Extraordinary Creatives

Ceri speaks to Inês Geraldes Cardoso, an assistant curator at the Barbican. Inês shares her experience in curating, her fascination with Frida Kahlo, and her recent work on Francis Alÿs' exhibition "Ricochet." Discover the intricacies of curating, the importance of play in art, and the evolving role of curator and artist.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Inês' multicultural background and early exposure to diverse art forms shaped her curatorial approach, emphasising an omnivorous curiosity and openness to various cultural expressions.
• The curator's role extends beyond exhibition planning, involving research, interpretation, catalogue production, and collaborative projects with artists and local communities.
• Studio visits play a crucial role in exhibition development, allowing curators to discover new works and engage in dialogue that shapes the final presentation.
• Curating is increasingly seen as a relational practice, focusing on dialogue, collaboration, and the ability to expand the resonance of artists' work.
• Inês stresses the interdependence of artists and curators, encouraging ongoing relationships and experimentation beyond specific projects.
• Francis Alÿs' "Children's Games" series explores the universal nature of play while highlighting site-specific contexts, bridging macro and micro perspectives on human experience.
• The Barbican exhibition of Alÿs' work included new films shot in London, showcasing local children's games and expanding the artist's ongoing exploration of play.
• The exhibition aims to highlight the urgency of creating spaces for children to play, especially in urban environments with diminishing public spaces.
• BEST MOMENTS

"I grew up in a very multicultural environment... so that's really from a very young age contributed to my understanding of culture as a multifarious, diverse, open thing."

"Frida Kahlo was an artist that really made me want to be close to artists, understand the way they work and understand the ways in which the kind of completely left field sort of way of seeing and interpreting the world could shatter the way we think about gender, the way we think about love, the way we think about relationships, the way we think about politics."

"I'm drawn to artists who are kind of deeply committed to research but also artists who have relational practices, who have socially, socially engaged practices."

"There's this real sense of a kind of community in the, in the studio that kind of comes together."

"Curating is, I think, first and foremost, a kind of relational practice, you know, it's about the kind of relationships that you have with, with artists and about, again, this idea of dialogue and a kind of act of almost radical listening."

"Being an artist, being a curator, they're never independent practices. They're completely interdependent."

"We really wanted, you know, play and children to be a central part of the show, not kind of a sort of add on." 

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

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Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now! 

www.cerihand/subscribe 

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Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network,"  offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

****

Book a Discovery Call Today
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

****

Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri interviews Gemma Rolls-Bentley, a curator and art advisor focused on LGBTQIA+ art and artists. From life in Sheffield to curating global exhibitions and authoring a groundbreaking book on queer art, Gemma shares invaluable insights on navigating the art world, building a portfolio career, and championing diversity in the creative industry. This episode is a must listen for artists, curators, and art enthusiasts seeking inspiration and practical advice on making their mark in the contemporary art scene.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Building a portfolio career in the arts requires adaptability, diverse skills, and a willingness to take on various roles from curation to consulting and teaching.
• Social media, particularly Instagram, has become a crucial tool for artists to connect with curators and collectors, serving as a digital portfolio.
• When commissioning independent curators, it's essential to be clear about project goals, provide fair compensation, and consider all aspects of the curator's involvement.
• Gemma stresses the importance of having clear criteria for accepting projects, balancing factors like brand impact, financial reward, personal passion, and learning opportunities.
• The art world needs urgent attention to funding issues, with a call for unlocking new sources of support and making art more relevant to potential donors and businesses.
• Tokenistic representation of marginalised groups in the art world remains a problem, with a need for more meaningful, year-round inclusion and fair compensation for diverse voices.
• Gemma's book "Queer Art: From Canvas to Club and the Spaces Between" fills a gap in art literature, offering a comprehensive global survey of LGBTQIA+ art over the past 50 years.

BEST MOMENTS

"I wanted people within the queer community who don't know about art or aren't in the art world to be able to pick up this book and see that there is art about us that speaks to our experience."

"I think social media is a great tool that we didn't have 10 years ago. So I think leaning into that as annoying as it can seem, you know, I definitely have a love hate relationship with social media, mostly hate."

"I think part of it is having the confidence and like knowing that you should just try and apply for stuff and whether you sort of tick all the boxes or not, I think that's definitely a gendered thing as well."

"I love to hear you speak and talk about wanting and knowing that you're capable of doing something. It's so brilliant to hear women say that."

"Pay them properly and be really clear and honest with yourself about what your goals are for the project before you write the brief."

"I think it's for a curator as well to know that those are the things to ask and, and outline and be really, really clear on."

"I think at the moment something I'm just thinking about a lot is funding, you know, I think with our new government in the UK, you know, potentially is going to look a bit better in terms of public funding."

EPISODE RESOURCES

"Queer Art: From Canvas to Club and the Spaces Between" by Gemma Rolls-Bentley

Instagram @gemmarollsbentley

www.gemmaRollsBentley.com

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 30 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

****

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Subscribe before September 29 for just £5 per month for the first year! Flexible membership with monthly payments and no pressure to stay. Ready to transform your art career? Subscribe now!

****

Build Relationships The Easy Way
Our self-study video course, Unlock Your Artworld Network, offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

****

Book a Discovery Call Today 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, email us at [email protected].

****

Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity 
Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri is joined in conversation with Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard, artists and BAFTA-nominated directors who've collaborated for over 30 years. From their early days at Goldsmiths to working with music icons like Nick Cave, this episode reveals their unique approach to art, film, TV and performance. Learn how they navigate the art world, balance ambition with pragmatism, and find magic in the spaces between truth and fiction. Their candid insights and inspiring advice make this a must-listen for creatives seeking to carve their own path!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embrace collaboration and find partners who complement your strengths, as Iain and Jane have done for over three decades.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions and be the beginner in the room – it can lead to innovative approaches and unexpected opportunities.
• Aim high in your creative ambitions, even if you fall short, you'll still achieve more than if you hadn't set big goals.
• Cultivate relationships with mentors and champions who believe in your work and can support you during challenging times.
• Be willing to let go of ideas that aren't working and adapt quickly, especially when working on time-sensitive projects.
• Focus on the day-to-day aspects of your creative life, as they form 99% of your experience, rather than fixating on big moments.
• Look for the "magic" that happens in the space between authenticity and performance, truth and fiction.
• Enjoy the journey and successes while they're happening, rather than only appreciating them in retrospect.

BEST MOMENTS 

"We very rarely back down. So ideas are often pushed somewhere pretty extreme, pretty quickly."

"The best moments in 20,000 Days for us, artistically, are these tiny bits of archive footage of Nick performing from over the 30 odd years he's been performing that are cut into a performance of him performing at Sydney Opera House."

"We often give our crews kind of pep talks about, you know, don't fear the speed, ride it, like let's pretend we're on a roller coaster, go with it."

"Stop thinking about  the bigger picture and work on project by project. Always challenge yourself, always make it new and fresh."

"Be so aware that the day to day, the way in which you spend your time, and the people with which you spend it with, is ultimately 99 percent of your creative life."

"I wish I'd enjoyed it whilst I was there, and I think that's a really powerful piece of advice to actually enjoy it whilst you're there."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri talks with artist Hannah Perry as she shares her journey from a working-class background to becoming a renowned contemporary artist. Hannah discusses her major solo exhibition at Baltic Gallery, navigating the art world, and balancing creativity with motherhood. Her insights on resilience, collaboration, and staying true to oneself offer invaluable lessons for artists at any stage of their career.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Hannah's working-class background and dyslexia diagnosis led her to pursue art, finding her voice through identity-based work at Goldsmiths University.
• Collaborating with diverse creatives in DIY spaces and warehouse living fostered Hannah's interdisciplinary approach and artistic growth.
• The Royal Academy provided Hannah with practical skills, nurturing support, and valuable connections in the art world.
• Hannah emphasises the importance of maintaining long-term relationships with supporters and collaborators throughout one's artistic career.
• Balancing commercial work with experimental projects can help sustain an artist's practice financially while allowing creative freedom.
• Hannah's process for developing major exhibitions involves extensive research, collaboration with curators, and adapting to unexpected life changes.
• Self-care strategies, such as exercise and maintaining personal relationships, are crucial for managing the emotional highs and lows of an artistic career.
• Hannah advises artists to take action and seize opportunities, rather than becoming paralysed by overthinking or fear of failure.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I ended up going to like a vocational college to do a-levels alongside, like potentially a vocational subject, but I couldn't really find my space, there I found out I was dyslexic"

"I think what Goldsmiths gave me was like a thinker's degree, if that makes sense."

"I try and counteract is that I always try and like, get up and do like, a training program, go for a run, cycle into the studio, just do anything to just get up and get moving"

"I think from my perspective, I've always found it useful to just go for every opportunity that is possible, rather than kind of thinking too much about, like, you know, potential risks or potential problems."

"When you sort of find something that you really excel in when you sort of struggled in a lot of areas, you know it's the right place for you to be."

"You ignored the advice, you applied and you got in."

"It's always probably going to be a thing of like figuring out how to best, how to make something work, essentially, with what you've got, and that takes a lot of time."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Artist Links

https://www.hannahperry.com/

Currently on show at Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art

https://baltic.art/

Ceri explores the world of cultural placemaking as she is joined by Mark Davy, founder of Future City. This episode uncovers how art transforms urban spaces, the challenges of large-scale public art projects, and the delicate balance between artists, developers, and communities. Mark's journey from artist to industry pioneer offers invaluable insights for creatives looking to make their mark in the public realm. Prepare to be inspired by his passion for art, cities, and causing the right kind of trouble!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Cultural placemaking involves integrating art into urban development from the early stages, creating meaningful spaces that reflect local identity and include and engage communities.
• Future City operates as a bridge between artists, developers, and communities, advocating for art's inclusion in major projects and ensuring fair compensation for artists.
• Public art projects often involve complex negotiations, technical challenges, and long timelines, requiring patience, flexibility, and strong project management skills.
• Successful public art often emerges from multidisciplinary collaborations, combining diverse skills and perspectives to create innovative, site-specific works.
• Artists should be proactive in seeking opportunities, forming collaborations, and asserting their value in non-traditional spaces to expand their reach and impact.
• The selection process for public art commissions typically involves long-listing, short-listing, and paid proposal stages, with diverse advisory panels making final decisions.
• Public art can significantly enhance a development's appeal and value, as demonstrated by projects like Clare Woods' work at Grosvenor Waterside.
• Effective leadership in the cultural sector involves fostering a collaborative, non-hierarchical environment, valuing diverse perspectives, and maintaining enthusiasm for new ideas.

BEST MOMENTS 

"If you want to solve a problem, ask an artist."

"Cause trouble, go and cause trouble. Throw a rock in the pond and create a ripple or stir the muddy puddle with a stick."

"Artists are always at the end of the queue. Why aren't artists, you know, we should be inside there. We're clever, we've got great ideas, we've got imagination and passion."

"I'm always looking for that partnership and most of the projects actually that I've done almost all of them involve some form of multidisciplinary relationship."

"Being professional doesn't mean rounding off your edges. It doesn't mean aping what it is to be an artist or following the suit of somebody else."

"Money is not a dirty word. It's crucial for creative sustainability."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Guest links:

https://futurecity.co.uk
@futurecityblog
@markfuturecity

Join Ceri for her second instalment around the crucial art of studio visits. Drawing from three decades of experience and feedback from thousands of artists, Ceri offers invaluable insights for curators, collectors, producers, writers, and artists themselves. She emphasises the importance of frequent studio visits and provides a comprehensive guide on being an excellent studio guest. From planning and preparation to active listening and follow-up, Ceri covers all aspects of creating rewarding experiences that leave artists inspired and supported.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Studio visits provide an irreplaceable first-hand experience of art, allowing for a deeper understanding of scale, texture, and context.
• Personal connections formed during studio visits lead to stronger relationships and better collaboration in future projects.
• Thorough preparation before a studio visit is crucial, including clear communication about intentions and expectations.
• Active listening and genuine curiosity during the visit can lead to new ideas, opportunities, and collaborations.
• Bringing a thoughtful gift demonstrates respect for the artist's time and work.
• Clear articulation of potential projects, including budgets and timelines, helps artists understand opportunities better.
• Following up after the visit with a thank you note and any promised information is essential for maintaining positive relationships.
• Frequent studio visits contribute to building a supportive art community and can provide mutual benefits for both artists and visitors.

BEST MOMENTS 

"The difference between a great studio visit and a bad one is within our control."

"If you're in the art world, then you'll know that artists are the most important people in it, hands down."

"Nothing beats seeing art up close and personal than in an artist's studio. Seeing the site of origin provides a deeper understanding and fresh perspectives on the artist and their work."

"Clarity is kindness and therefore better preparation for such meetings is kind."

"Time in the studio is invaluable to an artist, so regardless of whether you form a bond by the end of the visit, bringing a gift demonstrates respect."

"Whatever you do, don't stay silent. This is confusing and unsettling and will be perceived as you not liking them or their work."

"By preparing effectively and listening actively, you can make the most out of a studio visit, fostering meaningful dialogue and building a stronger connection with the artist."

"Be mindful of the impact you have on the artist and their practice. Strive to leave a positive impression."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

For more exclusive, in-depth support, join our upcoming live online masterclass led by Ceri:

MASTER THE ART OF STUDIO VISITS
🗓️ 11 September, 6-8pm (GMT)

Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your skills. Book your spot here.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a discovery call, personalised 1-2-1 strategy session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

This episode is part 1 of 2 special solo episodes into one of the most overlooked but crucial practices that can completely transform how you contribute to the arts; studio visits. Ceri outlines what she's learned from 1000s of studio visits over the years, both from her own experience and that of others, and shares what you can do to get the most out of your visits.

This episode is focused on artists. From the correct etiquette to creating and maintaining connections, Ceri tells you everything you need to know about how to make your studio visits successful and mutually beneficial.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• For a sustainable art career you have to prioritise studio visits, both in person and in online.
• You don’t need to be perfect, in your work or how you present, you just need to tell people about your processes and decisions in producing the work.
• Studio visits are about meaningful discussions about your work, it’s a fact-finding educational experience, the actual location is irrelevant.
• Try and invite your guest with an open mind, if you invite someone with a specific outcome in mind you can inadvertently go into ‘pitch mode’ and put them off.
• Set time aside in your year to arrange and carry out studio visits, ensures you are creating champions and opportunities all year round, not just when the project has launched.
• Galleries and curators are looking for different things. For curators focus on work in progress, your methods and potential expansion of ideas. For galleries, showcasing your consistency as an artist with past and current work is important.
• Ask and seek recommendations from friends and peers for people who may want to visit your studio. 
• Identify common interests with your ideal studio visitor, find themes and ideas that resonate with both of you and the potential connections that you want to invite into the studio, selecting the right examples for your work to fit in with this.
• In preparation, research your guest. Find out their likes and experience not only for discussion points but also to curate your work and how you shape invitation to them.
• Ensure your visitor will be comfortable on their visit, provide snacks, drinks and ensure your studio is the right temperature and simple things like clean seating and a place to put their bag down.
• It is especially important to send over a PDF of past and current work when conducting a virtual studio visit.
• When it comes to sales less is more. Instead of showcasing every piece you've ever made focus on showing your best works, think about everything you have out and displayed.
• Ensure every studio visit ends positively, summarise what has been discussed and express your interest in maintaining contact and connection.

BEST MOMENTS 

"A well conducted studio visit can be one of the most rewarding, educational and life-afforming experiences”

“Location should not be a barrier”

“Curators enjoy seeing work in progress and supporting the potential expansion of your ideas”

“Understand their career paths and networks of similar artists, study their work, analyse their style, themes and key achievements for inspiration of who to invite”

“Less is more and it’s important you have considered the visitor in advance”

“Help them feel seen and heard”

“Too many choices can overwhelm buyers making it harder for them to make a decision”

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

For more exclusive, in-depth support, join our upcoming live online masterclass led by Ceri:

MASTER THE ART OF STUDIO VISITS
🗓️ 27 June, 6-8pm (GMT)

Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your skills. Book your spot now!

****

Book a Discovery Call 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Alessio Antoniolli, the visionary behind Triangle Network joins Ceri in this episode. Alessio shares his thrilling journey working with artists from every corner of the globe, revealing the trials, triumphs, and transformative lessons that have shaped his remarkable career. Prepare to be inspired and discover how embracing curiosity, resourcefulness, and a fearless approach to challenges can unlock your own creative potential.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Immersing yourself in a community of artists can feed your passion and inspire you to pursue your work with unwavering dedication.
• Resourcefulness and a "yes, I can do that" spirit are crucial when figuring things out as you go, and reimagining possibilities with artists.
• Embrace trial and error alongside friends and peers, learning from mistakes and building resilience through tough love and honesty.
• Surround yourself with enablers who encourage you to take action without overthinking, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed.
• Dream big and wish for more; with enough determination, those wishes can become reality.
• View every challenge as an opportunity for transformation, and keep an open mind when encountering art that you don't immediately understand.
• Stay true to your practice and be motivated by your own research, other artists, and the process of making, rather than solely focusing on financial outcomes.
• Embrace the fear and discomfort that comes with transitioning to new roles or seasons in your life, as it allows you to redefine who you are and explore new possibilities.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I realised pretty quickly that what I enjoyed and where I got such satisfaction and my curiosity was fulfilled was to be around artists.”

"I think the artists that in my mind are thriving and doing a very solid in their practice are those that don't stop being curious and don't stop thinking about process because, of course, the pressures of the market and the glory that comes out of the, you know, everybody needs to be paid properly."

"I am very interested in artists that kind of through their work open new paths for different ways of living. Whether it's your response to the environment, whether it's, which of course it's a massive urgency, whether it's your response to politics, whether it's your, uh, response to gender and sexuality, whether it's your response to identity."

"I genuinely value it. And I know that I'm not alone in this. So, if I can continue in some way, in a very small way to keep opening doors, then I'd feel I've fed myself, but I've also given something to something that is bigger than me."

"I think the beauty for me of working with artists is that you start to unpick it and you start to have, ‘oh, here's an example of how you can think about yourself, here's an example of how you can think about that’."

"I'm also trying to kind of keep a little time to feel the fear of who am I and and see if I can start giving different answers to it."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Artist links

https://www.instagram.com/trianglenetwork

https://www.instagram.com/fondazionememmo 

https://www.gasworks.org.uk/ 

https://www.instagram.com/gasworkslondon/ 

British Croatian artist and musician Marianna Simnett joins Ceri in this episode. Based in Berlin, Marianna is a multidisciplinary artist known for her provocative works that often address themes of sex, death, dreams, and violence. She shares her unique journey, the challenges she's faced, and the importance of staying true to one's vision. Marianna offers valuable advice for creatives and talks about the need for persistence and self-belief.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Marianna’s artistic journey began at a young age, driven by an innate need to express herself through drawing, painting, and performance.
• She learned the importance of investing in her work and not compromising her artistic vision, even when faced with financial challenges.
• Collaboration and teamwork are essential to Marianna’s creative process, as she values the contributions of her colleagues and the sense of camaraderie on set.
• She emphasises the significance of balancing confidence and shyness, as well as the need to take breaks and engage in activities outside the studio.
• She encourages artists to stay on their path, understand their purpose, and not let others sway them from their goals.
• Persistence is key; if an artist keeps creating consistently, people will eventually listen and recognise their work.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I just could dive in undisturbed for many hours at a time and lose myself in it and find myself like, I guess it was the best toy that there was out there because I never got bored of it."

"I remember being younger and remember thinking, God, if I only had confidence and clarity, the world would be, my world would be, okay. And I didn't have it."

"If you just keep, keep, keep doing it, doggedly, day in, day out, it will happen."

"Trailblazing and standing apart though isn't easy and it takes time. Some people will understand your journey and some won't and that's okay. Focus on those who do. They will uplift you and make the journey worthwhile."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

****

Artist links

Artist website: https://mariannasimnett.com/

SOCIÉTÉ gallery website: https://societeberlin.com/artists/marianna-simnett/ 

Instagram: @mariannasimnett

This short episode is inspired by a question Ceri had from one of her favourite artists. What do you do when you feel crap? Everyone feels bad sometimes, it’s part of being human but there are ways of dealing with it that are better than others. As a creative coach, Ceri knows how to make herself and her clients feel better. Listen to this episode to hear practical tips for when you are feeling rubbish including how you can plan for ‘the crap’ and how to deal with it with Ceri’s creation: ‘The Crap Manifesto’!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• After a major milestone, it’s easy to feel a bit down and rubbish. It can feel unfair after striving to create and achieve such great things but this is the effects of creative exhaustion.
• We have to lean into this exhaustion and burnout and make the right choices to make ourselves start to feel better
• Being creative means riding the rollercoaster of emotions, from doubt about the work your making and wondering if you’re good enough and have what it takes.
• Plan for the crap, get out of the house and make plans that you know will improve your mood.
• Introduce your own ‘Crap Manifesto’. Outline the things you will not do when you feel crap, such as doom scrolling and list the things you will do instead that will help you recover and feel better, such as self-care tasks.

BEST MOMENTS 

"Bounce back quicker to being the extraordinary creative you are”

“As a creative coach, I know how to make myself and my clients feel better”

“It’s bonkers what our brains throw at us instead of letting us rest or sleep”

“Get out of your house and out of your mind”

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri interviews Sally Shaw, the trailblazing director of Firstsite contemporary art gallery. Sally shares her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to leading an award-winning institution, offering invaluable insights on leadership, collaboration, and the power of creativity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embracing a spirit of adventure and curiosity can lead to life-changing experiences and a broader worldview, ultimately fuelling one's creative vision.
• Leaders can emerge from any position within an organisation by demonstrating initiative, empathy, and a commitment to positive change.
• Collaborating with community partners and actively listening to their needs can help create innovative, impactful programs that resonate with audiences.
• Balancing long-term planning with flexibility allows art institutions to remain responsive to emerging opportunities and maintain a sense of experimentation.
• Cultivating a supportive, transparent, and inclusive work environment encourages staff to contribute ideas and take ownership of the organisation's mission.
• Representing diverse artists and perspectives in programming not only promotes equity but also attracts a broader, more engaged audience.
• Adapting to financial challenges requires creative problem-solving, leveraging social capital, and advocating for the value of art and culture in society.
• Embracing vulnerability, resilience, and a solutions-oriented mindset can help artists navigate obstacles and emerge stronger.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I've always felt like you can be a leader wherever you are, whatever job you're in, you don't have to be the boss to be a leader."

"It's about listening to what it is that someone is really trying to realise and where that motivation comes from, and then again, thinking about that place and the limitations of that place and what you can achieve."

"In the heart of every problem lies the solution. And it's such a beautiful comment. It's like, there's a real economics to that. It's like, yes, it's awful, but look at the type of awfulness that you've got, take it apart and something will show itself to you and that will be how you get out of it."

"You should go into an art gallery and you should feel like this is a place of experimentation. If you can't feel that there, where is that going to happen? Anywhere?"

"There's nothing more brilliant than being in a tube station at 2am in the morning talking to a guy that's wearing like a paper hazmat suit about why Tracey Emin is amazing."

"It's really about listening to what it is that someone is really trying to realise and where that motivation comes from."

"There's always a solution. There just is. It might not be what you expected, but there's always a solution."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Coaching Session or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 creative coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" Online Art Course 
Are you sick of waiting to be discovered? Learn how to connect authentically and generate more studio visits, increase commissions and boost sales, effortlessly!
https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Choreographer Holly Blakey and curator Kiera Blakey candidly discuss their paths to becoming creative leaders. Despite challenges, they've fearlessly carved unique artistic careers by taking risks, collaborating, and staying true to their values. In this conversation with Ceri, discover how they inspire others while making the arts more accessible.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embrace light and shade in your creative work, discomfort can lead to the most impactful art.
• Take the less travelled path and trust your creative vision, even if it doesn't fit the status quo.
• Setbacks and "wrong turns" are catalysts for growth that help you discover your authentic creative voice. They are necessary to evolve as a true artist.
• A strong work ethic and support network are crucial for navigating challenges in creative careers.
• Push for diversity and inclusion, creating art that is accessible to a wider range of people
• Acknowledge your achievements and contributions; celebrate how far you've come with gratitude.
• Creative siblings can be a source of mutual inspiration, encouragement and perspective!
• Messy, difficult experiences often plant seeds for the most meaningful creative work later on.

BEST MOMENTS 

“There's a kind of unrelenting refusal to accept the confines of how dance is taught."

"I want it to encapsulate all of those things - the pleasure, rhythm, feeling immersed in a moment or feeling full of memories."

"It's more interesting to me to have a challenge. I like to work really hard.”

"There's no mistakes Mom, it's just always learning."

"We've spent time feeling like we're outside of something, so the journey of getting inside was really hard."

"I'm so proud of what my sister's achieved, but also what she stands for - truth in your own conviction and belief in yourself."

"You don't follow a status quo. You say, this is it, I'm presenting this. You know exactly what it is."

"It's important to acknowledge how far you've come and what you've contributed together with others for others."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri is joined by the remarkable visionary Artistic Director of Rambert, Benoit Swan Pouffer. From his early days in Paris to his ground breaking work with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet, Benoit shares invaluable insights on leadership, mentorship, and the power of dance to inspire change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to unleash their creative potential and make a lasting impact!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embrace your unique story and use it to create a distinctive artistic style that goes beyond technical proficiency.
• Seek out mentors who challenge you, expand your horizons, and help you grow both personally and professionally.
• Cultivate a leadership style that nurtures individual talents, fosters growth, and encourages open communication.
• Be willing to take risks and pursue radical excellence, even if it means stepping away from comfort zones.
• Recognise the importance of living in the present while also planning for the future.
• Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your potential and push you to be your best.
• Use your art to connect with audiences, provoke thought, and inspire change in the world.
• Continuously challenge yourself and others to reach new heights, while maintaining a balance between criticism and encouragement.

BEST MOMENTS 

"Dance changed my life, made me learn another language, made me be able to live with my art."

"I believe that you are unique and no one can clone you, no one can be you, because you're you."

"If you think you need to go left, go left. You should listen to your instincts because you are a unique individual."

"I'm hoping that they do the same for others. So, it's translating the knowledge, translating the philosophy of what we are as artists."

"I love the idea to be able to get you out of your routine, your daily life. And then for an hour, an hour and a half, you can escape."

"...what interests me the most is the individual, because I believe that you are unique and no one can clone you, no one can be you, because you're you."

"Live in the present, because we, as an artistic director, right now I'm talking about 2027, 2028 as well. So, it's, it's a way of, I wish I would have been more living in the present and appreciate the accomplishments."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options 
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network" 
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence 
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

In this episode, Ceri explores the world of Juneau Projects, the dynamic artist duo consisting of Phil Duckworth and Ben Sadler. With over two decades of collaboration, they share invaluable insights on navigating the art world, sustaining a successful partnership, and the importance of embracing creativity in all its forms. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and practical advice on pursuing a fulfilling creative career.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Collaboration is at the heart of Juneau Projects, with a focus on creating frameworks that allow participants to shape their own contributions while maintaining a shared language and vision.
• Embracing doubt and questioning what constitutes a meaningful collaboration leads to more thorough and impactful projects.
• Compromise is not a negative aspect; it can lead to inventive solutions and strengthen the work when all parties are working towards the same goal.
• Building trust with commissioners and being open to adapting projects is key to delivering the best results.
• Persistence and realistic expectations are crucial when applying for opportunities, with an understanding that success rates may be low but each application is a chance to showcase your work.
• Collaboration can provide support, encouragement, and perspective during challenging moments, helping to push through worries and overthinking.
• Celebrating creativity in all its forms and embracing a non-hierarchical approach to art can lead to more interesting and impactful projects.
• Artists have the power to make a lasting impact on the people they work with, from curators to commissioners, and should recognise the value of these relationships.

BEST MOMENTS 

"We became friends because we had, do have, really similar interests but very different ways of approaching it."

"Compromise isn't really a negative thing and I think kind of seeing the people you're working with, trying to have a sense that you're all a team and you're all working towards the same end, I think has been helpful for us."

"You can achieve so much just with people and I think yeah, it's kind of essential really to doing anything is to just realise you're part of a much bigger picture."

"Artists who commit or work with people and give it their best shot, it stays with those people. You know, it's like having the most beautiful afterimage on your mind, you know, on your retina."

"Just try to enjoy it, is the main thing...you can get very bugged down in all the stuff around it, but I think just returning to that impulse of why you like making things, can be just all the fuel you need really to keep going."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network"
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Join us for a captivating journey through the world of print and art as we celebrate Bob Pain’s remarkable 50-year career. From his early days in advertising to his ground breaking collaborations with renowned artists, Bob shares his passion for creativity, problem-solving, and pushing artistic boundaries. Discover the pivotal moments that ignited his dedication to the arts and the lessons he's learned along the way.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Nurturing collaborative relationships with clients, artists, and suppliers is crucial for mutual benefit and success in the creative industry.
• Embracing constraints, adaptability, and contingency planning are essential for sustainable progress and overcoming challenges.
• Utilising technology and modern tools can amplify creativity and push artistic boundaries, but being an early adopter comes with risks.
• Understanding clients' needs, delivering consistently, and being transparent is key to building trust and long-lasting relationships.
• Passion, enjoyment, and alignment with market demands are vital for a successful creative business.
• Quality relationships and quality work are the foundation of long-term success in the creative industry.
• Steady, organic growth within your limits as an artist is more sustainable than rapid, unhinged expansion.
• Supporting and contributing to the arts can lead to reciprocal benefits and personal fulfilment.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I think with the artists, once you gain their trust and they know that you're kind of straight, it's great fun, you know, it's difficult. It's a lot of head scratching going on, but you kind of working out problems together."

"A bit of a cliche, but kind of follow your passion, you know, enjoy it. I think and if that's aligned with what the market wants, then you're onto something, you know?"

"Omni's always been just a steady growth, you know, not kind of overnight sensations, you know? So you can always work within your limits."

"It's weird how horse racing sort of took me into it in a way. You know, it was reading about it in the racing post. Sort of led to this point, you know, very odd”

EPISODE RESOURCES

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network"
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

In this episode, Ceri speaks to writer, critic, artist coach Paddy Johnson, founder of Netvvrk, a membership that enables artists to broaden their professional opportunities. Paddy shares her journey from rural Canada to the heart of the New York art world, offering invaluable insights on navigating the creative industry, building communities, and defining success on one's own terms. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and practical advice for their creative journey.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Building genuine friendships and a supportive creative community is crucial for navigating the challenges of the art world and finding your way through periods of feeling creatively lost.
• Tough feedback and provocations from mentors can help artists identify what they don't want and make choices that are right for them.
• Quitting projects or styles can be necessary for growth, even when your own identity is entangled with them.
• Understanding your audience and where you fit within the art industry is key to effective communication and decision-making.
• Clear communication and asking for what you need, are essential professional skills that demonstrate professionalism rather than weakness.
• Success is ultimately about having agency over your own time and the ability to choose when to experience stress and when to rest.
• Writing helps artists think and learn, even though the process can be challenging.
• Having a viable business structure allows for the sustainability and continuity of creative efforts.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I always consider the blog commenters to be the editors of the blog because when I started, I didn't have an editor."

"Writing helps us think. It helps us learn, and that's why writing sucks so badly. It's really, really hard to do."

"Quitting allows you to do the things that you're meant to do when you're meant to do them."

"The fact that you don't know something and are asking about it gives you more information and shows you to be a professional. It does not reveal you to be not professional."

"A successful life is really being able to choose when you experience that stress."

"It's possible to not find your way. I've seen that happen."

"Artists are not fundamentally bad at writing. They just need support."

"If I was writing about something that already existed, it was not that hard to have an idea about it."

EPISODE RESOURCES

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network"
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

PODCAST GUEST LINKS

www.vvrkshop.art

@vvrkshop.art 

Join Ceri as she speaks to visionary entrepreneurs Louise Chignac, co-founder of Canopy Collections, and Will Jarvis, CEO of Gertrude. Together, they share their innovative approaches to revolutionising the art world, making it more transparent and accessible. Discover the secrets behind their successful collaboration and gain valuable insights for artists, collectors, and entrepreneurs alike in this must-listen episode.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embrace the unknown and treat building a business as a living, creative process that evolves based on feedback and growth opportunities.
• Collaborate with individuals who genuinely understand and believe in your work, and foster a support network within the art world.
• Prioritise creating authentic, high-quality content and resist generic social media trends that may not align with your unique artistic identity.
• Understand the hierarchies within the art world and focus on finding the right context or gallery to showcase your work effectively.
• Adapt your language and approach to cater to both established art world figures and new, eager audiences.
• Recognise that investment conversations typically arise later in the art world journey, and focus on connecting with buyers who genuinely appreciate and resonate with the artwork.
• Embrace your unique identity and lean into being a "weirdo" if that's who you are, as the best artists are often strange and interesting people.
• Cultivate a professional practice that reflects your authentic self, rather than adhering to perceived notions of success or projecting a false image.

BEST MOMENTS 

"If you know what is ahead of you, you're not going to do it because you'll know it's going to be awful, like a big swing and it's going to be really hard. And you won't do it. So you need to be a bit of a fool to like get stuck in."

"If you're a weirdo, lean into being a weirdo. It's fucking brilliant. We love it. Some of the best artists are strange, interesting people."

"Always work with people who understand and like your work to start with. Cause I hear a lot of artists out there working with gallerists or agents that don't actually believe in the work."

"It's innate. It's so in us. It's always been in us. I don't know why there's so few people actually engaging with it. I think something's been allowed to happen. But, like, we can open those doors and, like, tons more people can engage with art and can have it enrich their lives, increase their mental wellbeing, you know, and in turn support a broader range of artist views in the world."

"If you adapt to every shift or every desire...you lose self, you lose identity. So you still have to mediate and know like, what's my bigger agenda."

"Find the people around you that, that will nurture you and look after you and help you and just believe in you."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Book Your Personal Consultation or Explore Group Coaching Options
To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected].

Join "Unlock Your Artworld Network"
Embark on your journey to success in the artworld! Enrol in our 5-step self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," and gain the tools and confidence to build a powerful network that opens doors for you. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Discover How We Empower Creative Excellence
Unlock your full creative potential with our tailored support. Visit www.cerihand.com to learn more about how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

Ceri is joined by Sorcha Dallas, custodian of the Alasdair Gray Archive in Glasgow, Scotland in this episode. Sorcha shares her path from artist to commercial gallerist and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Discover how Sorcha’s resilience, honesty, and collaboration have shaped her creative career and her current role in preserving Alasdair Gray's legacy.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Sorcha’s creative journey was influenced by her supportive art teacher, access to free cultural spaces in Glasgow, and her time at the Glasgow School of Art.
• Running Switchspace, a peripatetic gallery in domestic and semi-derelict spaces, taught Sorcha the importance of community, peer support, and taking risks.
• Sorcha’s experience as a commercial gallerist highlighted the challenges of the art market and the need for authenticity and direct impact on people's lives.
• Meeting Alasdair Gray and working with him on various projects, including his retrospective, inspired Sorcha to focus on non-hierarchical models, community work, and being hopeful.
• Sorcha’s role as custodian of the Alasdair Gray Archive involves fundraising, setting up as a charity, and creating a non-hierarchical organisation that embeds Alasdair's ethics and approach to making.
• The archive focuses on public engagement, education, and creative commissioning to keep Alasdair's work generative and prove its value to different people.
• Sorcha's new learnings include the importance of facilitative leadership, relinquishing control, and allowing others to support and grow the archive.
• Alasdair Gray's legacy of hopefulness, despite life's challenges, is a central message Sorcha wants to pass on.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I'd lost a lot of hope, I think, in the commercial art world, and that kind of dovetailed with me leaving it and starting my own family. And I think children are really hopeful and people would talk about Alistair being kind of childlike, and I think that's what they mean."

"I think the older you get, the more jaded you get with life and what's going on more widely in the world, but to remain hopeful about people, about the next encounter, about the next situation is really the best that you can do."

"I feel hugely privileged to kind of hold this space for others and I'm learning kind of every day from the many different people that I work alongside, and through the archive too."

"If you create a kind of horizontal model, the kind of personal growth for you and for others is huge. But that's about relinquishing control and about genuinely allowing others to help support and grow that."

"I think it's about being a good teacher, it's about noticing people, it's about people feeling that they can contribute and bring their own lived experience into that. And that's a really central thing to what we create here."

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://thealasdairgrayarchive.org

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Join Unlock Your Artworld Network our 5 step, self-study video course that will give you the tools and confidence you need to make a network in the artworld that will open doors for you https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Book a coaching consultation call with Ceri [email protected] 

Discover how we can support you being an extraordinary creative here: www.cerihand.com 

In this special short episode, Ceri dives into the challenges and triumphs of being a creative individual. If you've ever felt the strain of trying to make amazing work, earn a living, and be seen and heard, this episode is for you. She explores the courage and grit it takes to be a creative, and why embracing your uniqueness is the key to unlocking your potential. Get ready to be inspired and motivated to let your creativity shine!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embrace your uniqueness and stop trying to hide or fit in, as your difference is what makes you special and valuable to the world.
• Use your creative gift every day, without relying on others for validation or approval.
• Focus on the creative process rather than the outcome, as the process itself is the point.
• Recognise the courage, commitment, and sacrifices you make to pursue your passion, despite the challenges you encounter.
• Shine your light into the world, as the world needs your creativity.
• Remember that you are brilliant, doing your best, and are enough just as you are.
• Acknowledge the emotional turmoil that creative people often face, such as feeling different, undervalued, or misunderstood by others.

BEST MOMENTS

"Being creative takes commitment, it takes courage, grit, graft, gumption, gusto."

"You carry it around like a lead balloon in your gut"

"As outliers, it's our job to throw light into the shade, to show people what's really possible, how to make the most of our thoughts, of each other, of the world we inhabit."

"You are bursting with potential. So stop hiding in plain sight and show yourself."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Join Unlock Your Artworld Network our 5 step, self-study video course that will give you the tools and confidence you need to make a network in the artworld that will open doors for you https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Book a coaching consultation call with Ceri [email protected] 

Join Ceri as she speaks to Ivan Michael Blackstock, a South London-born creative powerhouse. From early adversity to ground-breaking productions and collaborations with icons, Ivan shares insights on creative risk taking, letting go of ego, and the transformative power of resilience and self-belief. Listen in and learn how he ignites creativity, pushes boundaries, and pursues excellence.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Embrace your unique vision and develop a creative language that's truly your own, drawing from personal experiences and influences.
• Hold space for others' lightness and darkness, fostering trust and vulnerability to help them channel their best selves.
• Reframe creativity as an abundant force in all aspects of life, not just a career path or measure of success.
• Learn to let go of good for great, editing ideas and backing what truly resonates in the moment.
• Understand the importance of research and development in the creative industry, and the need for funders and programmers to invest in diverse, impactful works.
• Recognise when an opportunity isn't right for you, despite external validation, and trust your instincts.
• Find restoration and balance through practices like breathwork, meditation, and stepping away when needed.
• Cultivate a strong inner compass and warrior spirit to navigate challenges and setbacks on your creative journey.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I have to believe I'm the best. And I think that like, sometimes it dips, but like, there's this thing that like, I'm the best”

"I'm still figuring it out. It's like, no, man, let's be real. We're all figuring it out, you know?"

"It's not always just about numbers. It's not about numbers, sometimes it's about impact."

"I think we need to reframe creativity is because I think we sometimes put it into this career idea and this success. And, you know, I feel like I've achieved some things and it's not what I thought was going to be like, if I'm being honest."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Join Unlock Your Artworld Network our 5 step, self-study video course that will give you the tools and confidence you need to make a network in the artworld that will open doors for you https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

Book a strategy call with Ceri [email protected] 

Welcome to this special episode with Ceri. Ceri tackles the questions inundating her inbox daily from artists and creatives. She will be dishing out insights gleaned from the results she has facilitated in coaching sessions, talks, and workshops. Brace yourselves—it's time to confront that dreaded word we all love to hate: networking!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

5 Essential Tips to Unlock Your Art World Network

1. Define clear relationship goals

• Reflect on your objectives before connecting to focus your efforts and approach networking authentically
• Identify the types of relationships you want to build (e.g., mentorship, collaborative partnerships)
• Use journal prompts to gain clarity on your goals and how connections can contribute to your artistic journey

2. Research your ideal connections thoroughly

• Assess your own work, track record, champions, and consistency of achievements
• Identify commercial galleries whose programs resonate with you and engage with their work
• Attend previews, art fairs, and events hosted by these galleries to familiarise yourself with their artists and practices
• Invite artists represented by the gallery for studio visits or engage with gallery team members for valuable insights

3. Overcome shyness or anxiety when networking using self-coaching strategies

• Practice self-reflection by journaling about challenging networking situations and identifying areas for improvement
• Engage in inner dialogue to become aware of limiting beliefs and their impact on your behavior
• Ask yourself open-ended "what" or "how" questions to focus on actionable steps and problem-solving strategies
• Explore models, exercises, and strategies to get comfortable with trying new things related to networking

4. Connect with people authentically by adding value and tailoring communication

• Focus on adding value to others rather than pitching or convincing them
• Tailor your communication to each individual, highlighting why you admire their achievements and what resonates with you about their work
• Be genuine and communicate without any expectation of a return, letting go of the outcome
• Commit to speaking to 3 new people at each event to expand your network
• Use open-ended questions, active listening, and find common ground to initiate conversations

5. Follow up after an initial connection to maintain relationships

• Maintain relationships through consistent communication and personalised interactions
• Attend art events, engage on social media, and offer assistance or collaborate to stay engaged
• Send follow-up emails expressing gratitude for previous encounters and reiterating your interest in further engagement
• Demonstrate genuine interest and commitment to building meaningful connections through thoughtful and personalised follow-up communication

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

**** NEW COURSE AVAILABLE - UNLOCK YOUR ARTWORLD NETWORK ****

Are you an artist or creative professional longing to take your career to the next level?

Relationships are the key to success in the art world, and it only takes 10 to 15 of the right connections to build a thriving career. You just need to know how to find them. 

Join Ceri Hand as she guides you through her proven 5-step approach to nurturing impactful relationships with gallerists, curators, commissioners and producers in a brand new self-study video course, Unlock Your Artworld Network. 

From crafting the perfect email to attending events with confidence, this course will give you invaluable insights and simple, practical strategies to forge and maintain meaningful connections in the artworld.

For just £75, you'll have lifetime access to:

5 x Guidance Videos
5 x Exercise Videos
11 x Worksheets & Journal prompts

Work your way through the materials at your own pace, in as little as 5 hours. 

Sign up now!

cerihand.com/courses

@cerihand

In this episode, Ceri is joined by Paul Hedge, the founder and owner of Hales Gallery, which was established in 1992 in a Deptford café. Paul shares his inspiring journey from a working-class background to becoming an established figure in the art scene. With passion and dedication, he has been a pioneer of inclusivity since long before the term became widely used.

Paul discusses the artists who have had the most significant impact on him throughout his career and challenges the perceptions many people have about art galleries and artist representation. He also shares the unique ways he built his profile as an art dealer and how he found success by simply being himself through the power of traditional networking and never letting a lack of knowledge hold him back!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Paul grew up in a council house in Stevenage, and his parents moved there from East London after the war.
• As a child, Paul noticed paintings in his grandparents' house and began questioning them at a young age. He also developed an interest in art books in his school library.
• In the 60s and 70s, career advice was centred around following in one's father's footsteps, and art was rarely discussed as a career option.
• Paul attended Goldsmiths Art College, where he was tutored by renowned artists such as John Bellamy, Richard Wentworth, and feminist artist Mary Kelly. It was during this time that he started his first gallery.
• Exhibitions appealed to Paul as they allowed him to showcase other people's work and share his thoughts, opinions, and art knowledge with others.
• Before finding success in the art world, Paul worked as a postman, delivering mail to notable figures like Michael Caine and Harold Wilson. This experience allowed him to visit commercial art galleries in London and ask questions to artists and owners.
• Paul and his business partner set up a café to help fund the gallery, enabling them to make a living while creating a space for art. The café's success allowed them to run a programme and eventually establish the gallery in its own right.
• The gallery's foundation was built on giving artists a voice and listening to their ideas, including those of women, which was not as common in the 90s. One of their early successes was Japanese artist Tomoko Takahashi.
• For Paul, style was never a driving factor; instead, race, gender, and class have always been at the forefront of the gallery's mission.
• Paul has consistently utilised his enthusiasm and creativity to find ways to get things done and succeed, even when faced with challenges or a lack of knowledge in certain areas.

BEST MOMENTS 

"Everything you thought was changed, everything you believed was changed”

“When I think about our shows, they were quite out there”

“Wow a curtain pole from Harold Wilson, you’re not going to say no”

“I’ve never been short of ambition”

“We managed to get some money from the Tories, they gave us some money because we were enterprising”

“Parallel to the café being a success, the gallery also became quite successful quite quickly”

“Richard Woods, we did an early show with him”

“I think punk and growing up in an environment where anything could happen made me think in a particular way”

“The odder the better that’s my cup of tea”

“People's worst nightmare is a working-class bloke with money”

“You didn’t let the fact that you didn’t know stand in the way of your figuring some way”

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

**** NEW COURSE AVAILABLE - UNLOCK YOUR ARTWORLD NETWORK ****

Are you an artist or creative professional longing to take your career to the next level?

Relationships are the key to success in the art world, and it only takes 10 to 15 of the right connections to build a thriving career. You just need to know how to find them. 

Join Ceri Hand as she guides you through her proven 5-step approach to nurturing impactful relationships with gallerists, curators, commissioners and producers in a brand new self-study video course, Unlock Your Artworld Network. 

From crafting the perfect email to attending events with confidence, this course will give you invaluable insights and simple, practical strategies to forge and maintain meaningful connections in the artworld.

For just £75, you'll have lifetime access to:

5 x Guidance Videos
5 x Exercise Videos
11 x Worksheets & Journal prompts

Work your way through the materials at your own pace, in as little as 5 hours. 

Sign up now!

cerihand.com/courses

@cerihand

Ceri interviews acclaimed author and creativity expert Todd Henry about maintaining creativity and bravery in uncertain times. Todd shares insights from his latest book "The Brave Habit" on how to cultivate daily courage through an optimistic vision, personal agency, and intentional action. Todd offers inspiration to creatives facing disruption from AI, economic instability, and evolving workplace dynamics. His framework of BRAVE - blocking time for self-reflection, focusing on agency, visioning, and expressing intent - provides takeaways for professional and personal growth.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Creativity requires nurturing practices and habits to sustain brilliance when solving problems.
• Todd reinvented his podcast to weave stories and voices into entertaining, binge-worthy episodes.
• Collaboration multiplied the quality and uniqueness of the new Daily Creative podcast.
• Reaching out to past collaborators you've worked well with can ease uncertainty.
• Bravery arises from an optimistic vision of the future and a sense of personal agency.
• The "BRAVE" framework involves self-reflection, focusing on influence, positive envisioning, and stating intent.
• Boldness differs from bravery which acts on behalf of others or principles.
• Creatives can apply bravery learned through art to other areas by connecting to their purpose.

BEST MOMENTS 

"My job is to equip creative professionals to be very focused and brilliant in their life and their work."

"People were listening to media very differently now. I think that they, yeah, they want to be educated, but I think also they want to be entertained."

"When people retreat into cowardice...it's usually because either I can't see a positive vision of the future or...I don't believe I have agency to act."

"Bravery is always on behalf of the other whether...a principle or an idea or a relationship."

"Most of us are talking about... 'Oh, I want to have this uncomfortable conversation with a potential client.'"

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

**** NEW COURSE - UNLOCK YOUR ARTWORLD NETWORK ****

Are you an artist or creative professional longing to take your career to the next level?

Relationships are the key to success in the art world, and it only takes 10 to 15 of the right connections to build a thriving career. You just need to know how to find them. 

Join Ceri Hand as she guides you through her proven 5-step approach to nurturing impactful relationships with gallerists, curators, commissioners and producers in a brand new self-study video course, Unlock Your Artworld Network. 

And quick! Subscribe to our mailing list today to receive our EXCLUSIVE LAUNCH OFFER of 20% discount between 11th and 18th of March. 

cerihand.com/subscribe

@cerihand

Ceri invites playfully provocative artist Kim Noble to speak candidly about his unique and multifaceted work. Kim shares funny and poignant stories about lessons from art school, making experimental comedy and theatre, living with foxes, and pushing creative boundaries. He shares challenges like monetising his art, overcoming self-doubt, and managing perfectionism. Kim offers rare insights into an artist’s psyche, revealing the intense commitment and vulnerability required behind all the absurdity and humour he brings to his work.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Kim sometimes struggles to introduce and define the breadth of his work, a common issue for interdisciplinary artists
• A drunken conversation with his rebellious artistic brother directed Kim firmly onto the path of fine art instead of graphic design
• A transformational art college tutorial with visiting artist Lucy Gunning unlocked Kim’s understanding of his practice
• Comedy audiences were an unlikely but welcoming testbed for Kim’s early performance pieces
• Creative partnerships provide vital mirrors and feedback, though require careful navigation as both artists evolve
• Ruthless editing is crucial to condense years of artistic “research” into a potent one-hour theatre show
• Teaching and directing offer respite from creating his own work
• Financial stability is a perpetual worry for artists like Kim without stable galleries or institutions supporting their work

BEST MOMENTS 

"He was like you f*cking c*nt. You're not a f*cking graphic designer. Are you? Proper artists go to art school.”

“Sometimes I lose a sense of that thing that my tutor said - remember these other things, the things that might be a bit shit or gonna be a bit shit for a day.”

"Just getting my knob out and showing it to people on a, on a theatre stage...again, it comes back to just enjoying poking things slightly."

"When I got to art school, it was the first time I thought I'm not an artist...It taught me how to not be an artist."

"I realised that...I wasn’t very good at being human."

"Sometimes I forget that those times are important and not being creative is important and being okay with not being creative."

"Can I call myself an artist? And if I'm not an artist, then I'm f*cked.”

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

**** NEW COURSE - UNLOCK YOUR ARTWORLD NETWORK ****

Are you an artist or creative professional longing to take your career to the next level?

Relationships are the key to success in the art world, and it only takes 10 to 15 of the right connections to build a thriving career. You just need to know how to find them. 

Join Ceri Hand as she guides you through her proven 5-step approach to nurturing impactful relationships with gallerists, curators, commissioners and producers in a brand new self-study video course, Unlock Your Artworld Network. 

And quick! Subscribe to our mailing list today to receive our EXCLUSIVE LAUNCH OFFER of 20% discount between 11th and 18th of March. 

cerihand.com/subscribe

@cerihand

Ceri is in conversation with ingenious stage designer Chloe Lamford, recognised for crafting unexpected performance spaces that captivate audiences. Learn Chloe's insights on cross-cultural collaboration, overcoming creative burnout, and carefully considering the audience experience. Hear how she creates emotional spaces by colliding references and objects, and her shift towards more precise, architectural designs. Chloe also shares her criteria for selecting projects and her commitment to boundaries for self-care.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Chloe creates emotional performance spaces by bringing together eclectic references and objects.
• She has shifted towards more precise, architectural set designs in recent years.
• Scenery and staging choices shape the audience's perception of time passing.
• Cross-cultural collaborations provide rich opportunities for learning.
• Chloe overcame creative burnout by establishing clearer boundaries.
• She has insightful criteria for selecting which projects to work on.
• Past mentors like Vicki Featherstone taught her to focus on the art rather than reviews.
• Chloe remains open to exciting new creative adventures across disciplines.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I create feeling spaces or emotional spaces."

"I think I'm really good at [collaboration]. It doesn't sound ridiculous to say that. I think it would be my superpower."

"Just go to bed. Stop and go to bed and you'll feel loads better the next day."

"I can talk to a scenic pace and I can be using all these kind of squishy, brilliant English words."

"I'm very reliant on other people."

"I try really hard to be joyful in a lot of situations because it's called a play."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Want to be coached by Ceri?

Ceri’s transformative coaching empowers creatives to 10x their impact in the world. By providing tailored guidance, new techniques, and fresh perspectives, Ceri will help you to overcome blocks, boost income, and cultivate resilience for lasting career change in your creative career.

Speak to our team to discover how Ceri can elevate your creative career:

https://www.cerihand.com/coaching_with_ceri/

Join Ceri as she speaks to artist Paul Kindersley, whose multimedia work spans drawing, performance, film, and ceramics. With painted faces and elaborate costumes, Paul creates absurd, poetic pieces that teeter between the beautiful and grotesque. He discusses merging art with daily life, embracing playfulness in his process, and establishing frameworks for creative collaboration. Discover in this episode how Paul pushes boundaries with discipline, translating concepts between mediums, and figuring out how different modes of communication can uncover new creative possibilities.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Paul views all his work, across mediums, as part of one interconnected story that is ever-evolving.
• Constraints like limited space and found materials guide Paul's process and help him focus on creativity.
• Silliness and play get Paul out of his head so he can tap into intuition and generate unexpected outcomes.
• Paul works collaboratively to introduce new interpretations, then relinquishes a degree of control to enable unplanned magic.
• Translating ideas between mediums like drawing, film, and ceramics fuels Paul’s process and sparks new directions.
• Paul paints figures ambiguously so they convey myriad meanings that shift from different vantage points.
• Paul establishes frameworks so he can trust spontaneity to yield something exciting and unanticipated.
• Communicating visually resonates more powerfully for Paul than verbal expression.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I initially didn't like the name artist because...so much pressure comes in, but then I changed my mind that artist was such a great word because it means absolutely everything and nothing."

"The key to my artwork and artwork in general is often storytelling so I often explain my artwork in...parameters of a storyteller."

"Having different ways of communicating...often verbal communication maybe isn’t the best way of communicating with people...that's why lots of art is so powerful to me."

"I put in all the framework and working hard on all of that so you can build those exciting things that you’re not expecting."

"Being awkwardly balanced in between these things is always where I like things to be."

"I'm bringing absolutely everything to it at that situation...everything up to that moment has led to that thing."

"Words almost being these lies, but very beautiful ones and the same with all art...It’s like a very beautiful lie and like what’s hiding behind it."

"Having the equipment on your hands and valuing the equipment...just need to do it."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Want to be coached by Ceri?

Ceri’s transformative coaching empowers creatives to 10x their impact in the world. By providing tailored guidance, new techniques, and fresh perspectives, Ceri will help you to overcome blocks, boost income, and cultivate resilience for lasting career change in your creative career.

Speak to our team to discover how Ceri can elevate your creative career:

https://www.cerihand.com/coaching_with_ceri/

@cerihand

cerihand.com

Join Ceri as she interviews artist and designer Lucy McRae, recognised by Fast Company as a pioneer who's shaping the future. We get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Lucy's artistic process as she creates conceptual sculptures, films, and wearables, exploring the impacts of emerging technologies on the human body. Tapping into her unique childhood and ballet training, Lucy explains how constantly adapting led her to approach spaces and materials as malleable.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Lucy's work investigates how technologies could alter human evolution, using fashion, film, and sculpture to spark ethical discussions.
• She transforms familiar materials to envision unfamiliar futures, helping people emotionally relate to new developments in science, technology and the natural world.
• Lucy uses her body as an experimental canvas, prototype and barometer.
• As an outsider, she learned how to adapt to new environments and situations quickly.
• She practices radical candour in collaborations, while protecting her vision.
• Rest is resistance - Lucy seeks productivity without burnout and advocates for every artist to do the same.
• She views the studio itself as her biggest ongoing creative project.
• Lucy aims to bring science to street level through creativity.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I use the camera as a microscope to determine what is working or what needs to be changed."

"Honesty is a great starting point - saying how I'm feeling, whether I'm tired or not feeling a project."

"The process of making...you should put in another two weeks as a kind of antechamber for what came before."

"I learned to exist on that edge and that sense of being an outsider became a natural habitat for me."

"Discomfort and that darkness helps you grow, even though it's unpleasant."

"My body is a barometer...when I take something on, it kind of goes through me."

"I'm only one person...that platform for belonging and experimentation is where I'm putting my energy."

"I'm trying to bring science to street level through conceptual fashion, short film and sculpture."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Want to be coached by Ceri?

Ceri’s transformative coaching empowers creatives to 10x their impact in the world. By providing tailored guidance, new techniques, and fresh perspectives, Ceri will help you to overcome blocks, boost income, and cultivate resilience for lasting career change in your creative career.

Speak to our team to discover how Ceri can elevate your creative career:

https://www.cerihand.com/coaching_with_ceri/

****

https://www.cerihand.com

[email protected]

@cerihand

Ceri interviews internationally acclaimed artist Claire Morgan, who faced challenges growing up in Northern Ireland with undiagnosed Tourette's and autism. Claire shares how recent diagnoses in her 30s and 40s have shaped her life, confirming her unique strengths that enable ambitious, impactful artwork and a sustainable career. She provides insights on how the art world could better support neurodivergent artists and reflects on advice she'd give her younger self. Claire also talks about her creative process, use of potent materials, collaborating with a live model, risk-taking with new work, reactions to her raw, bold exhibitions, and more.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Diagnoses in her 30s/40s helped Claire understand her skills and "superpowers" that drive her prolific artwork
• Claire thinks the art world could provide more transparency about needs/offerings to better support neurodivergent artists
• She works across public commissions and commercial gallery representation to sustain her practice
• Her process involves extensive drawing, writing, connecting words and shapes, and playing with new materials
• Collaborating with a live model enabled emotive drawings conveying fragility and vulnerability
• Recent liberating exhibitions with challenging themes prompted strong reactions confirming her direction
• She would advise her younger self to reject shame, realise her differences are assets, and that ideas come through living, not forcing

BEST MOMENTS

 "I had such intense messaging as a kid and a neurodivergent girl, that I was wrong or broken, which in hindsight I think is bullshit."

"If I presented a really small drawing in an atrium space of a museum, it probably wouldn’t really work."

"Whenever I get into a project or a body of work, I do kind of switch off completely everything else."

"I felt like I was going to be sick before they opened it and it was awful."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Want to be coached by Ceri?

Ceri’s transformative coaching empowers creatives to 10x their impact in the world. By providing tailored guidance, new techniques, and fresh perspectives, Ceri will help you to overcome blocks, boost income, and cultivate resilience for lasting career change in your creative career.

Speak to our team to discover how Ceri can elevate your creative career:

https://www.cerihand.com/coaching_with_ceri/

***

https://www.cerihand.com

[email protected]

@cerihand

Ceri interviews performance artist Rosie Gibbens, who creates provocative and humorous artworks using her own body. Rosie shares her creative journey, from making animal sculptures out of toilet rolls as a child to pushing boundaries at art school with bold performances. She discusses what drives her interest in gender, sexuality, labour, and consumer desire, and the unusual yet thoughtful logic behind her work. Rosie opens up about formative relationships and learning experiences that still inform her practice today. She also offers advice to aspiring artists on practicalities like asking for what you need and not having to live up to the 'tortured artist' stereotype to make great work.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Rosie creates performances, sculptures, videos using her own body to explore identity, gender assumptions, and problematic desires.
• She builds fictional worlds with their own internal logic as a structure for absurd, humorous artworks that invite deeper reflection.
• Early experiences made her question ideas of femininity, sexuality and the male gaze, which still drives her practice.
• Studying under different performance artists showed her the value of playfulness alongside intensity and confrontation.
• Rosie has learned to ask directly for what she needs to produce her best work and manage conflict better.
• She advises aspiring artists you can have a practical creative life alongside other jobs.
• Her aesthetic combines the handmade and human with technology to highlight our fraught relationship with progress.
• Rosie demonstrates a commitment to fully execute her vision, however bizarre, while keeping tight control.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I had a relationship with a much older person at the time...I was kind of trying to imagine myself as an older woman and what a sexualized women what that kind of looked like to me."

"I was kind of playing with the dynamic a little bit between audience and performer and there were some things I did which I felt like I didn’t have the control in the situation."

"I always want to have the control.”

"...there's some element of like maybe harm going on, but it’s also simultaneously a kind of joy that I have in the making of these contraptions."

"I think that talks about the kind of cognitive dissonance that we have in terms of the things that we desire, that we know are kind of problematic or that might harm us, but there’s still like a conditioned understanding."

"I think humour is really important in my work. In fact, it’s kind of a mindset that’s brought me through most of my creative career."

" I just didn’t really see it as risky, because I think within my work there’s a real internal logic...even though it might not seem very, like, rational from the outside..."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Do you love making art and long to make more money from your work?

If the answer is yes, we have exciting news for you!

Ceri Hand's transformative course ‘How To Price And Sell Your Art’ is now available for a very special price, only for the month of January.

This course offers an incredibly rare opportunity to take part in monthly group coaching calls with Ceri herself. Alongside these unique sessions, you'll receive self-study course materials packed with insider intel, guidance and advice, teaching you all you need to know to understand the commercial art world and make more money doing what you love.

What are you waiting for?

https://www.cerihand.com/price-and-sell-your-art/

[email protected]

@cerihand

Ceri is joined in this episode by Titania Altius, a creative trailblazer with over 20 years in the music and creative industry. Learn Titania's invaluable insights on how artists can sustain thriving careers and the pivotal elements for successfully sharing creative work. Hear Titania's experiences in championing musicians, unlocking funding and enabling artists to turn passions into purpose. Discover who Titania considers true creative leaders and role models. Plus find out the change Titania intends to spark within the industry regarding opportunity and equality.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Music licensing ensures musicians get fairly paid when their work gets used, providing long-term income streams
• Artists should focus both on the now and on building future revenue foundations
• The industry landscape can be confusing for artists - connect with licensing bodies for support
• Collaboration across creative disciplines like music, dance and visual arts can be very powerful
• Funders want to back compelling projects but need artists to articulate their vision and goals
• Networks, mentors and teams are invaluable for progress
• Ask yourself what's missing and address gaps impeding your ambitions
• Diversity requires more than just hiring - ongoing nurturing of rising talent is key

BEST MOMENTS 

"If you don't attend to that creative itch, you're no use to anyone. Sometimes you've just got to stop and go and just do something creative for yourself."

"I want to see people come together, create their own communities, whether it's a network or it's an event. It is beautiful."

"Don't just bring someone in and plonk them in...It's about building so that when opportunities arise, that person you're looking for is ready."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

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Do you love making art and long to make more money from your work?

If the answer is yes, we have exciting news for you!

Ceri Hand's transformative course ‘How To Price And Sell Your Art’ is now available for a very special price, only for the month of January.

This course offers an incredibly rare opportunity to take part in monthly group coaching calls with Ceri herself. Alongside these unique sessions, you'll receive self-study course materials packed with insider intel, guidance and advice, teaching you all you need to know to understand the commercial art world and make more money doing what you love.

What are you waiting for?

https://www.cerihand.com/price-and-sell-your-art/

[email protected]

@cerihand

Ceri interviews artist and curator Paula Orrell, Director of the Contemporary Visual Arts Network England, about making the arts more equitable. Paula shares how artists can be effective leaders in creating change, gives advice for creatives on using tools like programming and art writing to build community, and makes recommendations on advocating for the arts. She discusses key skills needed today like lateral thinking, holding complexity, and "deeper listening" across differences. Paula also opens up about managing dyslexia and finding the courage to influence government ministers on the value of contemporary art.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Contemporary art questions ideas, transforms people's lives and serves a public purpose even if not everyone visits galleries. Its value must be reimagined.
• Funding cuts over decades are severely impacting artists and arts organisations; we likely won't see change for 5+ years.
• Connect with those working toward equity like Migrants in Culture to exchange ideas. Break boundaries between arts institutions.
• Centre artists' positions and insights to understand what society needs now. Policymakers must listen more deeply.
• Develop thick skin yet retain ethical passion. Influence happens through relationships, not just facts and figures.
• Create visual systems to manage tasks and shake off worries so you can think clearly. Go outdoors.
• Show courage by continually learning history and discussing issues, even when uncomfortable.
• Success includes substantively tackling ableism and racism through staff roles focused on equity.

BEST MOMENTS 

"It's about creating, curating exhibitions in a way to talk about things happening in the world."

"I have to communicate the distinction between a museum and an artist-led project in a studio."

"I've seen it transform people's lives...That opportunity often isn't there for people to see art as a career."

"Taking our egos out of it is important, to really think about others and listen, even if you don't agree."

"I knew nothing about Palestine's history. Why weren't we talking about this at university?"

"I use sticky notes because I see that word and it reminds me, I need to do that."

"If I can create a new job focused on equity, that would be an incredible success."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Do you love making art and long to make more money from your work?

If the answer is yes, we have exciting news for you!

Ceri Hand's transformative course ‘How To Price And Sell Your Art’ is now available for a very special price, only for the month of January.

This course offers an incredibly rare opportunity to take part in monthly group coaching calls with Ceri herself. Alongside these unique sessions, you'll receive self-study course materials packed with insider intel, guidance and advice, teaching you all you need to know to understand the commercial art world and make more money doing what you love.

What are you waiting for?

https://www.cerihand.com/price-and-sell-your-art/

[email protected]

@cerihand

As we say goodbye to 2023, Ceri shares decades' worth of wisdom on creativity, distilling it into her 5Cs Framework she draws on when coaching artists and arts professionals: 1. Create 2. Communicate 3. Community 4. Confidence 5. Cash.

Listen in as she dives deep into the first and most vital C - Create. Learn Ceri’s top tips on finding your rhythm, defining your space, producing prolific work, understanding your process and editing often. Gain insight on pivotal decisions like discerning when a piece is finished and finding the medium that amplifies your voice.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Establish a consistent creative routine and regular practice to stay in flow.
• Select or build an inspiring space tailored to your process to get in the zone quicker.
• Make lots of work and edit often to increase your chances of creating something great.
• Articulate your unique process, subject matter and medium to enrich meaning.
• Continuously refine and review work over time to track progress.
• Work on your ability to determine the precise final touch that completes a piece.
• Committing to a medium builds confidence but stay open to experimenting.
• Authentic self-expression aligned to your beliefs makes the biggest impact.

BEST MOMENTS 

"Maintaining a rhythm aids your brain in swiftly re-engaging and elaborating on ideas."

"It ensures a process of steady, cumulative progress and moves you from a boom or bust way of working."

"The pathway to greatness often means creating a ton of mediocre work."

"Art doesn’t necessarily need to be political with a big P, but it should be personal, accessible, authentic, and delivered with deliberate intention."

"Building a body of work is like making a series of gorgeous film stills with the right set, lighting, props, actors, costumes, all compelling on their own."

"Identify what makes your work unique to you. What’s your story? What are the recurring themes, concepts, motifs and mediums?"

"Even if you occasionally step outside your personal lens while creating. Your unique experiences and perspectives inevitably shape your artistic expression."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Subscribe to receive my weekly coaching message to nurture your creativity and be the first to hear about our latest creative coaching, mentoring opportunities and course announcements: https://www.cerihand.com/subscribe/

Explore our website and discover how we can help you live your best creative life: https://www.cerihand.com/

Ceri interviews long-time podcast host Dave Stachowiak about his journey of building Coaching for Leaders from scratch. They discuss what motivates him, how he transformed it from a side project into a full-time pursuit, his approach as an introverted leader, and key insights on leadership, collaboration, and unlocking creative potential. Dave shares the story behind his "aha" moment with powerful listening and the questions that open people up.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Dave started the podcast out of boredom driving in LA traffic, and saw a gap for a consistently released, high-quality leadership show.
• He then quit his part-time teaching gig he loved, to focus fully on the podcast and coaching work as it gained traction.
• As an introvert, Dave designs work around his introverted strengths and finds people to complement the skills he lacks.
• Success is finding the sweet spot of the intersection of several things you are good at - for Dave it's academic expertise, tech/communications, and practitioner experience.
• Involve others early when you are facing decisions or feel stuck, then test and iterate quickly to combat procrastination tendencies.
• Your engaged audience can give you clues to how you develop your content; for Dave it's his Academy members who shape the show by sharing real struggles, making content resonate widely.
• Working directly with clients fuels Dave’s podcast topics and keeps him connected and grounded.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I wish I could tell you I had some grand plan of how all this was going to work. But the reality was, I was bored, driving around Los Angeles."

"If I'm going to do this job, which I had committed to do both to myself and others, I'm going to have to figure out a better way, because I could knock door to door. It's not that I couldn't do it...it's just that this is not going to work well for me."

"Just asking a question like that to invite someone to say more...don't worry about (like) getting better at everything. Just ask one more question..."

"When that happens and when that comes together and someone says. 'Hey, this episode you just aired or this conversation or this expert you had on helped me to have a tough conversation or work through something that I'd really been struggling with'. Wow. That's so much joy."

"You having shown up to create this space for the people you work with, I think is like so wonderful and beautiful that you've done this and the people who've come together and have found community in your work. I'm so in awe of what you've done and your bravery in creating this."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Subscribe to receive my weekly coaching message to nurture your creativity and be the first to hear about our latest creative coaching, mentoring opportunities and course announcements: https://www.cerihand.com/subscribe/

Explore our website and discover how we can help you live your best creative life: https://www.cerihand.com/

Ceri Hand interviews Keri Elmsly, the Executive Director of Programming at ACMI (Australia's national museum of screen culture). Keri takes us on her remarkable journey from the underground London rave scene to staging groundbreaking immersive art experiences worldwide. She shares insights from working with pioneering artists like UVA, Mira Calix, and Memo Akten to reshape cultural institutions. Together, they explore Keri's approach to fostering ambitious collaborative artworks, from aligning infrastructure to handle complex projects to ensuring artists are properly compensated. Keri offers invaluable advice for creative professionals and shares her extensive knowledge and experience in this episode.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Keri was drawn in by the vibrant DIY creative ethos of the 90s underground rave scene in London, learning the power of transformative collective experiences.
• She observed that artists who kept up consistent creative practice no matter their environment produced the strongest, most refined work.
• As a producer, Keri sees her role as the "hero" for the artist - achieving the impossible together, not just facilitating.
• When commissioning artists in her experience, paying them to prototype ambitious ideas leads to the best outcomes.
• Keri believes cultural institutions like museums must become more invitational and move at the speed of contemporary culture to stay relevant.
• For museums, she feels improving organisational infrastructure is crucial so operations don't paralyse programming ambition and flexibility.
• Keri encourages creatives to remember they likely have more supporters and backers than they realise and to simply reach out and connect. 

BEST MOMENTS 

"I left home on my last day of school to go on the road."

"The people who had the most output were the most refined and dedicated. And when I look at where their careers are now, they’re still artists."

"I was like, well, I don’t know what Second Story is. I’ve never even heard of them. And then, my son was like, mom, I’m really tired of being poor."

"I think the encouragement is you have more backers than you think you do...just say hi to people that you haven’t chatted to for a while."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Subscribe to receive my weekly coaching message to nurture your creativity and be the first to hear about our latest creative coaching, mentoring opportunities and course announcements.: https://linktr.ee/cerihand 

Ceri interviews Christian Viveros-Fauné, a Chilean curator and writer based in New York. Christian shares insights from his prolific career curating major biennials and writing for renowned publications. Christian offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of curating a citywide exhibition, from fundraising and gaining stakeholder buy-in to selecting impactful artists and works. He also discusses his personal creative drive, his approach to art criticism, and key artists who have influenced his perspective. Christian also talks about his next curatorial risk - a new book tackling the provocative themes of regulation and experimentation in the art world.

 KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Political turmoil in Chile as a child shaped Christian's view of art as a powerful tool for social commentary.
• When curating a major exhibition, you must convince stakeholders it's a team effort they have a stake in.
• Christian seeks art that innovates on recurring humanist themes like war and love.
• He's committed to working in fledgling contexts and pushing institutions to grow.
• Christian values art's "figural" meaning beyond words, the way it visually engages society.
• He aims to translate complex ideas about art accessibly as a writer and curator.
• When writing criticism, Christian's established voice means he rarely tailors pieces now.
• His next book explores provocative themes of regulation and experimentation in art.

 BEST MOMENTS 

"I wanted to convince people that it's a team operation, that there's a stake in it for them as well as for you and the organisation you're representing."

"I'm a firm believer in the larger field of humanity."

"The fact that we get [big ideas] in new envelopes when they're effective, I think that's where the magic happens."

"My interest has remained in this notion of figural thought and the way meaning spills over."

"You never do know when you touch somebody in their hour of need."

"Keep being prepared to put yourself in the midst of those new, strange contexts to help us see the world differently."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

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Subscribe to receive my weekly coaching message to nurture your creativity and be the first to hear about our latest creative coaching, mentoring opportunities and course announcements.: https://linktr.ee/cerihand 

Ceri interviews Zerritha Brown, Head of Culture at London's Camden Council, about how her Jamaican roots fuel her rebel spirit to drive grassroots activism. Zerritha shares how she brings that spirit into institutional settings through relationship-building and empowering others. She provides insight on how institutions need to understand their communities, not just co-produce content. Zerritha also discusses her soft yet deep listening leadership style and how she’s paving the way for the next generation.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Zerritha’s Jamaican heritage and music instilled a rebel spirit in her to create access and open doors in the arts for underrepresented communities.
• She builds relationships with institutions to create change from within, like bringing a sound system into the British Museum.
• Institutions need artists and community members working at all levels, not just co-producing content.
• Zerritha’s approach involves collaborating with the same artists long-term to actively shape communities.
• Her listening leadership style achieves remarkable results by empowering others.
• She believes in succession planning to pave the way for the next generation of diverse arts leaders.
• Dance and movement energise and inspire Zerritha to keep growing as a leader.
• Despite challenges, she learned to lead as her authentic self rather than fit a typical leadership stereotype.

BEST MOMENTS 
"That rebel attitude, being Jamaican, from Kingston, Jamaica, music as well, particularly reggae was becoming quite politicised at that time. My dad always carried that warrior, fighter, rebel, rebellious spirit, which was ingrained in me and my siblings."

"The spaces that we have in our control are the public realm. So how do we start to use that public realm and our role as connectors and conveners, bringing people into public space through cultural intervention?"

“They've been able to come in and really connect with us with what is going on in the ground, what needs to happen, where we're doing things wrong, where we're not listening. But also feed that into some of the partners that they're working with. I've seen a real shift change.

"I think also just being me as well and, and just being that, you know, I find, as I said, listening is a real skill…I don't think I can do my job if I don't listen."

PODCAST HOST BIO
Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Subscribe to receive my weekly coaching message to nurture your creativity and be the first to hear about our latest creative coaching, mentoring opportunities and course announcements.: https://linktr.ee/cerihand 

Join Ceri as she explores the captivating story behind multimedia artist Soheila Sokhanvari's work. Discover how art saved Soheila from depression as a scientist and fuelled her true calling. Hear how Soheila overcame deep challenges arriving in the UK as a teen and sacrificed family time to follow her artistic path. This moving episode unpacks Soheila's drive to spotlight pre-revolutionary Iran and honour exiled female performers through her portrait work.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Love empowers us to cherish our creativity and ourselves. Self-love forms the bedrock for life and work.
• Embracing failure enables growth and learning - a key to achieving our version of success.
• Discomfort brings genuine expansion. Diving into the deep end helps us thrive.
• Soheila uses beauty and colour to draw people close to difficult narratives in her art.
• Her scientific background taught Soheila to embrace failure and find order in chaos.
• Why Soheila became an unlikely activist, spotlighting oppressed Iranian women.
• Her solo exhibition at the Barbican, London, coincided with protests, providing her a crucial platform.

BEST MOMENTS 
"I can't help but love the person eventually, or at least I need to love them before I start."

"I make my life very difficult. I like that frisson between the vision and the materiality."

"I was just thrilled and happy to be there, but utterly out of my depth."

"To me, success is when you get up in the morning and until night, you do what you really love."

"I want to become a voice for Iranian women because if I don't, my silence would be too heavy."

"I'm making a rubbish public speaker, but I've become a reluctant yet vital activist."

"When I'm not in my comfort zone, when I'm pushed to the brink, some order comes."

PODCAST HOST BIO
Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Subscribe to receive my weekly coaching message to nurture your creativity and be the first to hear about our latest creative coaching, mentoring opportunities and course announcements.: https://linktr.ee/cerihand 

****

JOIN OUR UPCOMING COURSE: Become A Master Mentor

November 17th, 18th, and 24th

9:30 am to 5:30 pm (GMT)

Unlock your full potential as a creative mentor with our 3-day online course.

In this transformative programme lead by Ceri Hand and Lina Asrarguis, you'll develop results-oriented systems, master effective onboarding, craft an irresistible value proposition, confidently set your price points and budget for profit. Plus, enjoy interactive demos, comprehensive worksheets, and access to a vibrant online creative community.

Don't miss out on this chance to elevate your mentoring skills.

Apply now!

https://www.cerihand.com/become-a-master-mentor

Join artist, designer, and educator Julie Verhoeven in this episode as she shares her creative journey. From hating school and struggling to get into art college, to working with notorious fashion designers John Galliano and Martine Sitbon, Julie has forged her own unique path. She opens up about the imposter syndrome she faced early on, how being different fuels her creativity, and why she didn’t consider herself an “artist” until later in her career. Listen in for her honest take on being an artist and creative as well as tips and advice for emerging creatives looking to chart their own course.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Not getting into art college lit a fire in Julie to pursue fashion design. She developed a strong mindset and willpower which then propelled her successful career.
• Julie has always felt like an outsider and struggled with shyness but has learned to channel those feelings into her creative expression and individualism.
• Deep connections are more important to Julie than large social circles, often forming a creative partnership with just one other person.
• Julie thrives under fast-paced environments with intense schedules and tight deadlines that force decisive action.
• Though she resisted the "artist" label for a long time, Julie now embraces making work just to please herself without fear of judgement.
• She gathers inspiration from her vibrant neighbourhood, reality TV, music, and other multisensory sources.
• Julie urges creatives to fill time so doubts can't creep in, commit fully to their work, and push past discomfort towards change.

BEST MOMENTS 

"It was like a revelation. It was just the best thing ever...I felt absolute freedom when I got there."

"I find it unattractive, the thought of being an artist...this sort of self-centred, all about me."

"I try and create work [knowing] that nobody really cares, nobody's really looking."

"I don't allow space in my brain for doubt or fear."

"There are no rules”

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

JOIN OUR UPCOMING COURSE: Become A Master Mentor

November 17th, 18th, and 24th

9:30 am to 5:30 pm (BST)

Unlock your full potential as a creative mentor with our 3-day online course.

In this transformative programme lead by Ceri Hand and Lina Asrarguis, you'll develop results-oriented systems, master effective onboarding, craft an irresistible value proposition, confidently set your price points and budget for profit. Plus, enjoy interactive demos, comprehensive worksheets, and access to a vibrant online creative community.

Don't miss out on this chance to elevate your mentoring skills.

Apply now!

https://www.cerihand.com/become-a-master-mentor

Ceri talks to legendary photographer and TV host Normski. He shares his extraordinary journey from capturing the burgeoning hip-hop scene in the 1980s to becoming Britain's foremost youth presenter. Normski lifts the lid on his creative obsessions, the hustle behind his lens, and key lessons like following your passion, surrounding yourself with a supportive tribe, and having the courage to take creative risks.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Follow your gut instincts and believe in your vision, don't listen to the naysayers.
• Treat each project like it's the most important, even if it's just 5 minutes you should always give it your all.
• Build relationships and community, they will lift you up during challenging times.
• Allow yourself different creative seasons, learn to try new things and reinvent yourself.
• Create work you love and the love from others will come. Integrity and authenticity shine through when your work is created with them.
• Lift others up and help inspire those coming up behind you.
• Stay curious, take creative risks and be willing to fail, that's always where the magic happens.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I was obsessed with getting back to develop the film, hoping I didn't let any light in to bleed it out - reliving that shot was everything."

"It's about being willing to be shit in those moments. Even if you're not willing, you have to be prepared for it to be really crap."

"How is anyone going to be completely sure? If you have a feeling, follow it through."

"If it's not made with love, it probably won't be received with love. It might make you money, but I'm not sure it will have the shelf life."

"I find joy in showing people what's possible, photographs can inspire."

"There's something about you lifting the stone and looking at what's underneath - you're a bit nosy, curious."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

JOIN OUR UPCOMING COURSE: Become A Master Mentor

November 17th, 18th, and 24th

9:30 am to 5:30 pm (BST)

Unlock your full potential as a creative mentor with our 3-day online course.

In this transformative programme lead by Ceri Hand and Lina Asrarguis, you'll develop results-oriented systems, master effective onboarding, craft an irresistible value proposition, confidently set your price points and budget for profit. Plus, enjoy interactive demos, comprehensive worksheets, and access to a vibrant online creative community.

Don't miss out on this chance to elevate your mentoring skills.

Apply now!

https://www.cerihand.com/become-a-master-mentor

Publisher and editor Sharmaine Lovegrove joins Ceri in this week's episode of the Extraordinary Creatives podcast. Despite dealing with dyslexia and homelessness and as a teen, Sharmaine has beaten the odds to become an award-winning MD, publisher and editor. She shares how books were her safe haven growing up and discusses her unique journey to the top of the publishing world. Sharmaine offers incredible, inspiring advice to aspiring creatives and reveals her secret to keeping her creative cup full (hint: it's not PG!). Tune in to hear this remarkable woman's story.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Sharmaine turned to books as an escape in response to feeling like an outsider growing up in a multicultural London. Reading gave her confidence and perspective.
• She became a truth seeker due to experiencing trauma growing up – she now uses that skill to help authors excavate stories and ideas.
• Sharmaine doesn't want to be the protagonist in every situation, instead finding confidence in supporting others’ brilliance shine rather than having to be centre stage.
• Deciding to move to Berlin gave Sharmaine space, time with family, and more focus on editing -  staying connected to the heart of publishing while avoiding the noise.
• Modelling psychological safety as a leader helps Sharmaine ensure that her team feels comfortable stretching themselves, failing, and growing together.
• Sharmaine is committed to pleasure and joy which help keep her creative cup full, she always makes time for sex, food, and Arsenal football!

BEST MOMENTS 

"Being an immigrant Mom in Germany showed me I didn't grow up in an immigrant household - it taught me the difference between ethnic minority and immigrant."

"A lot of sex, watching football and eating food - indulgent things that take focus. That's where humans have always connected."

"Know yourself, be intentional and unapologetic, but also listen and grow. Look for gaps where you can make a difference."

"Keep going. I'm really proud of you. You did what you needed to do and you were right."

"I don't have the same story as James Baldwin or Dr. Maya Angelou. That gave me confidence - it could be so much worse."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

Ceri is joined by poet, comedian and musician John Hegley. From busking to the big stage, John reflects on finding inspiration in everyday objects, overcoming challenges of fame, and the importance of mental well-being. He opens up about his own battles with depression and how connecting and creativity aided his recovery. Listen in to this episode as he unpacks evolving creative pursuits - from visual art to lyrical translation aimed at forging a human connection and even gives an exclusive musical performance on mandolin to finish!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Creativity can be found in humble everyday items - inspiration is all around us.
• Busking and street performing built confidence and taught adaptability.
• Fame and visibility bring mental health challenges that require active care.
• Finding your tribe and connecting creatively is deeply healing.
• Staying open to learning new skills keeps creativity fresh.
• Collaboration with others brings great artistic joy.
• Gratitude for creativity's gifts is just as important as the output.

 BEST MOMENTS 

"Science doesn’t need things to be true, just adequate."

"I think I've had a playful ability, an ability to play with words since I was young, I think."

"I was doing a talk to midwives and I said, one of the things that we have in common, myself and you, is that we try to make people feel better."

“There’s a love of the absurd, I’ve always really loved that about your work… and sometimes there’s a tinge of melancholy in some of the work you perform”

“The moment that changed things was having the John Peel session”

“After all these years you still have those little niggles, it’s the creative in you”

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

****

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

Ceri interviews quantum artist Libby Heaney, an award-winning British visual artist with a PhD in quantum physics. Libby shares her inspirational journey navigating classism and sexism as a working-class woman in elite academic institutions. She finds solace in art, eventually pursuing it full-time after earning enough money in science. Libby discusses entangling quantum computing with digital art, creating magical, sensual experiences that question reality. A courageous and candid conversation on processing grief after her sister's suicide through vulnerable artworks. Libby reminds us that connection and hope can transcend life's challenges.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Libby was bullied and felt like an outsider as a working-class "gobby clever one" in an elite physics program, finding refuge in art studios after a turbulent home life.
• She persevered in physics to fund her art school dreams but still felt patronised as the only woman in Oxford labs with unprofessional male academics.
• Libby pioneered art interrogating biases in AI systems, including classism, through projects like Lady Chatterley's Tinderbot.
• She creates multi-sensory quantum artworks using code she writes to entangle ideas of fluid identity and the magical realities beneath surface perceptions.
• Processing her grief over her sister's suicide through paintings and VR, Libby vulnerably explores transcendence and hope within devastation.
• Sharing quantum physics concepts with the public, Libby wants to spread the queer, non-binary nature of the microscopic world.
• Despite obstacles, Libby encourages persistence in finding your passion and community, taking care of your whole self.

BEST MOMENTS 

"I'd say, like, keep going, then it will be all right, like, but I think I knew that deep in me as well. I knew what I wanted to do."

"I'm really interested in embodiment and affect and sensation. Cause I think the technical details of quantum are quite hard."

"If you know what you want to do, just keep going”

"I had so many dead ends, which we haven't really spoken about, but that's, to be really clear, I've had so many times things haven't worked out for me, and I've had to go back and try again."

PODCAST HOST BIO

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

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Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

Ceri sat down with Ekow Eshun, a creative director, writer, curator, and broadcaster, to discuss his personal journey and creative purpose. Ekow's story of growing up in Ghana and returning to a racially charged Britain in the 1970s is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. He talks the importance of studying politics and history, and shares the publication that had a profound impact on his life. Ekow's candid discussion of the emotional ability and confidence required to speak and question his own thoughts is truly inspiring. He also talks about his current work as a curator, including an upcoming exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery. Ekow reflects on the satisfaction and joy he finds in following his curiosity and providing spaces for black artists to be seen and heard. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Ekow's creative purpose stems from his early experiences of living in Ghana and returning to 1970s Britain, where he witnessed the marginalization and dismissal of people of colour.

2. Ekow's choice to study politics and history at the London School of Economics was a strategic move to stay in London and be part of the exciting cultural scene of the late 1980s.

3. Ekow's confidence and ability to have a public opinion and speak on various platforms comes from his extensive research and reading, which allows him to have a well-informed perspective on different topics.

4. Ekow's curatorial work, such as the upcoming exhibition "The Time is Always Now, Artists Reframe the Black Figure," focuses on black figuration and aims to shift the perspective from objectification to subjectivity, inviting viewers to see through the eyes of the artists and their subjects.

5. Ekow finds joy and fulfilment in his creative career by following his curiosity, connecting different aspects of his interests, and using his work as a way to navigate and challenge societal norms and expectations.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I felt very strongly from an early age that unless I found a way to make my own voice heard, then all you're doing is living within someone else's definition of who you are."

2. "The joy, therefore, is to follow the threads backwards to unravel that thing and to see also where else it can lead you."

3. "I'm interested in artists of all kinds who begin from a presumption that sit within and without that… They're trying to both interrogate the world and offer another way of seeing the world."

4. "So Noah Davis' 1975, it's a blissful painting, but it sits on Ford Proud… Many of the things I do follow on from each other."

5. "The first piece I wrote for The Face magazine… It was about these particular shoes that had kind of returned to popularity… It gave me this kind of validation that you could walk down the street, see something, sell a story on that basis."

ABOUT THE HOST

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company www.cerihand.com. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

Ceri interviews artist Tim A. Shaw, co-founder of the Hospital Rooms charity that focuses on arts and mental health. During the interview, Tim talks about his journey as an artist and how his work has transformed inpatient mental health units. He shares the challenges and rewards of collaborating with artists in these settings, emphasising the importance of selecting those who can see the potential in these spaces. Tim also reflects on the emotional and psychological impacts of working in such contexts and the support provided to artists. He shares insights into the motivation behind starting Hospital Rooms and the process of convincing hospitals to collaborate. Tim's passion for art and mental health shines through as he discusses the power of creativity to bring hope and change to individuals in these challenging environments.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Hospital Rooms is an arts and mental health charity that commissions artists to transform inpatient mental health units. They also run workshops and a digital art school.
2. The selection of artists for projects is based on their ability to create stimulating and thought-provoking work, as well as their willingness to problem-solve and adapt to the unique challenges of working in mental health settings.
3. Working in mental health settings can be emotionally and psychologically challenging for artists. Hospital Rooms provides support and creates a safe environment for artists to navigate these challenges.
4. The organisation uses creative methods for gathering feedback and evaluation, such as visual matrix workshops and non-traditional feedback forms, to ensure a more engaging and meaningful process.
5. Tim A. Shaw, the artist and co-founder of Hospital Rooms, has transitioned from creating large-scale installations to smaller, more intimate paintings. His work often explores themes of mental health and parenthood

BEST MOMENTS

1. "We commission extraordinary artists to transform inpatient mental health units around the country."
2. "We're very present on a working ward for a number of months… our team are really amazing at making the artists feel safe while also making their best work."
3. "I think most of us have… been sectioned… so going into an inpatient ward that might be very similar to the one that they were in, or they visited someone in, can be very challenging and quite triggering."
4. "I think the work we do in Hospital Rooms, we feel like we have a responsibility for some of that work to be quite transformative, to really change the way you think and feel when you're in that space."
5. "You know, everyone can experience it and we should all have the right to experience it. And, you know, the service users we work with, there's so many creative ways of thinking."

ABOUT THE HOST

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company www.cerihand.com. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

In this episode of the Extraordinary Creatives Podcast, Ceri Hand speaks with visionary artist Jenkin van Zyl about his journey from suburban life to the vibrant club and squat party culture of London. Jenkin is a multi-talented artist who creates immersive worlds that challenge binary oppositions and celebrate otherness. He shares the challenges he has faced in funding and managing large-scale projects, and offers valuable advice to emerging artists. He also talks about his experience exhibiting at the prestigious Hayward Gallery and how artists can embrace their unique worldview to live differently. Jenkin's new project explores the intersection of fantasy, horror, and contemporary politics. This inspiring conversation is not to be missed!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Jenkin van Zyl describes his style as a fusion of artistry and intensity, drawing inspiration from theatrical ballet and horror elements.

2. Jenkin's creative journey started in London squat parties and queer club culture, where he explored and expressed complex ideas about masculinity and identity through unique costuming.

3. Jenkin emphasizes the importance of discovering your authentic voice and surrounding yourself with honest, supportive confidants who can provide straightforward guidance.

4. Jenkin's work is characterized by its expansive creativity, incorporating filmmaking, sculptural works, drawings, performance, and writing, often presented in installation and world-building contexts.

5. Jenkin faces challenges in funding and developing the scale of his projects, as well as balancing the multifaceted demands of being an artist, including project management, marketing, and navigating the art industry's underfunding and limited resources.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I describe myself as a filmmaker, but that kind of inevitably spills out into kind of sculptural works, drawings, performance, writing."

2. "I think there is a sense of otherness that is applied onto queer bodies and the otherness of monsters that has been emphasised over the years, I think is interesting."

3. "I think it's about having kind of confidence in your worldview and nurturing the parts of that that are like super unique and necessary."

4. "I think it's about going and making sure that I was doing as much stuff that had like physical material to kind of refresh and recharge."

5. "I think it's really important at points in the work that we make to kind of not focus on the overwhelming state of crisis, but to apply CPR to the embers of things that are really important to salvage the world of humanity."

ABOUT THE HOST

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company www.cerihand.com. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

Ceri welcomes Beth Bate, Director of the Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre in Scotland. Beth shares her inspiring story of overcoming childhood bullying to find her place in the arts world. Beth shares the importance of finding your tribe, or surrounding yourself with people who appreciate your uniqueness. Beth's leadership in championing diversity and inclusion is admirable, and she is helping other creatives thrive. Reminder to embrace your creativity and chart your own path. If you're looking for some inspiration, Beth has it all!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Overcoming challenges: Beth's journey from childhood bullying and health challenges to thriving in the arts is a testament to endurance and resilience.

2. Finding your champions: Beth emphasizes the importance of finding a community of people who support and champion your creative endeavors, whether it's through youth theater or professional networks.

3. Embracing your inner spark: Beth encourages embracing your unique identity and expressing yourself authentically, even if it means standing out from the mainstream.

4. Learning from impactful mentors: Beth highlights the influence of mentors like Mark Ball and Sylvia King, who taught her about leadership, community engagement, and the power of creating meaningful connections.

5. Saying no and setting boundaries: Beth mentions the importance of recognizing your strengths and weaknesses and surrounding yourself with a team that complements your skills. She also emphasizes the need to make tough decisions, even if they are unpopular, in order to create a positive and effective work environment.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "There was something in being able to recognize your community and recognize who your supporters are."

2. "I think being involved in arts and culture in whatever form, there's so many ways to do that, your theatre is just but one."

3. "I think there is something about being attracted and drawn to things which were perhaps slightly outside of the mainstream."

4. "I learned an enormous amount from Mark in terms of taking huge responsibility for the voice and the power and the role that you can have."

5. "There is something remarkable about creating connection and being radical in all of its senses, but also about thinking about having fun, thinking about how we create a fun community that does brilliant things together."

ABOUT THE HOST

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company www.cerihand.com. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

If you're looking for some creative inspiration, today's guest John Marchant shares his unique journey as a curator, gallerist, and artist collaborator. He's worked with some big names in the industry, such as Body Map and Jamie Reid, and he discusses how he balances the artist's vision with the expectations of galleries and audiences. John also talks about his current project, a large-scale installation in a field that combines art, spirituality, and a political message. His story is all about curiosity, resilience, and the transformative power of art. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Embrace opportunities: John's pivotal moment came when he saw a spread of photographs in a magazine that inspired him to pursue a different path. He encourages others to seize opportunities, even if they seem unconventional or risky.

2. Curiosity and openness: John's curiosity led him to work with a diverse range of artists and explore different creative scenes. He was drawn to politically active artists and those who pushed boundaries, allowing him to learn and grow in his role as a curator.

3. Navigating different perspectives: As a curator, John had to navigate the space between the artist's vision and the expectations of funders and galleries. He learned to wear different hats and see from multiple perspectives to create cohesive and meaningful exhibitions.

4. Demand the impossible: Jamie Reid's iconic artwork often carried political messages and challenged the status quo. John learned the power of demanding the impossible and pushing boundaries through art, which resonated with audiences and sparked conversations.

5. Resilience and adaptability: John's experiences, from working in construction to curating exhibitions, taught him resilience and adaptability. He learned to navigate challenging situations, work with limited resources, and find creative solutions to bring artists' visions to life.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I opened a very, very early copy of ID magazine…this massive thing was clanging in my head saying, you do not have to conform to what you're being raised for."

2. "Jamie Reid…the artwork for the Pistols was actually a political action in itself."

3. "Demand the impossible…people love that still."

4. "We proposed this thing with a whole series of festivals around the year…and they said, Yeah, we'll do that. That seems great."

5. "We're standing there in this field with the local chapter of the Druid Order, kids brought in by the Sensory Trust, various people…that was one of the maddest things that we actually did together."

ABOUT THE HOST

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company www.cerihand.com. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

Ceri Hand interviews Sue about her creative journey, from her humble beginnings in a non-artistic family to her fascination with LSD and Americana. Sue's unwavering passion and unique approach to art have led her to remarkable success despite facing rejection. She also shares the hilarious story of how Charles Saatchi purchased her work. Sue's authenticity and determination to follow her own path serve as an inspiration for anyone seeking a meaningful creative life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Sue Webster's creative journey was not initially encouraged or supported by her family. Despite this, she pursued her passion for art and found her own unique path.

2. LSD played a significant role in expanding Sue's creativity and opening her mind to new possibilities. It instilled in her the confidence to explore different mediums and techniques in her artwork.

3. Sue's collaboration with Tim Noble, her future husband, was born out of their shared interest in pushing the boundaries of art. They experimented with assemblages made from found objects and developed their own DIY aesthetic.

4. Sue's obsession with Americana and customization influenced her artwork, particularly in her use of chrome, flashing lights, and references to 1950s design. She drew inspiration from car shows and the visual impact of hot rods.

5. Moving to Bradford and later Halifax provided Sue with affordable studio spaces and opportunities to exhibit her work. These experiences in the art community helped shape her confidence and determination to push the boundaries of her creativity.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I guess I always considered it to be a burden, having this sort of creative part of you that you have to exercise a demon I guess you have to get some stuff out your system and it was never encouraged when I grew up."

2. "I was very much drawn together on that. And then once we graduated, there was somebody came along, you know, and said, oh, I've got a studio complex up in Bradford in Yorkshire, which I'm opening up and I'm looking, I can give you a free studio if you want to move up."

3. "I just thought, God, I don't want to be one of them people. I just want to leave." 

4. "I was very lucky and had a massive space and then Tim moved down to sculpture not long afterwards and there was no room so he just had a curtain under the stairs."

5. "I just thought, you know what, I'm going to move from painting to sculpture department as soon as I can, and you know, I went first."

ABOUT THE HOST

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company www.cerihand.com. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand

How do we know when our life calls for profound change? Ceri Hand’s journey of resilience and transformation began in the aftermath of a life-altering brush with death. In this episode, Ceri shares her empowering story of overcoming a relentless storm of challenges and rediscovering herself, highlighting the transformative power of self-care along the way. Hear how Ceri made the difficult decision to leave behind a job she loved in search of a more balanced life, embarking on a journey of deep reflection, courage, and self-discovery.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Prioritising self-care and setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling creative life. Ceri's wake-up call incident served as a reminder to take care of ourselves and make necessary changes.
2. Mentoring and coaching can be powerful tools for overcoming fears and challenges, making progress in creative endeavours, and achieving personal and professional goals. Ceri's experience as a Creative Coach showed the positive impact it had on their clients' lives.
3. Addressing negative and limiting beliefs is essential for unlocking creative potential. By managing thoughts and developing a positive mindset, creatives can experience more freedom and opportunities.
4. Being in service to others and building a supportive creative community can lead to personal growth and empowerment. 
5. Creativity is a key factor in achieving success and making a meaningful impact in the world. The podcast aims to inspire listeners to embrace their creativity, be adventurous, create brilliant work, and connect with others.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I was lucky. Another 30 seconds and the train might have sped off, ending my life."
2. "It wasn't just about changing jobs or cities. It was about changing myself."
3. "Feeling like we're alone, we're an outsider, like we don't belong, don't deserve success, don't understand the rules and don't know who our tribe is, are common thoughts for creatives."
4. "I learned how to develop a positive mindset that would enable more creative freedom and opportunities."
5. "At the core of this podcast lies the belief that creativity is the key to success."

ABOUT THE HOST

Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering artists and creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company www.cerihand.com. With three decades in the contemporary arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand