In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, painter Forrest Kirk is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world’s fastest-growing global community for committed fine artists.

Forrest Kirk is known for his powerful explorations of race, identity, and power, often reimagining classical subjects through a contemporary lens. His layered paintings combine figurative realism, collage, and bold color, inviting viewers to reflect on power and representation. History plays a central role in his work, from the Black Power movement to contemporary social issues, shaping narratives that are both personal and universal.

In this episode, Forrest opens up about his artistic evolution, the meaning behind his striking visual language, and how he builds narratives that challenge and move audiences. He also shares practical advice on art advisors, highlighting how strategic relationships can help artists place work more effectively and build sustainable careers.

From staying grounded in a fast-changing art world to pushing boundaries in storytelling and technique, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration for artists seeking depth, authenticity, and actionable guidance for their practice.

“An advisor would be 10 times more likely to want to work with you as an artist, and it's a lot easier relationship to foster than galleries. I probably have 50 advisors that I work with. To me, it's just a better system. “

– Forrest Kirk

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:10 Forrest's Artistic Focus and Network of Art Advisors

02:08 The Story Behind Moving the Black Power Piece

05:01 Forrest's Five-Step Creative Process

08:00 Transition to Full-Time Artist and Career Momentum

10:21 Reality Check: The Calling and Challenges of Being an Artist

12:03 The Importance of Community and Visibility in the Art World

13:32 Extinction Level Event: A Reflection on Mortality and Survival

16:06 Building a Network of Art Advisors and Securing Major Commissions

24:00 Farewell to the Flesh: A Meditation on Love, Vulnerability, and Connection

27:26 Forrest's Final Advice to Artists: Be Bold and Express Yourself

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here:

https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/forrest-kirk

Links to artworks discussed
His artworks can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.

Resources

• Hammer Museum in Los Angeles: https://hammer.ucla.edu/
• California African American Museum: https://caamuseum.org/
• Hauser & Wirth: https://www.hauserwirth.com/
• UUSC (Unitarian Universalist Service Committee): https://www.uusc.org/

Connect with Forrest

• Website: https://artbyforrest.com/home.html
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrestkirk/?hl=es

Learn more about The Professional Artist Association

• Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letter
• Join ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/join
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistaccelerator

Free training and resources

• Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following: https://professionalartist.com/find-your-next-3-fine-art-collectors/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=2025-06
• Free insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent: https://professionalartist.com/report/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=free_report

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