In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Emily McElwreath—art advisor, independent curator, educator, and host of The Art Career Podcast. With nearly two decades of experience, Emily has worked with some of the most influential figures in the art world, from Andy Warhol to Alice Neel. She shares how artists can reclaim their power, normalize ambition, and take control of their careers.

We also explore what collectors are looking for today, how to navigate the art market, and the evolving role of art advisors. Emily offers practical networking strategies for artists and industry leaders, insights on working with high-profile guests, and details on her recent Art21 collaboration. Plus, she introduces her must-have resource for emerging artists, Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists.

Whether you’re an artist looking to elevate your career or a collector seeking guidance, this episode is filled with expert insights and actionable strategies to help you thrive.

  Key Takeaways:

 

• Artists must reclaim their power—they are at the center of the art ecosystem.
• Ambition is not a dirty word—owning your career is essential for success.
• Networking isn’t about chasing opportunities—it’s about building authentic relationships.
• Art collectors should buy what they love but also stay informed about the market.
• The art world is unregulated, making it crucial to work with trusted advisors.
• Artists should not rely solely on galleries—direct sales and relationships matter.
• Emily’s free artist guide, Navigating the Art World, is a must-have resource for emerging artists.

  Sound Bites:

🎙️ "Artists need to understand they are at the center of the ecosystem—it’s not the other way around." 🎙️ "You don’t have to wait for permission—take the wheel and create your own opportunities." 🎙️ "The best collections are built with a mix of passion, education, and a long-term vision."

  Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Art & Ambition 04:12 – Emily’s Journey in the Art World 07:12 – How Artists Can Reclaim Their Power 09:33 – What Collectors Look for in Artists 12:32 – Why Networking Is Essential in the Art World 15:19 – How to Attract High-Profile Guests & Build Industry Connections 18:26 – The Role of Art Advisors & How to Work with One 24:05 – The Truth About the Unregulated Art Market 26:48 – Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists 41:36 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Emily

  Where to Connect with Emily:

• Free Artist Guide: Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists – Download at https://theartcareer.gumroad.com/l/wigdw
• Website & Art Advisory: McElwreath Art Advisory – https://www.mcelwreathadvisory.com/
• Instagram: Follow Emily at https://www.instagram.com/emilymcelwreath_art/
• Podcast: The Art Career Podcast – Available on all major platforms
• Create! Magazine: Explore more at www.createmagazine.co

 

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts—it helps us reach more artists and art lovers like you!

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat and Marina Press Granger dive deep into how artists can shift from feeling powerless to fully embracing their creative potential—no matter what’s happening in the economy or art market. They break down common fears artists face, the mindset shifts needed for success, and the importance of taking control of your art career.

From leveraging social media to redefining financial success, this conversation is packed with insights, strategies, and empowering perspectives to help you take action, attract opportunities, and thrive as an artist.

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to break free from limiting beliefs and step into your power as an artist
• Why the art market isn’t as dire as it seems—and how to navigate it wisely
• The role of social media in building visibility and attracting collectors
• Practical strategies for financial empowerment and sustainable success
• How gratitude, mindset shifts, and community support can transform your career

 

Sound Bites:

• "Everything happens for artists, not to them."
• "Gratitude is key to forgiveness and growth."
• "You can manifest your desires and create your own success."

 

Episode Chapters:

00:00 – New Beginnings and Cosmic Influences04:40 – The Evolving Role of Artists in a Changing World11:19 – Navigating Social Media as an Artist 16:54 – The Current State of the Art Market and Financial Empowerment 29:19 – Navigating Art Sales and Gallery Relationships 32:50 – Empowering Artists: Shifting Mindsets 36:47 – The Evolving Art Market: Opportunities for Emerging Artists 48:02 – The Power of Belief in Artistic Success 52:06 – Building a Successful Art Career: Resources and Support

 

If you’re ready to shift from struggling to thriving, press play now.

 

Connect with Marina:

https://theartistadvisory.myflodesk.com/free-mc-march-2025

 

Subscribe to Create! Magazine with Code "NEWREADER' to save 20% off

https://www.createmagazine.co/subscribe

 

 

In a world that’s constantly shifting, how do you stay true to your creative vision while allowing room for growth? In this episode, bestselling author and branding powerhouse Cara Alwill joins us to share her wisdom on reinvention—both in business and in life. From pivoting with confidence to knowing when to let go of what no longer serves you, we dive into the mindset shifts that help creative entrepreneurs build careers that truly align with who they are today.

  Show Notes:

 

Reinvention isn’t just about starting over—it’s about evolving with purpose. In this episode, I sit down with Cara Alwill, a bestselling author, branding expert, and self-publishing rockstar, to discuss the art of flexibility in business, creativity, and personal growth.

 

Cara shares how to trust your creative instincts, shed outdated labels, and pivot with confidence, even when fear creeps in. We explore the delicate balance between staying true to your artistic vision and making strategic moves that support your long-term success.

 

In this episode, we discuss:

✔️ The power of trusting your gut when making big career moves ✔️ How to let go of projects, ideas, or identities that no longer serve you ✔️ The importance of protecting your creative work beyond social media ✔️ Why adaptability is the key to longevity in the art and business world ✔️ What Cara would do if she had to start her career over from scratch in 2025

 

🎙 Tune in for an honest, inspiring conversation about embracing evolution, staying resilient, and building a creative career that lasts.

 

💡 Sponsored by Create! Magazine

Want to explore 48+ issues of inspiring artist interviews, expert insights, and career opportunities? Visit createmagazine.co to subscribe to our digital archive (code: NEWREADER to save 20% off) or submit your work to one of our juried art calls!

 

Connect with Cara Alwill https://www.carasaysitall.com/ https://caraalwill.substack.com/ @thechampagnediet on Instagram

 

In this episode, I (Ekaterina Popova) take you behind the scenes of my recent move and how it became a powerful metaphor for life, business, and creativity. I also open up about the chaos of a tech-glitched webinar launch, how I had to pivot fast, and the lessons I learned along the way. Plus, I answer insightful community questions on:

 

• How to structure your work schedule for productivity
• When to join artist-led art fairs 
• Creating a clear pathway for selling your art as a solo artist
• Expanding awareness of your work without relying on social media
• The best ways to calculate shipping for artwork
• Finding or creating artist communities for collaboration beyond social media
• Offering digital downloads as a revenue stream

 

Whether you’re dealing with creative roadblocks, business challenges, or just looking for motivation, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate your journey with resilience and grace.

 

Mentioned in This Episode:

 

Superfine Art Fair (our recommendation) – A great opportunity for artists looking to exhibit and sell directly to collectors. Learn more: https://www.superfine.world

 

Subscribe to Create! Magazine Digital Code 'NEWREADER' https://www.createmagazine.co/subscribe

 

AQ Society (Art Queens Membership) – A private community for artists to connect, learn, and grow. Join here: https://aqsociety.com

 

Listen & Subscribe:Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review—it helps more artists discover the show!

 

Have a Question for the Podcast? DM me on Instagram @katerinaspopova or email [email protected].

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova shares her thoughts on building a sustainable art career in the unpredictable world of social media. After posting a thought-provoking quote about building on "rented land," Ekaterina dives into why relying solely on platforms like TikTok and Instagram can be risky. She offers strategies for protecting your time, energy, and intellectual property, while emphasizing the importance of creating your own space—whether through newsletters, websites, or podcasts. Tune in for actionable advice on building your brand with intention, nurturing real connections, and creating art that stands the test of time.

If you’re tired of the noise and want to focus on what truly matters—creating and connecting—this episode is for you. Don’t forget to subscribe, share with your creative community, and tag me at @katerinaspopova or @createmagazine if this resonated!

 

 

 

Making a living as an artist can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’re struggling with inconsistent income, low visibility, or wondering if financial stability is even possible. But hitting $10K months as an artist isn’t just a dream—it’s about having the right strategy and patience.

 

In this episode, internationally exhibiting artist, founder of Create! Magazine, and certified master coach Kat Popova shares the exact roadmap for growing your art business in a way that feels aligned, sustainable, and profitable.

 

Inside this episode:

 

• The biggest myths stopping artists from making money—and how to break free
• How to plan, brainstorm, and set financial goals for your art business
• The  key income stream ideas that can help artists create consistent revenue
• Positioning yourself professionally to attract collectors & galleries
• The mindset shift to release limited thinking and adapt in a changing world
• How to structure your month & quarter to set yourself up for success

 

🎧 Want to go deeper? Join my FREE live training:

👉 How to Hit $10K Months as an Artist → https://www.theartqueens.com/pl/2148259578

 

💬 If you loved this episode, share it with an artist friend and tag @katerinaspopova on Instagram! Let’s make 2025 your breakthrough year! 🚀

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova shares actionable strategies to help you position yourself as a sought-after professional artist. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, this episode covers:

 

• The power of positioning and how it helps you stand out.
• Key steps to refine your brand, build meaningful connections, and present yourself professionally.
• Common mistakes to avoid when building your art career.

 

If you’ve ever wondered how to attract galleries, connect with collectors, or grow your opportunities, this episode is packed with insights to help you achieve your goals.

 

Plus, Kat shares two incredible open calls at Create Magazine:

• The Annual Women’s Issue (deadline February 1).
• Of Land and Longing, a collaborative exhibition with Visionary Art Collective.
• Learn more and apply: https://createmagazine.submittable.com/submit

 

Ready to take your career to the next level? Join the VIP waitlist for the Artist Navigation Course to get early access, exclusive bonuses, and a clear roadmap for success. Visit https://createmagazine.myflodesk.com/navigation to sign up!

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome and episode overview 03:15 – The power of positioning and why it matters 10:30 – Key strategies for refining your brand and online presence 18:45 – How to build meaningful connections and network effectively 25:30 – Avoiding common mistakes and staying aligned with your vision 30:00 – Special announcements: Create Magazine open calls

Links and Resources:

• Join the VIP Waitlist for the Artist Navigation Course: https://createmagazine.myflodesk.com/navigation
• Submit Your Art: Create Magazine Submissions

Follow Us On IG: 

• Create Magazine: @createmagazine

In this New Year’s episode of Art and Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova welcomes you to 2025 with a heartfelt conversation about starting the year with intention, peace, and purpose. Kat shares her favorite strategies for simplifying the goal-setting process, honoring your personal rhythm, and prioritizing rest and creative play to fuel creativity.

She also dives into the power of manifestation and aligning your mindset, energy, and actions to achieve artistic and personal growth. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just beginning your journey, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and ready to crush your goals with confidence and clarity.

 

Takeaways:

• Starting the year with intention can prevent burnout.
• Simplify your goal-setting process for success.
• Honor your personal rhythm and the season of your life.
• Rest and creative play are vital for creativity and productivity.
• Protect your time and energy by confidently saying no.
• Set transformative "domino goals" that create meaningful change.
• Manifestation is about aligning mindset, energy, and action.
• Visualizing success is a powerful tool for achieving goals.
• Trust the process and release the need for control.
• You have time; every step forward counts.

 

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your artist friends. Don’t forget to subscribe for more creative insights. Follow Kat on Instagram @katerinaspopova or @createmagazine and @theartqueens for daily inspiration, and check the links in the show notes to join her community of ambitious artists.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

• Join the AQ Society: aqsociety.com
• Submit your work for the Annual Women’s Issue and Prize: createmagazine.co/call-for-art
• Full Focus Planner: www.fullfocusplanner.com

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! 🌟