Episode 17 - Susan Potje Interview

Join the Business of Art Courses: https://thebusinessof-art.teachable.com/p/the-business-of-art Other links linktr.ee/businessof_art Summary In this episode of the Business of Art podcast, Mark McKenna discusses the intricacies of gallery representation for fine artists. He emphasizes the importance of building mutually beneficial relationships with galleries, weighing the pros and cons of such partnerships, and providing insights on how to find the right gallery, navigate the application process, and maintain a strong relationship once represented. McKenna shares personal experiences and practical advice to help artists succeed in the competitive art world. Takeaways The goal of working with galleries is a mutually beneficial relationship. Galleries provide increased exposure and access to established client bases. Commission fees for galleries typically range from 40% to 50%. Artists may lose some control over pricing and presentation when represented by a gallery. Researching galleries eOectively is crucial before applying for representation. Handling rejection gracefully is important for maintaining professional relationships. Clear communication is key to a successful gallery partnership. Finding a gallery that aligns with your artistic vision is essential. Artists should be prepared to meet the expectations of their galleries. Maintaining a strong relationship with a gallery requires ongoing eOort and professionalism. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support

Join The Business of art: https://thebusinessof-art.teachable.com/p/the-business-of-art Greg Denning’s Links https://www.youtube.com/@GregDenning https://open.spotify.com/show/2l55cUnC74t9mbkacj1mtH https://courses.extraordinaryfamilylife.com Summary In this episode of the The Business of Art podcast, Mark McKenna is interviewed by Greg Denning, sharing his journey from a when he was a young art enthusiast to now as a renowned wildlife painter. Mark discusses the importance of mastery in art, the role of supportive family and mentors, and the impact of exposure to great artists for his growth. He also reflects on the challenges of navigating a career in art, the fear of being a ‘starving artist,’ and the eventual decision to pursue teaching as a means to support his family while continuing to develop his artistic skills. --Mark McKenna shares his artistic journey, detailing how he rediscovered his passion for oil painting after years of focusing on digital art. He discusses the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including teaching art, winning awards, and transitioning to a full-time artist. Mark emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and the continuous pursuit of mastery in both art and life. He encourages listeners to embrace the process of growth and to find joy in the challenges of their creative endeavors. Takeaways Mark's journey in art began at a young age. Supportive family and mentors play a crucial role in artistic development. Mastery in art is a continuous journey, not a destination. Exposure to great artists can inspire and elevate one's own work. The identity of being an artist can shape one's life choices. Repetition and practice are key to developing artistic skills. Creative processes often involve using technology and reference materials. Navigating career choices in art can be challenging but rewarding. Teaching art can provide stability while pursuing personal artistic goals. The journey of becoming an artist is as fulfilling as the art itself. Rediscovering oil painting can reignite passion for art. Teaching can provide the stability needed to pursue creative passions. Artistic growth often comes from embracing challenges and failures. Community support in the art world fosters collaboration and friendship. Winning awards can validate an artist's journey and open new opportunities. Pursuing workshops with established artists can significantly improve skills. Transitioning to full-time art requires careful planning and confidence. Balancing a teaching career with art can be demanding but rewarding. Exploring different artistic styles can lead to personal fulfillment. Mastery in life involves continuous learning and embracing the journey. Keywords Mark McKenna, Greg Denning, Formidable Family Man, art journey, path to mastery, wildlife painting, exposure to greatness, career choices, teaching art, family support, artistic growth, creative process, art, oil painting, wildlife art, artistic journey, personal growth, teaching, creativity, mastery, art community, mentorship --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support

https://thebusinessof-art.teachable.com/p/the-business-of-art Troy’s Links http://auctionsbyblack.net/ https://www.facebook.com/troy.black.737 https://www.instagram.com/auctionsbyblack/ Summary In this episode of the Business of Art podcast, host Mark McKenna interviews Troy Black, a seasoned auctioneer with over 30 years of experience in the art auction industry. Troy shares his journey into auctioneering, the importance of building relationships with artists and collectors, and the emotional dynamics of auctions. He discusses the factors that influence auction success, the psychology behind bidding, and the role of energy in creating an engaging auction experience. Troy also explains the compensation models for auctioneers and the significance of setting realistic reserves for artworks. In this conversation, Troy Black and Mark McKenna delve into the evolving landscape of art auctions and their impact on artists and collectors. They discuss how auctions provide opportunities for artists to reach a wider audience, the emotional highs and lows experienced during auctions, and the strategic considerations artists should keep in mind regarding the size of their works. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of auctions in building an artist's career and the long-term benefits of engaging with collectors, even at lower price points. In this conversation, Mark McKenna and Troy Black discuss the dynamics of the art market, focusing on the importance of nurturing new collectors, the impact of election years on art sales, and the trends that influence collector behavior. They emphasize the need for emerging artists to adopt an abundant mindset, engage with the community, and seek mentorship to navigate their careers successfully. The discussion highlights the significance of relationships in the art world and the joy of creating art without the pressure of market fluctuations. Takeaways Troy Black is a second-generation auctioneer with extensive experience. Building relationships with artists is crucial for auction success. The emotional rollercoaster of auctions affects both artists and buyers. Not every piece of art is a masterpiece; quality varies. Setting realistic reserves is key to successful auctions. The psychology of bidding plays a significant role in auctions. Auctioneers must create excitement to engage the audience. Bid spotters are essential for enhancing the auction experience. Energy levels in the room can dramatically impact bidding behavior. Compensation models for auctioneers can vary based on performance. Art auctions provide a chance for collectors to find good deals. The emotional experience of auctions can be intense for artists. Smaller art pieces can appeal to a broader audience. Emerging artists can benefit from exposure at auctions. The auction environment can create excitement and competition. Pricing strategies are crucial for artists participating in auctions. Building relationships in the art world is essential for success. Collectors appreciate the story behind their art purchases. Art auctions can help establish a collector base for new artists. It's important for artists to consider the size of their works. Emerging artists should focus on nurturing new collectors. The art market can be influenced by external factors like elections. An abundant mindset is crucial for artists. Building relationships in the art community is essential. Artists should create accessible pieces for new collectors. Market volatility can lead to shifts in collector behavior. Collectors often follow trends set by their peers. Having fun in the creative process enhances the quality of work. Mentorship can provide valuable guidance for emerging artists. Patience and persistence are key in building an art career. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support

Join the Business of art: https://thebusinessof-art.teachable.com/p/the-business-of-art Dave’s Links https://www.davidfrederickriley.com https://www.instagram.com/davidrileyart/ https://www.facebook.com/DavidFrederickRiley/ Summary In this episode of the Business of Art podcast, host Mark McKenna interviews contemporary wildlife painter David Frederick Riley. David shares his artistic journey, from his early influences and education to his transition from illustration to fine art. He discusses the importance of personal development and mindset shifts that propelled him towards success. David's breakthrough came with his wildlife portraits, leading to a flourishing art career and gallery representation. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of being a professional artist in today's market. In this conversation, David Frederick Riley shares his journey as an artist, discussing the challenges and strategies he employed to navigate the art world. He emphasizes the importance of mindset, daily routines, and taking responsibility for one's artistic journey. Riley also highlights the balance between production and personal life, and the need to find a unique approach to art that resonates with both the artist and the audience. In this conversation, David Frederick Riley and Mark McKenna explore the multifaceted nature of art, emphasizing the importance of balancing personal expression with market demands. They discuss how art impacts others, the significance of creating with purpose, and provide valuable advice for aspiring artists. The dialogue also delves into the necessity of developing technical skills, navigating the art market, and fostering an abundance mindset to thrive in the creative industry. Ultimately, they highlight the emotional connection that art fosters between the artist and the audience, and the importance of trusting one's instincts in the creative process. In this conversation, David Frederick Riley shares his insights on the artistic journey, emphasizing the importance of persistence and the long- term commitment required to succeed in the art world. He discusses the balance between personal projects and commissioned work, the challenges and opportunities in the print market, and the significance of outsourcing tasks to maximize creative output. Riley also highlights the mindset needed for artists to thrive, encouraging them to view feedback as a learning opportunity and to embrace the abundance of potential art buyers. Takeaways David's early exposure to art shaped his career path. Transitioning from illustration to fine art was a significant shift for David. Personal development played a crucial role in David's success. David emphasizes the importance of mentorship in the art world. The wildlife portraits marked a turning point in David's career. Mindset shifts are essential for overcoming the 'starving artist' stereotype. David's approach to pricing his artwork was informed by market research. Establishing gallery representation was key to expanding his reach. David's journey reflects the importance of resilience in the art industry. Continuous learning and adaptation are vital for artistic growth. Keywords David Frederick Riley, wildlife painting, art career, personal development, artistic journey, contemporary art, mindset, gallery representation, portrait painting, art market, art, galleries, daily routine, personal responsibility, art production, creativity, art, artistic expression, aspiring artists, abundance mindset, technical art skills, art advice, art, commissions, art prints, artistic process, motivation, artistic success, creativity, passive income --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support

Join the Business of art: https://thebusinessof-art.teachable.com/p/the-business-of-art Colt’s Links https://www.coltidolart.com https://www.instagram.com/cidolart/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063541628588 Summary In this episode of the Business of Art podcast, Colt Idol shares his journey as a professional artist, influenced by his father's legacy and his upbringing in Montana. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to pursue art full-time after a career in sports was cut short by injuries. Colt recounts the challenges and triumphs of establishing his own gallery, the Dick Idol Gallery, and the importance of building relationships with clients and artists. He emphasizes the significance of access to a broader audience through galleries and shares insights on balancing his time between creating art and managing the gallery. In this conversation, Colt Idol shares insights into his artistic process, balancing life as an artist with family responsibilities, and the financial challenges that come with being a professional artist. He emphasizes the importance of feedback and critique in developing one's artistic identity and discusses strategies for emerging artists to find their voice and navigate the art market. The conversation also touches on the significance of creating art that resonates with a broader audience while maintaining personal passion and creativity. In this conversation, Colt Idol and Mark McKenna discuss the complexities of print sales in the art world, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of offering prints, the logistics of production, and the importance of branding and marketing. They share personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the print market, the philosophy behind print sales, and advice for emerging artists. The discussion emphasizes the significance of taking one's art career seriously and the potential of the Western genre in the current art market. Takeaways Colt Idol has been a professional artist for 13 years. Growing up in an artistic family shaped Colt's career. Injuries in sports led Colt to focus on art. Colt opened the Dick Idol Gallery with his family. Building relationships with clients is crucial in art sales. Colt emphasizes the importance of access to a wider audience. Managing a gallery requires balancing time effectively. Colt prefers to focus on painting rather than sales. The gallery model allows artists to reach more clients. Colt's disciplined approach to time management aids his creativity. Colt aims for at least 50 hours of painting a week. His wife plays a crucial role in managing gallery tasks. Artists often face financial roller coasters in their careers. It's essential to prioritize family time over work deadlines. Emerging artists should focus on developing their identity. Critique from non-artists can be valuable for growth. Artists should balance personal passion with market appeal. Colt emphasizes the importance of experimentation in early work. Feedback is crucial for understanding audience reception. Prolific artists can still struggle with the creative process. Prints can either help or hurt your work depending on usage. Limited edition prints can enhance original sales and branding. New artists should hold off on prints until their work gains traction. Prints should ideally be priced at 10-15% of the original's value. Print sales can be a small but valuable part of income. Licensing prints can provide exposure with minimal effort. The Western genre has a unique nostalgic appeal in the U.S. Taking your art career seriously is crucial for success. Your behavior and presentation impact your art sales. Outsourcing print production can save time and increase efficiency. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support

https://thebusinessof-art.teachable.com/p/the-business-of-art   Kathy’s Links https://www.kathysigleart.com https://www.facebook.com/kathysigleart https://www.instagram.com/kathysigleart   Summary In this episode of the Business of Art podcast, host Mark McKenna interviews artist Kathy Sigle and her husband Jim. Kathy shares her journey as a professional artist, She discusses her love for watercolor painting, her artistic development, and the importance of family support in her career.  They also discuss Kathy’s journey as an artist and the evolution of her art business. They explore the challenges faced in the early days of print making, the importance of family support, and the logistics of participating in art shows. Kathy shares insights on balancing the creation of original artwork with managing prints, the significance of networking, and the systems they have established for efficiency. They also touch on adapting to market trends and offer valuable advice for aspiring artists looking to make prints as another avenue of making money with their work. In this conversation, Kathy and Mark discuss the intricacies of building a successful art business, focusing on the importance of sharing knowledge, engaging with customers, and promoting art online. They emphasize the need for persistence, quality in printing, and the value of networking within the art community. Kathy shares her experiences with selling prints, navigating challenges during the pandemic, and the significance of personal connections in the art world.   Takeaways ·         Kathy Siglel has been a professional artist since 1988. ·         She began participating in art shows alongside her mother, which helped her grow as an artist. ·         Kathy emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement in her art. ·         The journey of an artist often begins with family support. ·         Challenges in art can lead to creative solutions. ·         Making and selling prints can diversify an artist's income. ·         Networking at art shows can lead to valuable connections. ·         Having a variety of print sizes can attract more buyers. ·         Balancing original art creation with print management is crucial. ·         Establishing efficient systems can optimize time and organization. ·         Adapting to market trends is essential for success. ·         Creativity plays a significant role in business strategy. ·         Treating an art business like a business can yield better results. Sharing knowledge is key to success in the art community. ·         Persistence is essential for artists starting their journey. ·         Engaging with customers can lead to more sales. ·         Promoting art online requires consistent posting and interaction. ·         Quality materials in printing are crucial for lasting art. ·         Building relationships in the art community can lead to opportunities. ·         Understanding your market can help in pricing and selling art. ·         Diversifying income streams can stabilize an artist's business. ·         Networking can create a supportive community for artists. ·         Don't be afraid to try new things in your art business.   Keywords Kathy Sigle, watercolor artist, Western art, artistic journey, art shows, painting techniques, art influences, balancing life and art, giclee prints, art business, challenges as an artist, networking, creativity, marketing, artist advice, fine art, fine art prints, selling art online, customer engagement, art community, marketing strategies, quality printing, artist tips --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support

https://thebusinessof-art.teachable.com/p/the-business-of-art Susan’s Links https://celebrateart.com https://www.facebook.com/CelebrationOfFineArt/ http://instagram.com/celebrationoffineart https://www.youtube.com/user/cfacelebrateart Artist Application Link https://celebrateart.com/for-artists/ Go-Giver Books by Bob Burg https://a.co/d/id1zHsX Summary In this episode of the Business of Art podcast, host Mark McKenna interviews Susan Potje, the second- generation owner of the Celebration of Fine Art in Scottsdale, Arizona. They discuss the evolution of the art show, the importance of building authentic relationships between artists and collectors, and strategies for overcoming the starving artist stigma. Susan shares insights on the application process for artists, the significance of community, pricing strategies, and the necessity of effective communication in the art world. The conversation emphasizes the value of persistence, professional development, and the supportive nature of the art community. Takeaways • Susan Potje emphasizes the importance of authentic relationships in the art world. • The Celebration of Fine Art has evolved to support artists and collectors alike.• Financial success for artists is achievable through community and connection.• Artists should focus on building a diverse inventory to cater to different buyers. • Persistence in applying to art shows can lead to eventual acceptance.• Communication and professionalism are key to maintaining trust with collectors. • Investing in personal and professional development is crucial for artists.• Pricing art should reflect its value and the artist's confidence.• The art community is generally supportive and generous.• Setting high goals can lead to greater achievements in an artist's career. Keywords Fine art, fine artists, Celebration of Fine Art, Susan Potje, art community, pricing strategies, artist success, artist relationships, application process, professional development, business of art, art show, art business --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support

Join the Business Of Art: thebusinessof-art.teachable.com/p/the-business-of-art https://linktr.ee/businessof_art Doug’s Links https://westernskiesgallery.com/collections/doug-monson https://www.facebook.com/doug.monson.5 https://www.instagram.com/monson.art/ https://snelsonphotolab.com/product-category/monsonart/ Summary Doug Monson, a professional charcoal artist and gallery owner, shares his journey and experiences in the art world. He discusses his passion for drawing and the importance of mastering the skill before moving on to painting. Doug talks about the challenges of being a charcoal artist, including the perception that charcoal art may not carry the same value as oil paintings. He also shares insights into running a gallery, including the importance of developing relationships with clients and creating a comfortable and welcoming gallery space. Doug emphasizes the need for artists and gallery owners to pay attention to the business side of art and to constantly learn and adapt. In this conversation, Doug Monson discusses the challenges of balancing running a gallery and creating art. He shares his experience of working on commissions and the importance of having a good reference for a successful piece. Doug also talks about the process of developing a personal style and the importance of getting to know gallery owners and building relationships. He emphasizes the need for patience, hard work, and networking in the art industry. Takeaways • Mastering drawing is essential before moving on to painting. • Charcoal art may face challenges in terms of perceived value compared to oil paintings. • Running a gallery requires attention to the business side of art and building relationships with clients. • Creating a comfortable and welcoming gallery space can enhance the customer experience. • Listening and understanding the needs of clients is crucial in selling art. • Balancing running a gallery and creating art can be a challenge, but it is possible with proper time management and dedication. • Having a good reference is crucial for creating successful artwork, and artists should strive to find high- quality references that capture the desired emotion and detail. • Developing a personal style takes time and patience, and artists should focus on letting it happen naturally rather than forcing it. • Building relationships with gallery owners and staff is important for artists looking to be represented, as it helps establish trust and understanding. • Patience, hard work, and networking are key factors in succeeding as an artist, and artists should be prepared for ups and downs in their career. Keywords charcoal art, drawing, painting, gallery, artist, art business, fostering relationships, framing art, selling art, art gallery, art commissions, art reference, artist style, patience, hard work, networking --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support

https://thebusinessof-art.teachable.com/p/the-business-of-art Summary Dr. Michael Duchemin has over 35 years of experience in the Western art world. He has held various roles in museums and is currently an art and museum advisor and appraiser specializing in Western American fine art. He discusses his journey in the field and the importance of museum shows for emerging artists. He also highlights the different levels of museum shows and the value of being museum-worthy. In this conversation, Michael Duchemin shares valuable insights for artists on understanding the art market and navigating different avenues for selling their work. He emphasizes the importance of knowing your market and exploring new markets, as well as the significance of online presence. Duchemin also discusses the role of museum shows, galleries, and auctions in an artist's career, and the strategies museums use to cultivate collectors. He advises artists to focus on quality over quantity as they progress in their careers and to be aware of regional preferences and market trends. Takeaways Dr. Michael Duchemin has extensive experience in the Western art world and has held various roles in museums. Museum shows are important for emerging artists as they provide prestige and recognition. There are different levels of museum shows, with some being more prestigious than others. Being museum-worthy means having artwork that is of high quality and suitable for display in a museum. Building relationships with museum board members can increase the chances of being selected for museum shows. Museum shows can lead to opportunities for artists to have their work collected by museums. Know your market and explore new markets to find the best opportunities for selling your work. Maintain an online presence and consider selling your work directly through your own website. Understand the role of museum shows, galleries, and auctions in your career and choose the avenues that align with your goals. Focus on quality over quantity as you progress in your career and consider adapting your palette to fit different regional preferences. Seek advice and guidance from professionals in the art world to help define your market and develop effective strategies. Keywords Western art, museum shows, emerging artists, museum show director, art market, selling art, museum shows, art galleries, art auctions, online presence, art market trends --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support

https://linktr.ee/businessof_art Lindsey's Links https://www.lindseykustusch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lkustusch https://www.facebook.com/lindsey.kustusch Summary Lindsay Kustusch, a professional fine artist, shares her journey in the art world. She started as a child who loved drawing and coloring, and eventually pursued art school in Chicago and San Francisco. After exploring different subjects and styles, she found her passion in cityscape and animal paintings. Lindsay also discusses the significance of plein air painting and the challenges and rewards it brings. She talks about the mental aspects of being an artist and the barriers she had to overcome. Lindsay also explains the inspiration behind her butterfly paintings and the process of creating them. Lindsey Kustusch discusses her artistic process, including experimenting with different tools and techniques, and the importance of using a mirror to gain a fresh perspective on her artwork. She also shares her approach to social media and the benefits of having a newsletter to connect with collectors. Lindsey emphasizes the need for time management and finding a balance between painting, promoting, and other tasks. She also provides insights into maintaining good gallery relationships and ine importance or researcning ganenes belore approaching tem. in this conversation, Lindsey kustusch shares her insights on working with galleries and pricing artwork. She emphasizes the importance of finding the right gallery that aligns with your style and goals, considering factors such as location, the artists they represent, and their collector base. Lindsey also highlights the value of having a physical space to showcase your art and the benefits of galleries in promoting and selling your work. When it comes to pricing, she suggests considering complexity, size, and the value of your name as an artist. Lindsey encourages artists to have confidence, paint consistently, and focus on quantity to gain experience and grow their careers. Takeaways Lindsay Kustusch's journey as a professional fine artist started from a young age and led her to pursue art school in Chicago and San Francisco. She found her passion in cityscape and animal paintings, specializing in plein air painting. Lindsay discusses the mental aspects of being an artist and the barriers she had to overcome • She explains the inspiration behind her butterfly paintings and the process of creating them. Experimenting with different tools and fechniques can lead to new artistic discoveries Using a mirror can provide a fresh perspective on artwork and help with objectivity. Having a newsletter is an effective way to connect with collectors and promote artwork. Time management and finding a balance between painting and other tasks is crucial for success. Researching galleries before approaching them can help ensure a good fit and understanding of their art focus Finding the right gallery is crucial for artists, considering factors such as location, the artists they represent, and their collector base. Having a physical space to showcase your art is valuable for promoting and selling your work. Consider complexity, size, and the value of your name when pricing your artwork Confidence, consistency, and quantity are key to growing as an artist and building a successful career. Keywords Lindsay Kustusch, professional artist, art journey, cityscape painting, animal painting. plein air painting, mental aspects of being an artist, butterfly paintings, artistic process, techniques, social media, newsletter, collectors, time management, balance, gallery relationships, research, art galleries, pricing artwork, finding the right gallery, promoting artwork, selling artwork, art collectors, art pricing strategies, painting consistently, quantity --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebusinessofart/support