In this solo episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova dives into the emotions we face when stepping into a bigger version of ourselves. Whether it’s the fear of failure or the surprising fear of success, leveling up is both thrilling and terrifying. Kat shares personal stories of setbacks, successes, and the lessons learned along the way—like launching Art Queens, losing a book deal, and facing the pressure of creating something meaningful.

This episode is a raw and empowering reminder that fear is not a sign to stop; it’s proof that you’re growing. Kat also offers practical tools for calming your nervous system, reconnecting with your vision, and moving forward with courage and intention.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How fear shows up during moments of growth—and why it’s inevitable.
• Why even dreams coming true can trigger unexpected pressure and doubt.
• Personal stories of overcoming setbacks and learning to trust the process.
• Inspiring examples, including the persistence of James Dyson and lessons from Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena.”
• Tools for navigating fear, including movement, art-making, and breathwork.
• The power of anchoring yourself to your vision and staying connected to your “why.”

Links & Resources:

• Connect with Ekaterina Popova: @katerinaspopova
• Learn more about Art Queens Society: AQSociety.com
• Get support, grow your art career, and join a global community of creative women.

Thank You for Listening!

If this episode resonates with you, please tag me on Instagram or share in the Art Queens community. Don’t forget to leave a review and subscribe to the podcast to stay inspired on your creative journey.

Stay courageous, stay creative, and keep showing up for your dreams!

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat encourages you to hold onto your dreams, even when it feels like they’re out of reach. Learn how to overcome creative setbacks, embrace resilience, and nurture patience while trusting in the infinite possibilities life holds. Kat shares her personal experiences, insights, and tips to keep you inspired and moving forward.

  Special Announcements

Call for Entries: Create! Magazine 2025 Women’s Issue Create! Magazine invites submissions for its 2025 Women’s Issue, celebrating the brilliance of women-identifying and gender non-conforming artists worldwide.

 

Why Submit?

• Visibility: Showcase your work in an international print and digital publication with 200,000+ readers.
• Recognition: Be reviewed by a jury of esteemed curators like Danielle Krissa, Sarah McCordison, and Ginger Rudolph.
• Prizes: Win exclusive opportunities like interviews and AQ Society memberships!

 

📅 Deadline: February 1, 2025 📍 Submit Your Work: www.CreateMagazine.co/call-for-art

  Thank You to Our Sponsors

🌟 Create! Magazine: Proudly presenting its 2025 Women’s Issue, offering unparalleled visibility and recognition for women artists.

🌟 I Like Your Work Podcast: Supporting artists with personalized resources, feedback, and a vibrant community. Explore their membership at ILikeYourWorkPodcast.com.

 

Additional Sponsors:

• Colossal
• Gapka Paint
• Superfine Art Fairs
• Visionary Art Collective
• Art Queens
• PxP Contemporary
• Arts to Hearts Project
• Women United Art Movement

  Join the AQ Society

Looking for a creative community to celebrate your wins, share your struggles, and offer support? The AQ Society offers:

• Monthly coaching calls
• Expert guest speakers
• A supportive members area

Find your tribe at AQSociety.com.

  Connect with Us

If you loved this episode, leave us a review on iTunes and share it with your artist friends! Remember, your dreams are valid, and with patience, resilience, and faith, anything is possible.

Follow Kat on Instagram:

• Create! Magazine
• Art Queens

 

Until next time, keep creating and dreaming! 🌟

Welcome back to Art & Cocktails! In this inspiring episode, host Ekaterina Popova welcomes back artist and tax expert Hannah Cole of Sunlight Tax. Together, they discuss:

 

• Navigating the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene and finding hope and connection through community.
• Simple yet powerful strategies to shift your mindset about taxes, saving, and financial growth as a creative.
• Practical tips for automating your financial systems to reduce stress and focus on what you love.
• Overlooked tax deductions for artists and entrepreneurs, including mileage, client meals, and more.

 

Hannah also shares valuable insights on balancing debt repayment with savings and investments, plus how to turn money management into a ritual of self-care and empowerment.

 

Special Opportunity: Hannah Cole is hosting a free class called Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $130k in Your Savings!

🗓 Date: December 5th at 12 PM Eastern ⏱ Duration: 1 Hour 📍 Details: Discover the 4 biggest tax mistakes creatives make and the systems to overcome them. 🎟 Register here: https://go.sunlighttax.com/free

 

Ready to dive deeper? Join Hannah’s Money Bootcamp to set up systems, simplify taxes, and grow your savings. Use the code ARTQUEENS to save $100!

 

Links Mentioned:

• Free Class: Sign up here
• Sunlight Tax Website: www.sunlighttax.com

Follow Ekaterina Popova:

• Website: www.createmagazine.com
• Instagram: @katerinaspopova @createmagazine

The art world is changing fast, and in this solo Q&A episode of Art and Cocktails, Kat shares how artists can adapt and thrive in today’s landscape. Topics include:

 

• Navigating Economic Challenges: Practical advice for growing your art career in a tough financial climate.
• The AI Era: How to stay motivated and double down on your humanity in a world of automation.
• Rethinking Gallery Representation: When galleries make sense, how to approach them, and alternatives for self-representation.
• Curating Your Own Shows: Steps for creating independent exhibitions and showcasing your art on your own terms.
• Connecting with Collectors: Finding your ideal audience, even in uncertain times.

 

This episode is packed with honest insights and actionable strategies for artists ready to take control of their careers and create opportunities despite challenges. Perfect for creatives navigating a rapidly evolving industry.

 

Shop my favorites: 

https://www.amazon.com/shop/katerinaspopova

Resources Mentioned

Books & Articles:

• The Complete Smartist Guide – Comprehensive tips for pricing and marketing your art. https://www.amazon.com/shop/katerinaspopova
• UBS Art Market Report – Insights into global art market trends. https://theartmarket.artbasel.com
• Art Newspaper, Financial Times, New York Times Art Sections – Stay updated on art pricing and trends.

Websites & Platforms:

• NYFA (New York Foundation for the Arts) – Open calls, residencies, and portfolio reviews.
• YourOwnArtShow.com – Step-by-step program for curating your own exhibitions.
• Artsy.net – Pricing insights and gallery connections.

Tools & Technology:

• Cameras: Sony ZV-1 (linked in Amazon favorites). https://www.amazon.com/shop/katerinaspopova
• Website Builders: Squarespace for creating a professional portfolio and shop.
• Email Marketing: Flowdesk and MailChimp for building and engaging your audience.

Previous Podcast Episodes:

• Interview with Stephanie Sachs on finding collectors and marketing strategies.
• Sonia Burrell on art collecting and gallery relationships.
• Tim Fowler on scaling to larger canvases.

Special Mentions:

• Gita Joshi – Collaborative programs and insightful episodes on the podcast. https://www.thecuratorssalon.com
• Create Magazine – Juried opportunities and connecting with curators. www.createmagazine.co

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, I’m joined by Zarina Muhammad, co-founder of The White Pube, to explore the evolving world of art criticism. From their journey as art students to becoming influential voices, Zarina shares how The White Pube redefined criticism with humor, accessibility, and bold honesty.

We discuss the creation of their book Poor Artists, the importance of criticism as a form of generosity, and how artists can engage with critics while maintaining their creative integrity. Whether you're an artist, critic, or simply passionate about art culture, this episode offers fresh insights into the art world and its community.

Highlights:

• The origins and evolution of The White Pube.
• Why accessible and humorous criticism matters.
• Insights from Zarina and Gabrielle de la Puente's book Poor Artists, blending fiction and critique.
• Tips for artists on working with critics and navigating feedback.
• The future of art criticism and creative community support.

Tune in to learn how Zarina and The White Pube are reshaping the way we view and engage with art criticism.

Links:

https://www.createmagazine.co

www.thewhitepube.co.uk

https://thewhitepube.co.uk/book/

 

 

 

In this inspiring episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova welcomes the talented Emily Jeffords, an abstract impressionist painter, creative educator, and writer from Greenville, South Carolina. Together, they dive into Emily's journey of learning to sell and market her art independently, creating eco-friendly art practices, and discovering a fulfilling creative process.

Emily shares her path from art school to building a thriving career outside the traditional gallery system, offering insights for artists eager to navigate the art world on their terms. She discusses the importance of local art scenes, connecting with collectors, and pricing art confidently. Emily also opens up about the deeply personal transformation in her creative practice, fueled by finding peace and grace in her studio.

In addition, Emily reveals her passion for hosting artist retreats, creating spaces where artists can immerse themselves in creativity and connection. This episode is filled with advice on embracing authenticity, fostering resilience, and building a sustainable art practice.

 

Topics Covered:

• Navigating the art world without gallery representation
• Building confidence and finding local art opportunities
• Eco-friendly practices for artists
• The value of creating authentic, process-driven art
• Emily’s retreats and their impact on artists
• Advice for emerging artists on pricing, marketing, and connecting with audiences

 

Links:

 

Learn more about Create! Magazine at www.createmagazine.co

 

• The Non-Toxic Studio Guidebook

• Sign up for the Goal Setting Workshop (with free download for the Goal Setting Workbook)

• Learn more about the MAKING art WORK Masterclass

• Learn more about The Collective membership for artists & creatives

• Shop Emily's Art Collection

• Connect with Emily on Instagram

 

Tune in to discover valuable tips, heartfelt stories, and practical advice for artists at all stages!

Learn more about Create! Magazine at www.createmagazine.co

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, join us for an inspiring conversation with art collector and curator Sonia Borrell, founder of the Tryson Collection. Sonia shares her journey in the art world, discussing her passion for discovering new artists and building a collection that resonates on a personal level. She offers invaluable advice for artists on creating authentically and for new collectors on how to start a collection with meaning and purpose.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Art as a healing and transformative force
• Collecting what you love over following market trends
• The importance of authenticity for artists
• How artists can curate their website and social media to attract collectors and galleries
• Tips on using social media to connect with collectors and build a community
• How to navigate the art world as a beginner

 

Whether you’re an artist looking to stand out or a collector eager to find meaningful pieces, this episode is packed with insights on how to approach art with intention, passion, and heart. Listen now for a refreshing take on art, connection, and creating from the heart.

 

Follow Sonia Borrell:

Instagram: @soniabblondon

Website: www.soniabblondon.com

 

Grab your copy of Sonia Borrell’s book, Art in Real-Time: Collecting Tomorrow’s Masters, and explore the world of art collecting with insights from an expert.

https://amzn.to/3NWc9EL

 

Visit our website to learn more about Create! Magazine and Art & Cocktails Podcast

www.createmagazine.co

 

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova is joined once again by curator Gita Joshi. Together, they explore how artists can take control of their careers by curating their own exhibitions and creating opportunities rather than waiting for art world recognition. Ekaterina and Gita share highlights from their recent trip to Paris, where they explored both Art Basel and the thriving indie art scene, revealing how large art fairs and intimate pop-up shows can coexist and enrich the art community.

 

They discuss the importance of independent initiatives, the power of artist-led shows, and why now is the time for artists to take control over their creative destiny. For emerging artists feeling the pressure to "make it" or gain gallery representation, Ekaterina and Gita offer practical advice on how to establish visibility, build connections, and foster a meaningful art practice.

 

In this Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Insights from Art Basel Paris and the indie galleries that stood out
• How artist-led initiatives can serve as stepping stones toward larger opportunities
• Why curation isn’t just for gallerists—how artists can be their own curators
• Tips on mounting your own exhibition, finding accessible venues, and attracting media attention
• The role of community and collaboration in an artist’s journey
• How to maintain motivation and resilience in challenging times

 

Special Offer: Join Ekaterina and Gita’s program, Your Own Art Show, to receive step-by-step guidance on curating your exhibitions, marketing them effectively, and making a powerful impression on your audience. Enroll before the end of the month to access exclusive bonuses, including one-on-one feedback on your press release, PR support, and visualizations to help you plan your body of work. Join Your Own Art Show Program today! Don't miss our special limited time bonuses.

 

Links & Resources:

• Your Own Art Show Program
• Connect with Gita Joshi: Website | Instagram
• Connect with Create! Magazine: Website | Instagram

 

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who needs a creative boost!

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Tim Fowler, a full-time artist based in Leicester, UK. Known for his bold, semi-abstract paintings bursting with vivid pinks, teals, and blues, Tim opens up about his creative journey, from experimenting with portraits and cityscapes to finding his voice in botanical themes inspired by his Caribbean heritage. We discuss how a serendipitous encounter with banana plants in his studio led him to explore the intersections of art, history, and cultural identity.

Tim shares invaluable insights on developing creative confidence, the power of taking risks, and his philosophy of painting for the gallery you want, not the one you have. He talks candidly about balancing commercial success with personal exploration, staying prolific, and pushing through self-doubt. If you're an artist looking to break free from creative blocks, embrace new challenges, or scale up your work, this episode is a must-listen.

 

Key Takeaways:

• How Tim discovered his passion for large-scale botanical paintings
• The importance of self-belief and making your own opportunities in the art world
• Practical tips on staying motivated, navigating setbacks, and maintaining creative authenticity

 

https://www.timjfowler.co.uk

 

Sponsored by: Create! Magazine: Your source for contemporary art and opportunities for artists. Visit www.createmagazine.com to explore open calls and get published.

In this insightful episode, Dr. Aubry Alvarez Bakker shares her expertise in using breathwork and creativity to manage stress, regulate the nervous system, and enhance overall well-being. She discusses how these practices can improve performance and support the manifestation of personal goals. The conversation explores the synergy between science and spirituality, focusing on how nervous system regulation can help individuals move beyond survival mode, embrace creativity, and foster a mindset of abundance. Dr. Aubry and Ekaterina Popova examine the healing potential of art, explaining how creativity serves as a medium for self-expression, emotional regulation, and personal growth. Dr. Aubry also introduces her new program, Breath and Body, aimed at empowering individuals with tools for breathwork and emotional balance.

 

www.instagram.com/dr.aubry/

 

Get a free trial of Breath & Body:

https://certified.movmntmethod.com/sign-up-to-the-free-trial

 

Visit Create! Magazine to subscribe or submit your work: 

Save 20% off by using the code 'NEWREADER' to subscribe to our digital magazine

https://www.createmagazine.co

 

 

Key Takeaways:

• Breathwork for Stress Relief: Simple breathing techniques help manage stress and anxiety, signaling safety to the heart and promoting physiological balance.
• Creativity as Growth Catalyst: Engaging in creative work encourages personal healing, expression, and can counteract scarcity mindset.
• Nervous System Health: Regulating the nervous system is crucial for peak performance, creativity, and successful goal-setting.
• Abundance through Art: Creativity offers a channel for personal empowerment, establishing a safe space to explore deeper emotions.
• Overcoming Creative Blocks: Regular creative practices and breathwork can help artists and creatives move beyond creative “freeze” states.

 

Sound Bites:

• "Stress, scarcity, and lack are incompatible with a creative mindset."
• "Breathwork and creativity are essential for managing stress."
• "Art and abundance go hand in hand."
• "Creating something is a powerful way to overcome scarcity."
• "The act of creating art fuels a sense of empowerment."

 

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Stress Management and Creativity
• 03:10 – Dr. Aubry’s Background and Creative Journey
• 05:48 – Breathwork and Nervous System Regulation
• 09:09 – The Science Behind Breathwork
• 12:00 – Practical Steps for Incorporating Breathwork
• 14:55 – Moving Beyond Survival Mode
• 17:47 – Creativity’s Incompatibility with Scarcity
• 21:30 – Embracing Abundance through Creative Practice
• 24:49 – The Healing Potential of Art
• 28:22 – Art as a Tool for Nervous System Regulation
• 30:44 – Navigating Creative Blocks
• 38:35 – Introduction to the Breath and Body Program

 

This episode offers valuable insights for artists, creatives, and anyone interested in using breathwork and creativity as tools for personal and professional growth.