Level Up Artists

On this episode we interview art business mentor and author of the Amazon Best Selling book, Art Money & Success, Maria Brophy! We talk about shifting your mindset around money and pricing, building relationships with an email newsletter, the importance of making murals easy for the client, creating a life you want to live, leveraging one opportunity to create another, and the power of sharing...

Letters of intent are a key component to receiving public art calls, grants, and various artistic opportunities. But what should this letter include? In today’s episode, that is what we discuss! From your interest in the opportunity to creative ways of highlighting your previous experience, a strong letter of interest can make the difference between standing out and blending into the crowd. So if...

Retaining your image copyrights as an artists is extremely important, not only for legal purposes but also for future income streams! However, what exactly is an image copyright? Although we are not lawyers, in today’s episode we discuss what it is, why it’s important, how you get an image copyright, as well as factors to consider when seeking display opportunities, contracts or sales that involve...

On this episode we interview North Carolina painter Michele Yellin. We talk about the impact of going abroad in one's creative development, the benefits of working on multiple art pieces at once, finding a studio space that fits your current lifestyle, and watching your work evolve over time. Stay Connected with Michelle: www.micheleyellin.com https://www.facebook.com/p/Michele-Yellin-Art-1000...

On this episode we interview hyper feminine artist Ali Hval. We talk about the balance of painting and sculpture in building a body of work, challenging traditional expectations of femininity, making art that feels like a performance, becoming bold in one’s creative process. Stay Connected with Ali: www.alihval.com https://www.instagram.com/alihval Episode Blog Link: https://www.levelupartists.com...

Many artists experience the rollercoaster of emotions during their creative career. In today’s episode we talk about the moments of failure that may secretly be breakthroughs in your process and artistic style. We talk about art being a continuous learning journey, embracing the process, and the importance of intention. Episode Blog Link: https://www.levelupartists.com/lua-podcast/168 Sign up for...

On this episode we interview artist and muralist, Sarahlaine Calva. We talk about taking Action before you are ready, evolving your creative style through murals, being selective with commission clients, utilizing technology in your creative process, and pursuing projects you are passionate about. Stay Connected with Sarahlaine: www.sarahsface.com https://www.instagram.com/sarahsface/ https://www....

Making art isn't always easy, but it's a path we choose and one that requires artistic resilience along the way. In today’s episode we discuss the importance of having a learning mindset, leaning into the process of art making over the final outcome, embracing experimentation, overcoming frustration with knowledge, and the process for finding satisfaction in art and life. Episode Blog Link...

Hustling is great, however an important aspect of the creative process that often gets overlooked is the power of pausing to reflect on your work. In today’s episode we discuss the importance of reflection in your art practice, sourcing and managing creative ideas, and embracing your unique workflow to avoid stress and burnout. Episode Blog Link: https://www.levelupartists.com/lua-podcast/165 Sign...

On this episode we interview interdisciplinary artist Sara Torgison. We talk about advocating for your work in academia, exploring the intersection of ceramics and fiber art, navigating art workshops and figuring out where time exists in your life to prioritize your art practice. Stay Connected with Sara: www.saratorgison.com https://www.instagram.com/saratorgison/ Episode Blog Link: https://www.l...

On this episode we interview Artspace’s Creative Director Annah Lee. We talk about shifting one's focus from art making to curating stories, the power of designing the tone of an art exhibition and advice for artists on applying for exhibitions, photographing your work, and the importance of creating a body of work. Stay Connected with Annah: artspacenc.org https://www.instagram.com/annahleenc...

As working artists, you understand the demands of managing every aspect of your creative business. However, embracing the concept of delegation can be a game changer! In this episode we unpack the need for delegation in our businesses, the benefits and obstacles you may face, as well as the easiest first steps to start delegating today! So if you’ve ever been stressed about “needing more time” thi...

It’s time for our listener questions! In this episode we answer questions from artists and art professionals that we received at Triangle Artworks 2024 Annual SMASH the Arts event. We cover a lot of topics including struggling to find like minded artists locally, pricing your work in order to make a living, staying authentic to your creative voice while still narrowing down your focus, seeing your...

We are celebrating 3 years of the Level Up Artists Podcast! Over the years, both the podcast and our creative journeys have evolved significantly. In this episode, we're taking a trip down memory lane to explore all the major milestones. We'll chat about the evolution of our artistic styles, the transformations in our studio spaces, and how our income streams and mindsets have shifted. Plus, we'll...

A cybersecurity breach is not a matter of if, but a matter of when in this day in age. In today’s episode we partnered with Triangle Artworks to host a Lunch and Learn presentation where local cybersecurity expert, Torrence Reed, talks about how this space may affect artists. Torrence discusses… Art, AI and Your IP Why having back up data is important Having a disaster recovery plan Training AI mo...

On this episode we interview artist and mental health professional, Lamar Whidbee. We talk about chasing purpose with the work you make, being grounded in storytelling, the feeling of artmaking, the power of creative mentorship, and the role that mental health plays in our day to day lives. Stay Connected with Lamar: https://www.lamarwhidbee.com https://www.instagram.com/Afro_picasso https://www.f...

On this episode we interview artist and quilter Michelle Wilkie. We talk about the importance of building a community in the art world, making the most out of any opportunity, exploring the intersection of quilting and fine art, and the admin workload of being a full time artist. Stay Connected with Michelle: https://www.mlwilkie.com/gallery https://www.instagram.com/ml_wilkie/ https://www.linkedi...

In today's episode, we explore the intersectionality between art and mental health. It is of course no substitute for professional help, however, in addition to doctor-led treatment, art making can have an incredibly powerful impact on your day to day life! So whether you’re a professional painter, musician, sculptor, writer, singer, coloring book genius, or just a creative who dabbles here an...

On this episode we interview Raleigh based figurative painter, Ashley Harrington. We talk about developing your style as a self taught artist, becoming aware of your self awareness, embracing the excitement of being an emerging artist, and hosting your own art show. Stay Connected with Ashley: https://ashleyharringtonart.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ashleyharringtonart Episode Blog Link: https:/...

In today's episode, we dive into the intriguing and potentially controversial intersection of AI and artistic expression. We brainstorm AI's role in the creative process and our ability to use it as a tool to enhance creativity, not replacing the artists’ human touch. From generating ideas to editing down artists statements, AI is a tool that should be embraced by artists, not feared! Epis...

On this episode we interview Charlotte based artist Angela Lubinecky. We talk about using art to spread joy in your community, following what makes you happy, leveraging local events to network, sharing open calls with other artists, and embracing community over competition. Stay Connected with Angela: Website: www.lolangi.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lolangi_art/ LinkedIn: https://www...

Money is top of mind for any entrepreneur so in today’s episode we discuss how to save money in your art practice. Whether you're a seasoned creator, or just starting on your journey, we are going to discuss tips and insights to help you make the most out of your resources. From reviving old supplies for a fresh start, to identifying money wasters, and thrifty techniques while balancing qualit...

On this episode we interview Artist and Paper Sculptor Michael Velliquette. We talk about discovering paper as a complex creative medium, exploring where present and permanence intersect, pursuing opportunities that are genuine to the work, and nurturing professional relationships while balancing gallery representation. Stay Connected with Michael: Website: https://www.velliquette.com Instagram: h...

Today's episode is dedicated to the young emerging artists in our community! Being an artist isn't just about creating pretty pictures or sculptures—it's a lifelong journey filled with exploration, growth, and endless possibilities. But there are certain traits that will carry you through your creativity journey toward the life of being a successful artist! So if you are a young emergi...

On this episode we interview Triangle ArtWorks ArtSwell Education Director, Cynthia Deis, about a challenge that many artists struggle with… Pricing! Are you pricing your work correctly? How do you do it? Where do you start? Why is it so notoriously difficult? These are all questions that we cover in today’s episode! So whether you are an emerging artist just getting started, or an experienced vet...