Extraordinary Creatives

Ceri talks with artist Hannah Perry as she shares her journey from a working-class background to becoming a renowned contemporary artist. Hannah discusses her major solo exhibition at Baltic Gallery, navigating the art world, and balancing creativity with motherhood. Her insights on resilience, collaboration, and staying true to oneself offer invaluable lessons for artists at any stage of their career.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Hannah's working-class background and dyslexia diagnosis led her to pursue art, finding her voice through identity-based work at Goldsmiths University.
• Collaborating with diverse creatives in DIY spaces and warehouse living fostered Hannah's interdisciplinary approach and artistic growth.
• The Royal Academy provided Hannah with practical skills, nurturing support, and valuable connections in the art world.
• Hannah emphasises the importance of maintaining long-term relationships with supporters and collaborators throughout one's artistic career.
• Balancing commercial work with experimental projects can help sustain an artist's practice financially while allowing creative freedom.
• Hannah's process for developing major exhibitions involves extensive research, collaboration with curators, and adapting to unexpected life changes.
• Self-care strategies, such as exercise and maintaining personal relationships, are crucial for managing the emotional highs and lows of an artistic career.
• Hannah advises artists to take action and seize opportunities, rather than becoming paralysed by overthinking or fear of failure.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I ended up going to like a vocational college to do a-levels alongside, like potentially a vocational subject, but I couldn't really find my space, there I found out I was dyslexic"

"I think what Goldsmiths gave me was like a thinker's degree, if that makes sense."

"I try and counteract is that I always try and like, get up and do like, a training program, go for a run, cycle into the studio, just do anything to just get up and get moving"

"I think from my perspective, I've always found it useful to just go for every opportunity that is possible, rather than kind of thinking too much about, like, you know, potential risks or potential problems."

"When you sort of find something that you really excel in when you sort of struggled in a lot of areas, you know it's the right place for you to be."

"You ignored the advice, you applied and you got in."

"It's always probably going to be a thing of like figuring out how to best, how to make something work, essentially, with what you've got, and that takes a lot of time."

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.

****

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].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Artist Links

https://www.hannahperry.com/

Currently on show at Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art

https://baltic.art/

Ceri explores the world of cultural placemaking as she is joined by Mark Davy, founder of Future City. This episode uncovers how art transforms urban spaces, the challenges of large-scale public art projects, and the delicate balance between artists, developers, and communities. Mark's journey from artist to industry pioneer offers invaluable insights for creatives looking to make their mark in the public realm. Prepare to be inspired by his passion for art, cities, and causing the right kind of trouble!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Cultural placemaking involves integrating art into urban development from the early stages, creating meaningful spaces that reflect local identity and include and engage communities.
• Future City operates as a bridge between artists, developers, and communities, advocating for art's inclusion in major projects and ensuring fair compensation for artists.
• Public art projects often involve complex negotiations, technical challenges, and long timelines, requiring patience, flexibility, and strong project management skills.
• Successful public art often emerges from multidisciplinary collaborations, combining diverse skills and perspectives to create innovative, site-specific works.
• Artists should be proactive in seeking opportunities, forming collaborations, and asserting their value in non-traditional spaces to expand their reach and impact.
• The selection process for public art commissions typically involves long-listing, short-listing, and paid proposal stages, with diverse advisory panels making final decisions.
• Public art can significantly enhance a development's appeal and value, as demonstrated by projects like Clare Woods' work at Grosvenor Waterside.
• Effective leadership in the cultural sector involves fostering a collaborative, non-hierarchical environment, valuing diverse perspectives, and maintaining enthusiasm for new ideas.

BEST MOMENTS 

"If you want to solve a problem, ask an artist."

"Cause trouble, go and cause trouble. Throw a rock in the pond and create a ripple or stir the muddy puddle with a stick."

"Artists are always at the end of the queue. Why aren't artists, you know, we should be inside there. We're clever, we've got great ideas, we've got imagination and passion."

"I'm always looking for that partnership and most of the projects actually that I've done almost all of them involve some form of multidisciplinary relationship."

"Being professional doesn't mean rounding off your edges. It doesn't mean aping what it is to be an artist or following the suit of somebody else."

"Money is not a dirty word. It's crucial for creative sustainability."

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.

****

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].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Guest links:

https://futurecity.co.uk
@futurecityblog
@markfuturecity

Join Ceri for her second instalment around the crucial art of studio visits. Drawing from three decades of experience and feedback from thousands of artists, Ceri offers invaluable insights for curators, collectors, producers, writers, and artists themselves. She emphasises the importance of frequent studio visits and provides a comprehensive guide on being an excellent studio guest. From planning and preparation to active listening and follow-up, Ceri covers all aspects of creating rewarding experiences that leave artists inspired and supported.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Studio visits provide an irreplaceable first-hand experience of art, allowing for a deeper understanding of scale, texture, and context.
• Personal connections formed during studio visits lead to stronger relationships and better collaboration in future projects.
• Thorough preparation before a studio visit is crucial, including clear communication about intentions and expectations.
• Active listening and genuine curiosity during the visit can lead to new ideas, opportunities, and collaborations.
• Bringing a thoughtful gift demonstrates respect for the artist's time and work.
• Clear articulation of potential projects, including budgets and timelines, helps artists understand opportunities better.
• Following up after the visit with a thank you note and any promised information is essential for maintaining positive relationships.
• Frequent studio visits contribute to building a supportive art community and can provide mutual benefits for both artists and visitors.

BEST MOMENTS 

"The difference between a great studio visit and a bad one is within our control."

"If you're in the art world, then you'll know that artists are the most important people in it, hands down."

"Nothing beats seeing art up close and personal than in an artist's studio. Seeing the site of origin provides a deeper understanding and fresh perspectives on the artist and their work."

"Clarity is kindness and therefore better preparation for such meetings is kind."

"Time in the studio is invaluable to an artist, so regardless of whether you form a bond by the end of the visit, bringing a gift demonstrates respect."

"Whatever you do, don't stay silent. This is confusing and unsettling and will be perceived as you not liking them or their work."

"By preparing effectively and listening actively, you can make the most out of a studio visit, fostering meaningful dialogue and building a stronger connection with the artist."

"Be mindful of the impact you have on the artist and their practice. Strive to leave a positive impression."

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.

For more exclusive, in-depth support, join our upcoming live online masterclass led by Ceri:

MASTER THE ART OF STUDIO VISITS
🗓️ 11 September, 6-8pm (GMT)

Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your skills. Book your spot here.

****

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

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

This episode is part 1 of 2 special solo episodes into one of the most overlooked but crucial practices that can completely transform how you contribute to the arts; studio visits. Ceri outlines what she's learned from 1000s of studio visits over the years, both from her own experience and that of others, and shares what you can do to get the most out of your visits.

This episode is focused on artists. From the correct etiquette to creating and maintaining connections, Ceri tells you everything you need to know about how to make your studio visits successful and mutually beneficial.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• For a sustainable art career you have to prioritise studio visits, both in person and in online.
• You don’t need to be perfect, in your work or how you present, you just need to tell people about your processes and decisions in producing the work.
• Studio visits are about meaningful discussions about your work, it’s a fact-finding educational experience, the actual location is irrelevant.
• Try and invite your guest with an open mind, if you invite someone with a specific outcome in mind you can inadvertently go into ‘pitch mode’ and put them off.
• Set time aside in your year to arrange and carry out studio visits, ensures you are creating champions and opportunities all year round, not just when the project has launched.
• Galleries and curators are looking for different things. For curators focus on work in progress, your methods and potential expansion of ideas. For galleries, showcasing your consistency as an artist with past and current work is important.
• Ask and seek recommendations from friends and peers for people who may want to visit your studio. 
• Identify common interests with your ideal studio visitor, find themes and ideas that resonate with both of you and the potential connections that you want to invite into the studio, selecting the right examples for your work to fit in with this.
• In preparation, research your guest. Find out their likes and experience not only for discussion points but also to curate your work and how you shape invitation to them.
• Ensure your visitor will be comfortable on their visit, provide snacks, drinks and ensure your studio is the right temperature and simple things like clean seating and a place to put their bag down.
• It is especially important to send over a PDF of past and current work when conducting a virtual studio visit.
• When it comes to sales less is more. Instead of showcasing every piece you've ever made focus on showing your best works, think about everything you have out and displayed.
• Ensure every studio visit ends positively, summarise what has been discussed and express your interest in maintaining contact and connection.

BEST MOMENTS 

"A well conducted studio visit can be one of the most rewarding, educational and life-afforming experiences”

“Location should not be a barrier”

“Curators enjoy seeing work in progress and supporting the potential expansion of your ideas”

“Understand their career paths and networks of similar artists, study their work, analyse their style, themes and key achievements for inspiration of who to invite”

“Less is more and it’s important you have considered the visitor in advance”

“Help them feel seen and heard”

“Too many choices can overwhelm buyers making it harder for them to make a decision”

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.

****

For more exclusive, in-depth support, join our upcoming live online masterclass led by Ceri:

MASTER THE ART OF STUDIO VISITS
🗓️ 27 June, 6-8pm (GMT)

Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your skills. Book your spot now!

****

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

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Alessio Antoniolli, the visionary behind Triangle Network joins Ceri in this episode. Alessio shares his thrilling journey working with artists from every corner of the globe, revealing the trials, triumphs, and transformative lessons that have shaped his remarkable career. Prepare to be inspired and discover how embracing curiosity, resourcefulness, and a fearless approach to challenges can unlock your own creative potential.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Immersing yourself in a community of artists can feed your passion and inspire you to pursue your work with unwavering dedication.
• Resourcefulness and a "yes, I can do that" spirit are crucial when figuring things out as you go, and reimagining possibilities with artists.
• Embrace trial and error alongside friends and peers, learning from mistakes and building resilience through tough love and honesty.
• Surround yourself with enablers who encourage you to take action without overthinking, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed.
• Dream big and wish for more; with enough determination, those wishes can become reality.
• View every challenge as an opportunity for transformation, and keep an open mind when encountering art that you don't immediately understand.
• Stay true to your practice and be motivated by your own research, other artists, and the process of making, rather than solely focusing on financial outcomes.
• Embrace the fear and discomfort that comes with transitioning to new roles or seasons in your life, as it allows you to redefine who you are and explore new possibilities.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I realised pretty quickly that what I enjoyed and where I got such satisfaction and my curiosity was fulfilled was to be around artists.”

"I think the artists that in my mind are thriving and doing a very solid in their practice are those that don't stop being curious and don't stop thinking about process because, of course, the pressures of the market and the glory that comes out of the, you know, everybody needs to be paid properly."

"I am very interested in artists that kind of through their work open new paths for different ways of living. Whether it's your response to the environment, whether it's, which of course it's a massive urgency, whether it's your response to politics, whether it's your, uh, response to gender and sexuality, whether it's your response to identity."

"I genuinely value it. And I know that I'm not alone in this. So, if I can continue in some way, in a very small way to keep opening doors, then I'd feel I've fed myself, but I've also given something to something that is bigger than me."

"I think the beauty for me of working with artists is that you start to unpick it and you start to have, ‘oh, here's an example of how you can think about yourself, here's an example of how you can think about that’."

"I'm also trying to kind of keep a little time to feel the fear of who am I and and see if I can start giving different answers to it."

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.

****

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].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Artist links

https://www.instagram.com/trianglenetwork

https://www.instagram.com/fondazionememmo 

https://www.gasworks.org.uk/ 

https://www.instagram.com/gasworkslondon/ 

British Croatian artist and musician Marianna Simnett joins Ceri in this episode. Based in Berlin, Marianna is a multidisciplinary artist known for her provocative works that often address themes of sex, death, dreams, and violence. She shares her unique journey, the challenges she's faced, and the importance of staying true to one's vision. Marianna offers valuable advice for creatives and talks about the need for persistence and self-belief.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Marianna’s artistic journey began at a young age, driven by an innate need to express herself through drawing, painting, and performance.
• She learned the importance of investing in her work and not compromising her artistic vision, even when faced with financial challenges.
• Collaboration and teamwork are essential to Marianna’s creative process, as she values the contributions of her colleagues and the sense of camaraderie on set.
• She emphasises the significance of balancing confidence and shyness, as well as the need to take breaks and engage in activities outside the studio.
• She encourages artists to stay on their path, understand their purpose, and not let others sway them from their goals.
• Persistence is key; if an artist keeps creating consistently, people will eventually listen and recognise their work.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I just could dive in undisturbed for many hours at a time and lose myself in it and find myself like, I guess it was the best toy that there was out there because I never got bored of it."

"I remember being younger and remember thinking, God, if I only had confidence and clarity, the world would be, my world would be, okay. And I didn't have it."

"If you just keep, keep, keep doing it, doggedly, day in, day out, it will happen."

"Trailblazing and standing apart though isn't easy and it takes time. Some people will understand your journey and some won't and that's okay. Focus on those who do. They will uplift you and make the journey worthwhile."

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.

****

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].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

****

Artist links

Artist website: https://mariannasimnett.com/

SOCIÉTÉ gallery website: https://societeberlin.com/artists/marianna-simnett/ 

Instagram: @mariannasimnett

This short episode is inspired by a question Ceri had from one of her favourite artists. What do you do when you feel crap? Everyone feels bad sometimes, it’s part of being human but there are ways of dealing with it that are better than others. As a creative coach, Ceri knows how to make herself and her clients feel better. Listen to this episode to hear practical tips for when you are feeling rubbish including how you can plan for ‘the crap’ and how to deal with it with Ceri’s creation: ‘The Crap Manifesto’!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• After a major milestone, it’s easy to feel a bit down and rubbish. It can feel unfair after striving to create and achieve such great things but this is the effects of creative exhaustion.
• We have to lean into this exhaustion and burnout and make the right choices to make ourselves start to feel better
• Being creative means riding the rollercoaster of emotions, from doubt about the work your making and wondering if you’re good enough and have what it takes.
• Plan for the crap, get out of the house and make plans that you know will improve your mood.
• Introduce your own ‘Crap Manifesto’. Outline the things you will not do when you feel crap, such as doom scrolling and list the things you will do instead that will help you recover and feel better, such as self-care tasks.

BEST MOMENTS 

"Bounce back quicker to being the extraordinary creative you are”

“As a creative coach, I know how to make myself and my clients feel better”

“It’s bonkers what our brains throw at us instead of letting us rest or sleep”

“Get out of your house and out of your mind”

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.

****

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].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri interviews Sally Shaw, the trailblazing director of Firstsite contemporary art gallery. Sally shares her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to leading an award-winning institution, offering invaluable insights on leadership, collaboration, and the power of creativity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embracing a spirit of adventure and curiosity can lead to life-changing experiences and a broader worldview, ultimately fuelling one's creative vision.
• Leaders can emerge from any position within an organisation by demonstrating initiative, empathy, and a commitment to positive change.
• Collaborating with community partners and actively listening to their needs can help create innovative, impactful programs that resonate with audiences.
• Balancing long-term planning with flexibility allows art institutions to remain responsive to emerging opportunities and maintain a sense of experimentation.
• Cultivating a supportive, transparent, and inclusive work environment encourages staff to contribute ideas and take ownership of the organisation's mission.
• Representing diverse artists and perspectives in programming not only promotes equity but also attracts a broader, more engaged audience.
• Adapting to financial challenges requires creative problem-solving, leveraging social capital, and advocating for the value of art and culture in society.
• Embracing vulnerability, resilience, and a solutions-oriented mindset can help artists navigate obstacles and emerge stronger.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I've always felt like you can be a leader wherever you are, whatever job you're in, you don't have to be the boss to be a leader."

"It's about listening to what it is that someone is really trying to realise and where that motivation comes from, and then again, thinking about that place and the limitations of that place and what you can achieve."

"In the heart of every problem lies the solution. And it's such a beautiful comment. It's like, there's a real economics to that. It's like, yes, it's awful, but look at the type of awfulness that you've got, take it apart and something will show itself to you and that will be how you get out of it."

"You should go into an art gallery and you should feel like this is a place of experimentation. If you can't feel that there, where is that going to happen? Anywhere?"

"There's nothing more brilliant than being in a tube station at 2am in the morning talking to a guy that's wearing like a paper hazmat suit about why Tracey Emin is amazing."

"It's really about listening to what it is that someone is really trying to realise and where that motivation comes from."

"There's always a solution. There just is. It might not be what you expected, but there's always a solution."

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.

****

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

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" Online Art Course 
Are you sick of waiting to be discovered? Learn how to connect authentically and generate more studio visits, increase commissions and boost sales, effortlessly!
https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Choreographer Holly Blakey and curator Kiera Blakey candidly discuss their paths to becoming creative leaders. Despite challenges, they've fearlessly carved unique artistic careers by taking risks, collaborating, and staying true to their values. In this conversation with Ceri, discover how they inspire others while making the arts more accessible.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embrace light and shade in your creative work, discomfort can lead to the most impactful art.
• Take the less travelled path and trust your creative vision, even if it doesn't fit the status quo.
• Setbacks and "wrong turns" are catalysts for growth that help you discover your authentic creative voice. They are necessary to evolve as a true artist.
• A strong work ethic and support network are crucial for navigating challenges in creative careers.
• Push for diversity and inclusion, creating art that is accessible to a wider range of people
• Acknowledge your achievements and contributions; celebrate how far you've come with gratitude.
• Creative siblings can be a source of mutual inspiration, encouragement and perspective!
• Messy, difficult experiences often plant seeds for the most meaningful creative work later on.

BEST MOMENTS 

“There's a kind of unrelenting refusal to accept the confines of how dance is taught."

"I want it to encapsulate all of those things - the pleasure, rhythm, feeling immersed in a moment or feeling full of memories."

"It's more interesting to me to have a challenge. I like to work really hard.”

"There's no mistakes Mom, it's just always learning."

"We've spent time feeling like we're outside of something, so the journey of getting inside was really hard."

"I'm so proud of what my sister's achieved, but also what she stands for - truth in your own conviction and belief in yourself."

"You don't follow a status quo. You say, this is it, I'm presenting this. You know exactly what it is."

"It's important to acknowledge how far you've come and what you've contributed together with others for others."

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.

****

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].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri is joined by the remarkable visionary Artistic Director of Rambert, Benoit Swan Pouffer. From his early days in Paris to his ground breaking work with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet, Benoit shares invaluable insights on leadership, mentorship, and the power of dance to inspire change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to unleash their creative potential and make a lasting impact!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embrace your unique story and use it to create a distinctive artistic style that goes beyond technical proficiency.
• Seek out mentors who challenge you, expand your horizons, and help you grow both personally and professionally.
• Cultivate a leadership style that nurtures individual talents, fosters growth, and encourages open communication.
• Be willing to take risks and pursue radical excellence, even if it means stepping away from comfort zones.
• Recognise the importance of living in the present while also planning for the future.
• Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your potential and push you to be your best.
• Use your art to connect with audiences, provoke thought, and inspire change in the world.
• Continuously challenge yourself and others to reach new heights, while maintaining a balance between criticism and encouragement.

BEST MOMENTS 

"Dance changed my life, made me learn another language, made me be able to live with my art."

"I believe that you are unique and no one can clone you, no one can be you, because you're you."

"If you think you need to go left, go left. You should listen to your instincts because you are a unique individual."

"I'm hoping that they do the same for others. So, it's translating the knowledge, translating the philosophy of what we are as artists."

"I love the idea to be able to get you out of your routine, your daily life. And then for an hour, an hour and a half, you can escape."

"...what interests me the most is the individual, because I believe that you are unique and no one can clone you, no one can be you, because you're you."

"Live in the present, because we, as an artistic director, right now I'm talking about 2027, 2028 as well. So, it's, it's a way of, I wish I would have been more living in the present and appreciate the accomplishments."

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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