Heart, Business, and Community - Stu McLaren - Ep 161

https://Art2Life.com - This week, I’m exploring the three primary fears that creatives often grapple with: the fear of failure, the fear of what others will think, and, intriguingly, the fear of success.  I’m sharing how these fears manifested in my life as I transitioned from a commercial illustrator to a fine artist. A period of personal upheaval and the loss of all my work became a catalyst for profound transformation, leading to the birth of Art2Life and my path as a coach and fine artist.  Let go of old mindsets, embrace change, and learn more about art's vital role in this alchemical process of self-discovery and success. Art is not just a product—it's a transformative journey back to your authentic self. So take small steps, play, and keep your vision alive. Whether you're creatively curious or already an experienced artist, this episode will give you some practical steps to help you move past your fears and toward the creative life you’re looking for. ================================ LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN… (0:00) Why the fear of success hinders personal growth  (5:41) Making art helped me overcome depression and marked the start of my fine art career  (8:03) Fear of success can secretly hold you back  (13:57) Overcoming the struggle of imposter syndrome (20:18) Immerse yourself in environments that align with your passions  (24:14) Address your underlying beliefs and fears from childhood  (28:13) Laughing at adversity is powerful; try not to take life too seriously  (29:11) Playing and creating art fosters self-realization, success, and transformation  ================================ RESOURCES MENTIONED Kurt Cobain: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kurt_Cobain Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5107.The_Catcher_in_the_Rye ============================= CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE: Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/  Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/  Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/  Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en  Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life  #Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

https://Art2Life.com - Art can manifest in countless ways, from traditional canvas paintings to more unconventional forms like intricate snow patterns. British artist Simon Beck uses only his feet and a compass to create breathtaking patterns on snow-covered landscapes, primarily near his home at the Les Arts Ski Resort near Mont Blanc in France.  Simon shares his unusual journey from competitive orienteering and map-making to becoming a pioneer of snow art. Join us as Simon shares insights into his creative process, the physical demands of his work, and the awe-inspiring interplay between nature and art. ================================ LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN… (0:00) Creating snow drawings mirrors reverse map-making  (04:04) The transition from competitive orienteering to snow drawing as a main source of income  (07:16) Prioritizing making art near home first to photograph the drawing before others ski  (11:35) Shadows on snow look darker or lighter depending on the sun's position and time of day  (12:57) Drawing requires focus in the first 1.5 hours, the Simon listens to music  (18:14) Fractals balance lightness, strength, and space  (19:56) Measurement is key, but the design relies on judgment  (30:57) Why not too many people watch Simon work  ================================ RESOURCES MENTIONED Les Arcs Ski Resort: https://www.seelesarcs.com/ Professor Brian Cox: https://apolloschildren.com/ ================================= CONNECT WITH SIMON BECK Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonbeck_snowart/ Simon’s Snow Art: https://www.abebooks.com/Snow-art-Beck-Simon-EDIT-MILON/31548161892/bd ============================= CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE: Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/  Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/  Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/  Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en  Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life  #Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

https://Art2Life.com - Balancing your creative journey with the demands of daily life can be tricky. This is why even a small daily practice of art-making can ignite your creative spirit.  Whether it's about creating a dedicated workspace, establishing boundaries, or finding energy in non-artistic activities, on the show this week, I’m sharing insights and strategies to keep you motivated and inspired. Start setting aside time for your art, define your schedule, and get ready to discover the art in your life.  ================================ LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN… (0:00) Balancing art and life through daily art practice  (07:36) Set boundaries to maintain objectivity and creativity and prioritize self-care  (12:03) Planning time for creativity energizes and calms, aiding artistic productivity  (15:16) Choosing how to spend your time involves trade-offs (16:43) Prioritize your art by valuing your time (19:18) Sparking creativity is easier if you have a dedicated space to make your art  (24:47) Authenticity and emotion in art and life allow you to curate a fulfilling life  (30:11) Focus on activities that inspire you  (32:45) Learn about our free Art of Your Life workshop this March  ================================ RESOURCES MENTIONED Buy Back Your Time: https://a.co/d/cuZrdyW 5-Day Art of Your Life Workshop: https://pages.art2life.com/cvp/5-day-workshop-l/ ============================= CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE: Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/  Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/  Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/  Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en  Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life  #Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

https://Art2Life.com - How do you reconnect with your artistic practice when you’ve taken some time out from it?  This week, I’m digging into the three central challenges that can disrupt your flow: studio disconnection, the swift drop in self-confidence when you take time away from artistic practice, and the ever-present comparison trap.  As artists, breaks can often lead to a temporary disconnect, making it challenging to return to making art with enthusiasm. I’m sharing my advice for facing and embracing the uncertainties of rekindling your creative spirit after a pause. Resistance to getting back into the studio is normal, but these strategies will help you work through it and maintain and start up your creative practice again.  ================================ LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN… (05:46) Not actively making art halts your artistic momentum  (09:37) It's essential to stay engaged in creative work even when you’re taking a break  (13:23) Prioritize personal work that energizes you without excessive effort  (16:26) Thoughtful preparation for new projects helps your personal growth  (19:24) Learning to navigate artistic challenges with clarity greatly enhances your work  ================================ RESOURCES MENTIONED 5 Day Art of Your Life Workshop: https://pages.art2life.com/cvp/5-day-workshop-l/ ============================= CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE: Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/  Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/  Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/  Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en  Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life  #Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

https://Art2Life.com - We're exploring the essential components that support your artistic vision and belief system. I’m talking about the power of vision, authenticity, and energy in your creative journey. These three elements are so important for holding belief in your artistic potential and pushing through challenges.  Your unique vision acts as your North Star, guiding you through life's distractions, and authenticity and energy are your superpowers, connecting you deeply with your creative soul.  Listen in for my tips on the path to self-discovery, why it’s important to find your North Star, and how to share your creative energy with the world. ================================ LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN… (0:00) Introducing important aspects that support your artistic vision and beliefs  (3:55) Belief in the possibilities improves momentum and creativity  (09:52) Workshops and conversations help maintain motivation and normalcy  (14:32) Trust your authenticity by leaning into what feels true to you  (18:55) How non-artists connect with artists via purchases  (21:56) Feeling good improves art, and your energy affects your creativity  (25:59) Make small changes that engage and interest you daily  (28:15) Creativity stems from channeling belief and vision into actions (35:15) The path of self-discovery is driven by the question of life's purpose  (37:21) Supportive environments foster creativity and authenticity  ============================= CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE: Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/  Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/  Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/  Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en  Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life  #Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

https://Art2Life.com - Do you ever wonder about the stages of becoming who you need to become to make the art of your life? I’m discussing the intersection of your art and your personal growth on the show this week. Art has a huge transformative power that authentically aligns with our true selves. Creativity leads to personal authenticity and self-discovery, which is why it’s so important to spend time on what energizes and inspires us. Pivoting focus onto what brings you joy leads to powerful, magnetic art.  Join us to explore how we can become not just creators of art but the art itself, building a deeper connection between our lives and our creative expression. Tune in to find out how you can harness the energy of creativity to elevate both your art and your life.  Listen if you are interested in... (0:00) Introduction to becoming who you need to become to make the art of your life  (5:19) Creativity thrives on abundant energy and inspiration, so engage with energizing activities  (11:33) Embrace challenges creatively to find redeeming lessons that lead to transformative change  (15:25) Focus on personal resonance rather than comparison in your art  (17:38) Trust your feelings in art to create work that feels right and express what you want  (22:00) Embrace challenges and confront fears in art to achieve growth and authenticity  (25:03) Art is an inner journey; authenticity comes from within, not external validation  (29:16) Your expression becomes potent. Infinity symbolizes continuous, connected creativity  ============================= CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE: Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/  Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/  Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/  Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en  Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life    #Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary  

https://Art2Life.com - Arts and aesthetic experiences positively influence our body, brain, and behavior, improving our overall health and well-being. Find out more about the fascinating journey that led Ivy Ross and Susan Magsamen to write their groundbreaking book, unveiling scientific proof of what many artists intuitively understand—the transformative power of art in our lives. We'll discuss memorable stories of personal transformation through art, the neurological mechanisms behind our sensory experiences, and the importance of cultivating an "aesthetic mindset" for a more fulfilling life.  Listen in to find out how art can enrich our lives and make us more vibrant, dynamic human beings. If you've ever wanted to understand the profound impact of creativity on our minds and bodies, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. ================================ LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN… (00:00) How Ivy and Susan connected over their shared love for play and curiosity  (08:10) Artists intuitively grasp concepts, with science now catching up  (14:27) Creating art allows deep exploration of personal tastes without judgment  (16:31) Connecting with passions fuels creativity and sparks an inspirational energy  (23:26) Feel before thinking; creative expression can reveal true emotions  (30:29) The experiment on neuroaesthetics at Milan Salone  (37:07) How firefighters use painting to alleviate PTSD  (43:00) How their book weaves together science and storytelling  (44:51) Art improves mental health in young moms  (55:52) Artists in Santa Fe create experiential art that moves beyond traditional forms  ================================ RESOURCES MENTIONED Your Brain on Art: https://www.yourbrainonart.com/ Luminary Scholars at Johns Hopkins: https://www.artsandmindlab.org/people/ Finding "A Space for Being" at Salone del Mobile in Milan: https://blog.google/technology/design/a-space-for-being-salone-del-mobile-milan/ The relationship between arts and cultural services and health outcomes by Daisy Fancourt: https://cloa.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Prof-Daisy-Fancourt-The-relationship-between-arts-and-cultural-services.pdf Margaret Chisolm, MD: https://margaretchisolmmd.com/ Dominic Di Mare: https://browngrotta.com/artists/dominic-di-mare About Joan Mitchell: https://www.joanmitchellfoundation.org/joan-mitchell Your Brain on Art: https://www.amazon.com/dp/059344924X Ashes2Art: https://www.firerescue1.com/trauma/articles/ashes2art-the-healing-power-of-creativity-for-firefighters-RGvsB1bDarCKxMLy/ Meow Wolf: https://meowwolf.com/ Ep 151 of the Art2Life Podcast: https://www.art2life.com/2024/11/06/wisdom-art-and-longing-judy-tuwaletstiwa-ep-151/ ================================= CONNECT WITH IVY ROSS AND SUSAN MAGSAMEN Susan Magasmen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-magsamen-6345918/  Ivy Ross on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rossivy/  Your Brain on Art on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-brain-on-art/  ============================= CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE: Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/  Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/  Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/  Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en  Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life  #Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

https://Art2Life.com - Have you ever seen a painting on a satellite or art on a quantum computer?  Forest Stearns, principal artist and founder of Draw Everywhere Studio and the resident artist at Google Quantum AI, shares how he puts art into space, transforming satellites into canvases for beautiful, thought-provoking illustrations.  His unique fusion of art and science doesn’t stop there. Forest's curiosity and drive led him to join Google and decorate quantum computers with inspiring art, making them more relatable to the average person. We dig into the synergy between art and science and how art can connect different fields and people as a universal language. This episode celebrates the unexpected, the beautiful, and the creative spirit that drives creative innovation. Listen to learn how we can integrate creativity into our everyday lives.  ================================ LISTEN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN… The crossover between art and science (00:00) How art and science bring valuable ideas to life (06:03) Forest’s experience with aerospace science and painting on satellites (14:26) How Forest brings art to quantum computers (18:21) Art in non-artistic spaces inspires creativity and self-reflection (25:55) Ornamenting technology with art encourages people to engage with science (33:46) Nature's chaotic beauty inspires awe and investigation (43:36) ================================ RESOURCES MENTIONED Ivy Ross: https://www.yourbrainonart.com/about-us/bio/ivy-ross Susan Magsamen: https://www.yourbrainonart.com/about-us/bio/susan-magsamen Your Brain on Art: https://www.yourbrainonart.com/your-brain-on-art-book Your Brain on Art – Ivy Ross and Susan Magsamen: https://www.art2life.com/2023/03/22/your-brain-on-art-ivy-ross-and-susan-magsamen-ep-74/ Forest Stearns: Space Art Dream Remix TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/forest_stearns_space_art_dream_remix_jan_2018 ================================= Connect with Forest Stearns Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draweverywhere_studios/?hl=en DRAWEVERYWHERE: https://www.draweverywhere.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/foreststearns/ ============================= CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS WILTON AND ART2LIFE: Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF: https://workshop.art2life.com/color-tips-pdf-podcasts/  Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog: https://art2life.lpages.co/sign-up-for-the-a2l-vlog/  Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholaswilton/  Follow Art2Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art2life_world/?hl=en  Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Art2Life  #Art2Life #FineArt #AbstractArt #ModernArt #Contemporary

Starting small and quiet in the creative field is something many of us experience, but advancing requires a process—and sometimes, the guidance of a coach. Rediscovering the art in my life has been a profound journey, and I’m sharing my story to help you achieve your creative goals, too. My three-step approach for creative goals encompasses Vision, Process, and Sharing: Vision: Be clear about your desires and goals. Understand your limiting beliefs and set up a community or coaching for support. Process: Enjoy the creative journey. Maintain consistency and develop a system that works for you, allowing for sustained progress over time. Sharing: Overcome the fear of sharing your work and ideas. Sharing is vital for growth and gaining confidence as an artist. Engaging with my platform through comments and reviews helps spread valuable content. Overcoming limiting beliefs, seeking mentorship, and facilitating personal growth are essential to achieving artistic aspirations.  Listen if you are interested in... My evolution as a full-time fine artist (0:00) Evaluating galleries in Santa Fe to seek representation (06:52) Partnering with a supportive gallery owner (16:13) The three key steps to achieving your goals (17:04) Setting your vision and the goals you have (18:03) Why should you define your process? (20:18) Sharing creates opportunities and builds resilience (26:49) Create a system for seizing opportunities efficiently (29:06) Resources & People Mentioned How to Upgrade You in 2025 – Ep 159 of the Art2Life Podcast  How to Easily and Artfully Promote on Instagram   Marsha Myers Cole Morgan Cecil Tushon Connect with Nicholas Wilton and Art2Life Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF here Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog here Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram Follow Art2Life on Instagram Subscribe on Youtube Subscribe to Art2Life onApple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts

Stu McLaren is a master in building thriving membership communities and harnessing the power of shared interests. He believes fear, rather than lack of resources, holds many creatives back. In this conversation, we discuss how integrating art and business can unlock huge creative potential and help you build connections that drive success. We talk about overcoming self-doubt, the importance of sharing work regardless of expertise, and the incredible opportunities that come from engaging with a supportive community. Join us as we uncover the magic of building communities around passions, the joy of sharing progress, and the unexpected doors that can open when fear is left behind.  This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice to move you forward as a creator.  Listen if you are interested in... Entrepreneurship thrives on energy and collaboration (5:26) Share your progress to inspire those just one step behind you (7:50) Success in niche art memberships is fully achievable (16:47) How your journey can inspire others (20:05) Fear, not lack of preparation, is what hinders progress (24:37) Focus on habits and process over outcome—take gradual steps (28:37) Regret often follows when artists ignore their true calling (39:05) Use contrasts to highlight transformation when describing what you do (45:13) The power of uniting shared passions (55:55) Resources & People Mentioned BJ Fogg Unlock Your Balloon Twisting Potential with The Twisterhood  Southern Adoornments Decor Membership  Bonnie Snowdon’s Ignite Membership  Predictable Profits by Stu McLaren  Connect with Stu McLaren Stu McLaren's Website Follow Stu McLaren on Instagram  Follow Stu McLaren on Facebook Follow Stu McLaren on LinkedIn Follow Stu McLaren on YouTube Connect with Nicholas Wilton and Art2Life Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF here Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog here Follow Nicholas Wilton's Art on Instagram Follow Art2Life on Instagram Subscribe on Youtube Subscribe to Art2Life onApple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts