Final Implementation Idea Check-In - Create a podcast to provide a resource for professional artists navigating art business.
1. Interview/record pilot podcast with guest artist interview
2. Finalize branding for the podcast
3. Find a platform to launch the podcast on (i.e., Buzzsprout or Anchor by Spotify)
4. Social media accounts created for the podcast
5. Gain 100 subscribers in 2023
6. Receive positive feedback from 15 working artists about how the podcast has benefited their careers in 2023
7. 25 new podcast episodes recorded and released in 2023
8. 25 professional creatives interviewed for the podcast in 2023
9. 1 sponsor for the podcast in 2023
10. 5 artists record and share their experiences listening to podcast in 2023
11. Secure a co-host and/or a collaboration with another media source for artists for the podcast in 2023
Below is an interview with visual artist Maya Freelon – this is an example of the type of interview I will record on the podcast:
Kathryn Freelon interview with Maya Freelon – visual artist
What resources for artists can you recommend?
Technology is changing so fast and giving artists more access to buyers. I really recommend sites like Artsy.
When you were first thinking about becoming a professional artist, did you worry about finances?
No, I had really good examples of people around me who followed their passions and the money followed.
Were you encouraged to work in a creative field by your family? Did they discuss money/salary with you?
Yes, I was encouraged by my family. Unfortunately, money was sort of a taboo topic in my family. I wish my parents had shared their salaries with me and taught me more about money beyond the importance of saving. I wish I had been taught how to invest. Things are changing so fast – I’m trying to learn about crypto so I can teach my kids. I’m trying to be more open with my kids.
Why do you think some creatives choose career paths outside of the arts?
People are afraid and they lack confidence. Comparing yourself to other can really put you in a bad place. You have to have great teachers and mentors along the way to encourage you.
What advice would you give a young artist?
Never stop following your passion and trusting your intuition. Learn as much as you can about the art business and how to take up space. Learn how to negotiate and remember you worth. Branding is just as important as the art. Carve out of niche for yourself.
What is unique about being a creative in today’s society?
The access to clients is unprecedented. I was working with a gallerist and she was taking 50% commission and I had no access to the clients list. During the pandemic, I realized she no longer had any overhead because her gallery was closed. So why was I paying her so much to sell my art online when I can be doing that?
Are artistic fields respected?
Yes, I feel like I have earned respect in my field and I’m really proud of how far I’ve come.
What do you think of the “struggling artist” troupe?
It’s definitely hard to not have a set salary and company health insurance etc but I can make my own schedule and I’m doing what I love. That’s the example I want to set for my children.
Why is art important?
Art inspires and brings joy. Art is life. Everyone deserves to be surround by beauty.