Clean Break with Matt Gondek

In this episode of Clean Break, Matt sits down with Robert Burden, renowned for his large-scale oil paintings of childhood action figures set against ornate backdrops. Burden, whose meticulous works often require 3,000 hours each to complete, recently had his first museum exhibition in Oceanside, California, showcasing 33 pieces from his 17-year career. Burden discusses his journey and artistic process, where he combines elements of pop surrealism and religious iconography to create what he calls "pop icon painting". This insightful discussion with one of the most dedicated artists in contemporary pop surrealism promises a deep exploration of the intersections between art, childhood memories, and pop culture.

In this episode, Matt and Patrick share valuable tips for finding your first mural wall. They suggest starting small by painting interior walls to gain experience, and emphasize the benefits of offering free assistance to experienced mural artists and volunteering to learn techniques. Building networks and obtaining referrals are crucial for connecting with wall or business owners. The hosts stress the significance of professionalism, punctuality, and preparedness when an opportunity arises. To learn more insights and methods for finding your first wall, listen to the full episode now.

In this episode of Clean Break (powered by Always Art), Matt and Brett reconnect after 5 years, discussing Brett's transformative artist's journey. Overcoming a tumultuous past involving drugs, theft, violence, and jail, Brett discovered his artistic passion during his time behind bars. Encouraged by a guard while in jail, he joined a prison art program and later entered a rehabilitation program in San Francisco. Relocating to LA, Brett committed himself to his art after turning his life around. He emphasizes the power of networking and fostering an art community, which propelled his career and sales. Brett highlights the inseparable bond between artists and their creations, as art becomes an integral part of their identity. He also shares the challenges of transitioning from gallery to dealer representation and the emotional highs and lows of being an artist, including battling "imposter syndrome" before his debut solo show in Asia. Titled "WAST3D POT3NTIAL," the show features Brett's artwork priced over $100,000, with one recent work of Brett's fetching $220,000 at auction.

In an exciting conversation with Juno and Spencer, the dynamic duo behind Mon Dieu Contemporary, a vibrant new gallery in the heart of Los Angeles, we delve into a multitude of subjects. From unveiling their process of discovering artists to represent, to shedding light on the paths artists can take to get noticed by galleries, we explore the inner workings of this innovative art space. We also dive into the essence of their curatorial philosophy and the captivating genres of artwork they aim to showcase. Moreover, we discuss the impact and invaluable role that galleries hold within the ever-evolving art world.

We discuss selling your artwork directly, without the help of a gallery or dealer. We cover various strategies such as organizing group shows, participating in art fairs, licensing, and more to help you generate income from your artwork.

Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner.

Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career

We chat with King Saladeen from West Phiadelphia. We discuss his motivation, career, and creative process. We also explore his characters, his contemporary work, and his passions. He came into art on his own with no formal training. We also discuss his mentor that inspired his signature bear and how is career has evolved to brand collaborations. This is a great conversation that covers a lot of ground.

Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career

Are you tired of accepting every job offer or opportunity that comes your way, only to find out it's not the right fit? It's time to start learning the power of saying "no." We'll explore the art of declining unsuitable jobs and opportunities and why it's just as important as finding the right ones. Tune in to discover how saying "no" can lead you to success and unlock opportunities you never thought possible.

Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner.

Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career

Kaplan is a Native American artist who lives and works in Kauai Hawaii. He created a working studio and artist residency on Kauai called KRNT Studios whose goal is to help both Hawaiin artists show their work, and offer a space for national artists. We also discuss his work and involvement with World Wide Walls mural festival, which was originally called Pow! Wow!

Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career

Shantell's unique combination of art + storytelling has earned her international recognition, with her work being shown in museums, galleries, and public spaces across the world.

Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career

We answer listener's questions, and Kim shares how she planned her exhibtion Venus's Garden.

Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career