Art & Cocktails

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.

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, I’m (host Ekaterina Popova, Kat) sharing my personal reflections on the power of art after an amazing experience at Art Basel Paris. I’ll dive into the joy of reconnecting with my art community, the inspiring conversations I had, and some of the most meaningful moments from the fair. This isn’t just about what I saw—it’s about how art connects us, helps us grow, and why it’s more important now than ever. So, join me as we explore how we can all embrace our unique creative paths and make art a bigger part of our lives.

Blog Post: https://www.createmagazine.co/blog/why-art-matters-today-reflections-from-art-basel-paris-2024

Call For Art: https://www.createmagazine.co/call-for-art

Become a Subscriber and Support Indie Art Publishing: https://www.createmagazine.co/magazine

Key Takeaways:

• Art is a remedy for survival and thriving.
• Connections made through art are invaluable.
• AI cannot replace the human experience in art.
• Smaller works can be just as impactful as larger ones.
• Art serves as a bridge across cultures and languages.
• The art community thrives on collaboration and support.
• Art is essential for expressing complex emotions.
• Artists should respect their own work and its value.
• Art can provide a break from societal challenges.
• Creativity is vital for personal and collective growth.

Chapters:

• 00:00 - The Transformative Power of Art
• 03:42 - Experiencing Art Basel Paris
• 06:25 - Connections and Community in the Art World
• 09:29 - The Role of Technology in Art
• 12:20 - Reflections on Art's Importance
• 15:38 - Invitation to Embrace Art's Gifts
• 17:29 - Outro

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova speaks with Chelsea Pippen-Mizzi, author and tarot reader, about the fascinating intersection of tarot and creativity. Chelsea shares her personal journey from skeptic to tarot enthusiast, discussing how tarot can serve as a powerful tool for artists and entrepreneurs. Together, they explore practical tips for beginners, the importance of personal exploration, and how tarot can help overcome creative blocks without fostering fear. Chelsea also delves into her book Tarot for Creativity, offering valuable insights and exercises designed to spark inspiration in any creative practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Tarot is a powerful tool for overcoming creative blocks.
• Chelsea's tarot journey began as a skeptic and evolved into a passion.
• Understanding tarot through storytelling and archetypes enhances creativity.
• Personal exploration is essential when navigating spirituality and tarot.
• Tarot for Creativity provides practical exercises for artists to explore.
• Tarot acts as a mirror for self-understanding and personal growth.
• Approach tarot with curiosity, playfulness, and openness.
• Choosing a tarot deck is a personal and creative experience.
• Everyday activities, like walking, can inspire creativity and offer clarity.
• Tarot is accessible to everyone—anyone can buy a deck and get started.

38:30 - How Daily Life Activities Can Spark Creative Inspiration

Perfect for artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs curious about using tarot as a tool for self-discovery, inspiration, and overcoming creative challenges!

Links

Website: https://tarotforcreativity.com

Substack: https://theshuffle.substack.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pipcardstarot

Tarot for Creativity: https://lnk.to/tarotforcreativity (Out October 1 in North America, Nov 7th globally)

Other books:

The Shadow Path: https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/chelsey-pippin-mizzi/the-shadow-path/9781035055685 (out in the UK/EU January 2 2025)

The Tarot Spreads Yearbook: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-tarot-spreads-yearbook/chelsey-pippin-mizzi/9781446309643 (Out now)

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Welcoming Chelsea Pippen-Mizzi 02:45 - Chelsea's Journey into Tarot: From Skeptic to Enthusiast 07:15 - Using Tarot to Overcome Creative Blocks 12:10 - The Role of Archetypes and Storytelling in Tarot 16:45 - Exploring Tarot for Creativity: Practical Exercises for Artists 21:30 - Interpreting Tarot in a Way That Fosters Creativity 26:00 - The Importance of Personal Exploration and Spirituality 31:05 - Approaching Tarot with Curiosity and Playfulness 34:55 - Choosing the Right Tarot Deck for Your Journey

www.createmagazine.com

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova shares a personal update as an artist and entrepreneur. She dives deep into the challenges of balancing business and creativity, the importance of self-care, and the joy she’s found in returning to the basics of direct art sales. Ekaterina emphasizes the need to reconnect with your artistic roots and nurture your creativity to overcome burnout and rediscover abundance. Tune in for inspiring insights on personal growth, mindfulness, and the power of simplicity in your art practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Success can be a distraction; stay focused on your personal vision.
• Art requires presence and a quiet mind.
• Rebuilding life after burnout can help rediscover creativity.
• Direct sales bring joy and connection to the art process.
• A mindful morning routine can improve mental clarity.
• Self-care is essential for maintaining a creative flow.
• Building a deep relationship with your art fosters abundance.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Personal Update 03:03 - Navigating the Balance Between Business and Art 05:53 - Rebuilding Life and Creativity After Burnout 09:02 - Returning to Basics: The Joy of Direct Sales 12:13 - The Importance of Connection and Creativity

In this inspiring episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat sits down with Antonio DeAscanis, founder of BlkOps Fitness, Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, and fitness coach. Antonio shares his powerful journey from his time in the Marine Corps to becoming a successful gym owner, blending his passion for fitness, community, and creativity.

• Antonio's Early Life & Inspiration: Learn how a strong sense of adventure and early life experiences shaped Antonio’s drive to create something unique in the fitness world.
• Marine Corps Influence: Antonio discusses his journey through the Marine Corps, overcoming challenges, building leadership skills, and how this shaped his approach to fitness and entrepreneurship.
• Entrepreneurial Journey: Discover the humble beginnings of BlkOps Fitness and how Antonio integrated various experiences from his military service, love for music, and DJing into creating a gym that feels more like a creative space than a traditional fitness facility.
• Creative Vision for BlkOps Fitness: Antonio’s gym is known for its unique aesthetic, featuring murals, neon lights, and a vibe that combines the best of fitness and art. He shares the inspiration behind his design choices and how art and fitness can intersect in meaningful ways.
• Building a Strong Community: Antonio talks about the importance of creating a supportive, inspiring environment at BlkOps Fitness, where individuals from different walks of life come together and push each other to achieve their goals.
• Navigating Challenges: From building a business from scratch to handling the pressures of entrepreneurship, Antonio offers invaluable insights on perseverance, branding, and standing out by embracing your uniqueness.
• Advice for New Entrepreneurs: Whether you're an artist or an entrepreneur, Antonio shares practical tips on starting with limited resources, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of staying true to your vision.

• Life experiences, even the tough ones, can fuel creativity and entrepreneurship.
• Branding is personal—don’t let external noise distract you from who you are and what you want to create.
• Perseverance and community-building are critical elements in sustaining a successful business.
• There’s no blueprint for creativity; sometimes, breaking the mold is what makes your brand stand out.

• Instagram: @blkopsfitness 
• Website: blkopsfitness.com

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram for more inspiring conversations with creatives and entrepreneurs!