host: Alyson Stanfield

If you’ve followed my work, you’ve likely noticed some recurring themes—guiding principles that shape the way I advise artists. These aren’t just casual suggestions; they are the foundation of everything I do. In this episode of The Art Biz, I’m sharing the four core beliefs that define my approach and help artists build sustainable, thriving careers.

You’ll hear why your art must always come first, why you must learn to communicate clearly about your work, why your network is your #1 marketing asset, and why business systems will help you grow faster and save time. Internalizing these beliefs will make decision-making easier, marketing more purposeful, and your path as an artist clearer.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach, these principles will support you for the long haul. Join me as we dive into the essential mindset shifts that will strengthen your art career.

00:00 Introduction and Core Beliefs Overview

01:44 Core Belief 1: The Work Must Come First

04:48 Core Belief 2: Your Art Doesn't Speak for Itself—You Must Learn to Communicate Clearly

10:02 Core Belief 3: Your Network is Your #1 Marketing Asset

13:48 Core Belief 4: Business Systems Help You Grow Faster and Elevate Your Professionalism

17:59 Apply to Your Art Biz

🎧 RELATED EPISODES

Guidelines for Your Artist Statement (ep. 50)

Being Seen—Networking for Artists (ep. 148)

How to Squeeze More Time from Your Busy Calendar (ep. 152)

How to Guarantee that People Remember You with Skip Hill (ep. 187)

📖 To read more find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/4-beliefs

🔶 Does your art business need a boost or a refresh? Please see my comprehensive art-marketing program, Essentials for Artist Success 🔶  full of tools, strategies, and process you need to establish your professionalism and increase your visibility. For those with beginning and emerging art careers and those who need to approach their business with more thought and intention.

⛰️ The Art Biz is recorded on the traditional land of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute tribes.

~ ~ ! ATTENTION INDIGENOUS ARTISTS and BIPOC ARTISTS ! ~ ~

This is an invitation to all Indigenous and BIPOC artists, wherever you are in the world, to share your story here on The Art Biz. Here’s how ~~~~> https://artbizsuccess.com/pitch-podcast/ Because we are still committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.