In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova is joined once again by curator Gita Joshi. Together, they explore how artists can take control of their careers by curating their own exhibitions and creating opportunities rather than waiting for art world recognition. Ekaterina and Gita share highlights from their recent trip to Paris, where they explored both Art Basel and the thriving indie art scene, revealing how large art fairs and intimate pop-up shows can coexist and enrich the art community.

They discuss the importance of independent initiatives, the power of artist-led shows, and why now is the time for artists to take control over their creative destiny. For emerging artists feeling the pressure to "make it" or gain gallery representation, Ekaterina and Gita offer practical advice on how to establish visibility, build connections, and foster a meaningful art practice.

In this Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Insights from Art Basel Paris and the indie galleries that stood out
• How artist-led initiatives can serve as stepping stones toward larger opportunities
• Why curation isn’t just for gallerists—how artists can be their own curators
• Tips on mounting your own exhibition, finding accessible venues, and attracting media attention
• The role of community and collaboration in an artist’s journey
• How to maintain motivation and resilience in challenging times

Special Offer: Join Ekaterina and Gita’s program, Your Own Art Show, to receive step-by-step guidance on curating your exhibitions, marketing them effectively, and making a powerful impression on your audience. Enroll before the end of the month to access exclusive bonuses, including one-on-one feedback on your press release, PR support, and visualizations to help you plan your body of work. Join Your Own Art Show Program today! Don't miss our special limited time bonuses.

Links & Resources:

• Your Own Art Show Program
• Connect with Gita Joshi: Website | Instagram
• Connect with Create! Magazine: Website | Instagram

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who needs a creative boost!

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Tim Fowler, a full-time artist based in Leicester, UK. Known for his bold, semi-abstract paintings bursting with vivid pinks, teals, and blues, Tim opens up about his creative journey, from experimenting with portraits and cityscapes to finding his voice in botanical themes inspired by his Caribbean heritage. We discuss how a serendipitous encounter with banana plants in his studio led him to explore the intersections of art, history, and cultural identity.

Tim shares invaluable insights on developing creative confidence, the power of taking risks, and his philosophy of painting for the gallery you want, not the one you have. He talks candidly about balancing commercial success with personal exploration, staying prolific, and pushing through self-doubt. If you're an artist looking to break free from creative blocks, embrace new challenges, or scale up your work, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

• How Tim discovered his passion for large-scale botanical paintings
• The importance of self-belief and making your own opportunities in the art world
• Practical tips on staying motivated, navigating setbacks, and maintaining creative authenticity

https://www.timjfowler.co.uk

Sponsored by: Create! Magazine: Your source for contemporary art and opportunities for artists. Visit www.createmagazine.com to explore open calls and get published.

In this insightful episode, Dr. Aubry Alvarez Bakker shares her expertise in using breathwork and creativity to manage stress, regulate the nervous system, and enhance overall well-being. She discusses how these practices can improve performance and support the manifestation of personal goals. The conversation explores the synergy between science and spirituality, focusing on how nervous system regulation can help individuals move beyond survival mode, embrace creativity, and foster a mindset of abundance. Dr. Aubry and Ekaterina Popova examine the healing potential of art, explaining how creativity serves as a medium for self-expression, emotional regulation, and personal growth. Dr. Aubry also introduces her new program, Breath and Body, aimed at empowering individuals with tools for breathwork and emotional balance.

www.instagram.com/dr.aubry/

Get a free trial of Breath & Body:

https://certified.movmntmethod.com/sign-up-to-the-free-trial

Visit Create! Magazine to subscribe or submit your work: 

Save 20% off by using the code 'NEWREADER' to subscribe to our digital magazine

https://www.createmagazine.co

Key Takeaways:

• Breathwork for Stress Relief: Simple breathing techniques help manage stress and anxiety, signaling safety to the heart and promoting physiological balance.
• Creativity as Growth Catalyst: Engaging in creative work encourages personal healing, expression, and can counteract scarcity mindset.
• Nervous System Health: Regulating the nervous system is crucial for peak performance, creativity, and successful goal-setting.
• Abundance through Art: Creativity offers a channel for personal empowerment, establishing a safe space to explore deeper emotions.
• Overcoming Creative Blocks: Regular creative practices and breathwork can help artists and creatives move beyond creative “freeze” states.

Sound Bites:

• "Stress, scarcity, and lack are incompatible with a creative mindset."
• "Breathwork and creativity are essential for managing stress."
• "Art and abundance go hand in hand."
• "Creating something is a powerful way to overcome scarcity."
• "The act of creating art fuels a sense of empowerment."

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Stress Management and Creativity
• 03:10 – Dr. Aubry’s Background and Creative Journey
• 05:48 – Breathwork and Nervous System Regulation
• 09:09 – The Science Behind Breathwork
• 12:00 – Practical Steps for Incorporating Breathwork
• 14:55 – Moving Beyond Survival Mode
• 17:47 – Creativity’s Incompatibility with Scarcity
• 21:30 – Embracing Abundance through Creative Practice
• 24:49 – The Healing Potential of Art
• 28:22 – Art as a Tool for Nervous System Regulation
• 30:44 – Navigating Creative Blocks
• 38:35 – Introduction to the Breath and Body Program

This episode offers valuable insights for artists, creatives, and anyone interested in using breathwork and creativity as tools for personal and professional growth.

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, I’m (host Ekaterina Popova, Kat) sharing my personal reflections on the power of art after an amazing experience at Art Basel Paris. I’ll dive into the joy of reconnecting with my art community, the inspiring conversations I had, and some of the most meaningful moments from the fair. This isn’t just about what I saw—it’s about how art connects us, helps us grow, and why it’s more important now than ever. So, join me as we explore how we can all embrace our unique creative paths and make art a bigger part of our lives.

Blog Post: https://www.createmagazine.co/blog/why-art-matters-today-reflections-from-art-basel-paris-2024

Call For Art: https://www.createmagazine.co/call-for-art

Become a Subscriber and Support Indie Art Publishing: https://www.createmagazine.co/magazine

Key Takeaways:

• Art is a remedy for survival and thriving.
• Connections made through art are invaluable.
• AI cannot replace the human experience in art.
• Smaller works can be just as impactful as larger ones.
• Art serves as a bridge across cultures and languages.
• The art community thrives on collaboration and support.
• Art is essential for expressing complex emotions.
• Artists should respect their own work and its value.
• Art can provide a break from societal challenges.
• Creativity is vital for personal and collective growth.

Chapters:

• 00:00 - The Transformative Power of Art
• 03:42 - Experiencing Art Basel Paris
• 06:25 - Connections and Community in the Art World
• 09:29 - The Role of Technology in Art
• 12:20 - Reflections on Art's Importance
• 15:38 - Invitation to Embrace Art's Gifts
• 17:29 - Outro

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova speaks with Chelsea Pippen-Mizzi, author and tarot reader, about the fascinating intersection of tarot and creativity. Chelsea shares her personal journey from skeptic to tarot enthusiast, discussing how tarot can serve as a powerful tool for artists and entrepreneurs. Together, they explore practical tips for beginners, the importance of personal exploration, and how tarot can help overcome creative blocks without fostering fear. Chelsea also delves into her book Tarot for Creativity, offering valuable insights and exercises designed to spark inspiration in any creative practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Tarot is a powerful tool for overcoming creative blocks.
• Chelsea's tarot journey began as a skeptic and evolved into a passion.
• Understanding tarot through storytelling and archetypes enhances creativity.
• Personal exploration is essential when navigating spirituality and tarot.
• Tarot for Creativity provides practical exercises for artists to explore.
• Tarot acts as a mirror for self-understanding and personal growth.
• Approach tarot with curiosity, playfulness, and openness.
• Choosing a tarot deck is a personal and creative experience.
• Everyday activities, like walking, can inspire creativity and offer clarity.
• Tarot is accessible to everyone—anyone can buy a deck and get started.

38:30 - How Daily Life Activities Can Spark Creative Inspiration

Perfect for artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs curious about using tarot as a tool for self-discovery, inspiration, and overcoming creative challenges!

Links

Website: https://tarotforcreativity.com

Substack: https://theshuffle.substack.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pipcardstarot

Tarot for Creativity: https://lnk.to/tarotforcreativity (Out October 1 in North America, Nov 7th globally)

Other books:

The Shadow Path: https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/chelsey-pippin-mizzi/the-shadow-path/9781035055685 (out in the UK/EU January 2 2025)

The Tarot Spreads Yearbook: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-tarot-spreads-yearbook/chelsey-pippin-mizzi/9781446309643 (Out now)

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Welcoming Chelsea Pippen-Mizzi 02:45 - Chelsea's Journey into Tarot: From Skeptic to Enthusiast 07:15 - Using Tarot to Overcome Creative Blocks 12:10 - The Role of Archetypes and Storytelling in Tarot 16:45 - Exploring Tarot for Creativity: Practical Exercises for Artists 21:30 - Interpreting Tarot in a Way That Fosters Creativity 26:00 - The Importance of Personal Exploration and Spirituality 31:05 - Approaching Tarot with Curiosity and Playfulness 34:55 - Choosing the Right Tarot Deck for Your Journey

www.createmagazine.com

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova shares a personal update as an artist and entrepreneur. She dives deep into the challenges of balancing business and creativity, the importance of self-care, and the joy she’s found in returning to the basics of direct art sales. Ekaterina emphasizes the need to reconnect with your artistic roots and nurture your creativity to overcome burnout and rediscover abundance. Tune in for inspiring insights on personal growth, mindfulness, and the power of simplicity in your art practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Success can be a distraction; stay focused on your personal vision.
• Art requires presence and a quiet mind.
• Rebuilding life after burnout can help rediscover creativity.
• Direct sales bring joy and connection to the art process.
• A mindful morning routine can improve mental clarity.
• Self-care is essential for maintaining a creative flow.
• Building a deep relationship with your art fosters abundance.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Personal Update 03:03 - Navigating the Balance Between Business and Art 05:53 - Rebuilding Life and Creativity After Burnout 09:02 - Returning to Basics: The Joy of Direct Sales 12:13 - The Importance of Connection and Creativity

In this inspiring episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat sits down with Antonio DeAscanis, founder of BlkOps Fitness, Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, and fitness coach. Antonio shares his powerful journey from his time in the Marine Corps to becoming a successful gym owner, blending his passion for fitness, community, and creativity.

• Antonio's Early Life & Inspiration: Learn how a strong sense of adventure and early life experiences shaped Antonio’s drive to create something unique in the fitness world.
• Marine Corps Influence: Antonio discusses his journey through the Marine Corps, overcoming challenges, building leadership skills, and how this shaped his approach to fitness and entrepreneurship.
• Entrepreneurial Journey: Discover the humble beginnings of BlkOps Fitness and how Antonio integrated various experiences from his military service, love for music, and DJing into creating a gym that feels more like a creative space than a traditional fitness facility.
• Creative Vision for BlkOps Fitness: Antonio’s gym is known for its unique aesthetic, featuring murals, neon lights, and a vibe that combines the best of fitness and art. He shares the inspiration behind his design choices and how art and fitness can intersect in meaningful ways.
• Building a Strong Community: Antonio talks about the importance of creating a supportive, inspiring environment at BlkOps Fitness, where individuals from different walks of life come together and push each other to achieve their goals.
• Navigating Challenges: From building a business from scratch to handling the pressures of entrepreneurship, Antonio offers invaluable insights on perseverance, branding, and standing out by embracing your uniqueness.
• Advice for New Entrepreneurs: Whether you're an artist or an entrepreneur, Antonio shares practical tips on starting with limited resources, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of staying true to your vision.

• Life experiences, even the tough ones, can fuel creativity and entrepreneurship.
• Branding is personal—don’t let external noise distract you from who you are and what you want to create.
• Perseverance and community-building are critical elements in sustaining a successful business.
• There’s no blueprint for creativity; sometimes, breaking the mold is what makes your brand stand out.

• Instagram: @blkopsfitness 
• Website: blkopsfitness.com

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram for more inspiring conversations with creatives and entrepreneurs!

In this mini episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova (Kat) shares practical strategies for artists and creatives to generate quick income in their businesses. She explores the importance of being resourceful and creative, especially with the unpredictable nature of the art market. The episode offers actionable ideas like hosting workshops, selling limited edition prints, and offering one-on-one mentoring sessions to help listeners find financial stability while staying true to their artistic passions.

Key Takeaways:

• Be resourceful and creative in your business approach.
• The art market may be unpredictable, but opportunities for quick income exist.
• Host mini workshops to share your skills and generate revenue.
• Limited edition prints create urgency and offer value to your audience.
• Treat your art business like a form of creativity and enjoyment.
• Record your ideas for future projects.

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Quick Cash Strategies for Creatives
• 03:07 – Understanding the Current Art Market Landscape
• 06:12 – Practical Ideas for Generating Quick Income
• 08:50 – Embracing Creativity in Business and Conclusion

Join my free masterclass: 

https://www.theartqueens.com/pl/2148259578

In this solo episode of Art & Cocktails, your host Ekaterina Popova, artist and founder of Create! Magazine, explores how your art and the joy you find in creating can lead to true abundance in your career. Kat dives into the science behind creativity and joy, referencing the book Your Brain on Art, and shares personal experiences of how following her passion brought unexpected success. She also discusses the power of manifesting through authenticity and explains how shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance can open up limitless opportunities for artists. If you’re ready to stop chasing money and start leading with joy, this episode is for you!

Timestamps:

• 00:40 – Intro and overview
• 04:00 – The neuroscience of creativity and joy (Your Brain on Art)
• 09:30 – Manifesting success through passion and authenticity
• 14:00 – The abundance mindset vs. scarcity mindset
• 18:00 – Personal examples and closing thoughts

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Create! Magazine. Discover their open calls for artists at www.createmagazine.co.

Summary: In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova and Gita Joshi discuss the powerful intersection of mindset and practical strategies for artists. They delve into the importance of energy work, understanding your true desires, and how to navigate the inevitable frustrations of the art world. The conversation highlights the need for artists to embrace their personal power, reframe their relationships with galleries and commissions, and focus on mindset shifts to achieve success. The episode concludes with actionable tips for artists to reclaim their power and align their actions with their true goals.

Grab our free exhibition marketing checklist: https://createmagazine.mykajabi.com/pl/2147654601

Takeaways:

• Mindset work is crucial for artist success.
• Understand how your energy influences your work and opportunities.
• Clarify what you truly want in your art career.
• Avoid letting frustration and negativity block your progress—find positive spaces.
• View gallery commissions as marketing fees, not losses.
• Maintain pricing consistency to build trust with collectors.
• Recognize your power as an artist—don’t feel victimized by the market.
• Cultivate self-worth and confidence to attract the right opportunities.
• Reframe negative experiences as opportunities for growth and learning.
• Understand your decision-making process to enhance your creative journey.

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Art & Cocktails
• 02:52 – The Importance of Mindset in Art
• 10:42 – Desires vs. Reality in the Art World
• 18:37 – Navigating Frustration and Negativity
• 25:45 – Reframing Gallery Commissions
• 32:59 – Understanding Your True Desires
• 54:48 – Final Tips for Artists

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will help you shift your mindset, reclaim your power, and make strides in your art career!

About Gita Joshi:

Gita Joshi is an independent curator, art dealer, and coach for artists. She is the founder of The Curator’s Salon, where she provides practical business advice, mindset support, and mentorship to help artists build sustainable, profitable careers. With a background in both curating and finance, Gita has a unique approach that blends practical strategies with energy work to help artists elevate their creative practices and gain visibility in the art world. She is also the author of Show Your Art and hosts The Curator’s Salon podcast. For more information, visit The Curator's Salon.

@thegitajoshi

In this episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova welcomes back artist Kristy Gordon to discuss her new book, Become a Great Artist. Together, they chat about the importance of authenticity, overcoming creative blocks, and developing the mindset necessary for artistic success. Kristy offers practical tips for artists, including the significance of dedicating just 25 minutes a day to their craft, and shares an exciting preview of what readers can expect from her upcoming book, set to launch on November 5th.

Summary

Kristy Gordon returns to Art & Cocktails to discuss her book Become a Great Artist. She and Ekaterina explore key themes such as staying authentic in one’s work, consistently overcoming creative challenges, and adopting a mindset that fosters artistic growth. The conversation provides listeners with practical advice for nurturing their creativity and maintaining inspiration. Kristy also offers a sneak peek into her book, sharing how it will benefit artists across all mediums.

Takeaways

• Creating authentic work is fundamental to artistic success.
• Following what excites you will guide your artistic journey.
• Overcoming creative blocks requires regular practice and patience.
• Inspiration often comes from daily engagement.

https://www.createmagazine.co/call-for-art

www.kristygordon.com

Pre-order the new book: https://www.down2art.com/book-launch

Instagram: @kristygordonart