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...

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...

How can personal declarations empower artists on their creative journey?

Do you believe in personal declarations? I must admit, it wasn't always a concept that resonated with me. Throughout most of my life, I've carried a positive attitude, firmly believing that everything happens for a reason and that the glass is always half full. But it wasn't until I met the love of my life, Dr. Yanina, that I truly discovered the magic behind personal declarations.

"I'm an Artist on a Mission": The Birth of a Powerful Statement

Over the past six years, my artistic journey has taken me on an incredible path of self-discovery. I've gone from crafting a long list of empowering statements to condensing it all into a single, mighty declaration. You might have even heard me say it before: "I'm an artist on a mission."

This simple phrase encompasses all my wishes, goals, and aspirations. It serves as a daily reminder of the purpose that drives me forward, inspiring me to seize each day with passion...

Today, I want to talk about something that's close to my heart and an essential aspect of our creative lives: documenting and organizing our artistic journey. It's like they say, "If you do not document it, it's like it never happened." So let's dive in and explore how we can make the most of the incredible technology available to us and ensure our work leaves a lasting impact.

Embrace the Digital Age

Living in this day and age, we have a remarkable advantage—technology that fits right in the palm of our hands. Gone are the days of waiting anxiously for our 35mm camera slides to develop. We now have the power to capture, preserve, and share our artistic process effortlessly.

Documenting: More than Just Moments

Documenting our creative journey goes beyond capturing mere moments. It's about gathering valuable information and insights about ourselves and our work for the future. By documenting our process, we create a visual diary that helps us reflect on our growth, techniques,...

In this captivating episode of "The Artist Next Level Podcast," host Sergio Gomez sits down with acclaimed hyperrealist artist Nadine Robbins to delve into the mesmerizing world of hyperrealistic portraiture. Prepare to be awestruck as Nadine shares the secrets behind her four-hour video session, where she meticulously captures the essence of a human eye in her breathtaking portraits.

Join Sergio and Nadine as they embark on a fascinating exploration of the creative process, revealing the intricate steps involved in achieving hyperrealism. Discover the story behind Nadine's remarkable video class, designed to guide aspiring artists through the intricate journey of painting a hyperrealistic eye. Uncover the thought process that led her to choose the specific model for this masterpiece and gain insights into her decision to offer this transformative experience as an online class.

In this inspiring conversation, Nadine opens up about the challenges and joys of hyperrealism, sharing...