Making Artists

21. Beginner's Ego

This episode of the 'Making Artists Podcast' explores the concept of 'beginner's ego' – the overambitious mindset often encountered by artists at the start of their creative journeys. Using a viral meme about a three-year-old's nonchalant approach to becoming an astronaut as an entry point, this podcast episode goes into the importance of maintaining enthusiasm while managing realistic expectations. I share personal and client experiences to highlight some of the most common pitfalls, such as abandoning projects prematurely or believing something is wrong with oneself. I offer strategies to navigate these challenges, radical acceptance and perseverance as key to artistic success. Work and Connect With Me Here: * Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com [https://www.makingartistspodcast.com] * Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/] * Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/] * IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun [https://instagram.com/thenancysun] * Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/ [https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/] Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones A Podcast Launch Bestie [https://www.angiemjordan.com/podcast-launch-bestie]production

20. Big Angry Energy

In this episode of "Making Artists," we dive into the complex and often misunderstood emotion of anger. This episode centers on embracing and understanding anger as a natural part of the human and artistic experience. Anger, is often seen as a negative emotion—something to be suppressed or avoided. This perspective can be particularly harmful to artists who might feel compelled to wait until they are no longer angry before engaging in their creative practices. This avoidance only reinforces the belief that anger is unproductive and wrong, potentially leading to feelings of guilt and shame. Throughout the episode, I share observations about how people typically handle their anger. Some common reactions include isolation to protect others from their anger, numbing or distracting themselves with various activities, and misdirecting their anger towards safer targets. These methods often fail to address the root cause of anger, leaving the underlying issues unchanged. The episode highlights the importance of integrating anger into one's creative practice rather than excluding it. By doing so, artists can produce more authentic and complete works. For instance, actress Anya Taylor-Joy's advocacy for expressing female rage in her roles serves as a powerful example of how bringing anger into art can resonate deeply with audiences and challenge prevailing norms. A recent example of an artist channeling anger into their work is rapper Macklemore, who created a song inspired by student protests demanding divestment from Israel. By expressing his anger through music and directing proceeds to support Palestinian refugees, Macklemore demonstrates how anger can drive impactful artistic and political actions. The episode is a call to recognize and harness anger as a powerful and valid emotion. I encourage you to incorporate your anger into your creative processes and everyday lives, transforming it from a source of shame into a catalyst for change and expression. So artists, what are you mad about? And can you use that powerful emotion to create? Work and Connect With Me Here: * Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com [https://www.makingartistspodcast.com] * Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/] * Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/] * IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun [https://instagram.com/thenancysun] * Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/ [https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/] Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones A Podcast Launch Bestie [https://www.angiemjordan.com/podcast-launch-bestie]production

19. How to Make Yourself An Artist

Welcome to another episode of the Making Artists Podcast! Today, we're diving into a powerful piece of advice that's not only relevant for parents but for artists like you too. Have you ever heard the saying, "When the child is born, the parent is born"? Well, I'm here to introduce its artistic counterpart: "When the art is made, the artist is made." This piece of wisdom has been resonating with creatives across different disciplines, from painters preparing for their first solo exhibit to actors navigating their craft during pregnancy. Let's break it down. When you create art, you're not just producing a finished product. You're also shaping yourself as an artist along the way. Think of it as a journey of self-discovery and growth. But how does this apply to you, especially if you're in the early stages of your artistic career? Firstly, it's about letting go of any preconceived notions or fantasies you might have about your art and yourself as an artist. Just like parents-to-be might have imagined their parenting style before actually having a child, you might have envisioned your creative process without fully experiencing it. Embrace the reality of creating art, with all its challenges and surprises. Take, for example, a screenwriting client who questioned traditional writing practices when working on a passion project. Sometimes, what works for others may not be the best fit for you and your art. Be open to exploring different approaches and trust your instincts. Secondly, allow your art to shape you. Be comfortable with being a beginner, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone. Remember Kristen Milioti, whose breakout role in "Once" required her to learn piano in just 10 days? Sometimes, it's the challenges that push us to grow as artists. Lastly, have compassion for yourself and your artistic journey. If your art is still in its infancy, embrace the fact that you're also a new artist in relation to that piece. Avoid comparing your progress to others who might be further along in their careers. Instead, focus on your own growth and celebrate each step of the process. So, whether you're just starting out or feeling discouraged, remember that every masterpiece began as a rough draft. Trust the process, stay true to your vision, and keep creating. After all, when the art is made, the artist is made. Work and Connect With Me Here: * Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com [https://www.makingartistspodcast.com] * Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/] * Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/] * IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun [https://instagram.com/thenancysun] * Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/ [https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/] Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones A Podcast Launch Bestie [https://www.angiemjordan.com/podcast-launch-bestie]production

18. The In / Out List for Artists

In this episode, we dive into the concept of "what's in and what's out" for 2024, inspired by the trend forecasts that flood social media at the end of each year. In this episode I share my own list, tailored for creative individuals, identifying common mindset mistakes and offering alternative solutions. First up: "downloading" versus "uploading." Many creatives blame excessive social media use for their lack of productivity. However, it's not about avoiding social media altogether but rather about how you engage with it. Instead of passively consuming, focus on actively creating and sharing your art to expand your reach and community. Next, we tackle the shift from hubris to humility. While confidence is important, excessive confidence can lead to complacency. Humility allows for growth and adaptation, essential qualities for navigating the ups and downs of a creative journey. By embracing humility, artists can open themselves up to new opportunities and experiences. Finally, we challenge the notion of prioritizing quality over quantity in the creative process. Perfectionism often hinders productivity and joy, leading to burnout and stagnation. Instead, embracing quantity allows for experimentation, learning, and growth as an artist. Having multiple projects can enrich your skills and perspective, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling creative practice. By reevaluating these traditional mindsets and embracing new approaches, artists can overcome common challenges and unlock their full potential. So whether you're sipping rosé or diving into orange wine, there's something here for everyone to sip on and savor. Cheers to embracing what's in and leaving what's out behind! Mentioned in the episode: * Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (link: https://bookshop.org/p/books/flow-the-psychology-of-optimal-experience-mihaly-csikszentmihalyi/8937185?ean=9780061339202 [https://bookshop.org/p/books/flow-the-psychology-of-optimal-experience-mihaly-csikszentmihalyi/8937185?ean=9780061339202])  * Trust the Process by Shaun McNiff (link: https://bookshop.org/p/books/trust-the-process-an-artist-s-guide-to-letting-go-shaun-mcniff/629450?ean=9781570623578 [https://bookshop.org/p/books/trust-the-process-an-artist-s-guide-to-letting-go-shaun-mcniff/629450?ean=9781570623578])  * Taylor Swift: From Blank Space to Mastermind Part 1 and Part 2 (Part 1 link: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9490396c-fbd9-42b4-b036-fc847008c790 [https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9490396c-fbd9-42b4-b036-fc847008c790]; Part 2 link: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9143c3f9-de20-4aab-83d5-b25ea45073ca [https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9143c3f9-de20-4aab-83d5-b25ea45073ca])  Work and Connect With Me Here: * Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com [https://www.makingartistspodcast.com] * Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/] * Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/] * IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun [https://instagram.com/thenancysun] * Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/ [https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/] Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones A Podcast Launch Bestie [https://www.angiemjordan.com/podcast-launch-bestie]production

17. Every Body

Welcome to another episode of the Making Artists Podcast! Hey, artists, it's your host, Nancy, checking in and genuinely asking, "How are you?" No, seriously, how are you *really* feeling, especially in your body? Today's episode is all about *every body.* Whether you're a painter, filmmaker, storyteller, or just a human navigating life, this one's for you. And if you've never thought of yourself as "creative," no worries – this is still your jam. I know, I know, when someone says they're going to talk about your body, you might brace for the usual lecture on the perfect diet, exercise routine, and sleep schedule. But fear not, this episode is not about listing "shoulds." Sorry, not sorry. As a coach, artist, and fellow human, I believe everyone is creative – it's part of being human. And guess what? Your body is the expert on you, not me. So, let's dive into why this matters. Have you ever noticed how many of us don't bring our bodies into coaching sessions? It's like we've got a silent agreement with our bodies – not a problem, but not part of the solution either. That's a trap many artists fall into, and it often starts with a simple question: "How are you feeling?" Existential crises kick in when you're building your creative skills or navigating the challenges of sharing and selling your work. The answer to "How are you?" might sound like frustration, boredom, anxiety – emotions that spiral into bigger questions about your art, choices, and life. But what if the simplest explanation for these feelings lies in your body? I had a client who felt behind in her artistic journey after binge-watching documentaries about successful performers. Coaching helped her realize it wasn't about being behind – it was about her body craving creativity instead of endless screen time. Your body communicates through physical sensations, often mistaken for complex emotions. A tight stomach might not mean stress – maybe it's just hungry. An empty heart space could be loneliness, not hopelessness. And a racing mind might be your brain's way of saying, "Hey, I'm tired." So, here's a tool for problem-solving: Occam's Razor. The simplest explanation is usually right. Don't assume malice when there could be a straightforward reason for how you feel. I've been there, not listening to my body during my corporate days. My brain led the way, and I ended up with an eating disorder, chasing an idealized image of success. It took years to realize my body was screaming to unsubscribe from that toxic environment. Now, as a coach, I support clients in creating a healthy partnership with their bodies, finding sustainable ways to balance art and life. If you're battling with this too, let's connect at makingartist.com. Remember, how you treat your body often reflects how you approach your creative process, art, audience, and life. Let's troubleshoot the right problems and ditch those existential crises. Start implementing the HALT tool and listen to your body – it knows what it needs. If you're feeling disconnected, don't know how to listen to your body, or need accountability, I'm here for it. Let's make your art and life a partnership between equals. Until next time, stay creative, stay curious, and keep making art! Work and Connect With Me Here: * Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com [https://www.makingartistspodcast.com] * Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/] * Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/ [https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/] * IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun [https://instagram.com/thenancysun] * Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/ [https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/] Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones A Podcast Launch Bestie [https://www.angiemjordan.com/podcast-launch-bestie]production