with me, Kat Popova – artist, coach, and founder of Create! Magazine and CreateU

In this Q&A episode, I’m answering your real questions about what it actually takes to grow as an artist. We get into all the good stuff: how to price your work when you're just starting out, what to do when self-doubt creeps in, how to find collectors online (even if you have a small following), and ways to stay grounded when everything feels overwhelming.

If you’ve ever felt unsure, discouraged, or just wanted someone to tell you it’s okay to take your time—this one’s for you.

What I talk about:

* How to start finding collectors online and build trust

* Why your first sales might come from people you already know (and why that’s totally valid)

* Early pricing tips that won’t make you feel like you’re selling yourself short

* What to do when your inner critic says “you’re not a real artist”

* Framing options I actually use for shows and online orders

* How I learned the hard way about quarterly taxes (plus what to do next)

* Letting go of someone else’s definition of “success” and making your own

* Residencies, local shows, co-ops, and building your artist community

* Staying grounded without rituals or overwhelm

* My go-to tools when intrusive thoughts show up

Helpful links and resources I mentioned:

For framing your work:

* Ambiance Gallery Wood Frames from Jerry’s ArtaramaI use these for works on paper — clean, professional, and affordable👉 jerrysartarama.com/ambiance-gallery-wood-frames

For pricing your art:

* PXP Contemporary Art Pricing CalculatorSuper helpful if you're not sure where to start with pricing👉 https://www.pxpcontemporary.com/blogs/news/art-pricing-calculator

* CreateU CoursesI’ve got mini courses on how to price, sell, pitch your work, and more👉 createu.co

For taxes and money stuff:

* Sunlight Tax by Hannah ColeArtist-focused tax education, including her Money Bootcamp👉 sunlighttax.com

* IRS Quarterly Tax Due Dates (U.S.)

* Q1: April 15

* Q2: June 15

* Q3: September 15

* Q4: January 15👉 irs.gov

For residencies and opportunities:

* New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA)

* College Art Association

* Res Artis

For staying grounded and keeping a healthy mindset:

* Activations App by Mimi Bouchard (formerly Superhuman)Walking meditations that help me reset when I’m feeling stuck👉 activations.com

A few tools I shared in the episode:

* Saying “Spam!” to break a spiral of negative thoughts

* Snapping a rubber band on your wrist gently when self-talk gets too loud

* Mantra: “Every day in every way, I’m getting better and better.”

The Creative Business Handbook

Co-authored by Ekaterina Popova and Alicia PuigWhether you're just getting started or looking to scale your art business on your own terms, The Creative Business Handbook delivers practical, no-fluff advice. Inside you’ll find clear strategies for pricing your work, growing your audience, managing finances, and building a creative career that supports your lifestyle—not the other way around.👉 Learn more: createmagazine.co/books

The Complete Smartist Guide

Co-authored by Ekaterina Popova and Alicia PuigThis is the book I wish I’d had early in my journey. The Complete Smartist Guide blends actionable advice, mindset tools, and insider know-how to help you confidently navigate your art career. From marketing and licensing to working with curators, securing grants, and building gallery relationships—everything you need to take your practice up a level is here.👉 Discover it here: createmagazine.co/books

Thanks so much for listening and for sending in your questions. I love making this space feel honest, useful, and full of support for wherever you’re at in your journey.

You’re doing great — keep going.

xo,Kat

Get full access to Art & Cocktails by Ekaterina Popova at artandcocktails.substack.com/subscribe