Have you ever stepped into your studio and felt a nagging doubt about your abilities, your artistic vision, or your experience as an artist? I know I have. It's those moments when the creative journey can seem daunting, like I've suddenly forgotten everything that got me here. But, let me assure you, it's okay. Every artist faces these moments of self-doubt. It's part of the journey.

Embracing the Roller Coaster of Confidence

Confidence in our artistic abilities can be a roller coaster, especially when things aren't going as planned. Picture this: you're in your studio, and your artwork seems to be fighting back, stubbornly resisting your efforts. You find yourself at a creative impasse, and your confidence takes a nosedive. I've been there, too, and I understand the frustration.

However, it's precisely in these challenging moments that we must remember what brought us to where we are today. Think about the countless hours spent immersed in the world of art, studying, practicing, mi...

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 ...

Have you ever wondered if there's something missing on your website, something that could truly connect you with your audience? Well, I've got a little secret to share with you today. It's all about the power of your artist story.

For years, I overlooked a simple yet crucial page on my website. I thought people were only interested in my art, so I focused on showcasing my work and sharing my achievements. But I was wrong.

Your Artist Story – A Different Perspective

One day, I decided to write something different, something personal – my artist story. This wasn't just another bio; it was like having a friendly chat over coffee. I shared my journey, the ups, the downs, and most importantly, how I overcame my biggest challenges.

I created a page called "My Story" on my website. To my surprise, year after year, it has become the most visited page on my site. It's been a game-changer for my artistic journey.

Why Does Your Artist Story Matter?

But why does your artist story matter so m...

How can I come up with a meaningful title for my artwork?

When I sit down to start a new painting, there's one thing I'm sure of—I have absolutely no idea what I'm going to call it. In fact, 99% of the time, I'm in the dark about the title. It's a blank canvas in every sense of the word. But that's where the magic begins.

Sometimes, though, that elusive title decides to show up early, taking the lead in the creative process. It's that remarkable 1% of the time when the title becomes the guiding star.

The Significance of a Title

Now, let's talk about titles. What's in a title, you ask? Well, if you ask me, there's a world of meaning behind it. We live in a world where every work of art needs a title. It's not just about giving your masterpiece an identity; it's a record-keeping necessity.

A Brief History of Art Titles

Surprisingly, titles as we know them today didn't gain prominence until the 19th century. Before that, art often existed without titles, standing solely on its ...

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 create great art without the perfect studio setup?

Have you ever found yourself lost in the pages of a book featuring artists in their studios? I certainly have. There's something utterly captivating about those visuals—the carefully curated spaces where creativity blooms. For me, it's not about reading the texts; it's about immersing myself in the pictures, exploring every nook and cranny. From the walls adorned with inspiration to the brushes strewn on the floor, these studios are like miniature laboratories of creative brilliance.

Don't Let Comparison Distract You

In today's world of social media, it's easy to fall into the comparison trap. You might look at those picture-perfect studios and feel a twinge of inadequacy. Perhaps you think your own space isn't big enough, lacks natural light, or falls short of the ideal setup you dream of. But here's the truth: those pictures shouldn't intimidate you. They shouldn't distract you from the wonders of what you can create wit...

Have you ever had one of those moments where a simple notification on your smartwatch triggers a profound thought? Well, I experienced just that this morning. As I strapped on my Apple Watch and started my day, a notification flashed on the screen: "No Connection." It got me thinking about the importance of connections in our lives as artists. Let's dive in and explore this fascinating topic together.

Beyond the Canvas: The Role of Connections in Our Artistic Journey

As artists, our creations come from deep within us. The art we produce is a reflection of our innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences. We don't necessarily need external connections to make art itself, much like my trusty smartwatch doesn't require a connection to tell the time. However, when it comes to propelling our art careers forward and fostering personal growth, connections play a vital role.

The Loneliness of the Outsider: My Journey Without Connections

I vividly remember a time when I didn't have the ...

Welcome to the Artist Next Level Podcast! In episode 352, join hosts Sergio Gomez and Drew Harris as they embark on an enlightening conversation about their fascinating experiences with Chat GPT. Delve into the world of artificial intelligence as Sergio and Drew share the intriguing results of their tests and experiments with this cutting-edge technology.

During this episode, the hosts explore various aspects of using Chat GPT as a powerful tool for artists. From discussing the effectiveness of prompts and responses to unveiling how artists can easily incorporate this new technology into their creative processes, Sergio and Drew leave no stone unturned. However, they also candidly delve into the pitfalls they encountered while working with Chat GPT, ensuring a comprehensive discussion that encompasses both the advantages and challenges of leveraging this tool.

By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with invaluable strategies and insights to navigate the realm of Chat GPT. Wh...

By Sergio Gomez

How can artists benefit from staying in touch with curators and art professionals?

Today, I want to share something near and dear to my heart—the art of staying connected with curators. You see, I've been on both sides of the spectrum. As an artist, I've had my work featured in numerous shows, and as a curator, I've organized over 100 exhibitions. And let me tell you, the power of maintaining those curator relationships is often underestimated.

A Missed Opportunity

Do you ever wonder how many doors could open if you simply stayed in touch with the curators who showcased your art? It's a question that has crossed my mind countless times. Throughout my curatorial career, I've been astounded by the number of artists who don't seize this opportunity. So, let's change that narrative and unlock the potential for future collaborations and exhibitions.

The Magic of Staying in Touch

Now, you might be wondering, "How do I actually stay connected?" Don't worry—I've got your ...