Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within! I'm your host Liz Ross and after a few weeks away, I’m catching you up on what’s been happening behind the scenes. In this week’s episode I’m sharing an honest catch-up on life, art, and creative courage. From taking time off for rest to showing up live on YouTube for the first time! We’ll talk about embracing imperfection, what consistency really means, and why sharing the messy moments matters just as much as celebrating the wins. In this episode, I talk about: 🌿 Why I was forced to rest and take a break from the Podcast  🎨 My recent experiences with open calls and what happens when things don’t go the way you hope 💻 Going live on YouTube for the first time (and how I found the courage to hit “Go Live”) 💫 Why consistency doesn’t always mean perfection — and what it can look like for artists like us 🖌️ My latest art explorations and what’s inspiring me creatively right now This is a gentle, honest catch-up episode about the highs and lows of being a creative and how sharing the “messy middle” can be just as uplifting as sharing our wins. ✨ Mentioned in this episode: My YouTube Channel: Art by Liz Ross Free Procreate Masterclass: http://subscribepage.io/freeprocreatemasterclass Buy Me A Coffee; Podcast guest episodes mentioned: Ep. 29 — Bury Art Museum Ep. 30 — Gabriel Lipper  💜 Let’s stay connected: Podcast Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithin My website; https://www.artbylizross.com ETAW Facebook Group; https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity Procreate Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/procreateartcommunity If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to follow, rate, or leave a review - it means so much and helps others find the show.

In this gentle reflection episode, Liz Ross shares an honest update about slowing down, recovering, and learning to show up — even when things don’t go to plan. After a few weeks away from the mic, I reflect on finding inspiration in everyday moments, navigating creative consistency, and redefining what it really means to “keep showing up” as an artist. Recorded on a quiet autumn walk, this episode is a reminder that creativity and self-expression don’t have to be perfect - they just have to be real. Mentioned in this episode:– The Connected Artist Club– Gabriel Lipper’s figure workshop– Local artist opportunities in Manchester 🎧 Tune in for warmth, honesty, and gentle encouragement to embrace rest, reflection, and inspiration in your own creative rhythm.

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth! I’m your host Liz Ross, and today we’re diving into an inspiring episode with the wonderful artist Gabriel Lipper. Gabriel joins me to share his evolution from classical realism to blending abstraction with representation, and his philosophy on creating art that’s both skillful and free. We explore the balance between disciplined practice and creative freedom, the role of community, and the importance of carving out time for art in everyday life. Gabriel also introduces his courses, including Learning to See and the upcoming Figure Workshop, designed to guide artists at every stage of their journey. Sign up for Gabriel Lipper’s Figure Workshop; https://www.8paint.art/a/2148170151/JAN3t2oU (Affiliate link) - If you sign up through my link, I’ll earn a small commission - at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support my podcast while you enjoy the course. This conversation is full of insights for anyone looking to grow as an artist, overcome fear, and embrace a more joyful, authentic approach to making art. 💛 In this episode: How Gabriel navigated his artistic journey from classical training to personal style. Gabriel talks about his 21 a Week Sketch Challenge, great for improving drawing skills. The value of community and connecting directly with fellow artists and buyers. How to create cohesive collections while embracing experimentation. We discuss our thoughts on tools like tracing and digital drawing to support learning. Why you should prioritise art over life’s other demands. Gabriel shares practical advice for aspiring artists at any stage. Art is a journey, and this episode is a beautiful reminder that growth, joy, and connection flourish when we approach it with curiosity and courage. 🌿 ✨ Mini Challenge: Pick one way to make time for your own creative practice this week. It could be a 15-minute sketch, experimenting with a new technique, or starting a small collection of pieces. Notice how it feels to create without pressure or expectation. Come over to the Facebook group and let us know what you created. https://facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity ⭐️ Question of the week: What’s one way you’re embracing creative freedom in your art right now? Come over to my podcast Instagram account and share your thoughts. I can’t wait to hear your stories! 🗣️ Mentioned in this episode: Sign up for Gabriel Lipper’s Figure Workshop; https://www.8paint.art/a/2148170151/JAN3t2oU (Affiliate link) - If you sign up through my link, I’ll earn a small commission - at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support my podcast while you enjoy the course. Gabriel Lipper Website  https://artofgabriel.com https://www.8paint.art 8PaintArt - Explore Gabriel’s courses, including Learning to See and the upcoming Figure Workshop. 💌 Connect & Support: Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️ — Every cup helps me create more inspiring episodes for you! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show. Join my Free Procreate Masterclass here - https://subscribepage.io/freeprocreatemasterclass Sign up to my email list; https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share Join me on Instagram at my podcast account: @empoweringtheartistwithin Explore my art, free resources, and creative inspiration here: www.artbylizross.com Follow my main Instagram: @artbylizross Submit a question: Email liz@artbylizross.com — I love hearing from you! Keep creating, keep exploring, and above all, keep believing in yourself. Liz 🌿

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth! I’m your host Liz Ross, and today we’re shining a spotlight on something inspiring in my local community; the Bury Festival of Arts. Joining me are Sarah Evans and Katie Stansfield from Bury Art Museum and Gallery, who share the story of how the festival began, how it’s evolved, and the beautiful way it’s supporting both artists and the wider community. We talk about the festival’s impact on local creatives, the opportunities it offers for artists at every stage of their career, and the importance of keeping art inclusive and accessible. From free workshops and affordable art initiatives to personal success stories, this episode is a celebration of connection, creativity, and the power of coming together through art. 💛 In this episode, you’ll discover how the Bury Festival of Arts: Creates opportunities for artists at all stages of their journey. Builds community connections through free and affordable events. Provides inspiring stories of artists whose careers have been uplifted. Keeps creativity accessible to families and the wider community. Welcomes and encourages local artists to participate. Plans for an exciting and impactful future. Art is for everyone and this episode is a beautiful reminder of the joy, inspiration, and connection that bloom when we make creativity part of everyday life. 🌿 ✨ Mini Challenge: If you’re local, find a way to get involved with the Bury Festival of Arts - attend an event, join a free workshop, or show up to support local artists. If you’re listening from further afield, explore what creative festivals or community events are happening near you and make space to be part of them. ⭐️ Question of the week: How has your local art community inspired you? Come over to my podcast Instagram account and share your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear your stories! 💌 Connect & Support: Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️ — Every cup helps me create more inspiring episodes for you! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show. Join me on Instagram at my podcast account: @empoweringtheartistwithin Explore my art, free resources, and creative inspiration here: www.artbylizross.com Follow my main Instagram: @artbylizross Submit a question: Email liz@artbylizross.com with your thoughts or questions — I love hearing from you! 🗣️ Mentioned in this episode: Bury Festival of Arts — Upcoming events, free workshops, and ways to get involved through the Bury Art Museum and Gallery Keep creating, keep exploring, and above all keep believing in yourself. Liz 🌿

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth! I’m your host Liz Ross, and this episode is all about allowing for freedom in your creativity through traditional & digital art journaling. If you’ve ever felt stuck staring at a blank page, pressured to “finish” an art journal spread, or afraid of ruining something you like, you are not alone. So many artists get caught up in perfectionism and fear of the outcome. In this episode you’ll hear about my experience with art journaling, how it can provide us with a safe space for expression, and how digital art can change everything. We’ll talk about how digital art tools, like Procreate, can open new doors to creativity. Just like traditional art journaling, they give you permission to experiment, explore, and create without the pressure of a finished result. 💛 In this episode, you’ll discover how to: Release the need for perfection in your art journaling. Use unfinished and layered pages as part of your creative practice. Use digital tools like Procreate to inform your artistic practice and create new art from old. Gather photos of existing work, gel prints, collage papers and photographs and use them in a Procreate. Use Procreate as a playful, pressure-free tool to explore, experiment and play. Art is not about the medium, it’s about the freedom to express yourself. Your creativity is valid, meaningful, and worth celebrating🌿 ✨ Mini Challenge: Import a photo of your art into Procreate If you don’t know how sign up for my FREE Procreate Masterclass and I’ll show you You could choose to import a gelli print, collage paper, page from your art journal or a canvas piece. Play around with the brushes, make some marks and have some fun playing. Export as a jpg and sae to your camera roll. Come over to my new Facebook group and share your explorations with us. ⭐️Question of the week: Do you use Procreate or another digital tool in your creative practice? How do you feel about mixing digital and traditional ? Head over to my new instagram account and let me know your answer in the comments - look for the question above in my feed and pop your thoughts under it. 💌 Connect & Support: Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️ — Every cup helps me create more inspiring episodes for you! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show. Join me on Instagram at my new podcast account: @empoweringtheartistwithin Explore my art, free resources, and creative inspiration here: www.artbylizross.com Follow me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/artbylizross/ Submit a question: Email liz@artbylizross.com with a question you’d like me to discuss on the Podcast or if you want to reach out and let me know your thoughts on any of the episodes so far - I love to hear from you. 🗣️ Mentioned in this episode: Kaisa Hart - 7 Day Mark Making Challenge https://www.kaisahart.com/mindful-mark-making-challenge  Kaisa Hart Free Art Journaling Course https://www.kaisahart.com/art-journaling-joy-course Follow Kaisa on instagram https://www.instagram.com/artistkaisahart/ Keep creating, keep exploring, and remember your art doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerful. 🌿

✨ Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth! I’m your host Liz Ross, and today’s episode is a gentle yet powerful affirmation session to help you show up boldly as a creative, even when fear or self-doubt shows up. If you’ve ever hesitated to share your art, felt nervous about posting your work, or worried that your creations aren’t “perfect,” these affirmations are here to ground you, remind you of your worth, and encourage you to take brave steps in your creative journey. 💛 In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Build courage and confidence as a creative Feel safe to show up imperfectly Transform fear and self-doubt into motivation Embrace vulnerability as a strength in creativity 🎨 Sample Affirmations from this episode: I am learning to show up with courage, even when I feel afraid. I am learning to show up with courage, even when I feel afraid. I celebrate my creativity; messy, imperfect, and beautifully mine. I am safe to take up space as an artist. Every time I share my art, I grow stronger and more confident. ✨ Remember: confidence is built step by step, one brave moment at a time. Take a small action this week: Share your art, try something new, or simply acknowledge your progress. Every act of showing up is a victory! 💌 Connect & Support: Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️  Every cup bought helps fuel more creativity and wonderful episodes! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show! Follow me on Instagram to keep the conversation going at my NEW instagram account for the podcast www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithin  Explore more inspiration and art here: www.artbylizross.com  Keep creating, exploring, and keep believing and trusting in yourself. Your voice and your art matter.

So many of us long to share our art, our voice, or even just a glimpse of ourselves online but when it comes to actually doing it, confidence crumbles. The inner critic kicks in, negative thoughts spiral, and before we know it, we’ve shrunk ourselves small again. If that feels familiar, this episode is for you. I open up about my own journey of building confidence; from barely being able to speak up on video calls, to recording podcast episodes without a script. Along the way, I share the practices and mindset shifts that helped me grow braver, and the importance of having community support when you’re learning to show up. Together we’ll look at: Why negative thoughts and limiting beliefs keep us quiet and small. How to reframe those stories into encouragement and possibility. Why giving yourself permission to be imperfect is one of the most freeing things you can do. The magic of sharing your work even if it’s messy, unfinished, or unpolished. How letting go actually makes space for new opportunities. You’ll walk away from this episode with encouragement to start showing up as you are, permission to be imperfect, and a reminder that your creativity is worth celebrating. Because your art is magic. And it deserves to be seen.----more---- With thanks to my supporters; @artistkaisahart  @annafmacdonaldart @sg_art_and_journals ----more----Connect with me - Liz Ross:For more inspiration & creative encouragement follow me on Instagram @artbylizross or sign up for my newsletter at artbylizross.com  ☕️ If you enjoyed this episode support the show by buying me a coffee  Grab my FREE Procreate Masterclass here

If you’ve enjoyed my art or podcast, you can now buy me a coffee ☕ to support me and keep the creativity flowing! Welcome to this week’s episode of Empowering the Artist Within with Liz Ross. I am so excited to bring you this extra special bonus episode this month. Today I’m joined by the incredible Louise Fletcher; Artist, mentor, and creator of the transformative courses Find Your Joy and Find Your Voice. In this honest conversation Louise shares her journey from overcoming her limiting beliefs to mentoring hundreds of artists worldwide, and how her work helps creatives break free from perfectionism to rediscover their authentic voice. We dive into the heart of her teaching: trusting your intuition, embracing mistakes, and showing up for your art consistently. We also explore the power of community through her Art Tribe membership, and how art can be a mirror for life - teaching patience, self-acceptance, and presence. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Rediscover Your Voice: Louise’s courses gently guide you out of perfectionism and back into your own creative flow, helping you trust and celebrate your unique artistic voice. Trust Your Intuition: How to move from copying to expressing yourself freely. Let your instincts lead the way and watch your art come alive with authenticity. Embrace Imperfection: The “mistakes” are often where the magic happens. Allow yourself to be messy, playful, and real, and your work will naturally become more expressive and personal. The Power of Community: Being part of Art Tribe reminds you that you’re not alone. Support, encouragement, and shared growth spark confidence and inspire experimentation in ways you can’t achieve on your own. Show Up Consistently: Waiting for the perfect moment or a burst of inspiration can hold you back. Showing up, even when it feels hard, builds momentum, trust, and a stronger connection to your creative self. Safe Sharing: Putting your work out into the world can feel vulnerable but it’s in that openness where connection, feedback, and real growth happen. 💡 Try This: Paint or draw for 20 minutes without judgment. Focus on process, not perfection. Notice what happens when you release expectations. Connect with Louise Fletcher:If you want to explore Louise’s teaching further, you can sign up for her free course here: https://www.louisefletchercourses.com/creative-reset and start your journey toward creative freedom today. Follow Louise; Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/louisefletcher_art/ Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/louisefletcherart Website; https://www.louisefletcherart.com   Connect with Liz Ross:For more inspiration & creative encouragement follow me on Instagram @artbylizross or sign up for my newsletter at artbylizross.com  ☕️ Loved this episode? Support the show by buying me a coffee 

Welcome to Empowering the Artist Within, the podcast that nurtures your creativity, builds your confidence, and reminds you that your art and your story matter. I’m your host, Liz Ross, and today’s conversation is a tender and expansive one with the wonderful artist and community builder, Kasia Hart. Together we explore what it really looks like to keep showing up for your creativity while navigating the realities of life. We talk about creative momentum, resistance, and the beauty of being witnessed by someone who just gets it. It’s open, honest, and full of those “me too” moments that make artist friendships so meaningful.   If you’ve ever questioned your pace, your voice, or your place in the creative world, this one’s for you.  What to Expect: Honest reflections on creative identity and self-doubt The difference between being productive and being present How to keep going when resistance shows up Why community and artist friendships matter so much Thoughts on showing up as yourself Talking about your work, showing your work, and letting it evolve Key Takeaways: Your art doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful. Artist friendships are medicine - you don’t need to create alone. It’s okay to grow slowly. It’s okay to start again. Your creativity doesn’t disappear - it transforms. Talking about your work helps you understand it. Showing up imperfectly is better than not showing up at all. Artists & Links Mentioned: Liz Ross @artbylizross | www.artbylizross.com Kasia Hart: @artistkaisahart | Galia Alena: @galiaalena | galiaalena.com Lewis Noble: @lewisnoble_artist | //www.lewisnoble.co.uk/   Louise Fletcher @louisefletcher_art | https://www.louisefletcherart.com/  If this conversation resonated: Subscribe to Empowering the Artist Within Leave a review; it helps others find this space Share it with an artist friend who needs encouragement Find more stories + support at artbylizross.com Follow me on Instagram: @artbylizross Join my mailing list for private podcast episodes.

Take a gentle pause in your day... In this grounding affirmation episode, I’m inviting you to soften. To breathe. To speak to yourself the way you speak to the people you love - with kindness.  If you’ve been hard on yourself lately, questioning your creativity, or caught in comparison, this is your reminder that kindness is strength and you are worthy of your own tenderness. These affirmations were written to help you reconnect with your self-worth, your voice, and your creative confidence. So let this episode be a soft landing for you, open up and give yourself time, space and the love you deserve.  🌸 You’ll hear affirmations for:Creative confidence and self-loveLetting go of comparison and perfectionSpeaking kindly to yourselfTrusting your creative voiceGrowing your art practice from a place of compassion This is for the artists who give so much, but forget to refill their own cup. Let this be that moment. 🎧 Take a breath, get still, and let’s begin. ✨ If this episode resonates with you, please consider: Subscribing to Empowering the Artist WithinLeaving a kind review - it helps other creatives find this spaceSharing this with someone who needs a little gentleness today Let’s keep building a creative life rooted in connection, community, and freedom of expression -together. 💛 📍 Connect with me:Instagram: @artbylizrossWebsite: www.artbylizross.com Join my mailing list for private podcast episodes.

Is it ever too late to become a full-time artist? In this episode, Host of Empowering the Artist Within, Liz Ross talks with painter and printmaker Sam Waters, Sam shares how she reignited her creativity after decades in corporate life and what it really took to rebuild her confidence, momentum, and art practice from the ground up. Liz and Sam explore how past experiences can support your creative future, why community and artist friendships matter, and the mindset shifts that helped Sam step into life as a working artist.  For anyone navigating the space between a creative calling and real-life responsibilities, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and honest encouragement.   Sam's encouragement; “It’s never the worst thing that happens. In fact, usually more opportunities open up.”   🎯 Key Takeaways You’re never too late. Creative energy doesn’t disappear - it waits. Your past is not a detour. Every job or skill can fuel your art life now. Treat your art like it matters. Know your worth, track your numbers, and plan intentionally. Creative friendships are fuel. Find your people - they’ll keep you going. Momentum is built, not found. Small actions; sketchbooks, shows, community - it all adds up. Give yourself freedom. Time spent organising, thinking, or pausing is still part of the process.   🔗 Links & Resources Sam’s Website Follow Sam on Instagram – @samwatersartist Connected Artist Club Waitlist – Listen to Episode 20 with Alice Sheridan   ✨ If this episode resonated with you… Share it with a friend who’s returning to their creativity. Leave a review - it helps other artists find the show. Join my newsletter for inspiration, private podcast and support for your art journey: I'm in! Explore more episodes at: artbylizross.com/podcast

How to Be Seen as a Sensitive Creative: Visibility Without Overwhelm Have you ever felt that lump in your throat when it’s time to share your work? Like you’re about to reveal a piece of your soul to the world? In this personal solo episode of Empowering the Artist Within, we explore the vulnerability of being visible as a creative, especially for sensitive souls, women, and those who’ve grown up with messages about staying quiet, small, or “perfect.” We talk about the fear of being seen, how past experiences and perfectionism feed that fear, and most importantly how to begin sharing your work in a way that feels safe, empowering, and true to you. This is a gentle space to reflect, feel understood, and take small steps toward being more visible without the overwhelm. Because showing up isn’t about being loud or flawless, it’s about being real and authentic. In this episode, we explore: Why visibility feels so uncomfortable and how to move through that fear with care The difference between expression and exposure and why you get to set the boundaries How to reframe vulnerability as a strength, not a weakness Gentle ways to practice “safe visibility” and build your confidence over time Why imperfect, raw creative work is often the most powerful A personal story from a year ago when I felt nervous speaking out, but did it anyway A reminder that your voice matters, even when it’s quiet, imperfect and ra Episode Takeaways Recap: Fear of being seen is natural, it means you care Visibility doesn’t mean baring all. You get to choose what, how, and when you share Vulnerability is courage in action Sharing your work helps you grow even when it’s messy or unfinished Safe, empowering visibility is something you can build gently, at your own pace Community matters, you don’t have to do it alone Every small act of showing up creates momentum You don’t need to be perfect to be powerful Connect with Liz Ross: Facebook Group; https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity Website; artbylizross.com. Tag me on Instagram @artbylizross and let me know what this episode brought up for you. I love hearing your reflections. 🎧 Prefer to listen to these reflections by email? I’m now offering audio versions of select newsletters stay subscribed and you’ll get access first! Sign up to my email list: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share

In this soul-nourishing episode, Liz Ross is joined by the incredible Alice Sheridan; artist, mentor, and founder of the Connected Artist Club. Alice has been a guiding light in my own creative path, and it was such a joy to sit down with her and explore what it truly means to live a creative life. We talk about how our art reflects the seasons we’re in, how it helps us explore who we’re becoming, and why creativity is never linear. Alice shares powerful insights on permission, process, and what it means to create from the heart. We also explore the origins and evolution of the Connected Artist Club and why Alice has always made space for both structure and softness, strategy and soul, in the way she supports artists. This episode is an open-hearted look at how we grow; not just as artists, but as humans. ✨ Takeaways from this episode include: Why art is a space to explore the parts of yourself that aren’t fully formed yet How your creative seasons shift with your life and that’s okay The value of community and why artists thrive when they're not isolated That you don’t have to monetize your art for it to matter The difference between gathering information and making real change The three pillars of growth inside the Connected Artist Club: Self, Studio Practice, and Structure Why Alice created a membership instead of a course and how it’s evolved over time How to make peace with going at your own pace That nurturing your creativity can be enough, it doesn’t need to be justified The value of slow, steady, heart-led growth 🌼 Listen in for a thoughtful, real and encouraging chat and don’t forget to check out Alice’s Connected Artist Club if you’re looking for long-term support in your creative life. You can find out more and put your name on the waitlist here; Connected Artist Waitlist   📍 Find Alice at: www.alicesheridan.com📸 Instagram: @alicesheridanstudio 📍 Find Liz Ross at: www.artbylizross.com📸 Instagram: @artbylizross  

In this calming episode of Empowering the Artist Within, we’re focusing on the power of kind self-talk. You’ll be guided through a gentle set of affirmations designed to support your mindset, boost your emotional wellbeing, and soften your inner critic. Whether you’re creating, reflecting, or simply need a moment of grounding, these affirmations will help you connect with your inner voice and speak to yourself with more compassion. Let this be a reminder: your words have power and you deserve to be on the receiving end of your own kindness 💖 Perfect for listening while journaling, making art, or starting your day.   🔗 Connect with Me & Explore More 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com🎙️Empowering The Artist Within Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/empowering-the-artist-within 📸 Instagram: @artbylizross📘 Facebook Page: Art by Liz Ross🎥 YouTube: @artbylizross📌 Pinterest: @artbylizross🎵 TikTok: @artbylizross💬 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community   💌Sign up to my email list: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share

In Part 2 of my conversation with minimalist artist and founder of The Organised Artist, Anna Macdonald, we dive even deeper into how she created clarity and calm in the midst of life’s chaos. Anna shares how her experience with ADHD, anxiety, and motherhood led her to seek a more peaceful, structured way of living and how her passion for minimalism, organisation, and creativity came together to support her own healing. Now she's helping artists to take control of their lives, through her membership - The Organised Artist. We talk about: The overstimulation creatives often experience and how to gently reduce it How physical space affects emotional wellbeing and creative focus The power of giving yourself permission to do what feels right Simple ways to create structure when time, energy, or brain space is limited How Anna discovered her gift and built a business around helping others do the same Whether you’re navigating overwhelm, ADHD, or just craving a more intentional way of creating and living, this episode offers both comfort and practical insight. 🌿 LISTEN NOW to hear how Anna turned personal challenges into a calm, connected creative life and how you can too. 💬 Connect with Anna: 🌐 The Organised Artist Website📸 Organised Artist on Instagram 🌐 Anna F Macdonal Website 📸 Anna F Macdonald on Instagram 💛 Stay Connected with Me: 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com📸 Instagram: @artbylizross👥 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community📌 Pinterest: artbylizross 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & your favourite podcast app.

In this heartfelt episode, I’m joined by minimalist artist and founder of The Organised Artist, Anna Macdonald. We dive into Anna’s creative journey, her experience living with ADHD, and the deep impact that anxiety, depression, and burnout had on her life. Anna shares openly about what it’s like to reach breaking point and how reconnecting with creativity, building meaningful friendships, and finding a supportive community helped her heal from within. This is a gentle, powerful reminder that you’re not alone, and that you’re worthy of being seen exactly as you are. This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. In part 2 we go deep into how organising her life led to clarity and calm and why she is so passionate about helping other creatives to organise their lives so they can feel the same. So grab a cuppa and settle in for a beautiful and honest exchange about art, healing, and the courage to keep going. 💬 Connect with Anna: 🌐 The Organised Artist Website📸 Organised Artist on Instagram 🌐 Anna F Macdonal Website 📸 Anna F Macdonald on Instagram     💛 Stay Connected with Me: 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com📸 Instagram: @artbylizross👥 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community📌 Pinterest: artbylizross 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & your favourite podcast app.

Welcome to Empowering the Artist Within! I’m Liz Ross, and in this gentle, grounding episode, I’m inviting you to step away from pressure and perfection and reconnect with the joy of creating from the heart. These affirmations are here to support your creative journey; to help you release fear, honour your voice, and make space for honest, imperfect expression. This episode is your reminder: you don’t have to be perfect to begin. You’re enough, just as you are. ✨ Affirmations: Creating Without Fear I release the need to be perfect. My creativity flows with ease and truth. I give myself permission to create freely and messily. I trust the process, even when the outcome is unclear. I honour progress over perfection. I allow my art to be honest and raw. I am safe to express myself exactly as I am. My creativity is valid, even in its roughest form. I make art from my soul, from a place of joy, not stress. I am enough, not when it’s finished, not when it’s polished—right now. I honour my voice, just as it is. Every time I share, I grow stronger. 💬 Connect with Me: ✨ Instagram: @artbylizross✨ Facebook: Art by Liz Ross🎨 Join the community: Empowered Artist Facebook Group🌐 Website: www.artbylizross.com If this episode resonated with you, I’d love it if you’d subscribe, leave a review, or share it with a fellow creative. Your voice and your presence here matter. Let’s keep showing up, messy and magical. Until next time keep creating, keep exploring, and most of all, keep believing in yourself. 💫

Welcome to Empowering the Artist Within! I’m your host, Liz Ross, and in this solo episode, we’re diving into the heart of perfectionism; what it looks like, where it comes from, and how it silently holds us back as artists and creatives. If you’ve ever felt frozen by the fear of “not getting it right,” this episode is your reminder that your art is enough; messy, real, and true.  In this episode, I share: What perfectionism looks like in creative practice Why we tie our worth to the “outcome” How I’ve navigated this in my own journey Joyful ways to create without pressure Affirmations and journal prompt to change your beliefs and get you thinking.  "You don’t need permission to make something imperfect and powerful." Key Takeaways: Episode Takeaways Consider sharing these in your show notes and as a social carousel post. Creating freely is more powerful than creating perfectly. Perfectionism often stems from fear and comparison not truth. Your art is enough even when it’s messy, raw, or unfinished. Setting a time limit allows us to keep the joy flowing. Visibility doesn’t require perfection, it just needs honesty. Perfectionism is a habit, but so is playful, imperfect creating. You don’t need permission to make art that feels good to you. Affirmations can gently guide your mindset into more freedom. You are not alone, so many creatives are working through this too. Let your work reflect your heart, not perfection or pressure. I'd love to connect with you: ✨ Instagram: @artbylizross✨ Facebook: Art by Liz Ross🎨 Join the community: Empowered Artist Facebook Group🌐 Website: www.artbylizross.com

Join me, Liz Ross for this gentle and uplifting affirmation episode of Empowering The Artist Within. Today I'm inviting you to slow down, tune in, and reconnect with your creative spirit. Through a calming mini meditation and 10 powerful affirmations, this episode is here to remind you: you are enough exactly as you are. You don’t need to be perfect to be worthy, visible, or creative. Let these words help you release self-doubt, embrace your imperfections, and show up with courage and authenticity in your art and your life. ☕ Take a moment for yourself, breathe deep, and press play.   🔗 Connect with Me & Explore More 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com📸 Instagram: @artbylizross📘 Facebook Page: Art by Liz Ross🎥 YouTube: @artbylizross📌 Pinterest: @artbylizross🎵 TikTok: @artbylizross💬 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community

Welcome to Empowering The Artist Within. I'm Liz Ross and in this honest and encouraging solo episode, I’m sharing what it really means to be seen before you feel “ready” and how showing up imperfectly can lead to amazing things.  I explore the fears that come with visibility, the pressure to “have it all together,” and how I’m learning to embrace the messy, beautiful process of being seen as I am. If you’ve ever held back your voice, your art, or your ideas because they didn’t feel “perfect” yet, this one’s for you. ✨ Let this be your reminder: showing up imperfectly is still showing up. And that is more than enough. Liz Ross 🔗 Connect with Me & Explore More 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com📸 Instagram: @artbylizross📘 Facebook Page: Art by Liz Ross🎥 YouTube: @artbylizross📌 Pinterest: @artbylizross🎵 TikTok: @artbylizross💬 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community