The Art of Making Art: Sarah McDonald's Journey from Urban Landscapes to Conceptual Tree Portraits
In this episode of the 'Art of Making Art' podcast, visual artist Christina Lowry chats with Sarah McDonald, a celebrated painter from Adelaide. They delve into Sarah's extensive 30-year career, exploring her transition from urban landscapes to her acclaimed close-up tree portraits. Sarah shares her insights on studio practice, the conceptual development of her works, and her environmental message. They also discuss the importance of artist residencies, the challenges and rewards of plein air painting, and the impact of community and mentorship. This episode is a rich exploration of artistic practice, resilience, and the pursuit of creative authenticity.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:08 Meet Sarah McDonald
02:32 Sarah's Artistic Journey
04:49 The Evolution of Sarah's Art
15:36 Conceptual Development and Environmental Themes
26:01 Connecting with Nature: Birds and Trees
26:41 A Memorable Hike in Alligator Gorge
27:54 Educating the Next Generation
29:01 Career Highlights and Artistic Residencies
41:15 The Importance of Artistic Practice
48:22 Final Thoughts and Advice for Artists
48:42 Exciting News and Future Prospects
https://www.sarahmcdonald.com.au/
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The Art of Making Art: Sarah McDonald's Journey from Urban Landscapes to Conceptual Tree Portraits
In this episode of the 'Art of Making Art' podcast, visual artist Christina Lowry chats with Sarah McDonald, a celebrated painter from Adelaide. They delve into Sarah's extensive 30-year career, exploring her transition from urban landscapes to her acclaimed close-up tree portraits. Sarah shares her insights on studio practice, the conceptual development of her works, and her environmental message. They also discuss the importance of artist residencies, the challenges and rewards of plein air painting, and the impact of community and mentorship. This episode is a rich exploration of artistic practice, resilience, and the pursuit of creative authenticity.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:08 Meet Sarah McDonald
02:32 Sarah's Artistic Journey
04:49 The Evolution of Sarah's Art
15:36 Conceptual Development and Environmental Themes
26:01 Connecting with Nature: Birds and Trees
26:41 A Memorable Hike in Alligator Gorge
27:54 Educating the Next Generation
29:01 Career Highlights and Artistic Residencies
41:15 The Importance of Artistic Practice
48:22 Final Thoughts and Advice for Artists
48:42 Exciting News and Future Prospects
https://www.sarahmcdonald.com.au/
10 Ways Artists Can Make Money and Succeed in the Art World
In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, visual artist Christina Lowry explores various strategies for artists to generate income and thrive in their careers. Drawing from her personal experiences, Christina discusses the financial realities faced by artists and presents ten methods she has used to support her art practice, including gallery exhibits, online sales, grants, residencies, talks, workshops, competitions, merchandise, catalogs, and volunteering.
Christina also delves into the findings of a significant research report by the National Association of Visual Arts in Australia, which highlights the financial struggles and gender pay gaps within the art community. Additionally, she shares insights into her master's thesis focused on interdisciplinary artistic practices and avian population decline, providing listeners with inspiration and practical advice to navigate the art world.
00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast
00:36 The Financial Struggles of Artists
02:39 10 Ways Artists Can Make Money
04:10 Diverse Income Streams for Artists
09:16 Additional Opportunities and Volunteering
10:43 Master's Thesis and Conclusion
NAVA article: https://visualarts.net.au/news-opinion/2025/visual-artists-leaving-sector-new-report-confirms-urgent-need-action/
www.christinalowryartist.com
www.instagram.com/christinalowryartist/
Podcast blog post: https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast/episode-seventeen-how-do-artists-make-money
The Art of Making Art
The Art of Making Art: Sarah McDonald's Journey from Urban Landscapes to Conceptual Tree Portraits
In this episode of the 'Art of Making Art' podcast, visual artist Christina Lowry chats with Sarah McDonald, a celebrated painter from Adelaide. They delve into Sarah's extensive 30-year career, exploring her transition from urban landscapes to her acclaimed close-up tree portraits. Sarah shares her insights on studio practice, the conceptual development of her works, and her environmental message. They also discuss the importance of artist residencies, the challenges and rewards of plein air painting, and the impact of community and mentorship. This episode is a rich exploration of artistic practice, resilience, and the pursuit of creative authenticity.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:08 Meet Sarah McDonald
02:32 Sarah's Artistic Journey
04:49 The Evolution of Sarah's Art
15:36 Conceptual Development and Environmental Themes
26:01 Connecting with Nature: Birds and Trees
26:41 A Memorable Hike in Alligator Gorge
27:54 Educating the Next Generation
29:01 Career Highlights and Artistic Residencies
41:15 The Importance of Artistic Practice
48:22 Final Thoughts and Advice for Artists
48:42 Exciting News and Future Prospects
https://www.sarahmcdonald.com.au/
