How Can Visual Artists and Creatives Leverage Clubhouse App?
Follow me - @mikebrennan on Clubhouse
A quick disclaimer: I’m super new to this beta platform. Things are changing rapidly, but here’s my initial thoughts.
So what is Clubhouse?
There’s a new social media app called Clubhouse. Now, if you're not familiar with Clubhouse, you're not alone. It's very new, and still in beta mode, but essentially, Clubhouse is an audio only, invitation only (at the moment), social media app that's currently available for the iPhone only. So they've really narrowed things down to start with. I'm sure there'll be opening things up more as they roll things out. It took me a little while to get on. I kept seeing people posting about this app clubhouse and I started having, you know, serious case of FOMO, fear of missing out and was thinking to myself, I need to get on this thing. I want to find out what it is!
I tend to be a little bit more on the early adopter side. So for me, I really wanted to explore and be a part of some of the conversations that were happening there.
In Clubhouse there are “rooms” and people that you can follow like on all of the social media platforms. But unlike other social media platforms, there are no visuals other than your avatar profile icon . And there's no way of actually leaving or likes or comments. It's purely audio.
Upon entering the app, you see the “hallway”, which shows all the rooms with various themes that are happening. You might have themes that are around podcasting, making money, building your business, pop culture, art, faith, and just hang out rooms. Some of what you see depends on the people that you follow and their interests. You have to be a little more strategic as far as who you follow based on interest.
So in the hallway, you pick a room that you want to join. When you join in that room, there is someone who has created the room up, who is the main “speaker”, and typically the moderator as well. And then there's usually other people, who are “speakers” up on “stage.” You or other room members can be invited to come up on stage to share or ask a question. And the “listeners” (other people in the room) are hanging at the bottom of the room visually. They cannot speak unless they are invited to come on stage.
Anyone has the ability to enter any room, and either listen or participate. If someone wants to participate and they “raise their hand” (there's a little hand icon that you hit) to let the people in charge, know that you have a question or that you want to participate in some way. Then you wait to be invited up on “stage”, You unmute your mic on your phone and you ask your question and then mute it again. And everyone takes turns talking about whatever the various topics are.
That's kind of the general idea of Clubhouse. A lot of people think it's going to be a real game changer, as far as social media.
But I started wondering if there was any benefit to being on Clubhouse as a visual artist…
As I started to poke around, I searched to see if there were other visual artists and creative people. What I found was a variety of creative people on there (photographers, filmmakers, graphic designers, musicians, fine artists). So I ducked into some of their rooms. And I what I found was pretty fascinating.
It's a little bit like the Wild West right now in Clubhouse, because everyone is trying to figure out how to use it and what proper etiquette is. Everyone's a newbie.
No one needs something that's going to be another complete time-suck and waste of time. We have enough of those. So people are looking for what's the benefit, what's the value here? How can they show up and bring value? How can they create some things that are missing?
I ducked into a room that was for visual artists specifically, because this to me was the real test. If you can't see the art, what would this room look like? Was it going to be people just talking about their art? Or just a bunch of people sharing some art tips?
They opened the floor up for some questions. Some people asked questions about technique or about supplies, methods, things of that nature. Or they talked about what their subject matter was, or maybe process, or important themes within their artwork. Others talked about trying to market and sell their artwork, inquiring about connecting with clients and buyers.
At one point the room moderator said, “okay, we're going to reset the room a little bit here and just tell anybody new who's coming in, here's the expectation and purpose of the room” And then they announced taking a 10 minute break in the conversation for anyone who wanted to create something live while hanging out in the room. They played some music created by one of the people in the room, or a playlist from the person in charge.
I hung around to see what would happened, asking myself “how are people going to share what they're working on?” You can't share photos because it's not part of the platform, but you can temporarily change your avatar icon photo. People changed it from the photo of themselves to their work in progress. This allowed people right within the app to click on that little avatar and to see a larger photo of what the person was working on. They also shared some of the things that they were struggling with, ask for feedback in real time.
I wouldn’t have thought there would have been value in having a group of visual artists together on an audio only platform, but seeing people come together for community and connection in real time was pretty great.
Another room I entered had creatives sharing about what their biggest struggling in 2020 has been. Person after person shared stories of income loss, battling with anxiety and depression, as well as important business lessons they learned. When creative people are brave enough to share their stories and experiences, we start to see we’re not alone.
I had the opportunity to cohost a room about the Pixar movie Soul and the lessons about creativity is presented, alongside my friend Terry Weaver. We had a lively chat about what moved us in the film, and how the creative issues it brought to light effected us.
Terry Weaver and I co-hosted a room on Clubhouse talking about the Pixar movie Soul and the powerful themes presented for creatives.
I was pretty convinced that there's something special happening here on Clubhouse. And I think this is only getting continued to grow. Those who are on the platform early will have the opportunity to be a part of setting the tone and the pace and filling in some of those gaps that I mentioned before.
I also joined in a room that was talking about cryptocurrency and crypto art.
Now, if you have no idea what I'm talking about right now, don't worry because honestly, I really didn't know what this conversation was about other than the fact that it had “art” in the title. What I found out was there's a whole other world out there - a digital one (No, not The Matrix). Some people call it like “the metaverse” (Kind of like a Virtual Reality Minecraft word). I'm not going to get too deep into that. (And if you're somebody who's reading and you knew more about that kind of stuff I'd love to hear more about it from your side of things.)
Within this world, there are people who are creating art galleries, wanting to set up experiences. The end user would put on virtual reality glasses (Oculus or whatever technology) to enter and view this virtual reality world where they would be able to actually step into these visual paintings and experience things on a whole new level.
That's where this whole thing of crypto art and cryptocurrency comes in. There are artists who are creating digital artwork, digital art shows and galleries. There's exclusivity in some of the digital art where they authenticate pieces. That's how they know that that's the “original”, otherwise with digital work, you could be reproducing and I'm sharing it in multiple places. If somebody is paying for a piece of fine art at a high price, they want to know that this is the real deal, and that it’s authentic (and rare). All this that is happening I became aware of simply because I entered into this room.
Some people were talking about having all sorts of different resources available for digital galleries and virtual events around the arts. Other people were sharing resources (someone else in the room asked for pitch deck templates). Another person had one and was willing to send to them.
People are having these quick conversations where they have a need, and having it filled by someone else showing up in that room can help. Everyone was being free with resources and with insights and knowledge, and just generally being helpful to one another. Being a community, people who didn’t know each other moments ago, and from all over the globe.
Being on Clubhouse has me asking what’s possible in this space? What could be created or curated here? And I've, I've only been on this platform for maybe less than a week right at the time of writing this.
Some people may say it could be a flash in the pan, like several other social media platforms that have tried and disappeared. Other high level people think that this one is going to be a little more of a game changer because of the nature of the interactivity, that you have to show up as yourself. (You can't have some kind of alias.) You have to show up as you, with your voice.
“Being on Clubhouse has me asking what’s possible in this space? What could be created or curated here? ”
At this point, some other people were talking about using these rooms for mastermind groups and training or coaching, which is really interesting to think about. Still others are on there simply trying to just build their platform and grow their audience, which is easily done with the ability to connect your Instagram and your Twitter account to your profile as well. They're making changes to Clubhouse constantly, so some of these features may upgrade, like being able to connect more platforms.
When you're in a room you can go and click on anyone’s profiles and check out their bio for more about them. But the cool thing is that even if you're not in the clubhouse app, audio continues to play while you're in other apps. So you can still be a part of the room, and be listening to what's happening, but also checking out other social media platforms at the same time.
Maybe you're reading this and you're not a visual artist, but a musician. What would it look like for you to show up on this app (where it's an audio only), and you have the ability to share your music or clips of your music, or maybe have like a real time writing session with somebody or a group of people? That could be incredible. It's a means to connect with fellow creative people and also connect with people who might be your audience, collectors or clients.
Again, I don't know where it's going to go necessarily, but I just know every time that I'm on there and I jump into a room, I'm learning some new things. I'm getting access to some resources (people mentioned websites for further information). It's really incredible the speed at which you can have these conversations and the amount of people that can be in the room (and who you're in the room with.) You could be in a room with some people who are really well-established in their industry, having conversations and access to them.
You wouldn't have access to them or on other social media platforms if they have a million plus followers. They would never see you because of all the noise. With Clubhouse, you can be in a room alongside of them asking them questions or having them interact with you.
So it's pretty exciting. I can't wait to see what else comes of this platform. And if you are on Clubhouse, feel free to follow me - I'm @MikeBrennan. I’d love to connect with you there, and who knows, maybe there's even some things that we can create together!
For a more detailed breakdown check out this post from Social Media Examiner.
So what are your thoughts or questions about Clubhouse?
Start with what’s in your hand
Start with what’s in your hand.
It just might be seeds of greatness, but to you, right now, it looks like something so small and useless.
Don’t be so enamored by huge dreams that you don’t use what is before you today. Remember what seeds are. They are beginnings. They are carriers of dreams, hopes, and our desires to make great things that can impact the world around us.
But if we never plant them, they won’t be able to do what they’re supposed to do. They won’t take root. They won’t grow.
They need to go into the dark, cold ground, where sometimes it seems like we’ve buried the dead. But they are waiting for the right time to burst forth with new life, and fruit.
Don’t give up. Don’t wait for the perfect time. Don’t despise humble beginnings. Use what’s in your hand right now and plant it where you are.
Feeling like your creativity is insignificant?
Feeling invisible doesn’t mean being insignificant.
Our feelings lie and tell us if no one is noticing us, or our work, then we’re not significant, nor is our art.
Significance comes from who we are. Our identity.
When we create from a place of security in that, we have the freedom to be ourselves and release our work.
We all want to create work that makes an impact.
We want followers, likes and shares. But after we create our work and release it, it finds its own way.
Today, you are significant.
Start with that.
Then create and release.
Don't Create Alone
Being a creative can be a lonely path.
There’s no one keeping you showing up to create but yourself.
Wouldn’t you like to be able to consistently show up to create your art? (Instead of flirting with it)
That’s why I created the Daily Creative Habit community.
The Daily Creative Habit is a private Facebook group where Artists, Makers, and Creatives interested in creating more consistently, and growing in their creative practice gather and share.
I’ve learned a lot after returning to my art after a 10 year hiatus, via embarking on a 365 day daily art making journey that has lasted 8+ years and is still going. (Never missed a day!) When you show up daily, over time you come to discover your voice, style, passion, and unlock key principles for your creative journey.
The goal here is equipping you with ideas, methods and community that help you establish a daily creative habit, so you can gain traction in your creative projects. It’s important for others to celebrate your success, to help others, and to ask questions in the group setting so everyone can gain some clarification and validation.
This community consists of visual artists, writers, performers, makers, hobbyists and professionals, and anyone “creating.” This space was created as a safe place to share thoughts, exchange and explore ideas, and get some encouragement when ya wanna share something exciting in your creative journey. Comment, share your wins, ask questions, learn, and take action! By sharing what’s working for you in your creative practice, you will undoubtedly inspire a fellow creative to take action in their lives.
Simply visit www.DailyCreativeHabit.com where you’ll be forwarded to the Facebook group page. Just answer the 3 questions, and request to join.
I hope to see you there!
When I was a kid, Halloween stressed me out!
I spent this past Saturday at the Dog Walk of The Dead event (think Halloween family event complete with dogs and people in costume). There was the Weiner dog who was a hot dog, a corgi who was a Game of Thrones dragon, skeleton dogs...
Who wouldn't want to dress their dog up as a Bantha complete with Tuscan Raider? (If you're not a Star Wars nerd, this might be over your head...)
I’ve spent time the past few years at the Dog Walk of The Dead event (think Halloween family event complete with dogs and people in costume). One year, there was the Weiner dog who was a hot dog, a corgi who was a Game of Thrones dragon, skeleton dogs... you get the idea.
When I was a kid, choosing the right Halloween costume for myself was stressful (yes, there was an embarrassing homemade clown, and a box covered with tin foil, otherwise known as a robot- and hidden photo evidence).
These days, you gotta have the right costume for your pet too!! (and Instagram worthy I might add.)
If you dress your pets up for Halloween (or more likely, they let you…) check out these creative costumes!
What costume would you choose for your pet?
Leave me a comment. Bonus points for photos! (even embarrassing ones)
Looking for some pet art or a custom pet portrait?
Check out my shop!
Live and Virtual Drawing Opportunities for Artists During Covid-19 Quarantine
Recently, I found myself in the place where due to being in lockdown because of the current Covid-19 situation, I had a bit more available time that I wanted to spend drawing, but found it hard to locate resources.
Art centers near and far were hosting online events for figure drawing, but some weren’t at optimal times, and others I found out about after the event due to the algorithm. (Darn you AL…)
I love that so many new opportunities to draw, and join in communities far away have been brought close, and become available.
So I decided to compile the opportunities I have come across, from art centers and schools, to art models who are offering their own opportunities directly either via zoom, Instagram lives, or like one model (Whitney Masters) figure modeling via 4K recording for on demand.
I “met” Whitney through Instagram. Like today.
She saw that I was an artist, so she reached out. Coincidentally, I was compiling this list of resources, so I asked is she might be interested in sharing how she’s been leaning into opportunities (and creating new ones) to help solve problems. She needs more gigs and income, artists are looking for ways to attend figure drawing sessions with live models.
So we jumped on a zoom call, and had a quick chat about how all this started. Watch our chat.
Whitney Masters (model)
http://www.whitneymasters.com/
For hour long video, please email me at whitney.masters.model@gmail.com
The following is a list of drawing opportunities for Artists (figure and otherwise).
Some are live, timed events on zoom, some evergreen resources, some figure drawing with models (clothed and / or nude), while other aren’t figure based at all.
(Note: if you or those around you are sensitive to nude figure drawing, click cautiously)
IF YOU HAVE MORR RESOURCES YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD, DROP THEM IN THE COMMENTS SECTION.
The Drawing Center - DrawNow! Online
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/the-drawing-center-12021710001
Brooklyn Figure Drawing
https://www.meetup.com/meetup-group-MYOCNSPt/
Drawing America
Gallery Girls
LIVE LIFE DRAWING going Global with TONY
Dynamic Figure Drawing Live!
https://www.meetup.com/Dynamic-Figure-Drawing-in-Brooklyn/
NYC Urban Sketchers
http://nyc.urbansketchers.org/
The Jolly Sketcher
https://bookwhen.com/thejollysketcher#focus=ev-se6s-20200418110000
Sketchbook Skool
Platform Studios
https://www.platformchicago.com/figure-drawing-sessions
New Masters Academy
Youtube example (contains nudity):
All The Young Nudes - Life Drawing Online
https://www.atyn.co.uk/
Croquis Cafe
Video example (contains nudity):
https://bit.ly/3bCgbNu
Pose Maniacs
Line of Action
Quickposes
Bodies in Motion
https://www.bodiesinmotion.photo/
Proko
Pinterest Collection
https://www.pinterest.com/bjim35_1/nude-art-poses/
ArtModelTips.com
Draw Juice
Anna Catherine - direct model offering
https://www.instagram.com/annacatherinemuse/
What Eight Years of Consecutive Daily Art Can Teach You
This is year eight, April 2019-April 2020. (Scroll down to see all eight years of art together)
It’s my eight year anniversary of creating art every single day.
I never missed one. Not holidays. Not vacation. Not sickness.
Some of us can’t say we’ve even showered every day of the year. :)
So how did I get here?
The simple answer is one day at a time. I refer to them as marble moments.
I have a jar of 365 marbles on my desk that I use when speaking or teaching. It represents one piece of art for every day of the year.
A single a marble by itself doesn’t look like much. But what of you grouped seven of them together? Then add seven more? It’s by adding time increments on a daily basis that leads to a daily creative habit.
But instead of talking about principles and methods I’ve learned along this journey (like finding my style and voice as an artist, gaining confidence & momentum, refining my craft, unbelievable opportunities…) I’d rather tell you the story of WHY I began this journey. (If you’d like to read an older post check out my year five post.)
After all, you might be thinking, “that’s great that you have accomplished this, but what does your experience really have to do with me?” Perhaps, a lot.
But I need to bring you back to the beginning….
I found myself sobbing and broken on the side of this hiking trail in upstate New York during a retreat for ministry leaders. Life had unraveled and ironically, I felt emotionally like a knotted up and twisted ball of twine. I couldn’t determine what the issue was, and so couldn’t “fix it”. Which only made matters worse.
After some counseling, it was determined I had been suffering from a form of mild depression called Dysthymia. A full time ministry role where I held responsibilities outside my gifting and a misplaced identity in my work only compounded my problem.
I found myself needing to leave the church I helped plant. My wife and I had to sell our home. We didn’t know what would come next. Ultimately, it was a move out of state. What should have seemed like a fresh start, felt more like intense loss. We lost our house, left our friends and some family, left our faith community & jobs. It was during this transition that my father was also diagnosed with cancer, and quickly passed the second week into my new job.
I had often wondered to myself “is this it? is this what life looks like now?” It felt as rock bottom as I could imagine. And climbing out of depression seemed like a slippery slope, when circumstances threatened to weigh me down.
During this time I began to journal daily, intensely listening and praying. I didn’t know how to do much else other than dumping my emotions like modern day Psalms. Every day, I had just enough energy to keep showing up.
Through this process, I began to have this internal prompting that was calling me to return to art. Not the graphic design work that was part of my previous life’s employment, but rather a getting back to my roots, tactile experience of handling some art supplies that I hadn’t interacted with in since the days of art school. But how could I start creating art again when I had taken a 10 year absence and was battling depression?
My journey back started when, on a whim, I took a printmaking class at a local art center. While attending this 3 week course, I was turned onto a book called “The Creative License” by Danny Gregory. Little did I know this would stoke the internal creative fires within, that were dormant for far too long.
I decided to try my hand at 365 days of drawings and painting. Danny Gregory wrote “a five minute drawing is better than none”. Somehow these words were liberating. Surely I could manage five minutes, even if I had no clue how (or if) I could get to 365 days.
I was off and running, or more like stumbling. It was forced and awkward at first. My very first drawing was of a Starbucks coffee cup (pictured below). I both hate this drawing, and love it.
I hate it because it’s embarrassing. It’s a sucky drawing of a coffee cup. But I love this drawing because it signifies a rebirth. A phoenix moment. The moment I decided to push past my fear, those voices that told me I couldn’t draw because I couldn’t draw photorealistic renderings. The moment I choose to get back to my art because I needed it, for my soul.
Day one, year one of my 365 day daily art making practice.
I kept going. At first, filling pages and pages of my Moleskine sketchbooks, then branching out to individual pieces on canvas, paper, and even creating digitally as my confidence grew.
Early on, I decided to post my daily work on Instagram as a way of keeping accountable, and even posting the work, that in my opinion, was sub par. It wasn’t about creating “masterpieces”. I wouldn’t let that perfectionist voice discourage me from keeping on my journey.
The more I kept going, the more I felt life returning. Depression started to fade. Drive and passion filled its place.
Beyond the work itself, this journey has changed me. It has given me more confidence in creating and sharing my art. It has helped me identify my style and tools I like to work. It has connected me with new people and opportunities. It has challenged me in ways I’m not sure I can really express properly. As I kept taking the right next step, it evolved into steps of who I was created to be.
But it’s not all about me. It’s about you too.
My experiences and journey is only really redeemed if it serves to help others. So it’s not just my story, but ours.
Through this journey I discovered my deeper why — to tell stories and connect through my art. While the expression and themes of my creating may vary, it’s always with the intent of making a connection with others.
All eight years of daily consecutive art making.
What is it for you?
What have you wished you could accomplish? No matter how hopeless your circumstances may seem, keep showing up. Do that thing you need to because it’s life giving. It will give life to you, and then through you. Start where you are right now.
And to celebrate my eight years, I’m inviting you into an opportunity. I wanted to offer something practical, not just encouraging words.
So, i’m launching one-on-one hourly coaching, and a separate mastermind group for creative people (Artists, Makers, and Content Creators as I say on my podcast). Anyone who is ready to start taking action in their creative pursuits.
Perhaps it’s:
Writing and self-publishing a book
Launching a podcast
Creating a body of work with painting, drawing or visual art
Establishing your own daily creative habit
Getting help with personal branding
Whatever it looks like for you, I can help you identify some next steps.
In our one-on-one hourly coaching, we can deep dive into your current creative struggle and formulate an action plan. We’ll meet via zoom and you’ll even get a video and audio recording of our call for easy reference.
For the Creative Action Takers mastermind (yes - CATs) we’ll meet weekly for 12 weeks to discuss each members creative problem, resulting in an action plan in the context of group think-tank and accountability.
And for those who want to dive even deeper, I’m offering an Elite package that combines the power of the mastermind and the personal one-on-one coaching.
You can apply for your coaching and mastermind spots by filling out the form. It’s first come, first served. Spots are limited. Application does not guarantee a spot.
Your Day One is waiting.
What could it look like for you?
Dress Up Your Walls with These DIY Wall Art Ideas
Source: Pixabay
The following is a guest post by Wendy Dessler
A fresh, new coat of paint, while can really freshen up a room, will only take it so far. If you really want to personalize your home and add a bit of pizazz to any space, then consider using one of the DIY wall art ideas found here.
There are more than a few ideas to try. Keep reading to learn what some of the best DIY wall art ideas are trending now and how you can effectively personalize your space.
A Painted Tarp
When it comes to high-end DIYs for your walls, you’ll find an old canvas is a smart solution. If you have one lying around, don’t toss it out, instead turn it into a work of art. You can use virtually any substance on it – paint, charcoal, pastels, etc. Draw a picture or have your kids draw something. This is a great way to repurpose an old tarp you have, or you can purchase one second-hand if needed.
A Porcelain Gallery
Do you have an extensive China collection? If so, why not take it out of the cupboard or cabinet, and display it on the wall? This is an unexpected twist to the more classic gallery wall look, as well. Be sure to map out your gallery using paper before you start putting holes in the wall, as this is going to minimize problems.
A Fabric Wall Hanging
Do you have a vintage area rug or an antique quilt? Is it sitting in a closet or behind a couch somewhere? If you haven’t been using it, then why not repurpose it by hanging it up on your wall? It’s a great way to add some color and interest to any room in your house.
Children’s Artwork
Your kids have likely created more than a few amazing pieces of art, now is the time to show them off. Not only does this give you a great way to add color and fun to your room, you can also help your child feel like an amazing artist – just look at how proud they seem when you hang up their artwork. You can even have it professionally framed to add a bit more elegance, if desired.
Source: Pixabay
Put a Unique Spin on the Typical Portraits
Do you like the idea of displaying your family on your walls? Is this an appealing option, but you want to go traditional, consider portraits from Instapainting. These portrait paintings provide you with the perfect solution to show off your family, with a more interesting spin.
Clipped Art
Do you like the minimalist look? If so, this is a great option. Just put up a photograph that you love, without a frame. This is a minimalist look that will definitely add some fun and interest to your room.
A Beaded Wall Hanging
You can create your own unique wall hanging and all you need is a branch and some beads. This will create a type of bohemian vibe. Consider an asymmetrical look and design as this offers a more whimsical look and will take up much less real estate on your wall than a woven hanging.
Use Found Objects
Virtually anything can be used as wall décor – even a skateboard – if you style it properly. Use found objects as wall art in your home. With a bit of imagination and creativity, the options are unlimited.
If you want to enhance your home and dress up your walls, then the tips here will help you get started. You’ll find all the ideas here as viable options and can feel confident that everyone will love the look you have created.
Wendy Dessler
Outreach manager
Wendy Dessler is a super-connector who helps businesses find their audience online through outreach, partnerships, and networking. She frequently writes about the latest advancements in digital marketing and focuses her efforts on developing customized blogger outreach plans depending on the industry and competition.
Recommended Mics for Podcasting
Being that I have my podcast, Creative Chats, I tend to get some questions on what podcasting microphones I recommend.
I use the Rode podcaster, along with the kit in this package.
If you are on a cheaper budget, another solid choice is the Blue Yeti mic
** these are affiliate links, so while the price is the same for you, I get a little piece of the pie for referring.
How to Make Fashion Drawing and Illustration Templates
Have you ever wanted an inside peek into an artists’ process?
Whether you consider yourself an artist or not, it’s always fascinating what you can learn by watching someone create.
Fashion illustration and drawing lecturer Ana Stankovic shares some process and behind the scenes in this post.
Have you ever wanted an inside peek into an artists’ process?
Whether you consider yourself an artist or not, it’s always fascinating what you can learn by watching someone create.
Fashion illustration and drawing lecturer Ana Stankovic shares some process and behind the scenes in this post. She shares three methods:
Method 1: The Tracing Method
Method 2: Drawing with a Marker
Method 3: Drawing Exercises for Loosening Up
Why not try your hand with some of her techniques?
3 of My Current Favorite Creative Podcasts – Have You Listened to Any of These?
Everyone needs companions for the journey. But when you are starting a new business or venture (“solopreneur”) it can be pretty lonely.
That’s why I’ve found it so valuable to constantly surround myself with voices that can speak into my journey. We need to hear how others have or are dealing with a lot of the same issues we find ourselves faced with. We need the encouragement that comes with truly being understood, and the inspiration of those who have gone ahead of us.
Hearing these voices can be crucial, especially on days where we feel like giving up (We all have those days!).
In light of that, here are some of my recent favorite podcasts – so whether you’re looking for a fresh source of inspiration, education, or just plain entertainment, consider checking these out. There are tons of great podcasts out there, but these have been really meaningful to me:
Podcast 1: CREATIVE PEP TALK
Andy J Pizza
Episode number #234 9 MARKETING TACTICS TO GAIN THE TRUE FANS YOU NEED TO THRIVE NOW
Andy J Pizza is a super creative with a style all his own. He’s been in the trenches as an illustrator and creative for years. And you can glean some wisdom and insights on his podcast the Creative Pep Talk.
If you make super great creative work, the word will spread. The problem is this: will it spread as fast as you need it to, to keep the lights on? Will you run out of steam before your time has come? The solution is good marketing. In this episode I want to share the 9 pieces of advice I'd give any artist whose work isn't catching on at the rate they want it to.
If you’d like to listen here’s the link.
Podcast 2: DON'T KEEP YOUR DAY JOB
Cathy Heller
Episode #47, Season 3 - How to Overcome Impostor Syndrome
How do you build confidence to take action when you constantly feel like a fraud? Cathy shares how she's dealt with that pesky impostor syndrome, how you can feed yourself with reminders of self worth, and how to replace the unattainable goal of providing "expertise" and "perfection" with empathy and authenticity - so you can start serving the world by being your true self. If you’d like to give a listen, here’s the link.
Podcast 3: The Brand You Podcast
Mike Kim
Episode #173: How I Deal With Rejection, Every Single Day
Ah, rejection. It's inevitable that we'll face it, yet we'll do anything possible to avoid it In this episode, Mike shares a little bit about how he deals with rejection. See, we often take failure as a personal rejection. It's not. If people don't know the real you, it's not possible for them to reject the real you.
Whether you're looking to start a side-hustle, grow your own business, or just enter into a new phase of your relationships or career -- rejection is something you can not only deal with, but overcome.
Give a listen to the episode- here’s the link.
What are some of your favorite podcasts? I’d love to hear them — especially ones you’ve been creatively challenged by. Leave a comment below!
There are so many wonderful and unique creatures in this world.
There are so many wonderful and unique creatures in this world. Colors, textures, shapes... variety. I might not get to see many in person but knowing they even exist makes me appreciate the Creator all the more.
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#octopus #art #sea #seacreature #artist #color #octopus🐙 #painting #mikebone #mikebrennanart #contemporaryart #dailyart #aquatica #aquaticart #water #creation #illustration #illustrator #artwork
How often do you do things that stretch you? Avoiding pain or discomfort may keep you safe, but it will also keep you from becoming the person you should be. The real you.
How often do you do things that stretch you? Avoiding pain or discomfort may keep you safe, but it will also keep you from becoming the person you should be. The real you.
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Art inspired by @alisonlevier
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#yoga #yogi #yogaart #yogaartist #stretch
Some days make you feel incomplete. Your own lack and neediness would love to convince you that you are not enough. It’s in those moments that the battle heats up.
Some days make you feel incomplete. Your own lack and neediness would love to convince you that you are not enough. It’s in those moments that the battle heats up. When you try as you may to muster the strength, to not react, but to believe. Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief. | art inspired by @jamiemarieduncan
#yoga #yogi #yogaart #yogaartist #art #artist #contemporaryart #illustration #yogitoes #drawing #yogachallenge #yogainspiration #yogalife #visualart #mikebone #mikebrennanart #illustrator #illustrationart
As much as I joke about hating snow & winter (which i really do), the winter months really do mess with me.
As much as I joke about hating snow & winter (which i really do), the winter months really do mess with me. By late February - mid March I start feeling like I gotta get out of here and go sit in some sand. | art inspired by @paolabullon
#art #artist #beach #illustration #illustrator #drawing #ocean #mikebone #contemporaryart #artoftheday #mikebrennanart #artwork #artistsoninstagram #summer #clouds
How is yoga helpful in day to day life?
How is yoga helpful in day to day life?
Has it changed you somehow? | art inspired by @krista.mylife
#yoga #yogaart #yogi #yogaartist #yogabenefits #yogachallenge #yogalife #yogalifestyle #yogitoes #artist #mikebone #mikebrennanart #health #wellness #artwork #contemporaryart #yogaeveryday #yogainspiration #njartist