Stu McLaren is a master in building thriving membership communities and harnessing the power of shared interests. He believes fear, rather than lack of resources, holds many creatives back. In this conversation, we discuss how integrating art and business can unlock huge creative potential and help you build connections that drive success.

We talk about overcoming self-doubt, the importance of sharing work regardless of expertise, and the incredible opportunities that come from engaging with a supportive community. Join us as we uncover the magic of building communities around passions, the joy of sharing progress, and the unexpected doors that can open when fear is left behind. 

This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice to move you forward as a creator. 

• Entrepreneurship thrives on energy and collaboration (5:26)
• Share your progress to inspire those just one step behind you (7:50)
• Success in niche art memberships is fully achievable (16:47)
• How your journey can inspire others (20:05)
• Fear, not lack of preparation, is what hinders progress (24:37)
• Focus on habits and process over outcome—take gradual steps (28:37)
• Regret often follows when artists ignore their true calling (39:05)
• Use contrasts to highlight transformation when describing what you do (45:13)
• The power of uniting shared passions (55:55)

• BJ Fogg
• Unlock Your Balloon Twisting Potential with The Twisterhood 
• Southern Adoornments Decor Membership 
• Bonnie Snowdon’s Ignite Membership 
• Predictable Profits by Stu McLaren 

• Stu McLaren's Website
• Follow Stu McLaren on Instagram 
• Follow Stu McLaren on Facebook
• Follow Stu McLaren on LinkedIn
• Follow Stu McLaren on YouTube

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF here

• Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog here
• Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram
• Follow Art2Life on Instagram
• Subscribe on Youtube

Subscribe to Art2Life onApple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts

https://Art2Life.com - Are you able to truly integrate joy and passion into your daily routine? 

My guest this week is Martha Beck, Harvard-trained sociologist and acclaimed life coach, who explores how we can build the things we love into our daily lives and create an ecosystem where happiness becomes the foundation of success.

We discuss strategies for overcoming anxiety through kind internal self-talk, exploring creativity to alleviate stress, and how you can embrace the flow state to uncover deeper life purposes. Martha also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming book, "Beyond Anxiety," coming out this month.

You'll learn about left-brain and right-brain thinking, the significance of presence and playfulness in art, and a few practical techniques for shifting from anxiety toward integrity. So, tune in for an enlightening conversation that promises to inspire your artistic journey and enrich your life.

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LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN…

[6:24] How anxiety hinders creativity 

[11:29] How a focus on logic and work has led to rising anxiety 

[17:07] Prioritizing personal interests can lead to achieving a joyful flow state 

[25:09] Imagining positive scenarios alters feelings and perceptions 

[29:02] Why challenges can sometimes be seen as blessings 

[37:30] Engage in activities you love to maintain a positive, energized state 

[48:04] Follow your internal compass to navigate life's challenges 

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RESOURCES MENTIONED

Beyond Anxiety by Martha Beck: https://marthabeck.com/beyond-anxiety/

Jill Bolte Taylor: My stroke of insight | TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/jill_bolte_taylor_my_stroke_of_insight

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CONNECT WITH MARTHA BECK

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themarthabeck/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themarthabeck/?hl=en

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CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE:

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/ 

Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/ 

Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/ 

Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en 

Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life 

#Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

This week, I’m unpacking how to evolve through changing conditions in our lives rather than trying to change ourselves. The more you give, the more you need, and I want to talk through how you can start your own personal upgrade in three simple steps. 

Let’s dig into what makes you feel more alive, how to uncover those creative solutions when you’re feeling stuck, and why naming your goal gets you one step closer to achieving it. I know you’ll find this episode of Art2Life invaluable for setting your intentions for the year ahead. 

• Overcoming self-doubt is crucial for personal growth [5:18]
• Consider and evaluate areas like love and connection to enhance vitality [12:09]
• Get unstuck: If you had a magic wand, what would you create? [17:39]
• Set a named challenge to focus energy on achieving a specific goal [23:00]
• Dreams start small and grow with focus [27:31]

• The Big Leap: A Guide to Transcending Personal Limits, Overcoming Fears, and Unleashing Your Authentic Greatness for a Better Life by Gay Hendricks
• Ali Mackie Art 

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF here

• Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog here
• Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram
• Follow Art2Life on Instagram
• Subscribe on Youtube

Subscribe to Art2Life onApple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts

Do you avoid posting about your art on Instagram because you just don’t know what to write? 

It’s a common issue for artists to feel overwhelmed about sharing the art they make on social media because it feels so draining. In this episode, I’m sharing my personal strategy for promoting art on Instagram in a way that feels authentic and energizing rather than a chore.

We'll explore the importance of staying connected to your art, the power of authenticity, and the benefits of consistent posting. I’ll break down my simple yet powerful three-point system that transforms social posting into a natural extension of your art practice. 

You'll learn how to build trust with your audience, enhance your creative journey, and turn Instagram into a tool that fuels your artistic growth. 

• Be deliberate and reflective with your art to strengthen it [4:57]
• Tip #1: Be authentic on Instagram [8:44]
• Tip #2: You don’t have to be an expert [12:20]
• Tip #3: Types of social content and how to share it [13:26]
• Why sharing your art is part of the creative process [16:39]
• How to review posts and captions to see what resonates and gain insights [22:02]

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF here

• Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog here
• Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram
• Follow Art2Life on Instagram
• Subscribe on Youtube

Subscribe to Art2Life onApple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts

https://Art2Life.com - Have you ever wondered what happens when an artist decides to let curiosity lead the way?

This week, we’re diving deep into the world of photographic exploration with Arthur Drooker, a visual anthropologist who's made it his mission to capture the essence of diverse communities and environments. 

From photographing skies in Sea Ranch, California, that evoke the paintings of Mark Rothko to documenting the unique gatherings of furries, Santa Claus impersonators, and even mermaids, Arthur's work is a testament to the power of curiosity—isn’t it amazing how following your curiosity can lead to extraordinary creative journeys? 

Arthur’s work encourages us to see the world through a lens of curiosity and open-minded exploration. Join us as we explore the profound impact of curiosity and discover how this seemingly simple act can turn ordinary moments into extraordinary art.

================================

LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN…

[6:16] Art as a valuable form of personal expression and identity 

[12:59] The inspiration for photographic creativity 

[14:34] Photographing conventions builds unique community experiences 

[20:03] Capturing spontaneous humanity in photographed moments 

[24:57] Being consciously present and detached to capture meaningful moments 

[34:22] The revelation that led to creating his Twilight book 

[39:31] Curiosity leads to understanding and anticipation 

[43:43] Unique Golden Gate Bridge photographs that show unseen perspectives 

[47:45] Painters appreciate unique window reflection perspectives 

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RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Elliott Erwitt: https://www.elliotterwitt.com/
• Conventional Wisdom by Arthur Drooker: https://www.arthurdrooker.com/conventional-wisdom-book/
• Pie Town Revisited by Arthur Drooker: https://www.arthurdrooker.com/pie-town-revisited-2/
• Twilight: https://www.arthurdrooker.com/twilight-2/
• City Hall: https://www.arthurdrooker.com/city-hall-3/
• 36 Views of the Golden Gate Bridge: https://www.arthurdrooker.com/the-bridge/

=================================

CONNECT WITH ARTHUR DROOKER

Arthur’s Website: https://www.arthurdrooker.com//

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arthur_drooker/

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CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE:

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/ 

Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/ 

Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/ 

Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en 

Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life 

#Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

https://Art2Life.com - Bonny Snowdon has a unique way of looking at art—she shares how to critique your art without tearing yourself apart, how to be kind to yourself, and how to find joy in the act of creating.

Bonny opens up about her journey, and it’s the kind of story a lot of us can relate to: life throws a few too many punches, and suddenly, you’re searching for something that makes you feel alive again. For Bonny, that was drawing. She turned that love for art into her full-time gig—teaching, creating, and sharing the beauty of conscious creation with the world.

We dig into how Bonny keeps a positive attitude, how she’s learned to roll with imperfection, and why art has been such a powerful force for her. Are you ready to start penciling in joy?

================================

LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN…

How Bonny turned challenges into artistic and teaching success [5:51]

Creating is key, but you can’t put a timescale on it [9:40]

Practice reveals subtle changes in visual perception [11:50]

Artist vs. budget pencils: longevity and quality differences [15:59]

Creativity boosts self-acceptance and peace despite life's challenges [21:57]

Busy hands calm the mind, preventing us from overthinking [26:13]

Art influences personal growth and helps you up-level [32:14]

Why Bonny loves speaking and teaching live and her big plans for the future [36:52]

Always learn from your work—never destroy it [41:37]

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RESOURCES MENTIONED

Faber Castel Polycromos: https://www.faber-castell.co.uk/products/art-and-graphic/polychromos

Carandache Luminance: https://www.carandache.com/gb/en/luminance-6901-s-1090.htm

Carandache Pablo: https://www.carandache.com/gb/en/pablo-s-1097.htm

Derwent Lightfast: https://www.derwentart.com/en-gb/c/professional-products/colouring/lightfast-pencils

Museum Rising Board: https://www.jacksonsart.com/rising-museum-board

Graphix Drafting Film Matte: https://www.grafixarts.com/products/drafting-film/

Clairefontaine Pastelmat: https://www.pastelmat.com/

=================================

CONNECT WITH BONNIE SNOWDON

Bonny Snowdon Fine Art: https://www.bonnysnowdonfineart.co.uk/

Bonny Snowdon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bonnysnowdonacademy/

The Bonny Snowdon Academy: https://www.bonnysnowdonacademy.com/

Ignite Membership: https://bonnysnowdonacademy.com/ignite-waitlist/

=============================

CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE:

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/ 

Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/ 

Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/ 

Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en 

Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life 

#Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

You can actively pursue creative breakthroughs by taking deliberate breaks and trying new activities that shift your mindset from stuck to free-flowing. Creative breakthrough is an overflow state—it's living in higher energy and having more to give of yourself, to your art, to the world. 

Living in a state of breakthrough requires creating space and avoiding the pitfall of constant busyness. Documenting and writing down your artistic experiences isn't just about chronicling events—it's a fundamental practice for opening yourself up to breakthroughs and keeping creativity alive. 

Revisiting past works, surrounding oneself with inspiring objects, and writing down creative experiences are also key strategies for maintaining a continuous creative state. The feeling of that constant creative flow that comes from simple yet profound practices and they help you stay aligned with your intuitive self. 

Whether it's choosing to move past feelings of being stuck, setting up a spacious and comfortable environment, or collaborating with others, this episode is packed with insights that will empower you to embrace creativity as a continually attainable state. Slight shifts in perspective and habitual practices lead to a thriving overflow state of high energy and creativity. 

• Creative blocks arise from positive overwhelming activities [03:16]
• Baby sea turtles as a metaphor for moving past challenges and obstacles [09:10]
• Create without overthinking to give the best results [11:55]
• Ideas for creative exercises focusing on colors and blind contour drawing [14:08]
• Creating together shifts perspective and inspires creativity [19:56]
• Approach life's challenges playfully to get perspective [22:48]
• Sharing and documenting helps overcome creative blocks [26:41]
• Create space for reflection and play to avoid feeling stuck [30:06]

• Shazam 
• Bloom

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF here

• Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog here
• Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram
• Follow Art2Life on Instagram
• Subscribe on Youtube

Subscribe to Art2Life onApple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts

https://Art2Life.com - Have you ever wondered why some creative practices thrive while others falter? 

The answer might lie in understanding our six essential human needs: certainty, uncertainty, significance, love and connection, growth, and contribution, how they intertwine with our art-making, and how understanding them can lead to a more fulfilling and sustainable art practice.

Art is more than just a reflection of our innermost feelings; it's a mirror of our personal evolution. But when you’re clinging to the same artistic methods, it leads to stagnation, which is why it’s so crucial to evolve and embrace new approaches. 

That's where my innovative Bloom Practice comes into play—because it prioritizes feelings over outcomes, encouraging authenticity and profound personal development in your art.

================================

LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN…

[5:13] The six human needs that form the reason we take the actions we do 

[8:24] The fundamental human need for love and connection drives our creativity 

[9:40] How we can build connections with other artists—on and offline 

[14:05] Art fulfills human needs and can become an addictive, sustainable practice 

[16:59] Retreats normalize artists’ challenges and emphasize shared experiences 

[21:40] Connect with your emotions to create authentic, embodied art 

[25:39] Use art to become more yourself and evolve as an individual 

[26:52] Focus on enjoying the process, not just the end product 

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RESOURCES MENTIONED

The 6 Human Needs by Tony Robbins: https://www.tonyrobbins.com/blog/why-you-are-the-way-you-are

Join the Studio Notification Waitlist: https://pages.art2life.com/studio/2024-studio-notification-list/

Bloom: https://www.art2life.com/bloom-demo/

=============================

CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE:

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/ 

Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/ 

Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/ 

Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en 

Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life 

#Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

https://Art2Life.com - Retreats help uncover improved artistic skills and are a way to fuel your inspiration and enthusiasm. What participants are really looking for on a retreat is not just improved artistic skills but a lifelong practice that fuels continual personal and creative development.

In this episode, I’ll answer three questions that we all ask from time to time: 

• How do I find a path to my authentic art?
• How do I make and set intentions for my future Art?
• How do I keep going once I get home?

So many rich experiences and insights come from participating in artistic retreats. Retreats offer an immersive environment for artists to dig deep into their creativity while aligning their artistic pursuits with their overall life goals. 

You can pursue what excites you and fills your soul because true artistic growth stems from aligning with your deeper desires and instincts. Learn how to stay inspired in this episode. 

================================

LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN…

[2:16] How do I find a path to my authentic art? 

[5:46] Reflect on past work to inspire future art 

[7:29] Identify what energizes and inspires you 

[11:34] Finding energy and setting intentions for art can lead to breakthroughs 

[15:43] Create art that feels effortless and celebratory—are you flourishing? 

[19:03] Sound healing fosters gratitude, community, and inspiration 

[23:10] Be mindful, and you’ll find inspiration in everyday life 

[25:01] Trust your soul's relentless guidance despite fears or societal expectations 

================================

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Esalen Institute Holistic Retreat: https://www.esalen.org/

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CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE:

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/ 

Art2Life Retreat Notifications: https://pages.art2life.com/retreats/2025-retreat-waitlist/

Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/ 

Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/ 

Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en 

Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life 

#Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

https://Art2Life.com - You have to get lost to find yourself—it’s how we grow. The intersection of art-making and travel is fascinating. I’m exploring how these experiences cultivate a sense of presence and inspire creativity. Let’s embrace the mindset of travel over vacation and the artistry involved in exploring new destinations. 

Cultivating presence, both in new environments and creative endeavors, unlocks uncharted territories of inspiration and self-discovery. In this episode of Art2Life I’m offering insights and practical tips to harness travel as a powerful tool for artistic and personal growth.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the world, there's something here for you. Listen in for a blend of art, discovery, and thoughtful travel tips.

================================

LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN…

[04:45] Choose destinations based on the feelings you want to inspire 

[08:58] Stay longer and truly experience amazing places 

[10:56] Travel broadens perspectives and allows you to explore your identity 

[16:10] Pre-plan carefully before you travel to make the journey smoother

[18:52] Invest in inexpensive home monitoring for peace of mind 

[22:36] Don't overpack; buy essentials locally instead 

[23:55] Travel light but keep luggage with you always 

[30:00] Useful apps for the phone and the laptop 

[34:26] Advice on essential art supplies to bring with you 

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RESOURCES MENTIONED

To download the Art of Travel PDF, click here: https://pages.art2life.com/misc/traveling-artist-checklist/ 

TSA Precheck: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck

Global Entry: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry

Airport Priority Pass: https://www.prioritypass.com/

Apple Pay: https://www.apple.com/apple-pay/

AirTag: https://www.apple.com/airtag/

WhatsApp: https://web.whatsapp.com/

Booking.com: https://www.booking.com/

Amazon Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Store/b?ie=UTF8&node=133140011

Ring Camera: https://www.amazon.com/ring-camera/s?k=ring+camera

=============================

CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE:

Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/ 

Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/ 

Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/ 

Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en 

Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life 

#Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary