Just Make Art

What if every artist experienced the same fears and hurdles, regardless of their success? Join us as we unpack the timeless wisdom from David Bayles and Ted Orland's "Art and Fear: Observations on the Perils and Rewards of Art Making." Discover how the intense stress of a blank canvas and reflect on the profound insights of Gene Fowler and Hippocrates. We'll explore the poignant reality that envisioned works often feel more real than their completed counterparts, and how this universal uncertainty shapes the artistic journey.

Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the power of embracing ordinary struggles and unresolved questions in the creative process. You'll learn how finding fulfillment in the journey itself, rather than fixating on immediate solutions, can transform your approach to art-making. We debunk the myth of the "extraordinary artist," highlighting how recognizing our shared experiences can foster hope and confidence. Through personal anecdotes and practical strategies, we illustrate how acknowledging common artistic challenges can sustain your creative efforts and prevent self-doubt from taking root.

In this episode, we also tackle the pervasive doubts and fears that plague all artists, emphasizing the importance of discipline and consistent work. You'll hear how every studio session is an opportunity to explore uncharted territories and how effort can transform talent into skill. Reflect on the delicate balance between aspiration and acceptance, and how maintaining regular creative routines can prevent the mental stagnation that leads to quitting. Tune in for a rich discussion that offers invaluable insights into navigating the uncertainties of the artistic journey and reigniting your creative spark.

Our friend Bode Robinson's brand (Nathans Hat in the episode)
https://saintbode.com/

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Ty Nathan Clark and Nathan Terborg are taking a moment to reflect and recharge after a whirlwind week filled with residency applications, art making and family milestones—Nathan's oldest daughter just started college! But don't worry, we're gearing up for some incredible new content on Just Make Art. From artist features to Q&A sessions, and even guest co-hosts, there's a ton of exciting stuff on the horizon. We're kicking it off with an in-depth discussion on "Art and Fear" by David Bayliss and Ted Orland, a book so pivotal that it's a staple in our studio practice and teaching. Grab your copy and share your thoughts with us; who knows, your insights might make it into our upcoming episodes!

We're not stopping there; we've lined up a series of must-read books that have profoundly impacted our artistic journeys. Titles include Jerry Saltz's "How to Be an Artist," Bianca Bosker's "Get the Picture," Nick Cave's "Faith, Hope, and Carnage," and Rainer Maria Rilke's "Letters to a Young Poet." Plus, don't miss our video podcasts on Spotify and YouTube where we add fun B-rolls and Easter eggs. If you love what we're doing, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it really helps us reach new listeners. And as a special treat, I'm sharing a passage from the Pulitzer-winning biography "De Kooning: An American Master," an absolute gem for art lovers. Thanks for tuning in; we can't wait to share more with you soon!

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What happens when an artist's "unit" of work is rooted in "trouble"? Join us as we explore this fascinating concept through the insights of Amy Sillman, uncovered in an enlightening Art21 episode. We dive into the gripping narrative of how tension and contradiction can be both a hurdle and a muse, shaping the creative grammar that artists use to articulate their vision. By reflecting on Sillman's methodology and the wisdom of experienced artists, we uncover the power of understanding and defining our own unique artistic foundations.

Have you ever thought about the intimate relationship between an artist and their materials? Our journey continues as we traverse the dynamic landscape of artistic mediums, from the smell of fresh paint to the thrill of finding the perfect object in a thrift store. We emphasize the importance of experimentation, pushing boundaries, and feeling the materials in your hands. Like relationships tested through trials and imperfections, the artist's connection to their mediums evolves, leading to unexpected innovations and a renewed passion for creation.

Can embracing imperfections in your work actually propel you forward? We wrap up by reflecting on the significance of documentation and the evolution of one's artistic journey. Drawing inspiration from unconventional tools and the stories of transforming unsold pieces, we highlight the beauty of unpredictable art-making. By documenting progress and embracing both control and spontaneity, artists can continuously improve and grow. Balancing moments of struggle with bursts of inspiration, we stress the need to stay energized and committed, always pushing the boundaries of our creative potential.

Watch the Art21 video here: Amy Sillman Art 21

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Ever wondered what it truly means to be a perpetual student in the world of art, or more simply put, an Art Nerd? We're pulling back the curtain on the relentless pursuit of knowledge that fuels creativity. Join us as we share our personal stories of embracing the titles of "nerd" and "elitist" with pride, and reveal why there is a heavy responsibility on an artist of continuous self-education. We also reflect on wisdom from Winston Churchill, Gandhii, Haruki Murakami and others about the real journey of learning, urging you to never stop seeking new information and diversifying your avenue's.

Curiosity is the lifeblood of any artist, and this episode celebrates that insatiable hunger for knowledge. From the childlike wonder of exploring vintage bookstores for hidden gems to diving into the lives of influential artists like Joan Miró, we discuss how maintaining a curious mindset can lead to profound artistic discoveries. We also highlight the importance of asking questions and engaging with more knowledgeable individuals, reinforcing that the quest for knowledge is endless and ever-rewarding.

Finally, we delve into how diverse influences shape creative expression and why it's crucial to expand your horizons beyond the conventional. Learn from the past and discover the transformative power of blending different cultural and artistic elements. We share practical advice on networking, researching, and maximizing artistic growth through various mediums, emphasizing the necessity of being a lifelong learner. Whether it's through unconventional sources or engaging with the art community, this episode is packed with insights to help you grow as an artist and creative thinker.

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Ever wondered how to turn happy accidents into artistic masterpieces? Join us as we sit down with Jeremy Cowart, the visionary photographer known for his high-profile subjects like Taylor Swift and Barack Obama, to explore the unpredictable nature of art and the magic of childlike creativity. Jeremy shares his journey from launching the impactful Help Portrait initiative to pioneering the world of Lightographs and NFTs. Get ready to be inspired by his relentless pursuit of innovation and his unique approach to photography that ensures no two photos are ever the same.

Discover the intricate dance between passion, purpose, and creativity as we delve into the purity of creating for creation's sake. Jeremy's insights reveal the pressure of social media on today's creative processes and emphasize the beauty of embracing one's unique identity. Through personal anecdotes and quotes from iconic figures like Basquiat, Thom Yorke, Picasso and Oscar Wilde, we explore the essence of maintaining an open and playful mindset in our artistic endeavors, reminding us that true artistry thrives on the freedom to explore and express. With reflections on the importance of lifelong learning and adapting to new creative landscapes, this episode celebrates the relentless spirit of artists who continue to reinvent themselves and inspire others through their unyielding commitment to self-expression.

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@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

What if the rules you live by are holding you back rather than guiding you? Join us as we dive into the complex relationship between rules, creativity, and personal freedom. Inspired by Laurie Anderson and Lou Reed's three profound rules—don’t be afraid of anyone, get a good bullshit detector, and be really tender—we kick off a conversation that challenges conventional thinking. Ty opens up about how childhood trauma influenced his rebellious spirit and artistic path, shedding light on the necessity of setting your own guidelines to foster genuine creativity and authenticity.

We delve into the dual nature of rules, examining them both as constraints and guiding principles. With a compelling quote from Jim Rohn—emphasizing the importance of designing your own life plan—we explore the delicate balance between societal expectations and personal constraints. Whether you're an artist, a business owner, or someone on a personal growth journey, this episode offers actionable insights on crafting your unique path. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on the art of living by your own rules and staying true to your principles.

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@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

Discover the transformative journey of Helen Frankenthaler (in her own words), a pioneering artist whose mantra "Let Her Rip" symbolizes a fearless approach to creativity. In this episode, we unpack Frankenthaler's innovative philosophy, where she blends the past and present to achieve a fluid, emotionally rich conversation with her art. From her early encounters with Jackson Pollock's radical drip paintings to her evolution within the Color Field movement, we explore the monumental influences that shaped her six-decade-long career.

Find out how achieving a flow state can revolutionize your creative process, guided by insights from Steven Kotler's "The Rise of Superman." We'll discuss how fear can stifle artistic expression and share techniques for letting go of control to engage in a genuine dialogue with your work. Through personal stories and practical advice, we tackle common challenges like overcoming perfectionism, balancing spontaneity with intentionality, and learning to embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth.

The episode also highlights the importance of artistic competition and influence in fostering creativity. From Frankenthaler's rebellious use of unconventional materials to the dynamic environment she shared with contemporaries like Grace Hartigan, we shed light on how healthy rivalry and shared inspiration can propel artists to new heights. Join us as we celebrate the courage it takes to push boundaries and the enduring impact of Frankenthaler's legacy on future generations of artists.

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@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

Join us on "Just Make Art" as we tackle this age-old dilemma of pricing your art, when to show the world the work you have been experimenting on, exploring new ideas, maintaining studio focus and more.

In our latest episode, we uncover strategies for setting art prices with confidence and consistency, exploring methods like per square foot pricing, market research, and peer comparison. We emphasize the delicate balance between overpricing and undervaluing your work, and the critical role of supply and demand. Discover the importance of not just setting the right price, but also finding the right audience who values your unique artistic voice.

We also venture into the complex world of gallery sales versus direct studio sales. Gain insights into standard gallery commission splits and learn about the flexibility you have when selling directly from your studio, including offering discounts. Our conversation centers around developing a strong pricing strategy backed by solid market research and sales data, and we stress the value of external input and mentorship. Empower yourself with the tools to confidently justify price adjustments to dealers, ensuring your art is valued appropriately in the market.

Ever felt torn between producing familiar work and diving into new, experimental projects? We explore this common struggle among artists, offering advice on building confidence in new work and balancing hidden projects with existing commitments. Our discussion extends to the dynamics of different galleries and their impact on your artistic growth. We share personal stories about the freedom and creativity of using found materials, and practical tips for maintaining studio focus. Tune in for an inspiring dialogue that encourages you to embrace artistic evolution while staying connected to your creative spirit.

Artists mentioned in the Episode:
@Wunderwood_art
@jennhassin
@acestark
@nanvanryzin
@theartsofmythoughts
@eh.painting
@Samantha.lesan.art
@AudreyCha.art 

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@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

In Part 1 of this special episode, we respond to our listener's questions. What if you could seamlessly navigate the art world, securing gallery representation and maintaining creative momentum, all while maximizing your visibility? This episode promises to equip you with practical strategies for approaching galleries, managing artwork accumulation, and staying productive post-show. We delve into the nuances of continuous creation, setting realistic goals, and forging genuine relationships with galleries through research and social media interaction. Learn invaluable tips on handling unsold work and the importance of patience and persistence in your artistic journey.

Discover innovative ways to engage with your community and market your art effectively. From hosting open studio tours and offering local discounts to selling studies on social media, we cover diverse strategies to increase your visibility and connect with potential buyers. Balancing the promotion of your current work while creating new pieces is essential, and this episode emphasizes the belief that your best work is always ahead. We also tackle the emotional highs and lows that artists face after major shows, providing insights on easing the transition back to the studio and maintaining your creative momentum.

Persistence is key in the art world, and we explore this through the analogy of planting seeds. Repeated efforts and resilience, even in the face of rejection, are crucial for artistic success. We delve into knowing when a piece of art is complete and the significance of connecting deeply with your creative process. Whether you are navigating the "now what" phase or exploring various artistic mediums, this episode offers a comprehensive guide for artists at all stages of their careers. Tune in for a rich discussion celebrating the dynamic and often messy journey of creating art.

Make sure to check out the artists whose questions we responded to in this episode.
https://www.instagram.com/spencerwelchstudios/
https://www.instagram.com/marialopes.art/
https://www.instagram.com/eric_breish_art/
https://www.instagram.com/robinjackart/
https://www.instagram.com/ronsmithart/
https://www.instagram.com/fluxartstudio/
https://www.instagram.com/_anahory/
https://www.instagram.com/lrileyart/

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@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

The intimacy of a personal journey weaves through this episode, with our special guest host who recounts a moment back in 2006 when a dream compelled them toward the canvas, marking the beginning of a lifelong passion. Their narrative strikes a chord with anyone who has discovered art's calling later in life, illustrating that it's never too late to reimagine your path. I mirror this sentiment, sharing the defining day I chose art over the corporate ladder, a reflection of my own quest for deeper meaning. Together, we celebrate these pivotal decisions—the courage to embrace a new chapter, the embrace of uncertainty, and the triumph of personal narrative in art's expressive tapestry.

Embarking on a creative journey requires a leap of faith, something our recent guest, the captivating Eric Breish, knows all too well. As we unravel the threads of Eric's transformative venture into the art world, we share in his brave decision to present metal paintings at the Ferrari Gallery—a medium that challenges and delights in equal measure. It is  a privilege to discuss Eric's daring approach on Just Make Art, where taking risks isn't just encouraged—it's a philosophy.

Join us for a conversation that not only charts the course of artistic evolution but also ignites the spark for your own creative revolution.

Follow Eric on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eric_breish_art

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@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg