If you'd like to read more of Witold's work, here's his great Substack: https://witoldriedel.substack.com/subscribe

Here's his website: https://www.witoldriedel.com/

And if you're in need of a global communications consultant, here's his agency, Tea & Water: https://www.teaandwater.co/

In a surprise conversation during a family trip to Lisbon, I met up with Witold Reidel, an artist I met through Substack last year. We discussed his multifaceted journey through art, what exhibitions look like, the importance of human connection, and the balance between digital and physical experiences.

What was great to hear was his advice and lessons on how to become a full-time Artist, how he has evolved through exploringboth verbal and visual mediums and how creativity and storytelling has shifted in our culture.

We also spoke about being authentic, receiving feedback and supporting the arts, all while I saw how being a father has influenced Witold, as well as convincing me to move to France despite my fears of change.

Takeaways

• Art can be a fulfilling career without sacrificing financial security.
• Exhibitions can take many forms, from traditional galleries to pop-up events.
• Digital experiences can sometimes lack the depth of physical interactions.
• Authenticity in art is crucial for true expression.
• Personal experiences shape artistic identity and expression.
• Community support is vital for artists to thrive.
• Parenting can profoundly influence an artist's perspective and work.
• Art serves as a mirror reflecting the artist's inner self.
• The journey of creativity is often nonlinear and requires persistence.
• Supporting other artists fosters a collaborative and enriching environment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Witold Riedel and His Artistic Journey

01:11 Exploring the Nature of Art Exhibitions

03:56 The Impact of Digital and Physical Experiences

06:06 The Evolution of Artistic Identity and Craft

07:43 The Journey of Artistic Creation and Self-Discovery

12:00 The Influence of Life Stages on Artistic Expression

14:50 Authenticity in Art and Writing

16:18 The Role of Language in Creative Expression

19:50 Navigating Cultural Shifts and Personal Growth

20:47 How Do You Move Countries When You're Scared Of Change?

22:57 The Importance of Human Connection in Art

25:31 The Interplay of Individuality and Community in Creativity

28:21 Ceramics as a Medium of Connection and Expression

30:00 Challenges and Rewards in Creative Collaboration

33:49 The Art of Storytelling in Marketing

35:37 Parenting and Personal Growth

40:00 The Nature of Artistic Expression

41:44 The Gotland Series: A Journey Through Photography

47:27 Creating Meaningful Art

51:28 Advice for Aspiring Artists

54:30 Finding Purpose and Connection

56:55 Strange(r) Advice: How To Get More People To Find My Work

Credits:

Thumbnail photo by ⁠Daniel Ax⁠

Other images by Witold Riedel and from Tea & Water Ltd.