The Art of Nostalgia: Sarah McGrath's Realistic Oil Painting Journey In this episode of the Art of Making Art podcast, host Christina Lowry interviews Sarah McGrath, a realistic oil painter. Sarah shares her artistic journey, from her background in graphic design to becoming a full-time artist during COVID. The discussion covers her passion for vintage items, the challenges of painting flowers and landscapes, and her affinity for birds, especially the nostalgic sparrow. They delve into the intricacies of composition, the importance of supportive artistic communities, and the psychological challenges faced by artists. Sarah highlights key career moments, including her first solo show and her entry into prestigious art prizes. Listeners are encouraged to support and celebrate the art community. https://www.sarahmcgrath.com.au/ 00:00 Welcome to the Art of Making Art Podcast 00:56 Meet Sarah McGrath: Realistic Oil Painter 01:48 Sarah's Artistic Journey and Evolution 03:37 The Role of Realism and Mediums in Sarah's Work 06:28 Themes and Symbols in Sarah's Still Life Paintings 09:15 The Fascination with Birds 12:32 The Art of Composition 20:38 Challenges and Triumphs with Flowers 23:38 Career Highlights and Reflections 26:33 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Comparison 27:58 The Psychological Challenges of Being an Artist 31:03 Finding Balance and Avoiding Burnout 37:15 Exploring New Mediums and Techniques 40:57 The Importance of Community and Support 42:50 The Reality of Being an Artist 52:29 Encouragement and Final Thoughts