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

Todd is a painter, educator, and author whose work blends classical realism with unique storytelling. He has authored two influential books and teaches at notable institutions like the Art Students League of New York and the Massachusetts College of Art.

Todd dives deep into the art of building a sustainable creative life.

He shares how curiosity, storytelling, and teaching keep his creativity alive, how he maintains financial stability through writing and education, and how following his instincts allows him to stay true to his artistic vision.

From balancing multiple roles - artist, teacher, parent, and author - to creating art that reflects personal passion instead of market trends, this episode is full of insights to inspire your creative journey.

“I'm interested in art as a way of living instead of a way of making a living.”

– Todd Casey

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:27 Still Life Painting Philosophy and Creative Process

05:03 Todd's Journey to Becoming a Painter

08:12 Balancing Art, Family, and Practical Realities

10:19 Passion, Time, and Staying Curious in Art

13:13 Green Skull with Lemons: A Pivotal Painting

15:18 Writing and Publishing Art Books

19:39 Teaching and Its Role in Todd's Growth

23:21 Navigating the Art Market vs. Personal Expression

26:36 Final Reflections

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here:

https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/todd-casey

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

Resources:

• Arts Students League of New York: https://www.artstudentsleague.org/
• Massachusetts College of Art: https://massart.edu/

Connect with Todd:

• Website: https://www.toddmcasey.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toddmcasey

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

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

Celebrated for merging classical techniques with contemporary themes, Patricia shares her journey from training at the New York Academy of Art and the Water Street Atelier to a thriving career as both an artist and educator. She also reflects on her experience with major portrait commissions, including projects for institutions like Harvard University, and the balance between client expectations and artistic vision.

This episode highlights Patricia’s strategies for building a sustainable teaching practice, marketing effectively through platforms like Instagram and email, and staying authentic while navigating the business side of art. She also underscores the importance of community as a foundation for long-term professional growth.

Whether your focus is expanding visibility, refining your practice, or navigating the commission process, this deep dive offers actionable lessons and inspiration for fine artists.

“In terms of really nurturing your individual voice, I think it is more deeply connected to loving the self that you are, and feeling that what you have to express is good enough.”

– Patricia Watwood

Timestamps 
00:00 Introduction

01:10 Patricia’s Journey: Balancing Classical Techniques and Modern Themes

02:08 Exploring Dance of Life and Death and Art During Crisis

05:13 Transition from Theater to Classical Painting

07:00 Early Career: Selling Work and Developing a Personal Voice

09:40 Teaching Evolution: From Atelier to Online Platforms

12:55 Marketing and Visibility: Social Media, Email, and Sharing Process

14:48 Femen Flora: Protest, Beauty, and Justice in Art

18:24 Building a Career in Portraiture and Commission Work

21:18 The Role of Community, Peer Support, and Collaboration

27:01 Final Reflections: Nurturing Your Individual Artistic Voice

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here:

https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/patricia-watwood

Links to artworks discussed:

• Her artwork can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.

Resources:

• New York Academy of Art: https://www.nyaa.edu/
• Equity Gallery: https://www.nyartistsequity.org/visit-equity-gallery
• Portraits Incorporated: https://portraitartist.com/
• Salmagundi Club: https://salmagundi.org/
• Portrait Society of America: https://www.portraitsociety.org/

Connect with Patricia:

• Website: https://www.patriciawatwoodstudio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciawatwood/

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, art curator Amber Creswell Bell is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest-growing global community for committed fine artists.

Amber is a PAA Faculty member, curator, author, and advocate for emerging creatives. As Director of Emerging Art at Michael Reid Galleries for six years and founder of the National Emerging Art Prize, she has championed unrepresented artists and created platforms that amplify their voices.

In this episode, Amber dives deep into the strategies and principles that define her work. She shares how she identifies and supports emerging artists, the methods she uses to help them find their voice and audience, and actionable ways to create platforms that foster community and growth. She also explores how artists can balance the demands of the art world with staying true to their creative vision, offering practical advice for navigating the industry while maintaining authenticity.

This conversation is packed with insights and inspiration for any creative looking to advance their career and make a meaningful impact in the art world.

“Don't sit back in your quiet studio and wait for it to come to you. I think the burning lesson there is that you really need to be proactive.”

– Amber Creswell Bell

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

01:10 Championing Emerging Artists and Creating Platforms

02:08 Amber’s Artistic Inspirations and Cy Twombly’s Influence

04:03 Approaching Galleries: Common Mistakes and Best Practices

09:01 Amber’s Transition from Corporate Career to Curator

13:06 Making Art Accessible: Exhibitions and Inclusive Approaches

15:18 Creating Opportunities: Pop-Up Exhibitions and Collaboration

17:00 Pivotal Moments: Curating First Show and Working with Michael Reid

19:39 Founding the National Emerging Art Prize

22:19 Writing Books: Breaking Down Barriers in the Art World

27:02 The Role of Books and Digital Platforms in Promoting Art

29:02 Social Media and Balancing Content Creation with Art Practice

31:04 Final Advice: Be Proactive, Push Past Comfort Zones, and Stay Engaged

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here:

https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/amber-creswell-bell

Links to artworks discussed:

1. Her artworks can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.

Resources:

• Michael Reid Galleries: https://michaelreid.com.au
• The National Emerging Art Prize: https://nationalemergingartprize.com

Connect with Amber:

• Website: https://www.ambercreswell.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amber_creswell_bell

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

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

Celebrated for merging classical techniques with contemporary themes, Patricia shares her journey from training at the New York Academy of Art and the Water Street Atelier to a thriving career as both an artist and educator. She also reflects on her experience with major portrait commissions, including projects for institutions like Harvard University, and the balance between client expectations and artistic vision.

This episode highlights Patricia’s strategies for building a sustainable teaching practice, marketing effectively through platforms like Instagram and email, and staying authentic while navigating the business side of art. She also underscores the importance of community as a foundation for long-term professional growth.

Whether your focus is expanding visibility, refining your practice, or navigating the commission process, this deep dive offers actionable lessons and inspiration for fine artists.

“In terms of really nurturing your individual voice, I think it is more deeply connected to loving the self that you are, and feeling that what you have to express is good enough.”

– Patricia Watwood

Timestamps 00:00 Introduction

01:10 Patricia’s Journey: Balancing Classical Techniques and Modern Themes

02:08 Exploring Dance of Life and Death and Art During Crisis

05:13 Transition from Theater to Classical Painting

07:00 Early Career: Selling Work and Developing a Personal Voice

09:40 Teaching Evolution: From Atelier to Online Platforms

12:55 Marketing and Visibility: Social Media, Email, and Sharing Process

14:48 Femen Flora: Protest, Beauty, and Justice in Art

18:24 Building a Career in Portraiture and Commission Work

21:18 The Role of Community, Peer Support, and Collaboration

27:01 Final Reflections: Nurturing Your Individual Artistic Voice

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here:

https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/patricia-watwood

Links to artworks discussed:

• Her artwork can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.

Resources:

• New York Academy of Art: https://www.nyaa.edu/
• Equity Gallery: https://www.nyartistsequity.org/visit-equity-gallery
• Portraits Incorporated: https://portraitartist.com/
• Salmagundi Club: https://salmagundi.org/
• Portrait Society of America: https://www.portraitsociety.org/

Connect with Patricia:

• Website: https://www.patriciawatwoodstudio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciawatwood/

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, pop artist Ashley Longshore is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest-growing global community for committed fine artists.

Ashley is a self-taught painter, entrepreneur and author whose bold, satirical works have earned her the title of the "feminist Andy Warhol." Her innovative approach bypasses traditional galleries, allowing her to build a thriving career on her own terms. She has collaborated with major brands like Gucci and Bergdorf Goodman, while empowering countless artists to embrace their individuality.

Ashley dives deep into the fearless strategies that have shaped her journey. From creating without limits and mastering direct-to-collector sales, to building confidence in pricing your work and negotiating collaborations, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to inspire your own artistic career.

“The world absolutely needs you, and your vision of the world is so important. The only way you'll fail is if you stop and don't let anybody tell you how to do it. You do it your own way.”

– Ashley Longshore

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:10 Building a Business Without Gatekeepers

02:05 Creative Process and Artistic Inspiration

04:00 Taking Control: Self-Representation and Entrepreneurship

05:40 The Role of Social Media and Email in Expanding Reach

06:45 Overcoming Rejection and Finding Your Audience

08:00 Talking About Money: Pricing and Negotiation

10:10 Collaborations and Working with High-Profile Clients

13:00 The Importance of Persistence and Creative Integrity

15:40 Thriving as a Non-Traditional Artist

18:20 Final Reflections: Self-Belief and Taking Action

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here:

https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/ashley-longshore

Links to artworks discussed:

1. Her artworks can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.

Connect with Ashley:

• Website: https://ashleylongshore.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleylongshoreart/

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, contemporary realist miniaturist Dina Brodsky, a faculty member of the Professional Artist Association, shares the key lessons that have shaped her career as a painter, curator, and community builder.

With an MFA from the New York Academy of Art and years of refining her unique craft in New York City, Dina has seamlessly blended the centuries-old tradition of miniature painting with a modern, deeply personal approach. Her work not only reflects her artistic passion but also her dedication to fostering collaboration within the art world.

From building a thriving online art community to balancing creative passion with the demands of commercial work and parenthood, Dina opens up about the strategies that have helped her navigate the challenges of a multifaceted career.

Whether it’s forging meaningful artist connections, carving out time for personal projects, or taking control of your career trajectory, Dina offers practical advice for artists striving to create both impactful work and a fulfilling life.

“Don't wait for life to happen to you. Because you could be waiting for a really long time. So if you want to make something happen, just take it into your own hands. Curate your own show, reach out to people, find a space or do it online… whatever it is. Life is short and fragile…and anything could happen at any moment.”

– Dina Brodsky

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Dina’s Background and Artistic Journey

02:07 Sketchbook Practice

03:10 Love for Miniature Painting and Early Challenges

05:20 Starting the "Paint Anyway" Movement

07:30 Balancing Passion Projects, Commercial Work, and Parenthood

10:10 Achieving Stability and Choosing Projects

12:00 Teaching, Research, and Building a Body of Work

13:55 Community Initiatives and Viral Art Projects

16:40 Navigating the Art World and Creating Independent Systems

19:00 Final Reflections: Taking Initiative and Building a Career on Your Own Terms

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here: https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/dina-brodsky

Links to artworks discussed:

• Her artworks can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here: https://youtu.be/01YCbScWBo8

Resources:

• Birds for Sophia Project: https://www.birdsforsofia.org/

Connect with Dina:

• Website: https://www.dinabrodsky.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinabrodsky/

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, Australian-Colombian painter and sculptor Joshua Searle is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists.

He shares how he has built a flourishing career exploring diasporic identity and the impact of colonization through his innovative and deeply personal art. A two-time Sir John Sulman Prize finalist and recipient of the 2024 Mason Family Trust Fellowship, Joshua has quickly gained recognition since his first solo exhibition in 2021, carving out a definitive space for himself in the contemporary art world.

Known for blending cultural storytelling with bold creative risks, Joshua opens up about forging a career without formal training, finding mentorship in unexpected places, and pushing the boundaries of his artistic comfort zone to create meaningful work.

From entering the art world on his own terms to the importance of seeking guidance and embracing the unfamiliar, Joshua offers inspiring advice for artists pursuing authenticity and growth in their creative journeys.

“It's hard work and it will never stop being hard work. But if you love it, there's nothing better to do than work hard at something you love.”

– Joashua Searle

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Joshua Searle’s Background and Artistic Focus

02:07 Key Themes: Diasporic Identity, Memory, and Colonization

03:20 Reflection on Early Work and Personal Memories

04:45 Returning to Art: A Journey of Healing

06:16 Evolving Practice and Key Creative Partnerships

08:07 Exploring Diasporic Identity and Cultural Displacement

09:50 Starting with Painting: Accessibility and Early Challenges

11:00 First Exhibition in an Unconventional Space

13:00 Recognition and Breakthrough Moments

15:55 Grants, Fellowships, and Navigating Rejections

18:33 Institutional Commissions: Creative Risks and Collaboration

21:50 Mentorship and the Value of Asking for Help

24:00 Building Community Through Collaboration

25:17 Final Reflections on Hard Work and Loving the Process

26:57 Closing Thoughts: Persistence, Curiosity, and Taking the First Step

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here: https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/joshua-searle

Links to artworks discussed:
His artworks can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here: https://youtu.be/aUmWX1vYIlY

Resources:

• Art Gallery of New South Wales - Sir John Sulman Prize: https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/prizes/sulman/

Connect with Joshua:

• Website: https://joshuasearle.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshua_searle_art

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

 In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, fine art photographer Teresa Freitas is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists. 

She shares the mindset and methods that have helped her build a thriving career in photography. Teresa’s pastel-toned, cinematic images blur the line between dream and reality, and her work has reached audiences worldwide through collaborations with Netflix, Dior, Adobe, and a solo exhibition in Seoul that drew over 100,000 visitors.

Teresa doesn’t hold back when it comes to practical advice. From breaking through on Instagram and negotiating with brands, to following your creative compass, this episode is packed with tools artists can use to grow with intention and professionalism.

“ Speaking with people and exchanging experiences makes you realize…other creative people are going through the same things that you are and you're not alone in this world. Learning for me has always been one of the biggest advantages of being in a community.”

– Teresa Freitas

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction 

01:00 Following Your Creative Compass and Staying True to Your Vision

03:00 Iconic Gellert Baths Photograph and Approach to Color and Composition

06:00 Early Influences: Painting, Color Theory, and Visual Inspiration

08:00 Beginnings in Photography and First Steps on Instagram

10:00 Growth on Instagram and Gaining Global Visibility

11:00 Navigating Instagram Challenges and the Shift to Video

14:00 La Muralla Roja Photograph and Breakthrough Visibility

16:00 Early Brand Collaborations Through Instagram

19:00 Negotiating with Brands and Setting Budgets

22:00 Lessons Learned from Failed Collaborations

25:00 Evolution of Style: Flower Projects and Documentary Approach

28:00 Importance of Community and Collaborating with Others

30:00 Staying Authentic and Redefining Success in the Art World

32:00 Closing Reflections and Lasting Lessons from Teresa’s Journey

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here: https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/teresa-freitas

Links to artworks discussed:

Her photographs can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here: https://youtu.be/AUp6iIlUhqY

Resources:

• Carolyn Drake (Photographer): https://carolyndrake.com/contact

Connect with Teresa:

• Website: https://www.teresacfreitas.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teresacfreitas/

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.

In this episode, land artist David Popa shares the pivotal moments and creative philosophies that have shaped his unique career. Known for his large-scale ephemeral earth frescoes, David combines ancient techniques with modern technology, crafting breathtaking works that are captured through drone photography and shared as visual narratives. His art, created with natural pigments such as charcoal and earth, often fades back into nature, echoing the transient beauty of life.

David opens up about his early influences from fine art and street art, and the courageous leap of faith that led him to create a genre-defining practice. He also discusses how staying true to his vision has allowed him to collaborate with major global brands while still honoring the spiritual and adventurous aspects of his work.

From blending creativity with nature to embracing the impermanence of his art, David offers profound insights for artists seeking to align their work with personal meaning and authenticity.

“Don’t chase the money. That part comes after making the work you’re truly compelled to create. There’s something inside you that needs to come out… chase that. The audience who will resonate and emotionally connect with it will find the work.”

– David Popa

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction
01:00 David Popa’s Artistic Journey and Practice
02:07 The Uniqueness of Ephemeral Earth Frescoes
03:11 Merging Art, Nature, and Adventure
04:10 Early Influences and Transition to Land Art
05:12 Moving to Finland and Taking a Leap of Faith
06:37 Overcoming Artistic Frustration and Experimenting with Materials
09:00 Developing Drone Photography and Large-Scale Art
11:00 Creating a Breakthrough Piece: Portrait on an Islet
13:00 The Role of Self-Doubt and Artistic Persistence
15:00 First Social Media Success and National Recognition
17:00 Building a Global Audience Through Art Drops
19:00 The Power of Emotional Resonance in Art
21:00 Crafting Personal Narratives Through Social Media
23:00 Using Vulnerability to Expand Artistic Reach
25:00 Balancing Brand Collaborations and Authenticity
27:00 Staying True to Core Values in a Monetized World
28:00 Highlighting Key Collaborations
29:50 Final Advice: Perseverance, Passion, and Authenticity
30:40 Closing Thoughts

Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here: https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/david-popa

Links to artworks discussed:

1. David’s art can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.

Connect with David

• Website: https://www.davidpopaart.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/david_popa_art/

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