If your art business has felt a little quiet, uncertain, or unpredictable lately, let me tell you: you are not alone. The economy is feeling uncertain, the energy in the world is even more so. And Artists are often feeling it all -- and we still need to make SALES! Let's discuss. 

In this episode is part one of a longer conversation and is a grounded guide to selling your art in every season (literally and metaphorically).

We’ll talk about the internal seasons we all cycle through—winter (rest), spring (inspiration), summer (creation), and autumn (harvest)—and how understanding those rhythms can transform the way you run your creative business. You’ll get practical insights and encouragement whether you’re gearing up for a launch, deep in the studio, or resting between collections.

Get your free Creative Stability Workbook here

In this heartfelt solo episode, I’m sharing a little life update from inside my creative world. From painting on the porch in the spring sunshine to opening up commissions for the first time in years, this season feels full of growth, return, and reconnection.

I’ll walk you through what it’s been like working through The Artist’s Way, what’s blooming inside the Making Art Work masterclass (we’re on Week 7!), and a peek behind the scenes as I plan the first-ever Making Art Work Live event this fall.

If you’ve been feeling a pull to return to your creative self, slow down, or simply hear from someone walking the path beside you—you’re in the right place.

If this episode resonates, follow the show and leave a review—it helps more creatives find their way here. 💛

Get info on the MAKING ART WORK Live Event! I can't wait to see you in real life! https://www.emilyjeffordslearn.com/maw-live 

Instagram has changed yet AGAIN -- but this time it's for the better. But it is VERY different. 

But first, let me formally invite you to join me at MAKING ART WORK live and in person! 

ok, now... Let's talk about growing your reach on Instagram in 2025 — but without the pressure, burnout, or gross algorithm-hacking vibes.

I’ll walk you through what’s actually changed on the platform this year, what still works, and how to show up in ways that feel aligned, sustainable, and rooted in your creative process.

Whether you’re building a collector base, preparing for a launch, or just trying to get more eyes on your art, these strategies will help you expand with intention.

If this episode supports your creative journey, be sure to follow the podcast, leave a quick rating or review, and share it with a friend or fellow artist. Your support helps this show grow — and I’m so grateful you’re here.

Your artist brand is more than a logo or color palette—it’s what makes your work instantly recognizable, deeply resonant, and naturally sellable. But how do you define your brand in a way that feels authentic and attracts the right collectors?

In this episode, we’re breaking down the essentials of building a strong artist brand that helps you share your work confidently and grow a thriving creative business.

What you’ll learn:

Your brand is already taking shape—it’s in the way you create, the stories you tell, and the experience your art offers. This episode will help you refine and strengthen it so your collectors feel drawn to your work the moment they see it.

Listen now and start creating an artist brand that truly reflects YOU.

One of the most confusing (and frustrating) parts of selling your creative work? Finding the collectors, buyers, customers, students, or clients who truly connect with what you create. If this feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. But here’s something I need you to know:

✨ ART IS NOT HARD TO SELL. ✨

I know, I know—you’ve probably heard otherwise. Maybe you’ve even felt it yourself. But the idea that selling art is an uphill battle? It’s simply not true. The key is understanding why people buy art in the first place.

Art isn’t a necessity like tires or groceries—it’s something we choose. Something we feel drawn to. Your buyers aren’t just making a purchase; they’re investing in meaning, self-expression, and the energy your work brings into their lives.

💡 In this episode, we’re diving into:

Selling your work isn’t about pushing—it’s about finding the people who are already looking for what you create. And trust me, they’re out there. Let’s talk about how to reach them. 🎙️

How To Create Art That WILL SELL

The Truth About Selling Your Art (and Why It’s Easier Than You Think!)

This week, we’re tackling one of the biggest hurdles artists face: moving past the fears and doubts that make selling feel hard. Yes—even in today’s chaotic world, building a thriving art career is absolutely possible. Abundance, fulfillment, and creative freedom are within reach once you shift limiting beliefs and embrace practical strategies that let your art take up space.

While doubts may never fully disappear, you don’t have to let them lead. Instead, we’ll focus on replacing them with empowering truths and aligned action. Because sharing your work and seeing it resonate with others isn’t just rewarding—it’s life-changing.

Here’s my promise to you: I’ll be honest, kind, and—hopefully—inspiring. I’ve been a full-time artist since graduating from art school in 2008, and let me tell you—art school didn’t prepare me for selling my work or growing my business. That part? That came through trial, error, and years of learning what actually works. Now, I’m honored to share those lessons with you.

Growth happens when we recognize where we need to expand. Instead of letting self-doubt or criticism hold you back, let’s meet every challenge with intention, compassion, and clarity—so you can step into the thriving art career you deserve.

This episode is for you if you’ve ever felt:

Let’s release the beliefs keeping your work hidden—so you can sell with confidence and ease.

SHARE THE WORK -- RSVP to join us March 10th-14th

Making Art Work opens for enrollment March 13th!

As I continue focusing on creating meaningful art, I find myself thinking so much about Picasso's career and why it’s important to honor our personal version of growth, no matter how it unfolds.

In this episode, we’ll explore:

Realizing You’re Always Growing and Changing: The success of your work is not linear. Picasso’s career is a perfect example—he created less refined work year after year, embracing abstraction more fully as he went. Creative growth doesn’t look the same for everyone, and it’s okay if your journey is different. We’ll also talk about the powerful story from Threads about an old artist who never sold a single painting but continued to create because he valued leaving behind his soul in his work.

Anchoring Yourself in Past Successes: Reflecting on past accomplishments can be a source of reassurance. When we look back at the work we're proud of, it reminds us that we’re capable of creating great things today and in the future. I mentioned my friend Ekaterina Popova and you must check out her work and Create! Magazine 

Looking to Guides for Inspiration: Has someone else walked this path before you? Seeking out mentors and guides who’ve navigated their own creative journeys can offer invaluable lessons. Sometimes, seeing that others have walked this road without falling off a cliff can give us the confidence to keep moving forward.

RSVP for the upcoming Share The Work series starting March 10th!

Now that we’ve laid the foundation and centered your aspirations and dreams right where they belong (at the heart of it all) it’s time to get practical at SET IMPORTANT GOALS!

A few links before we dive in:

We’ll talk about valuing yourself as an artist (because you are the core of your work), pricing and structuring your business with confidence, and setting goals that lead to both creative fulfillment and financial success. No burnout, no guilt—just a clear, thoughtful path toward a thriving year.

Let’s bring those dreams to life. ✨

🎧 Listen now!

Welcome to 2025—FOR REAL this time. We’ve been through a lot already; things are shifting, the world feels unsettled—AND ALSO, it’s clearer than ever that our creative work is dependable and needed in so many ways.

A few links before we dive in:

In this episode, we’re diving into goal-setting—moving beyond ego-driven pressure and into aligned, sustainable success in the studio and in your business. Setting effective goals this year is no small feat, so we’re starting with the most important thing of all: your dreams.

I also want to be clear about what my studio stands for and what we’re excited to create this year. I never thought I would need to say these words out loud—I hoped they would be obvious to all—but let me be crystal clear: this community, and every space I have the honor of creating (Making Art Work, The Collective, my social media community…), is built on a foundation of inclusivity, respect, and creativity without barriers. I’m speaking directly to those who have been marginalized or who carry less innate privilege. You belong here.

Together, we’ll walk through worksheets 2-6 from the Goal Setting Workbook, helping you define your vision, set meaningful goals, and build a creative practice that supports both your art and your well-being (but we're keeping it FUN).

🎧 Listen now!

QUICK LINKS:

Episode Highlights:

This isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about aligning them with your heart and your vision for life. 🌿

So here’s what to do: PRINT THE WORKBOOK, my dear creative soul! We’ll walk through it together, step by step, unlocking the clarity and inspiration you need to move forward with confidence and intention.

Let’s get the goodness you deserve!