Extraordinary Creatives

Ceri speaks to Ana Maria Caballero, a Colombian-born literary artist who is breaking boundaries in the world of poetry. From selling a poem at Sotheby's to collaborating with AI, Ana Maria's journey reflects the power of persistence and innovation. She talks about balancing creativity with practicality, embracing collaboration, and reimagining classic literature for new generations, to inspire creatives across all disciplines.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Ana Maria balances creative growth with practicality, starting in finance before moving onto journalism and working for the Colombian vice president.
• Her experience in the press office built resilience and taught her the value of feedback, crucial for her development as a writer.
• She emphasises the importance of maintaining a beginner's mindset in creative practice and embracing the personal as a gateway to the universal.
• You have to be resilient as a creative, Ana submitted her work to 50 publishers before winning a poetry prize!
• She explores the translation of ideas across different mediums, from traditional poetry to digital art and AI collaborations.
• Ana Maria advocates for reimagining classic literature through technology to engage new generations beyond traditional educational methods.
• There are challenges and opportunities of being a pioneer in merging poetry with new media and blockchain technology. This can be seen as quite controversial in the creative world.
• Ana Maria emphasises the importance of honest self-expression in writing, using her work as a means of self-preservation and connection with readers.

BEST MOMENTS

"I'm very truthful. I really try to be honest. Thank you. And I let myself write the hard truth and let it be there and not delete it, not edit it."

"There is a difficulty sometimes as a writer to allow someone else to mess with your writing. And I have found that the best work that I've really put out there has been Much of it, beside an editor who understands, respects, but also, you know, is willing to cut what you've done."

"I wanted my work to have this pulse beyond the page, and I've really been able to find that by engaging with new media because the new media community is a vibrant, thriving community."

"I think that ripping apart attacks, playing with it, cutting and pasting and putting into stable diffusion, turning it into an artwork to really connect with one single text in a very meaningful way is so much more important than to read... You know, 10 books in a semester and write five paragraph essays on them."

"I submitted it probably 50 different places until it finally won a National Poetry Prize."

"I started writing this book when I was pregnant with my daughter who's turning nine next week actually. So it's been a long, long process."

"I really do see my work as a, as a means of self preservation. So it's like I save myself and regain my centre by writing them."

EPISODE RESOURCES

Ana María Caballero:

Twitter: @CaballeroAnaMa

Instagram: @anamariacaballero

Website: anamariacaballero.com

theVERSEverse (Digital Poetry Gallery):

Website: theVERSEverse

Poetry Society of America:

Website: Poetry Society of America

Ashmolean Museum:

Twitter: @AshmoleanMuseum

Instagram: @ashmoleanmuseum

Gazelli Art House:

Instagram: @gazelliarthouse

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

****

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! 

https://cerihand.com/subscribe/

****

Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

****

Book a Discovery Call Today 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected]

****

Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity 
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

In this episode, Ceri talks about the art of connecting with art collectors. She breaks down the three main types of collectors, offers strategies for engaging each, and shares her knowledge on building genuine relationships in the art world. Ceri gives tips and examples as she decodes the complex world of art collecting, making it accessible and actionable for creatives at any stage of their career.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Understanding the three main types of art collectors: casual, serious, and institutional, is essential for tailoring your approach and marketing strategies.
• Casual collectors are driven by personal enjoyment and aesthetic pleasure, often seeking affordable pieces that resonate emotionally or complement their lifestyle.
• Serious collectors are connoisseurs who strategically build curated collections, often becoming influential figures in the art world and supporting artists' careers long-term.
• Institutional collectors, such as museums and corporations, acquire art aligned with their mission, often guided by specific policies and multiple stakeholders.
• Building relationships with all three types of collectors is possible but requires a strategic approach tailored to each group's unique motivations and preferences.
• Engaging storytelling and consistent online presence are more effective than cold pitching, fostering genuine connections and demonstrating the value of your work over time.
• Successful artists often maintain a presence in both high-end art markets and broader consumer markets, offering a range of works that cater to different collector types.
• Research and understand potential collectors' interests before reaching out, enabling more targeted and meaningful engagement that can lead to productive interactions and opportunities.

BEST MOMENTS

"Casual collectors are driven by a desire for personal enjoyment and aesthetic pleasure. They seek artworks that resonate with them on an emotional level, often drawn to pieces based on factors such as colour, materiality and scale."

"Serious collectors approach acquisitions with a strategic mindset. Often setting or following trends while conducting thorough research, they frequently consult with art advisors, curators, gallerists and museum directors to refine their choices."

"Institutional collectors purchases are typically guided by limited budgets, staff resources, curatorial decisions, long term value and alignment with their existing collection or institutional goals."

"Cold pitching often fails because it lacks the personal touch needed to build a meaningful connection. Engaging storytelling on social media and on your website allows potential collectors, institutions and art professionals to get to know you and your work over time, fostering genuine relationships."

"By sharing your journey, your inspirations and behind the scenes content, you create a narrative that resonates with an audience, making it more likely they'll remember you and engage with your work."

"Regularly updating your social media and website with engaging content helps keep your work in the public eye, increasing visibility and maintaining interest."

"Engaging storytelling and consistent content creation fosters long term relationships rather than short term gains. By investing in building a robust online presence, you establish a foundation for online connections of future opportunities."

EPISODE RESOURCES

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

****

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! 

https://cerihand.com/subscribe/

****

Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

****

Book a Discovery Call Today 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected]

****

Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity 
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Join Ceri as she explores the multifaceted factors that determine an artwork's value. From artist reputation to market dynamics, Ceri demystifies the art world's pricing mechanisms, offering invaluable knowledge for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts alike.

If you'd like this episode in written form, subscribe to receive this week's Beat the Block for the full transcript: https://cerihand.com/subscribe/.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Artist reputation, biography, and CV significantly impact artwork value, with factors like education, exhibitions, and awards playing crucial roles.
• The artwork's intrinsic qualities, including subject matter, medium, scale, and quality of execution, contribute substantially to its price.
• Market dynamics, such as supply and demand, rarity, and the artwork's "freshness" in the market, influence valuation.
• Provenance, or the artwork's ownership history, can dramatically affect its value, especially if associated with notable collectors or institutions.
• The primary and secondary art markets operate differently, with artists benefiting directly only from primary market sales.
• An artwork's historical context and its creator's place in art history can significantly enhance its value.
• The time-related aspects of an artwork, including its age and the period of the artist's career it represents, impact its worth.
• Networking and championing by influential figures in the art world can boost an artist's career and the value of their work.

BEST MOMENTS

"Generally speaking, demand determines price. However, the art market is an economic model with more variables than just supply and demand."

"A market is developed for an artwork and artist if their contribution to the contemporary art world or creative community becomes recognised by curators, collectors, press, artists and writers."

"The truth is, we really do get there quicker together. Sharing knowledge, skills, contacts, resources, all help an artist's visibility with their peers."

"Bigger doesn't necessarily mean better when it comes to price, as not everybody wants to live with, ship or store large works of art."

"Collectors and curators are often introduced to new artists through the Artist Network."

"When a unique work is scarce, its desirability increases, leading to a higher price."

"Provenance is more than just a record of ownership. It's a critical component that affects an artwork's value, authenticity and significance."

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

****

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! 

https://cerihand.com/subscribe/

****

Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

****

Book a Discovery Call Today 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected]

****

Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity 
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri Hand interviews painter Eleanor Moreton, exploring her artistic journey from childhood to her current practice. Eleanor's rebel spirit, unique approach to creativity, and commitment to her craft shine through as she discusses her influences, challenges, and success. From navigating art school to finding her stride in painting, Eleanor's story is both inspiring and realistic, offering valuable lessons for artists at any stage of their career.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Eleanor's upbringing in a suburban environment significantly influenced her artistic themes, particularly her interest in family life and the 1950s-60s era.
• Eleanor compares her artistic process to "herding a swarm of bees," juggling various ideas and influences until they coalesce into a cohesive work.
• Embracing beauty in her paintings was a decades-long process for Eleanor, overcoming the art school taboo against creating beautiful work.
• Collaboration with poet John Hegley provides Eleanor with a different creative outlet, balancing her solitary studio practice with performance and music.
• The year 2007-2008 marked a significant turning point in Eleanor's career, with multiple achievements affirming her place in the art world.
• Don't underestimate the importance of artists identifying their ideal audience and platform for showcasing their work.
• Eleanor stresses the value of showing up consistently to work, even during challenging periods or creative droughts!
• Artists need to view themselves as custodians of their work, responsible for sharing it with the world rather than focusing on personal ego.

BEST MOMENTS

"My mind is always alert to new things that will come in and there's some kind of detector that will, you know, detect something, even when I don't know why or where it fits with other things."

"There isn't one art world, there are many. And I think it's in a quite practical sense to say, where would I like to show, who would I like to show my work to?"

"Freedom is incredibly important to me, particularly mental freedom and I get quite irritated when gallerists or people who visit the studio sort of frown and say that something doesn't connect to something else."

"It's not called a practice for nothing. You know, you do it over and over”

"I love Eleanor's rebel spirit and her willingness to embrace discomfort, pushing both her practice and life."

EPISODE RESOURCES

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

****

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! 

https://cerihand.com/subscribe/

****

Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

****

Book a Discovery Call Today 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected]

****

Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity 
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri speaks with artist Martyn Cross, who shares his journey from a small-town upbringing to international gallery representation. Martyn talks about his artistic evolution, the importance of community, and how navigating the art world offers invaluable lessons for creatives at all stages. His unique approach to time, colour, and artistic integrity will no doubt inspire you to embrace your creative path with renewed passion and authenticity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Martyn's work often explores the concept of time, attempting to condense long periods into his paintings through his use of colour and technique.
• He creates paintings that have an otherworldly, timeless quality, intentionally making them difficult to place in a specific era. Martyn's process involves starting with intuitive drawings that he then translates into paintings.
• Martyn's work is influenced by his small-town upbringing, which he initially wanted to escape but now draws inspiration from.
• Build genuine relationships in the art community. It's crucial for mutual support, dialogue, and inspiration in your career.
• Be honest and transparent when working with galleries. It fosters trust and leads to long-term success in our partnerships.
• Maintain a consistent studio practice, even during difficult times. It's essential for your artistic growth and career development.
• Use social media as a powerful tool to connect with galleries and collectors, but always remember to be authentic in your interactions.
• When moving from self-representation to gallery representation, take your time and consider your options carefully. Patience is key.
• Martyn's approach involves embracing chaos and taking risks in his artistic process, allowing for surprises and more discovery.

BEST MOMENTS

"I suppose in my work, I'm trying to discover something about contemporary life in a way, by making something that is not real and it is fake."

"If you can pose questions that don't have any answers, then it allows the viewer as a human to question themselves and question their own existence."

"I think colour for me is…it's a battle with time and that sounds bizarre, but it's about time. That sounds so stupid to say that, but I'm basically putting down colour to condense time."

"Embrace the chaos. What a wonderful way to end our conversation."

EPISODE RESOURCES

Artist links: 

https://halesgallery.com/artists/165-martyn-cross/overview/

https://marianneboeskygallery.com/artists/454-martyn-cross/biography/ 

@martyncross @halesgallery @marianneboeskygallery 

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

****

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! 

https://cerihand.com/subscribe/

****

Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

****

Book a Discovery Call Today 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected]

****

Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity 
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri interviews Garth Gratrix, a visionary artist, curator, and founder of Abingdon Studios. Garth shares his journey from Blackpool to becoming an internationally recognised artist, discussing his recent solo exhibition "Flamboyant Flamingos" and his experiences in curating groundbreaking shows.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Garth talks about establishing your own space for experimentation and why risk taking is crucial for artists, especially in smaller towns or coastal areas.
• Successful artist-curator relationships are built on clear communication, mutual respect, and understanding one another's needs and ambitions.
• Balancing multiple roles (artist, curator, studio founder) requires careful time management and setting boundaries, something Garth has learnt throughout his career.
• Incorporating personal experiences, such as grief, into artwork can lead to more impactful and authentic creations.
• By presenting bold, ambitious projects to unexpected galleries Garth has been able to create exciting opportunities and collaborations for himself.
• Any artist needs to learn to understand the importance of pace in the art sector, including periods of intense work and necessary downtime.
• Transparency about fees and budgets in the art world is crucial for fostering fairness and supporting emerging artists.
• Building a supportive network and maintaining mental and physical health are essential for long-term success in the arts.

BEST MOMENTS

"I throw all my ideas, all my interest in minimal, abstract and formal work and aesthetics in a scrabble bag, throw it around and then carefully place those letters in some way that reads to relevance, curiosity, gut instinct for me."

"Even when we're asking for pay, it's to embed downtime in that pay. Your day rate is about considering yourself as a business. It's considering that other people have sick pay if they need it."

"I really like working in abundance until I know I have to slow down. It’s talking about pace, thinking about pace, writing about pace as a research subject is about knowing that you have to find the gaps."

"I'm incredibly proud of just setting about doing that off my own back and working with the Whitaker Museum and Art Gallery, who then have happily ran forwards into an NPO ambition with this as its summer show opening."

"I just really fucking love installing work. I love being in a gallery and taking the things that have been in my mind and the fabrication of those and putting them in a space and moving them and changing them."

"I really want our listeners to know that actually, there is no shame in saying these things out loud, because I think you are living proof, Garth, of actually articulating your dreams and helping other people to do and to deliver on theirs too."

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://garthgratrix.com/

Instagram: @garth.gratrix

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

****

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! 

https://cerihand.com/subscribe/

****

Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

****

Book a Discovery Call Today 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected]

****

Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity 
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

As an artist, how can you get noticed and represented by art galleries? In this episode, Ceri talks all about the intricacies of securing and maintaining a relationship with a commercial art gallery. She offers a behind the scenes look at what galleries seek in artists, what they offer, and how artists can position themselves for success. If you are an artist considering gallery representation, this episode will give you a great overview and give you practical advice for navigating the complex world of commercial art galleries.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Commercial art galleries seek artists who actively engage with the art world, not just those who create great work. Participation in exhibitions, events, and networking is crucial.
• Gallery representation is not the only path to success. Artists can create their own opportunities and build a fan base independently, especially in the digital age.
• The gallery/artist relationship is a partnership. Both parties need to contribute actively to make it successful, with clear communication and mutual support.
• Galleries offer comprehensive support, including administration, advocacy, and networking opportunities. However, they expect transparency, regular new work, and active participation from artists in return.
• Building a relationship with a gallery takes time. Artists should research galleries, attend their events, and focus on creating connections rather than pitching themselves directly.
• Artists should focus on creating outstanding work, documenting it professionally, and organising their inventory. This preparation is crucial for attracting gallery representation.
• Being aware of common gallery issues can help artists prepare, such as misalignment in sales strategies and communication problems.
• Before seeking gallery representation, artists should develop key champions of their work and build diverse audience connections. This can help them get noticed by galleries over time.

BEST MOMENTS

"Gone are the days when artists could just hide away in their studios. Nowadays, success often means engaging in live interviews, hosting studio visits for collectors, attending dinners and responding to invitations for group shows, biennials and art fairs."

"Selecting an artist for their roster is like a marriage. It's not something to be rushed into lightly, and there has to be chemistry."

"The art world wouldn't exist without artists, but many artists feel that the gallery holds all the power and as a result don't ask enough questions before entering into a partnership or whilst they're working together."

"Even if you evolve your style or explore different mediums, the gallery values a commitment to the ongoing artistic journey."

"Remember, a successful relationship with a commercial gallery is a two-way street. By actively engaging and contributing, you not only enhance your own artistic career, but also strengthen the gallery's position in the art world."

"Don't project what you hope to be the case and ignore warning signals or your gut instinct. If something feels off, it probably is."

"Artists often tell themselves the unhelpful story that they have failed if they're not represented by a major gallery. This is simply not true."

"Research the programs of the galleries you want to connect with, see if your work resonates with their roster and identify what makes you excited and why."

EPISODE RESOURCES

 

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

****

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! 

https://cerihand.com/subscribe/

****

Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

****

Ceri speaks to Inês Geraldes Cardoso, an assistant curator at the Barbican. Inês shares her experience in curating, her fascination with Frida Kahlo, and her recent work on Francis Alÿs' exhibition "Ricochet." Discover the intricacies of curating, the importance of play in art, and the evolving role of curator and artist.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Inês' multicultural background and early exposure to diverse art forms shaped her curatorial approach, emphasising an omnivorous curiosity and openness to various cultural expressions.
• The curator's role extends beyond exhibition planning, involving research, interpretation, catalogue production, and collaborative projects with artists and local communities.
• Studio visits play a crucial role in exhibition development, allowing curators to discover new works and engage in dialogue that shapes the final presentation.
• Curating is increasingly seen as a relational practice, focusing on dialogue, collaboration, and the ability to expand the resonance of artists' work.
• Inês stresses the interdependence of artists and curators, encouraging ongoing relationships and experimentation beyond specific projects.
• Francis Alÿs' "Children's Games" series explores the universal nature of play while highlighting site-specific contexts, bridging macro and micro perspectives on human experience.
• The Barbican exhibition of Alÿs' work included new films shot in London, showcasing local children's games and expanding the artist's ongoing exploration of play.
• The exhibition aims to highlight the urgency of creating spaces for children to play, especially in urban environments with diminishing public spaces.
• BEST MOMENTS

"I grew up in a very multicultural environment... so that's really from a very young age contributed to my understanding of culture as a multifarious, diverse, open thing."

"Frida Kahlo was an artist that really made me want to be close to artists, understand the way they work and understand the ways in which the kind of completely left field sort of way of seeing and interpreting the world could shatter the way we think about gender, the way we think about love, the way we think about relationships, the way we think about politics."

"I'm drawn to artists who are kind of deeply committed to research but also artists who have relational practices, who have socially, socially engaged practices."

"There's this real sense of a kind of community in the, in the studio that kind of comes together."

"Curating is, I think, first and foremost, a kind of relational practice, you know, it's about the kind of relationships that you have with, with artists and about, again, this idea of dialogue and a kind of act of almost radical listening."

"Being an artist, being a curator, they're never independent practices. They're completely interdependent."

"We really wanted, you know, play and children to be a central part of the show, not kind of a sort of add on." 

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

****

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! 

www.cerihand/subscribe 

****

Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

****

Book a Discovery Call Today
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

****

Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri interviews Gemma Rolls-Bentley, a curator and art advisor focused on LGBTQIA+ art and artists. From life in Sheffield to curating global exhibitions and authoring a groundbreaking book on queer art, Gemma shares invaluable insights on navigating the art world, building a portfolio career, and championing diversity in the creative industry. This episode is a must listen for artists, curators, and art enthusiasts seeking inspiration and practical advice on making their mark in the contemporary art scene.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Building a portfolio career in the arts requires adaptability, diverse skills, and a willingness to take on various roles from curation to consulting and teaching.
• Social media, particularly Instagram, has become a crucial tool for artists to connect with curators and collectors, serving as a digital portfolio.
• When commissioning independent curators, it's essential to be clear about project goals, provide fair compensation, and consider all aspects of the curator's involvement.
• Gemma stresses the importance of having clear criteria for accepting projects, balancing factors like brand impact, financial reward, personal passion, and learning opportunities.
• The art world needs urgent attention to funding issues, with a call for unlocking new sources of support and making art more relevant to potential donors and businesses.
• Tokenistic representation of marginalised groups in the art world remains a problem, with a need for more meaningful, year-round inclusion and fair compensation for diverse voices.
• Gemma's book "Queer Art: From Canvas to Club and the Spaces Between" fills a gap in art literature, offering a comprehensive global survey of LGBTQIA+ art over the past 50 years.

BEST MOMENTS

"I wanted people within the queer community who don't know about art or aren't in the art world to be able to pick up this book and see that there is art about us that speaks to our experience."

"I think social media is a great tool that we didn't have 10 years ago. So I think leaning into that as annoying as it can seem, you know, I definitely have a love hate relationship with social media, mostly hate."

"I think part of it is having the confidence and like knowing that you should just try and apply for stuff and whether you sort of tick all the boxes or not, I think that's definitely a gendered thing as well."

"I love to hear you speak and talk about wanting and knowing that you're capable of doing something. It's so brilliant to hear women say that."

"Pay them properly and be really clear and honest with yourself about what your goals are for the project before you write the brief."

"I think it's for a curator as well to know that those are the things to ask and, and outline and be really, really clear on."

"I think at the moment something I'm just thinking about a lot is funding, you know, I think with our new government in the UK, you know, potentially is going to look a bit better in terms of public funding."

EPISODE RESOURCES

"Queer Art: From Canvas to Club and the Spaces Between" by Gemma Rolls-Bentley

Instagram @gemmarollsbentley

www.gemmaRollsBentley.com

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

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Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity 
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri is joined in conversation with Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard, artists and BAFTA-nominated directors who've collaborated for over 30 years. From their early days at Goldsmiths to working with music icons like Nick Cave, this episode reveals their unique approach to art, film, TV and performance. Learn how they navigate the art world, balance ambition with pragmatism, and find magic in the spaces between truth and fiction. Their candid insights and inspiring advice make this a must-listen for creatives seeking to carve their own path!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embrace collaboration and find partners who complement your strengths, as Iain and Jane have done for over three decades.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions and be the beginner in the room – it can lead to innovative approaches and unexpected opportunities.
• Aim high in your creative ambitions, even if you fall short, you'll still achieve more than if you hadn't set big goals.
• Cultivate relationships with mentors and champions who believe in your work and can support you during challenging times.
• Be willing to let go of ideas that aren't working and adapt quickly, especially when working on time-sensitive projects.
• Focus on the day-to-day aspects of your creative life, as they form 99% of your experience, rather than fixating on big moments.
• Look for the "magic" that happens in the space between authenticity and performance, truth and fiction.
• Enjoy the journey and successes while they're happening, rather than only appreciating them in retrospect.

BEST MOMENTS 

"We very rarely back down. So ideas are often pushed somewhere pretty extreme, pretty quickly."

"The best moments in 20,000 Days for us, artistically, are these tiny bits of archive footage of Nick performing from over the 30 odd years he's been performing that are cut into a performance of him performing at Sydney Opera House."

"We often give our crews kind of pep talks about, you know, don't fear the speed, ride it, like let's pretend we're on a roller coaster, go with it."

"Stop thinking about  the bigger picture and work on project by project. Always challenge yourself, always make it new and fresh."

"Be so aware that the day to day, the way in which you spend your time, and the people with which you spend it with, is ultimately 99 percent of your creative life."

"I wish I'd enjoyed it whilst I was there, and I think that's a really powerful piece of advice to actually enjoy it whilst you're there."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

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Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

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