealth of invaluable i...