Exploring the Multidisciplinary Art of Jen Vader

In this episode of the Art of Making Art Podcast, host Christina Lowry, a visual artist based in Logan, Brisbane, interviews Jen Valender, a multidisciplinary artist who delves into the relationships between art and the natural world through various mediums. Jen discusses her formative art education, including her transition from sculpture to moving image and performance during her master's and honors projects, and her current PhD work at the Victorian College of the Arts. They explore Jen's journey, multidisciplinary practice, and notable career highlights, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of being an artist. The conversation also touches on the importance of resilience and adaptability in an artist's career, with practical advice on seizing opportunities and dealing with rejection.

00:00 Introduction to the Art of Making Art Podcast

00:36 Meet Jen Valender: Exploring Art and Nature

01:21 Jen's Artistic Journey and Influences

02:23 Residencies and Their Impact on Jen's Work

03:46 The Role of Experimentation in Art

20:10 Balancing Art and Life

25:16 Advice for Aspiring Artists

31:51 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

https://jenvalender.com/

https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast

https://ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au/exhibitions/sharon-mckenzie-exquisite-corpse

The Art of Nostalgia: Sarah McGrath's Realistic Oil Painting Journey

In this episode of the Art of Making Art podcast, host Christina Lowry interviews Sarah McGrath, a realistic oil painter. Sarah shares her artistic journey, from her background in graphic design to becoming a full-time artist during COVID. The discussion covers her passion for vintage items, the challenges of painting flowers and landscapes, and her affinity for birds, especially the nostalgic sparrow. They delve into the intricacies of composition, the importance of supportive artistic communities, and the psychological challenges faced by artists. Sarah highlights key career moments, including her first solo show and her entry into prestigious art prizes. Listeners are encouraged to support and celebrate the art community.

https://www.sarahmcgrath.com.au/

00:00 Welcome to the Art of Making Art Podcast

00:56 Meet Sarah McGrath: Realistic Oil Painter

01:48 Sarah's Artistic Journey and Evolution

03:37 The Role of Realism and Mediums in Sarah's Work

06:28 Themes and Symbols in Sarah's Still Life Paintings

09:15 The Fascination with Birds

12:32 The Art of Composition

20:38 Challenges and Triumphs with Flowers

23:38 Career Highlights and Reflections

26:33 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Comparison

27:58 The Psychological Challenges of Being an Artist

31:03 Finding Balance and Avoiding Burnout

37:15 Exploring New Mediums and Techniques

40:57 The Importance of Community and Support

42:50 The Reality of Being an Artist

52:29 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Exploring the Essentials of Visual Journaling

In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, visual artist Christina Lowy delves into the concept and practice of visual journaling. Christina shares her insights on how visual journals differ from traditional sketchbooks, emphasizing their role in conceptual development and personal reflection. She narrates her journey with visual journaling, outlines its importance in her creative process, and provides practical tips for setting up and maintaining a visual journal.

Christina also discusses methods and tools for effective visual journaling, including Venn diagrams and mind maps, and invites listeners to join her in-studio for a hands-on workshop. The episode underlines the significance of visual journaling in enhancing creativity, developing ideas, and achieving personal artistic growth.

00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast

00:33 Weekly Update and Conceptual Visual Journaling Session

01:11 The Importance of Visual Journals

03:24 Defining Visual Journals

05:15 Materials and Tools for Visual Journaling

09:16 How to Use a Visual Journal

16:57 Visual Journaling Prompts and Exercises

23:43 Invitation to Studio Workshop

25:00 Conclusion and Farewell

PDF: https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast/episode-twenty-conceptual-visual-journaling

Exploring Artistic Practices with Bree DeMattina

In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, host Christina Lowry, a visual artist based in Logan Brisbane, shares her weekly experiences and insights. She is joined by Bree DeMattina, an arts consultant, writer, and researcher, who recently completed her PhD focusing on the emergence of textile and fiber art in Australia from the mid-1960s to early 1990s. Together, they discuss the importance of critical thinking in creative practices, making connections within the artistic community, and navigating opportunities in the field of art writing and consulting. Christina also shares personal milestones, including her 22nd wedding anniversary and Mother's Day celebrations.

00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast

00:33 Creative Week Recap and Workshop Highlights

01:10 Interview with Arts Consultant Bree DeMattina

09:33 Bree DeMattina's Journey into Art and Writing

25:37 The Importance of Critical Thinking in Art

33:02 Advice for Aspiring Arts Writers and Researchers

37:37 Final Thoughts and Personal Updates

Exploring the Creative Process with Clare Purser

In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, visual artist Christina Lowry interviews Clare Purser, a Brisbane Bayside painter known for her environmental themes and plein air painting techniques. Claire shares her journey as an artist, emphasizing the importance of nature, research, and community in her work. They discuss her process of developing concepts, keeping visual diaries, and the interplay between environmental science and art. Claire also talks about her teaching, workshops, and various residencies, offering valuable advice for aspiring artists. Additionally, they delve into the challenges and rewards of balancing artistic practice with other life responsibilities. Join them for an inspiring conversation about the creative process and the intersection of art and nature.

00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast

00:38 Interview with Clare Purser: An Accomplished Painter

01:17 Clare Purser's Artistic Journey and Practice

03:53 Workshops and Community Engagement

05:22 Career Highlights and Collaborations

08:16 Artistic Residencies and Inspirations

16:28 The Role of Visual Diaries in Artistic Development

27:41 Advice for Aspiring Artists

32:40 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

Scotney Creative Solutions - https://www.scotneycreativesolutions.com.au/

Clare Purser - https://clarepurser.com/

https://www.instagram.com/clarepurserstudio/

https://www.christinalowryartist.com/news

10 Ways Artists Can Make Money and Succeed in the Art World

In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, visual artist Christina Lowry explores various strategies for artists to generate income and thrive in their careers. Drawing from her personal experiences, Christina discusses the financial realities faced by artists and presents ten methods she has used to support her art practice, including gallery exhibits, online sales, grants, residencies, talks, workshops, competitions, merchandise, catalogs, and volunteering.

Christina also delves into the findings of a significant research report by the National Association of Visual Arts in Australia, which highlights the financial struggles and gender pay gaps within the art community. Additionally, she shares insights into her master's thesis focused on interdisciplinary artistic practices and avian population decline, providing listeners with inspiration and practical advice to navigate the art world.

00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast

00:36 The Financial Struggles of Artists

02:39 10 Ways Artists Can Make Money

04:10 Diverse Income Streams for Artists

09:16 Additional Opportunities and Volunteering

10:43 Master's Thesis and Conclusion

NAVA article: https://visualarts.net.au/news-opinion/2025/visual-artists-leaving-sector-new-report-confirms-urgent-need-action/

www.christinalowryartist.com

www.instagram.com/christinalowryartist/

Podcast blog post: https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast/episode-seventeen-how-do-artists-make-money

The Art of Making Art: Professional Practices and Twin Insights

In this episode of 'The Art of Making Art Podcast', host Christina Lowry, a visual artist based in Logan Brisbane, introduces the show, detailing its purpose to explore artist studios, practices, and community. Joined by her identical twin sister Fiona Scott, they discuss the significance of professional presentation for artists, highlighting the importance of headshots, a cohesive online presence, and maintaining consistency across platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. The episode also touches on personal anecdotes about life as twins, providing a blend of professional advice and personal stories.

00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast

00:33 Upcoming Workshop Announcement

01:04 Meet My Twin Sister, Fiona Scott

02:50 The Importance of Professionalism in Art

05:26 Defining Your Unique Value Proposition

10:13 Building a Professional Artist Brand

17:49 The Value of Showing Up and Making the Work

18:41 The Importance of Professional Headshots

22:40 Creating a Professional Website

24:16 Leveraging LinkedIn for Artists

26:07 Instagram as a Visual Portfolio

28:23 Curating Your Social Media Presence

29:13 Building a Professional Artist Toolkit

30:54 Consistency in Branding

31:52 The Power of Business Cards

34:44 Homework for Artists

37:19 Leveraging Content Across Platforms

40:34 The Importance of Consistency and Engagement

44:02 Twin Stories and Personal Anecdotes

48:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

https://metroarts.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/p/DHr-MrABVL6/?img_index=1

https://www.scotneycreativesolutions.com.au/

Exploring Interdisciplinary Art with Ally McKay

In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, host Christina Lowry sits down with Ally McKay, an interdisciplinary artist from Brisbane. Ally shares her unique art journey, revealing her experiences with different mediums such as paper weaving, sculptural work, and video experimentation.

The conversation delves into her academic background, personal practice, creative processes, and how she finds inspiration. They also discuss the challenges faced by mid-career artists in finding exhibition opportunities, the significance of collaborative work, and maintaining a balance between professional and personal life. Ally gives insightful advice for upcoming artists and outlines her upcoming exhibition 'Paper Parts' at Logan Art Gallery.

The episode ends with Christina sharing tips on honing your artistic practice using a Venn diagram to explore overlapping themes of interest.

00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast

00:31 Meet Fiona: Your Creative Solutions Expert

01:06 Exploring Art Practice with Ally McKay

01:32 Ally McKay's Artistic Journey and Techniques

05:45 The Intersection of Art and Personal Experience

10:13 Balancing Art and Life

20:39 Career Highlights and Collaborations

27:51 Upcoming Exhibition at Logan Art Gallery

32:58 Advice for Aspiring Artists

35:42 Conclusion and Weekly Update

Get some Fiona in your life at https://www.scotneycreativesolutions.com.au/

Find Ally at https://www.allymckay.net/

https://www.instagram.com/allymckayartist/

'Paper Parts' exhibition opening

Date: Friday, 28 March 2025

Time: 6:00 PM (Artist Talks at 5:30 PM)

Location: Logan Art Gallery

Opening Address: Professor Ross Woodrow, Griffith University

Paper Parts will be on display in Project Space until Thursday, 17 April 2025

RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/exhibition-opening-tickets-1287064417319

Blog post: https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast/episode-fifteen-ally-mckay

Exploring Artistic Journeys: In Conversation with Emily Parker

In this episode of the 'Art of Making Art' podcast, hosted by Christina Lowry, visual artist and gallery owner Emily Parker discusses her art practice and career.

From her beginnings with bubble wrap to her current work in printmaking, Parker shares insights into her process and influences. The conversation includes her educational background, the transition to founding Parker Contemporary, and the unique niche her gallery explores in Brisbane's art scene.

Parker offers valuable advice for emerging artists, touches on the importance of community and collaboration, and highlights the potential of artists' books.

The episode also features a special listener discount from the Artist Business Lounge.

00:00 Introduction to the Art of Making Art Podcast

00:36 Special Offer from Amanda Van Gills

01:10 Interview with Emily Parker: Artist and Gallery Owner

02:29 Emily Parker's Artistic Journey

07:53 Founding Parker Contemporary Gallery

11:36 Challenges and Rewards of Being an Artist and Gallery Owner

18:01 The Unique Space of Parker Contemporary

26:53 Advice for Aspiring Artists and Gallery Owners

47:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

47:27 Personal Update from Christina

Hi, it's Christina, bringing you a special deal from Amanda van Gils at The Artists Business Lounge.

For a limited time, listeners of The Art of Making Art Podcast can enjoy 20% off selected resources from the shop.

Amanda has created a range of different resources specifically for artists to help you run and grow your art business. Visit https://www.theartistsbusinesslounge.com/shop/ to browse. Use the code PODCAST20 at checkout to get your special discount. *expires 31st March, doesn’t apply to coaching or Amazon journals.

https://www.emilyparker.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/emilyparker.art/

https://www.parkercontemporary.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/parkercontemporaryau/

https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast/episode-fourteen-emily-parker

Exploring the Artistic Journey of Deb Mostert with Christina Lowry

In this episode of the Art of Making Art podcast, host Christina Lowry delves into the creative journey of visual artist Deb Mostert. They discuss Deb's diverse artistic practices including drawing, painting, and sculpture with a strong focus on observational and representational art. Deb shares her fascination with natural history and taxidermy, her sketchbook practice, and the conceptual themes of her work, which often highlight environmental concerns. The episode also touches on the multifaceted nature of being a professional artist, the emotional labour involved, and the importance of community and conversation in art. Christina introduces an exclusive offer from the Artist Business Lounge and reflects on her own experiences balancing art practice with further studies. The episode is filled with inspiring insights and actionable takeaways for artists and art lovers alike.

00:00 Introduction to the Art of Making Art Podcast

00:36 Exclusive Offer from the Artist Business Lounge

01:49 Christina's Personal Update and Podcast Commitment

02:01 Interview with Deb Mostert: Artistic Journey and Inspirations

02:45 Deb Mostert on Taxidermy and Natural History

08:18 The Role of Humour and Concept in Art

12:55 Deb's Observations on Collecting and Environmental Concerns

29:11 Challenges and Realities of Being a Professional Artist

35:04 Deb's Sketchbook Practice and Recent Projects

43:37 Final Thoughts and Advice for Artists

44:50 Closing Remarks and Personal Updates

Hello, listeners! Christina here, bringing you an exclusive opportunity from Amanda van Gils at The Artists Business Lounge.

The Success System Program is the signature program built around artist’s busy lives and challenges. It’s not just another course—it's a transformative experience designed to empower artists like you to have more successful and sustainable art businesses and careers.

Over the next 12 months, you'll receive:

· Weekly Group Calls: Engage in real-time discussions, gain insights, and receive personalised feedback.

· Over 20 Self-Paced Courses: Access a comprehensive collection of modules covering everything from business setup to marketing strategies.

· Exclusive Art Business Resources: templates, guides, and tools tailored specifically for visual artists.

· Supportive Community: Connect with like-minded artists for encouragement and accountability.

When you sign up through this special link in the next five days, you can save $200 by paying in full, or extend your payments over 6 or 12 monthly instalments.

This special offer is only available for 5 days https://offer.theartistsbusinesslounge.com/success-system-eg

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Website: https://debmostertartist.com.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debmostertartist/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DebMostertStudio/

Blog post: https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast/episode-three-deb-mostert