Join The Creative Kind podcast as we explore listener questions and Visual Arts topics with artists and experts, offering diverse perspectives and insightful discussions
Find me here on instagram: @thecreativekindpodcast
Or on Substack
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Join The Creative Kind podcast as we explore listener questions and Visual Arts topics with artists and experts, offering diverse perspectives and insightful discussions
Find me here on instagram: @thecreativekindpodcast
Or on Substack
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What does it really mean to take your painting practice outside? In this episode I’m joined again by Australian artists Johnny K and Carly Le Cerf to talk about the realities of working en plein air - from capturing a horizon line to the challenge of painting in wind, snow, or heat.
We talk about:
This is a wide-ranging chat about the ways we carry the outside world into our work.
You can find Caly Le Cerf’s work here through Michael Reid Gallery and on instagram here
You can find my previous chat with Carly here
You can find Johnny K’s website here and his instagram here
You can find my previous episode with Johnny here and here
Mentioned in the podcast:
You can find the podcast here
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In this episode we dive into the topic of taking breaks, exploring the 'whens,' 'whys,' and 'hows' of stepping away from work. Joined by returning guests Anna Gibbs, Michael Fox, and Brandy Salmon, we discuss various perspectives on breaks, including the importance of planning downtime, financial and tax considerations, and personal strategies for recognising when it's time to pause. From mental and physical self-care to the impact of breaks on creativity and productivity, this episode highlights how artists balance their professional commitments with the need to recharge. We also explore practical advice on transitioning back to work post-break and the evolving landscape of the art world.
Find Anna’s website here and on instagram here
You can find Michael Fox's Accountant and Art Valuation website here and the Fox Galleries here
Find Brandi here on her website or here on instagram Find her wedding painting instagram page here
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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This podcast episode discusses taking breaks. This season's guests Laura Brandon, Sally Bulling, and Maria Stoljar share their different perspectives & experiences, including the differences between planned and unplanned breaks, and their impacts on professional and personal well-being. The conversation delves into the necessity of taking intentional breaks to avoid burnout, the benefits of physical and mental rest, and practical strategies for reengaging with work after a hiatus. The guests share personal anecdotes and how they manage their time and breaks. We talk about the importance of recalibration, and how breaks can lead to renewed creativity and productivity.
Find Laura Brandon’s website here and on instagram here
Find Sally here and on instagram here
If you want to find out more about Maria Stoljar & Talking with Painters, go and check out:
her instagram or website Podcast on apple, spotify (plus all the others) And her You Tube channel
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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Hey art lovers, I'm putting together a special end of year episode of the Creative Kind, and I would love your input!
For this one, I'm thinking about hosting a Q&A. So if you've got a question for a gallerist or artist, now is the time to ask. It could be about making work, navigating the art world, or anything you have been curious about.
You can tell me if it's for a specific guest who's been on the pod, and I'll do my best to get them on to answer it, or it could be a more general question for anyone. If you can send me your question, preferably as a voice note or even just as a quick message.
I've left the details in the show notes. The regular end of season episode will be back in your feed next week. Thanks so much for listening and for being part of the creative kind.
I can't wait to hear from you. Chat soon!
Submit your questions here through the google form
You can email me through your voice note or question as a message here: Thecreativekindpodcast@gmail.com
Or you can just send me a voice note through a Creative Kind Instagram message
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In this episode, I chat with Brandi Salmon, a Wiradjuri and Tongan artist based in Lutruwita Tasmania about commissions. We talk about the ups and downs of working on commissions, from pricing and client expectations to protecting your creative energy and building long-term confidence.
Brandi shares how she approaches work including landscapes, murals, portraiture to live wedding painting, and how the mix of commission and personal work has helped her grow artistically. She also opens up about the emotional and logistical sides of working with clients, why written boundaries are essential, and how she uses forms and automation to stay sane. We also dig into the impact of mentorship and the importance of finding peer support, especially as a young or emerging artist.
Mentioned in this episode
Find Brandi here on her website or here on instagram
Find her wedding painting instagram page here
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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In this episode I’m talking about commissions with NZ artist Sally Bulling, who specialises in mirror paintings incorporating a variety of materials like paint, resin, and stickers. We discuss the delicate balance between commissioned work and personal pieces,and the ways commissions can push an artist’s practice in unexpected and rewarding directions. We talk about the financial upside of a commission and how they can allow experimentation with new materials and ideas. We also chat about the importance of maintaining relationships with galleries alongside commissions and Sally shares insights on managing client expectations, communicating clearly, and the benefits of taking time with commissioned pieces.
Find Sally here and on instagram here
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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In this episode of The Creative Kind, I talk with Michael Fox, an experienced Australian arts accountant and director of Fox Galleries, about tax and accounting issues specifically for artists. We discuss the importance of treating an artistic practice as a business for tax purposes. Michael clarifies the tax reporting requirements for artists in different circumstances, including when activities transition from hobbyist to business status. The conversation also touches on common mistakes artists make in tax reporting, the significance of claiming expenses correctly, and the practical steps for managing receipts and bookkeeping. Michael emphasizes the critical role of good record-keeping and timely submission of tax returns to avoid penalties. We also explore topics like superannuation for self-employed artists and the nuances of GST for artists. We talk about the importance of clear communication between artists and galleries about financial transactions and practical advice on navigating the complexities of tax systems tailored to the arts sector.
You can find Michael Fox's Accountant and Art Valuation website here and the Fox Galleries here
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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In this episode of The Creative Kind, I speak with Sydney-based art consultant and educator Laura Brandon about artist opportunities beyond the gallery wall. With over 20 years of experience across public art, education, archiving, and exhibition development, Laura brings deep insight into how artists can meaningfully connect with new platforms, spaces and collaborators.
We talk about everything from public art projects and artist statements to grants, residencies and building your own art ecosystem. Laura offers practical tips for tailoring applications, finding your own voice in written materials, and identifying the opportunities that are actually a good fit for you and your work.We also talk about what makes a strong application, and how to make the most of mentors, peers, and support systems around you.
Find Laura Brandon’s website here and on instagram here
Resources & Links
Here are a few useful organisations and platforms mentioned in this episode:
National Association for the Visual Arts
Art Prizes (@artprizes) • Instagram
Council websites such as:
Opportunities for artists - Inner West Council
Arts opportunities | Bondi Pavilion
Arts & culture - Waverley Council
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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This week I’m joined by British-born, New Zealand-based artist Anna Gibbs, whose detailed oil paintings of native birds draw attention not just for their beauty but for what they represent — a deep love for the natural world and a quiet invitation to care more deeply for it.
We talk about how emotional connection can lead to change, and why Anna chooses to focus on hope, wonder, and care rather than guilt or shock when addressing environmental issues through her work. Anna shares how her parents sparked her fascination with New Zealand’s birds, the stories behind some of her most impactful pieces and why she’s committed to using real, ethically sourced gold in her art — not just for its visual warmth, but for what it symbolises.
Find Anna’s website here and on instagram here
Learn more about Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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In this studio session I talk to artist Andrew Sleeman and curator Laura Brinin from Side Gallery in Brisbane about preparing for a solo show. Andrew shares his motivations for having his solo show and the learning curve involved, while Laura provides insights into what galleries and curators look for in an artist and their work. The conversation delves into topics such as framing, photography, and the costs associated with putting on a solo exhibition. Both Andrew and Laura touch on the importance of building a supportive community, clear communication, and setting realistic goals for the success of the show.
Andrew's solo show, 'Bare' is set to open at Side Gallery in Brisbane on August 14th.
Find Andrew’s previous episode here
Find Andrews Instagram here and his website here
Find the Side Gallery website here and their instagram here:
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In this episode of The Creative Kind, I chat to UK based artist Frances Featherstone on the realities of entering art prizes. We explore the opportunities prizes can open up, as well as the importance of keeping them in perspective.
Frances shares practical advice on choosing the right prizes for your work, how to photograph your submissions, and the hidden costs artists often forget to factor in. We also talk about how to handle rejection, what really happens once a show opens, and why believing in your work matters more than any shortlist.
Frances reminds us that prizes do have some great benefits and one of the big ones is the community built through participating in them.The connections they can help build and what that gives your practice in ways a prize never could on its own.
Resources & Links
You can find Frances Featherstone’s website here and on instagram here
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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In this episode I chat to Maria Stoljar, a painter, YouTuber & host of the acclaimed Talking with Painters podcast. We discuss Maria’s experience with interviewing hundreds of art prize winners, and also as a painter herself having been an entrant and a judge. We talk about the significance of art prizes in an artist's career and Maria shares her insights on the motivations behind entering art prizes, the benefits of being shortlisted, and the importance of exposure. We also discuss the role that art prizes play in elevating artists' profiles, the impact of social media, and how to handle rejection. We also chat about the balance between authentic creation and catering to judges, gender balance in the art scene, and the broader implications of art prizes for the art community.
If you want to find out more about Maria Stoljar & Talking with Painters, go and check out:
her instagram or website Podcast on apple, spotify (plus all the others)And her You Tube channel
Discussed in the podcast:
The National Emerging Art Prize & Amber Cresswell Bell
Ross Jones episode on Creative Conversations podcast
John McDonald’s : Everything the Art World Doesn’t Want You To Know
Talking with Painters episodes: Every episode seemed relevant to this chat! But I had to limit it to those we referenced!
Ep 115: The Archibald Winners
Ep 120: Robert Malherbe
Ep 110: Robin Eley
Ep 65: Nicholas Harding
Ep 80 : Ben Quilty
Ep 45 : Wendy Sharpe
Ep 41: Megan Seres
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In the season finale of The Creative Kind, we’re joined by Sarah Jane Moon, Rita Stella, Petrina Jose, and Sarah Lubcke, who all share their perspectives on understanding and identifying an audience., We chat about the nuances of ‘audience’ versus ‘market,’ the importance of showing up in person, and how social media and online platforms fit in. We talk about how we each navigate our creative paths while thinking about who connects with our work and how we communicate our work effectively.
Find out more about this episodes guests:
You can find Sarah Jane Moon’s website here
Sarah Jane Moon, has an upcoming show called ‘Nature/Nurture’ 16th - 21st July (10am - 5pm) PV: Tues 15th July (6 - 9pm) Downstairs, The Department Store, 248 Ferndale Rd, London SW9 8FR
You can find Rita Stella’s work through Art to Art Gallery
You can find Petrina Jose’s artwork here and her Branding & Design page Hearts & Eyes here
You can find Sarah Lubcke here & here website here
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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In this Studio session I’m joined by Jenny Stringleman and Amanda Billing for another casual and varied discussion. We talk about our evolving work routines, differences in working styles, and the concept of chronotypes. We touch on online art criticism, & explore the impact of social media on artists and the differences, connections and reasons behind the art we create and the art we collect.
Recommendations :
Mentioned in this podcast:
You can find Amanda here, her newsletter here and her earlier interview episode here
You can find Jenni here and her newsletter here and her earlier interview episode here
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
xJB
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In this episode, I’m joined by Mandy Jakich—artist, educator and founder of Creative Matters & Creative Connections Podcas—to talk about the role of community in a creative life.
Mandy shares how her need for connection as a self-taught artist led her to start building her own audiences early on, from hosting exhibitions at home to developing wider educational initiatives. She reflects on her time at Auckland Art Gallery, the role of the Muriwai Artists Collective, and the evolution of her podcast and art education business—all of which have centred around creative connection.
We talk about how artist communities can provide accountability, emotional support and practical motivation, and how small acts of collaboration can create unexpected ripple effects. Mandy also shares how she’s carving out time to return to her own art practice, and the balance between leading others and holding space for herself.
You can find the Creative Connections podcast (previously Creative Matters) here, here on apple and here on spotify
Creative Connections show at Kumeu Arts From June 23- July 19th
Mentioned in this podcast:
Interview with Sara Langon on Creative Connections
Interview with Sefton Rani on creative Connections
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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In this episode, I sit down with Richelle Byers & Liz Fraser from Gallery De Novo in Dunedin. Richelle and Liz reflect on how a gallery space can create community and connection when it’s open, conversational, and unintimidating.
We chat about the idea of community and connection and how that can be built and shared through a commercial gallery—what they look for in artists, how relationships form between artists, gallerists and collectors, and how taste, instinct and storytelling shape the work they choose to represent. We talk about what it means to truly “fall” for an artwork, how personal and emotional that process can be for collectors.
There’s also reflection on what it means to see work in the flesh — why scale, texture, and presence can’t always be captured on a screen — and how that in-person experience helps galleries stay grounded in community.
You can find Gallery De Novo here and here on instagram - Their 20th anniversary show opens on the 28th &29th of June so go along and congratulate them if you can!
Mentioned in this episode:
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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n this episode, we dive into the powerful intersection of art, culture, and community with Lissy and Rudi Robinson-Cole, the duo behind Wharenui Harikoa. From creating spaces that encourage introspection and connection, to collaborating across cultures, Lissy and Rudi share the deeply personal and healing process behind this transformative art installation. We explore the impact of Wharenui Harikoa as a vessel for emotional release, where visitors share their most intimate wishes—a practice that calls to mind the ancient Matariki rituals of letting go and releasing energy into the universe.
We also talk about the ongoing evolution of their work, including a new vision for future Wharenui installations and their upcoming projects, like an international exhibition at the De Young Museum in San Francisco. The conversation also touches on the importance of community involvement and the meditative power of crochet, which is central to their practice.
This episode is a deep exploration of art’s ability to create bridges of understanding, foster dialogue, and invite both the artist and viewer into spaces of healing and connection.
You can Buy a Ball & support to Lissy & Rudi here
You can find their website here: and their instagram here:
Lissy & Rudi Have a Show on from June 12 - July 5 with Time Melville Gallery in Auckland, Whiria Ngā Kanorau – Weave the Many Colours/Seeds
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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In this episode, I chat with Melbourne-based artist Rita Stella about navigating the complexities of the emerging artist. We talk about how Rita found gallery representation through a local art prize, why she’s cautious about prints and commissions, and the value of trusting her own pace—even when the art world seems to demand more, faster. We cover the realities of finding time for art around parenting and work, learning to define success on your own terms, and how to tune out the noise and just make what you want to make.
Rita shares what it was like to leave a stable career and commit to painting, and why she’s deliberately resisted pressure to scale her art business too quickly. We also chat about pricing work, and the importance of creative community.
You can find Rita here
People mentioned:
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
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In this episode, Carrie Scott, an art dealer, shares practical advice for emerging artists. She stresses the importance of tracking sales, clients, and works right from the start, which helps when approaching galleries down the line. Carrie also advises artists to price their work carefully and avoid pricing themselves out of their market.
Carrie talks about the need for persistence in the art world, emphasising that success doesn’t happen overnight. She also highlights the importance of knowing when and how to approach galleries.The conversation also touches on the complexities of social media for artists. Carrie acknowledges its usefulness in discovering and connecting with audiences but points out that it requires a significant amount of effort and can push artists out of their comfort zones. This is a conversation about how patience plays a bigger role than most people expect, and how underneath the labels and everything else, it's about doing the work and not rushing the process.
You can find Carrie Scott Here
You can find the Seen membership here
You can find the Seen Podcast here on apple podcasts or here on spotify
You can find the podcast here
Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
Discussed in the episode:
Mentioned in the episode:
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In this episode Fleur Wickes and Fleur Woods join me for a casual studio session. We discuss the unique challenges and costs associated with pursuing a career in the arts, such as the financial pressure of maintaining studio spaces, the impact of life changes on creative work, and the constant need to balance personal and professional boundaries. We chat about the value of perseverance, the importance of adaptability, and the various ways we have tailored and changed practices to fit our evolving lives.
You can find Fleur Woods website here, previous epsiodes with Fleur Woods here & here
And Fleur Wickes website here, previous episodes with Fleur Wickes here and here.
You can find the podcast here Thanks so much for listening! Feel free to rate, review & share if you enjoyed it, this helps other people find the show
Recommendations from this week
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