THE CREATIVE NOWHERE LAND PODCAST

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Creative Nowhere Land podcast.

In this episode, we're joined by Abstract Artist, Clare Garrad.

Abstract art is one of the most popular forms of art.  But also, arguably, one of the most contentious. With the common misconception that you're just slapping paint on a canvas.  It's easy. It doesn't mean anything or that anybody could do it. Well, Clare gives us an insight into what it actually involves, and for her at least, it's so much more. 

Clare discusses her intuitive creative process with music and emotions always at the heart of her work, influencing the colour palette, the mood, and the composition of a piece.  Often bold and immersive, Clare explores the synesthetic connection between music she loves and visual expression.  Using them to translate some of life's highs and lows into her art.

We also discuss Clare's journey to get to where she is now—spending ten years drifting through various non-creative jobs, feeling somewhat lost and unfulfilled.  Until a life-changing moment forced Clare to rethink and reassess everything she was doing.   

Now established as a full-time artist with a solo show coming up, we also discuss some more universal things like overcoming imposter syndrome, building resilience, balancing motherhood with creativity, the importance of community and mentorship, and so much more.  Clare's passion for her work, and also the power of connection, is infectious. So we hope you enjoy it too.

Check out all of the links below to Clare's work and sit back and let Clare tell you why abstract art, for her at least, is a whole lot more than just slapping paint on a canvas.

CLARE GARRAD INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/claregarradart/

CLARE GARRAD ARTWORK SALES: https://cosimo.art/artist/clare-garrad/4990

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Creative Nowhere Land podcast!

In this episode, I’m joined by one of my best friends, the incredibly talented commercial artist and illustrator, Matt Johnson. Known by his creative alias Fuzzy Concept, Matt has over 15 years of experience working across a wide range of projects, from private commissions to workshops and events. But what makes Matt’s story interesting is how he’s carved out a niche in working with schools and colleges, using art to inspire the next generation.

We talk about Matt’s journey from honing his craft as a draftsman and artist in the early days to turning his passion into a sustainable career. It’s a story of creativity and finding a way to make your art pay the bills. Matt also shares insights on what it takes to teach art, the different approaches needed when working with young people versus adults, and the joy of helping others express themselves, build confidence, and be inspired by the power of art.

We also discuss the, often difficult, balancing act of being a commercial artist—creating work to someone else’s brief while attempting to find time to explore the personal projects that fuel your creative soul. The work that truly resonates with you as an artist. 

Check out the links below to see more of Matt's work via the Fuzzy Concept website and social media.  I might be a little biased because Matt is one of my closest mates, but he’s genuinely one of the most positive, down-to-earth people I know. He has this amazing ability to connect with almost anyone he meets, and it’s a privilege to share his story with you.

FUZZY CONCEPT WEBSITE: https://www.fuzzyconcept.co.uk/

FUZZY CONCEPT INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fuzzy_concept/

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Creative Nowhere Land podcast!

In this episode to kick off 2025, I’m honoured to introduce someone who has been one of the biggest inspirations in my life—my sister, Becky Weir. Becky is a counsellor with over 20 years of experience in mental health and the founder and co-director of the Midland Therapy Group, an organisation dedicated to providing high-quality, low-cost counselling services to anyone in need.

In this episode, Becky and I talk about her incredible journey into mental health work and her mission to make counselling accessible and affordable for everyone. We also explore the links between creativity and mental health, the challenges of NHS waiting lists, what truly makes counselling effective, and discuss the pressing issue of men's mental health. There’s a lot of ground covered here!

But that's not all. Becky shares 7 practical, easy-to-apply tips to help improve your mental health on a daily basis—strategies anyone can start using right now.

We've all felt the weight of mental health struggles, at some point or another. I know I have at times. So I hope that some of the information in this podcast might be able to help in some way.  If you take nothing else, know that there are people out there who want, and can help. Please don't suffer alone!

I'm incredibly proud of my sister for all she does for other people.  You can check out the Midland Therapy Group via their website or their social media. There are also some other useful details if you are suffering and you feel you need some help, listed below.

** PLEASE NOTE - WE DISCUSS SENSITIVE ISSUES AROUND MENTAL HEALTH WITHIN THIS EPISODE THAT COULD BE TRIGGERING FOR SOME **

MIDLAND THERAPY GROUP WEBSITE: https://www.midlandtherapygroup.co.uk/

MIDLAND THERAPY GROUP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/midlandtherapygroup/

MIND: https://www.mind.org.uk/

SAMARITANS: https://www.samaritans.org/

CALM (HELP FOR MEN): https://www.thecalmzone.net/

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Creative Nowhere Land podcast!

In this episode, I was lucky enough to sit down with Lachlan Monaghan, the male principal lead dancer from the Birmingham Royal Ballet.

We talk about Lachlan's journey and how, at 16, he left Australia to come to London to study at the Royal Ballet School to become an elite-level, world-class dancer, Which is quite astounding, really, now knowing that ballet wasn't even Lachlan's first love.   

Having been told that he would never reach the level of principal dancer, Lachlan's story is one of resilience, bravery, passion and determination. Overcoming the hurdles put in his way.

We talk about the most exhilarating performance of Lachlan's career, Black Sabbath, the ballet. Stepping out of his comfort zone and not only dancing, but also singing a solo in front of a sell-out crowd that included Sharon Osbourne and Tony Iommi from Black Sabbath.  This gave Lachlan the chance to showcase one of his other passions, singing.

We joke in the podcast about Lachlan being some sort of creative polymath or renaissance man, but he really is. Somehow finding the time and focus to not only dance professionally at a world-class level, but he sings, plays the piano, performed one-man shows back in Sydney, he's a choreographer, he teaches, but he also takes the most beautiful photographs, capturing the unseen, more intimate, behind the scenes moments of the ballet world.

There's so much good stuff in this one about self belief and the importance of being versatile and never being afraid to try new things. Get inspired by Lachlan Monaghan’s incredible story and his dedication to both the art of ballet and the art of breaking its boundaries.

Check out the links to the Lachlans social media below.

Listen now to find out more!

LACHLAN MONAGHAN INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/lachlanmonaghan

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Creative Nowhere Land Podcast.

On this episode, I’m joined by Wilko, an artist who has worked across many mediums but, who is now predominantly known for his screen printing and paste-up work. Wilko's work can be seen globally, whether viewers know it or not. His screen printing and paste-up art adorns walls in cities worldwide, from Birmingham to Buenos Aires.

Wilko has devoted his life to the pursuit of creating.  From an early age, it was drummed into Wilko that you can take anything and turn it into something—whether it’s a simple line on a blank page or the deeply personal feelings of heartbreak, it can all be turned into something of value.
 

In this episode, we go into Wilko's creative journey. From his early days living in, his words, abject poverty in his studio, making art and music, but very happy, to his band almost being signed by EMI, having all of his art dreams nearly come true, moving to Serbia to run artist colonies, falling in love, falling out of love, moving back to England and getting a quote-unquote normal job, consistently creating and trying to get better as an artist.

Wilko goes into detail about his process and how one creative mistake has led to his longest ongoing art project. Wilko also shares the deeply personal story about how art and finding paste-ups in some way have helped him recover from a major illness. Being outside, walking in the fresh air, being surrounded by like-minded people, sharing his work with the world and feeling even subconsciously like he still exists and has a purpose have all contributed to his recovery.

Wilko's journey is super interesting and full of twists and turns. His lifelong passion for creating and dedicating his time to art has led to a life well spent, and is an inspiration to all of us, whatever journey we're on and at whatever stage to embrace our passions as we only get one chance at life.

Listen now to find out more!

Check out the links to Wilko's social media below.

WILKO INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wilko.official

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Creative Nowhere Land podcast!

On this episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by John Sewell, the founder of Cosimo.Art. A platform, built to help artists, especially those just starting out, navigate their careers and connect with art buyers and sell their work.

What makes Cosimo different to other art-selling platforms?  They cut out the middlemen, high commissions and the normal gallery gatekeepers. Making it accessible for any artist to sell their work.

Cosimo also provides practical tools to help artists at all stages of their journey, including information on; 'How to Market Yourself', 'How to Price your Artwork' and, more importantly, 'How to Believe in the Value of What You Create'.

In this episode, we dive deep into John's journey, discussing the reasons behind why he wanted to create a platform for artists and the challenges and innovations involved in keeping it going.

John also gives us tangible advice on some of the psychology of the business of being an artist.  The similarities between artists and entrepreneurs. And how artists can adopt some of those more entrepreneurial ideas to help them grow and buy back time to do what they love, create!

Check out the links to the Cosimo website, and social media. John and the team at Coismo are trying to do away with the 'Starving Artist' narrative and give every creative the opportunity to make their passion into something more sustainable.
 
This episode is full of lots of useful stuff no matter what stage of your journey you're on. Listen now to find out more!

COSIMO WEBSITE: https://cosimo.art/

COSIMO INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cosimoartonline/

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Creative Nowhere Land podcast! 

On this episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by the internationally acclaimed makeup artist and previous Makeup Artist of the Year winner, Gabrielle Hunt.

With a decade of experience, Gaby has excelled in various industry sectors, including advertising, fashion, music, TV, film, bridal, and occasion makeup. Her impressive resume features work with Channel 4, renowned brands, and fashion designers like Julian MacDonald, as well as numerous celebrities, DJs, and models.

Gaby's journey began with a love for art and a passion for painting and drawing faces. Influenced by YouTube tutorials and the iconic Lisa Eldridge, she transformed her passion into a successful career.

In this episode, we dive deep into Gabby's career, discussing the highs and lows, glamorous and not-so-glamorous aspects of being a makeup artist, and how real learning begins after qualifying.

We explore the challenges and benefits of testing, the ups and downs of being self-employed in the creative industry, and the joy of working alongside like-minded creative individuals.

Gaby shares her experience of coming full circle—from watching Lisa Eldridge's tutorials to launching her own YouTube channel, which offers behind-the-scenes insights, tutorials, and techniques. Through her channel, Gaby aims to entertain, add value, and inspire future makeup artists.

Check out the links to Gaby's YouTube channel, website, and social media. Gaby is not only incredibly talented but also a legendary figure who has made my photographic and video work shine for years. Listen now to be inspired by Gabrielle Hunt's incredible journey and expert insights.

GABRIELLE HUNT MAKE UP WEBSITE: https://www.gabriellemakeupartist.com/

GABRIELLE HUNT YOUTUBE: CLICK HERE!

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to another episode of the Creative Nowhere Land Podcast!

On this episode, we are excited to have award-winning creative and entrepreneur, Dean Gordon, as our guest. Dean is not only a remarkable creative mind but also one of the most driven, disciplined, and determined individuals I've known over the past 20 years.

In this episode, Dean shares the origins of his incredible drive and determination, which propelled him from being a freelance designer creating iconic cover art for video games like Resident Evil, FIFA, and Harry Potter, to founding and running the successful design and digital agency, Media Beast. Dean navigates the delicate balance between creativity and business acumen, breaking through barriers with sheer self-belief.

We also delve into how an unconventional trip in 2017 inspired Dean's latest project, Bloco. Bloco aims to be a transformative platform, fostering communities that are accessible to everyone and driving real change and impact.

Dean's journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and perseverance, and his story will undoubtedly inspire you. Be sure to check out Media Beast and Bloco through the links in the show notes while you listen to this engaging episode.

Join us on the Creative Nowhere Land podcast for an enriching conversation that explores the intersection of creativity, business, and community building. Let's get on with it!

MEDIA BEAST WEBSITE:  https://mediabeast.co.uk/

BLOCO WEBSITE: https://bloco.co.uk/

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Creative Nowhere Land Podcast.

In this episode, we sit down with Ava Khera, the runner-up in last year's Women in Art Prize and a self-taught oil painter known for her evocative portrayals of women and their connection to the natural world. Ava's art captures deep emotions through subtle storytelling, urging viewers to delve beneath the surface and discover hidden narratives.

Ava's journey to becoming a full-time artist is both fascinating and inspiring. She initially carved out a successful career as a fashion designer in London and China, working with premium brands. However, a pivotal moment reignited her passion for painting, leading her to bravely leave the fashion industry and pursue her dream as an artist.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of art, discussing the obsession that drives us, the challenges of bravery and burnout, and why being a full-time artist involves much more than just painting. We explore the concept of perfectionism, the idea that a painting is never truly finished, and the notion that being understood is often overrated.

Don't miss the valuable insights shared in Ava's blog, "The Painter's Pathway: Navigating a Career in Arts," which is packed with useful information for aspiring creatives. Be sure to check out Ava's stunning work on her social media and website, linked in the show notes, as you listen to this inspiring episode.

Join us on the Creative Nowhere Land podcast for a journey into the heart of creativity, where we uncover the stories and experiences that shape the art world. Let's get into it!

AVA KHERA WEBISTE : https://www.avakheraart.com/

AVA KHERA INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/avakheraart/

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Creative Nowhere Land Podcast!

In this episode, we're excited to feature Wizz Selvey, a renowned brand and retail strategist with 20 years of industry experience. Wiz has a remarkable background, including 12 years as the head of buying at Selfridges, where she played a pivotal role in bringing many now-established brands to market, such as the global makeup sensation Charlotte Tilbury.

Driven by her passion for new challenges, Wizz transitioned from Selfridges to Soho House before launching her own consulting company, Wizz&Co., in 2018. Her company boasts a diverse client list ranging from emerging startups to established multi-million-pound brands like Unilever, Next, and Ocado. Recognized as one of the top retail experts of 2024, Wizz is a sought-after speaker on stages and panels worldwide.

In this episode, Wizz shares her inspiring journey and provides invaluable insights with her top five tips to stand out, market yourself, and make money. Whether you're an artist, creative, or any other type of entrepreneur, Wiz's expert advice is sure to inspire and guide you.

Don't forget to check out the show notes for links to the Wizz&Co. website and their social media.

Tune in now to gain incredible insights from Wizz Selvey and take your business to the next level. Let's get into it!

WIZZ&CO WEBSITE: https://www.wizzandco.com/

WIZZ&CO INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wizz.and.co/

VALERIE WEBSITE:  https://wearevalerie.com/

Support the show

CNL WEBSITE: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://www.creativenowhereland.com/join

CNL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/creativenowhereland/

CNL PODCAST MUSIC: https://www.instagram.com/jjodabeats/