The Create! Podcast

Join host Ekaterina Popova (Kat) as she reconnects with Alicia Puig, curator and founder of PXP Contemporary, fresh from their recent experience at Superfine Art Fair (The Super Fair). Alicia shares valuable insights and expert advice on how to make the most of your first or next art fair, whether you're an emerging artist, seasoned professional, or curator.

In this episode:

• Practical strategies for exhibiting at art fairs
• Essential tips for artists on preparing and presenting their work
• How storytelling builds meaningful connections with collectors
• Pricing strategies to attract diverse art buyers
• Why authenticity and clear communication lead to long-term success

Turn your next art fair into a powerful opportunity with Alicia's expert advice.

Follow Alicia Puig & PXP Contemporary:

• Website: pxpcontemporary.com
• Artsy: PXP Contemporary

Join Create! Magazine by becoming a subscriber: Subscribe at www.createmagazine.co/subscribe Use code NEWREADER to save 20% off your digital subscription.

In this fresh episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova guides you through a gentle spring reset for your identity, creativity, and personal growth. Inspired by the season of renewal, Kat dives deep into the power of self-concept, visualization, and daily habits to help you achieve meaningful change.

Learn practical techniques to reconnect with your ideal self, build sustainable habits, and leverage the support of community and accountability to maintain your momentum. Whether you're letting go of draining activities or embracing new, empowering routines, this episode will equip you to transition gently and effectively into your next phase.

Key Takeaways:

• Spring cleaning is a powerful opportunity for personal transformation.

• Identity and self-concept shape your ability to achieve lasting change.

• Visualization bridges your imagination with your ideal reality.

• Your self-image sets the limits of your achievements.

• Imagination can profoundly influence real-life outcomes.

• Community and accountability reinforce and sustain new habits.

• Letting go of activities that drain your energy makes room for growth.

• Approaching transitions gently prevents burnout.

• Small daily habits accumulate into significant identity shifts.

• Reflecting regularly aligns your life with your deepest desires.

Join Kat for this inspiring reset—your best self awaits!

Chapters: 00:00 – Spring Cleaning for the Soul 03:08 – Identity and Self-Concept 06:12 – Visualization and Aspirations 09:03 – Building Lasting Habits 11:53 – Community and Accountability 14:38 – Transitioning and Letting Go

Ready for your own spring reset? Subscribe, rate, and review Art & Cocktails on iTunes and join the community to continue your journey of creative and personal growth!

Need community? Check out my membership AQ Society www.aqsociety.com

Start learning with Create! U www.createu.co

Hey, it's Kat (Ekaterina Popova)! In this episode, I'm sharing how small, intentional upgrades have helped me build a more fulfilling and sustainable life and creative business. From moving into bigger spaces and setting better boundaries to learning when to say no to misaligned opportunities, I've realized that real growth isn't about overnight success—it's about the small, consistent changes that add up over time.

I'll also talk about why a holistic approach is key—success isn't just about business, it's about nourishing all areas of life: creativity, health, relationships, and mindset. Plus, I'll share how making space for the right opportunities has led to more ease, freedom, and alignment in my career. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this episode will remind you that you don't have to change everything at once—just start with one small upgrade.

This episode is brought to you by Create U, my micro-learning platform designed for artists who want to grow their careers with bite-sized, actionable courses. Whether you're looking to improve your creative practice, build a stronger brand, or learn how to sell your work, Create U gives you the tools to take the next step—one small upgrade at a time.

Start learning today at https://www.createu.co/.

• Small, sustainable changes lead to a thriving life and business.
• Growth isn't about one big leap—it's about small, intentional upgrades.
• Creating a supportive environment (physically and mentally) enhances creativity.
• A holistic approach—nurturing health, relationships, and mindset—is essential.
• True success includes career fulfillment, creativity, and self-care.
• Learning to say no to the wrong opportunities makes space for the right ones.
• Investing in yourself, even in small ways, leads to long-term success.
• Change doesn't have to be overwhelming—start with one upgrade at a time.

• "Growth happens step by step. You don't have to change everything at once."
• "True nourishment isn't just about food—it's about creativity, relationships, and fulfillment."
• "What's one small upgrade you can make today?"

This episode is for anyone who wants to build a thriving, sustainable life and creative career without burnout. Let me know what small upgrade you're making this week—DM me on Instagram or share your thoughts in a review!

Explore Micro-Learning on Create U at https://www.createu.co/.

In this special Ask Me Anything episode of Art & Cocktails, I (Ekaterina Popova) answer your top questions about navigating the art world, growing a sustainable career, and protecting yourself from common pitfalls. From securing studio visits and avoiding art scams to social media strategies and the value of pop-up shows, this episode covers the realities of being a professional artist today.

• How to recognize and avoid art scams
• The importance of pop-up shows and how they can expand your audience
• Why studio visits with curators and galleries matter and how to prepare
• Social media in 2025—should artists still rely on it, and what are the alternatives?
• How to reach new audiences beyond other artists
• Protecting your work online and dealing with art theft
• The difference between burnout and breaking through creative blocks
• How to overcome artist block and keep creating

Explore Create! U: www.createu.co – Micro-courses on art career, business, money, mindset and more coming soon! Start learning today.

Shop My Books: Amazon Author Page

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Emily McElwreath—art advisor, independent curator, educator, and host of The Art Career Podcast. With nearly two decades of experience, Emily has worked with some of the most influential figures in the art world, from Andy Warhol to Alice Neel. She shares how artists can reclaim their power, normalize ambition, and take control of their careers.

We also explore what collectors are looking for today, how to navigate the art market, and the evolving role of art advisors. Emily offers practical networking strategies for artists and industry leaders, insights on working with high-profile guests, and details on her recent Art21 collaboration. Plus, she introduces her must-have resource for emerging artists, Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists.

Whether you're an artist looking to elevate your career or a collector seeking guidance, this episode is filled with expert insights and actionable strategies to help you thrive.

• Artists must reclaim their power—they are at the center of the art ecosystem.
• Ambition is not a dirty word—owning your career is essential for success.
• Networking isn't about chasing opportunities—it's about building authentic relationships.
• Art collectors should buy what they love but also stay informed about the market.
• The art world is unregulated, making it crucial to work with trusted advisors.
• Artists should not rely solely on galleries—direct sales and relationships matter.
• Emily's free artist guide, Navigating the Art World, is a must-have resource for emerging artists.

🎙️ "Artists need to understand they are at the center of the ecosystem—it's not the other way around." 🎙️ "You don't have to wait for permission—take the wheel and create your own opportunities." 🎙️ "The best collections are built with a mix of passion, education, and a long-term vision."

00:00 – Introduction to Art & Ambition 04:12 – Emily's Journey in the Art World 07:12 – How Artists Can Reclaim Their Power 09:33 – What Collectors Look for in Artists 12:32 – Why Networking Is Essential in the Art World 15:19 – How to Attract High-Profile Guests & Build Industry Connections 18:26 – The Role of Art Advisors & How to Work with One 24:05 – The Truth About the Unregulated Art Market 26:48 – Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists 41:36 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Emily

• Free Artist Guide: Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists – Download at https://theartcareer.gumroad.com/l/wigdw
• Website & Art Advisory: McElwreath Art Advisory – https://www.mcelwreathadvisory.com/
• Instagram: Follow Emily at https://www.instagram.com/emilymcelwreath_art/
• Podcast: The Art Career Podcast – Available on all major platforms
• Create! Magazine: Explore more at www.createmagazine.co

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts—it helps us reach more artists and art lovers like you!

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat and Marina Press Granger dive deep into how artists can shift from feeling powerless to fully embracing their creative potential—no matter what's happening in the economy or art market. They break down common fears artists face, the mindset shifts needed for success, and the importance of taking control of your art career.

From leveraging social media to redefining financial success, this conversation is packed with insights, strategies, and empowering perspectives to help you take action, attract opportunities, and thrive as an artist.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to break free from limiting beliefs and step into your power as an artist
• Why the art market isn't as dire as it seems—and how to navigate it wisely
• The role of social media in building visibility and attracting collectors
• Practical strategies for financial empowerment and sustainable success
• How gratitude, mindset shifts, and community support can transform your career

Sound Bites:

• "Everything happens for artists, not to them."
• "Gratitude is key to forgiveness and growth."
• "You can manifest your desires and create your own success."

Episode Chapters:

00:00 – New Beginnings and Cosmic Influences04:40 – The Evolving Role of Artists in a Changing World11:19 – Navigating Social Media as an Artist 16:54 – The Current State of the Art Market and Financial Empowerment 29:19 – Navigating Art Sales and Gallery Relationships 32:50 – Empowering Artists: Shifting Mindsets 36:47 – The Evolving Art Market: Opportunities for Emerging Artists 48:02 – The Power of Belief in Artistic Success 52:06 – Building a Successful Art Career: Resources and Support

If you're ready to shift from struggling to thriving, press play now.

Connect with Marina:

https://theartistadvisory.myflodesk.com/free-mc-march-2025

Subscribe to Create! Magazine with Code "NEWREADER' to save 20% off

https://www.createmagazine.co/subscribe

In a world that's constantly shifting, how do you stay true to your creative vision while allowing room for growth? In this episode, bestselling author and branding powerhouse Cara Alwill joins us to share her wisdom on reinvention—both in business and in life. From pivoting with confidence to knowing when to let go of what no longer serves you, we dive into the mindset shifts that help creative entrepreneurs build careers that truly align with who they are today.

Reinvention isn't just about starting over—it's about evolving with purpose. In this episode, I sit down with Cara Alwill, a bestselling author, branding expert, and self-publishing rockstar, to discuss the art of flexibility in business, creativity, and personal growth.

Cara shares how to trust your creative instincts, shed outdated labels, and pivot with confidence, even when fear creeps in. We explore the delicate balance between staying true to your artistic vision and making strategic moves that support your long-term success.

In this episode, we discuss:

✔️ The power of trusting your gut when making big career moves ✔️ How to let go of projects, ideas, or identities that no longer serve you ✔️ The importance of protecting your creative work beyond social media ✔️ Why adaptability is the key to longevity in the art and business world ✔️ What Cara would do if she had to start her career over from scratch in 2025

🎙 Tune in for an honest, inspiring conversation about embracing evolution, staying resilient, and building a creative career that lasts.

💡 Sponsored by Create! Magazine

Want to explore 48+ issues of inspiring artist interviews, expert insights, and career opportunities? Visit createmagazine.co to subscribe to our digital archive (code: NEWREADER to save 20% off) or submit your work to one of our juried art calls!

In this episode, I (Ekaterina Popova) take you behind the scenes of my recent move and how it became a powerful metaphor for life, business, and creativity. I also open up about the chaos of a tech-glitched webinar launch, how I had to pivot fast, and the lessons I learned along the way. Plus, I answer insightful community questions on:

• How to structure your work schedule for productivity
• When to join artist-led art fairs
• Creating a clear pathway for selling your art as a solo artist
• Expanding awareness of your work without relying on social media
• The best ways to calculate shipping for artwork
• Finding or creating artist communities for collaboration beyond social media
• Offering digital downloads as a revenue stream

Whether you're dealing with creative roadblocks, business challenges, or just looking for motivation, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate your journey with resilience and grace.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Superfine Art Fair (our recommendation) – A great opportunity for artists looking to exhibit and sell directly to collectors. Learn more: https://www.superfine.world

Subscribe to Create! Magazine Digital Code 'NEWREADER' https://www.createmagazine.co/subscribe

AQ Society (Art Queens Membership) – A private community for artists to connect, learn, and grow. Join here: https://aqsociety.com

Listen & Subscribe:Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review—it helps more artists discover the show!

Have a Question for the Podcast? DM me on Instagram @katerinaspopova or email [email protected].

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova shares her thoughts on building a sustainable art career in the unpredictable world of social media. After posting a thought-provoking quote about building on "rented land," Ekaterina dives into why relying solely on platforms like TikTok and Instagram can be risky. She offers strategies for protecting your time, energy, and intellectual property, while emphasizing the importance of creating your own space—whether through newsletters, websites, or podcasts. Tune in for actionable advice on building your brand with intention, nurturing real connections, and creating art that stands the test of time.

If you're tired of the noise and want to focus on what truly matters—creating and connecting—this episode is for you. Don't forget to subscribe, share with your creative community, and tag me at @katerinaspopova or @createmagazine if this resonated!

Making a living as an artist can feel overwhelming. Maybe you're struggling with inconsistent income, low visibility, or wondering if financial stability is even possible. But hitting $10K months as an artist isn't just a dream—it's about having the right strategy and patience.

In this episode, internationally exhibiting artist, founder of Create! Magazine, and certified master coach Kat Popova shares the exact roadmap for growing your art business in a way that feels aligned, sustainable, and profitable.

Inside this episode:

• The biggest myths stopping artists from making money—and how to break free
• How to plan, brainstorm, and set financial goals for your art business
• The key income stream ideas that can help artists create consistent revenue
• Positioning yourself professionally to attract collectors & galleries
• The mindset shift to release limited thinking and adapt in a changing world
• How to structure your month & quarter to set yourself up for success

🎧 Want to go deeper? Join my FREE live training:

👉 How to Hit $10K Months as an Artist → https://www.theartqueens.com/pl/2148259578

💬 If you loved this episode, share it with an artist friend and tag @katerinaspopova on Instagram! Let's make 2025 your breakthrough year! 🚀