Unleashing the Thriving Artist Within
If you’ve ever spent time finding faces in wallpaper this artwork is for you. I’ve taken my latest dumbo octopus wallpaper and blended it with my Hypno bat series. Take the time and get hypnotised by the camouflage face hidden in the pattern. What topics do you like…
Keep readingThe Anxious Artist
What makes you nervous? Monkeys make me nervous. Testing and experimenting with new styles makes me nervous, sharing them publicly makes me even more nervous. Artists often find ourselves navigating a sea of uncertainty, where the known and the unknown alike can evoke nervousness. Yet, amidst this turbulence,…
Keep readingMy Artistic Escape from the Fast-Paced Cafe Life
How do you unwind after a demanding day? After a crazy day of making coffees, serving meals, and managing the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced cafe, there’s nothing quite like the solace I find in my sketchbook. As much as I enjoy digital illustration, there’s a certain…
Keep readingSocial Media for Thriving Artists
How do you use social media? Social media has become an indispensable tool for artists looking to thrive financially. With the right strategies, platforms like Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook can not only help you showcase your artwork but also build a loyal fan base and generate income.…
Keep readingEmbracing Artistic Failure
Describe a decision you made in the past that helped you learn or grow. In the world of art, failure isn’t just a possibility; it’s an inevitability. Yet, far from being a deterrent, failure is an essential part of the journey toward becoming a thriving artist. But what…
Keep readingCreative Fitness
What’s the most fun way to exercise? In the painful quest for a healthier lifestyle, exercise often conjures images of stinky gyms, repetitive workouts, and strict routines. However, what if exercise could be a joyful exploration of creativity, a mashup of physical activity and artistic expression? For many,…
Keep readingHypno Bats – Babirusa Wallpaper Edition
My latest Hypno bat artwork is a culmination of my passion for blending uncommon animal wallpapers with a vibrant street art style. Originating from my original pencil sketch, the Hypno bat series has been a journey of experimentation and creativity. With over 100 unique artworks, each piece explores…
Keep readingEmbracing Artistic Chaos
If you could be a character from a book or film, who would you be? Why? I’d Choose to Be Mr. Brainwash from “Exit Through the Gift Shop” if only for a moment. For me, Mr. Brainwash from the documentary (or is it mockumentary?) film “Exit Through the…
Keep readingFlying Fish
Did you know?1️⃣ Flying fish can glide for astonishing distances, sometimes reaching up to 200 meters in a single flight! 2️⃣ They use their wing-like fins to escape predators and travel at speeds of up to 55 kilometres per hour. 3️⃣ These unique fish can even adjust the…
Keep readingThe Trap of Working for Free: Why Artists Deserve to Thrive
What job would you do for free? In a world where passion meets profession, the question of what job one would do for free often sparks contemplation. Many may cite noble professions or pursuits they love, but for artists, this question is a nuanced trap, a riddle with…
Keep readingHypno Bat – Vintage Edition
Step into a world of vintage allure with my latest Hypno Bats! 🦇 Inspired by 1950’s B-grade movie aesthetics, this artwork blends retro charm with a hypnotic twist. Dive into the old celluloid look and let yourself be mesmerised by the era of classic cinema.
Keep readingWhy Artists Must Master Business and Marketing for Financial Success
What’s something most people don’t understand? In the romanticised world of artistry, the image of the struggling, starving artist is all too familiar. However, what many fail to realise is that behind every successful artist lies a shrewd entrepreneur with keen business and marketing acumen. While creativity and…
Keep readingFinding Inspiration in Stormy Weather: A Thriving Artist’s Perspective
What is your favorite type of weather? As an artist, I have always found solace and inspiration in the midst of stormy weather. While many shy away from the chaos and unpredictability of storms, I thrive in their midst. Storms, with their blend of beauty, exhilaration, and fear,…
Keep readingThe Art of Self-Awareness
What was the best compliment you’ve received? The most unexpected critiques hold the keys to our greatest revelations. For me, it was a seemingly unassuming comment buried within my seventh-grade report card: “spasmodic worker.” At the time, I had to consult a dictionary to decipher the term. Yet,…
Keep readingArt Dude
What movies or TV series have you watched more than 5 times? As an artist, finding inspiration can come from unexpected sources. For many, myself included, one such unlikely muse is the cult classic film “The Big Lebowski.” Directed by the Coen Brothers, this iconic movie has become…
Keep readingBe an Ox
Which animal would you compare yourself to and why? As an individual born in the Year of the Ox, I’ve often found myself reflecting on the characteristics attributed to this delightful creature and how they parallel the life of a thriving artist. While the ox symbolises diligence, strength,…
Keep readingZorilla – Pencil Sketch
🚀🎨 Pencil to Procreate, that’s my process! 🖌️ Every illustration for my “Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet” starts as a pencil sketch in my trusty sketchbook. Can’t shake that old-school vibe! But when it’s time to add color, Procreate on my iPad is where I make it pop.…
Keep readingYou can’t fail as an artist, you can only fail to make art
How has a failure, or apparent failure, set you up for later success? In the world of creativity, there’s a prevailing fear of failure that looms over many aspiring artists. The pressure to produce something groundbreaking, original, and commercially successful can be overwhelming. However, what if I told…
Keep readingImmortal Depths
🎨✨ Excited to unveil my latest NFT artwork for Revelxyz! 🚀 Dive into a mesmerising kaleidoscope of uncommon animals from my “Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet” series. 🌍🔍 Let’s shift our gaze from distant planets to the awe-inspiring wonders of our own Earth. 🌿💫 Join me on a…
Keep readingThe destiny of the disciplined artist
Do you believe in fate/destiny? In the world of art, the allure of fate and destiny can be both captivating and perilous. Some aspiring artists find solace in the idea that success is predestined, that their talents will inevitably lead them to greatness. However, such complacency often leads…
Keep readingOptical Delusion – Path
Optical Delusion – Path – NFT now available on Revel.xyz – inspired by the prompt “Path” from my Inktober challenge. 🖋️ This piece explores the intricacies of life’s journey, where one may wander through labyrinthine pyramids or delve into mysterious tunnels, alluding to the depths within ourselves. Deep…
Keep readingMerging Kids Book Illustrations into NFT Art
If you could permanently ban a word from general usage, which one would it be? Why? I often find myself torn between the familiar path and the allure of novelty. Such was the case for me as I embarked on a journey that diverged from finishing my children’s…
Keep readingOptical Delusion – Drip
Continuing my black and white optical illusion journey, this piece is a fusion of creativity and innovation. Inspired by the Inktober prompt ‘drip’, I couldn’t resist adding a twist by repurposing the wallpaper backdrop from my water deer in my ‘Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet’ book. ♻️ Repurposing…
Keep readingOptical Delusions – Frost
🎨 Introducing my latest creation: a one-of-a-kind NFT released exclusively on Revelxyz! ❄️ Inspired by my love for black and white patterns and optical illusions, this piece originated from my Inktober challenge prompt: frost. 🖋️ I aimed to craft a frosty piece that not only catches your eye…
Keep readingThe Boredom of Conformity
Embracing the life of an artist is a radical act of defiance against the mundane and a testament to the transformative power of creativity.
Keep readingHow Coffee Helps Me Thrive as an Artist
What is your favorite drink? As a parent and entrepreneur, coffee is my secret weapon for staying in the flow state, even on the most exhausting days. It’s not just about the caffeine boost; it’s about the ritual and the way it clears the mental fog, allowing creativity…
Keep readingFinding Inspiration Online and Beyond
We often find ourselves drawn to certain types of people who resonate with our own frequencies. For many, including myself, those individuals are the high vibration creative artists – the kindred spirits who radiate passion, imagination, and a zest for life. Whether it’s through their art, their words,…
Keep readingEvery home needs Rainbow Vampire Wallpaper
As a lover of intricate patterns and design, I can’t help myself transforming the shapes of my ‘Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet’ kids book animals into mesmerising wallpaper that I’m sure everyone would want in their home. It’s fascinating to see how the shape of each animal contributes…
Keep readingVampire Flower
🌟 Embracing the vibrant NFT community has been a game-changer for me! From connecting with fellow creators to exploring limitless creativity, it’s a whole new world. 💡 Plus, the extra income stream is a huge bonus – selling the original artwork independently adds another dimension to the digital…
Keep readingBudgeting Tips for Successful Artists
Write about your approach to budgeting. Being a successful artist goes beyond just creating stunning works; it also involves managing your finances wisely to sustain and grow your career. Budgeting is the foundation of financial stability for any profession, including the arts. Successful artists should establish a detailed…
Keep readingUncommon Vampires
🎨 Excited to unveil my latest artwork: “Uncommon Vampires”! 💫 Dive into a mesmerizing kaleidoscope featuring a vampire squid flower, surrounded by a menagerie of rare animals from my kids’ book “Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet”. 📚✨ Thanks to the sage advice of my talented friend Diego ‘Robot’…
Keep readingA Creative Journey from Filmmaking to Thriving Artist
If there was a biography about you, what would the title be? As I reflect on my creative journey from running a mobile cinema business to becoming a children’s book writer and illustrator, the title “Fork in the Road” couldn’t be more fitting. It encapsulates the pivotal moments…
Keep readingThe Art of Stealing
If you had the power to change one law, what would it be and why? Treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself… But from a thriving Artist perspective you should learn the art of stealing like and artist and not just stealing art. Artists often…
Keep readingX is for Xantus Hummingbird – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet
X is for Xantus Hummingbird, a wondrous delight, In gardens and meadows, they dance in flight. With tongues that uncurl, they sip from each bloom, Crafting nests gently, in nature’s green plume. #XantusHummingbird #AnimalAlphabet #kidsbooks #childrensbooks
Keep readingThe ultimate digital home for thriving artists
Write about your dream home. I’ve written about my dream home in a previous blog – Creating Creative Space – So I thought I’d get a bit more creative with this prompt and discuss the virtual dream home of a thriving artist… the website. In today’s interconnected world,…
Keep readingW is for Water Deer – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet
W is for Water Deer, with fangs so neat, like vampire teeth, they’re quite a treat! But fear not, they’re herbivores, don’t flee, munching on reeds and grasses, happy as can be. Their cries can be heard haunting the night, echoing through wetlands, with a spooky delight. #WaterDeer…
Keep readingGood news and bad news for Thriving Artists
You get some great, amazingly fantastic news. What’s the first thing you do? As artists, we often dream of receiving that fantastic news – a glowing review, a successful sale, or a breakthrough idea. It’s the kind of news that fills us with elation and a renewed sense…
Keep readingV is for Vampire Squid – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet
V is for Vampire Squid, in depths they dwell, 2,000 to 3,000 feet, under a secret spell. Like living fossils, for millions of years they’ve endured, with the cape they wear, their safety’s assured. Flipping their tentacles, inside out they go, Cloaked in darkness, a stealthy show. #VampireSquid…
Keep readingCreative Seasons
Are there any activities or hobbies you’ve outgrown or lost interest in over time? In the past five years, something curious has happened – I haven’t watched movies like I used to. Once a cherished pastime, movie nights have taken a backseat in my life. But before you…
Keep readingU is for Unicorn Fish – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet
U is for Unicorn fish, with scales so bright, In coral reefs, they shimmer with delight. With a horn on its head, a magical sight, It swims through the waters, swift and light. With colors vibrant, like rainbows at play, decorating the ocean both night and day. #UnicornFish…
Keep readingFinding Balance: Profitability and passion
Do you need a break? From what? As a thriving artist, the pursuit of creativity often intertwines with the demands of running a business. For many, like myself, the struggle to find a balance between entrepreneurship and artistic expression is a constant battle. In my case, the necessity…
Keep readingEmpowering Artistry: The Smartphone Revolution
The most important invention in your lifetime is… The smartphone stands out as the unsung hero for artists, revolutionising the creative landscape like never before. From a thriving artist’s perspective, this pocket-sized wonder, coupled with the omnipotent internet, has dismantled traditional industry gatekeepers, opening doors to boundless opportunities…
Keep readingT is for Tasmanian Devil – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
T is for Tasmanian Devil, Jet black and hairy. With a gleam in its eye, And a night howl that’s scary. In Tasmania’s wild, it scurries and plays, consuming all meat, that’s been lying around for days. It’s jaws the most powerful, it’s teeth super keen, chomping up…
Keep readingFrom Tape Drives to Pocket Art Studios
Write about your first computer. As I reminisce about my childhood, one memory stands out vividly – our first family computer, the Sharp MZ700, accompanied by its trusty tape drive. Back in those days, this technological marvel opened up a world of possibilities, fostering my passion for computing…
Keep readingCarving Out Time for Creativity
What do you complain about the most? As a passionate artist, parent, cafe art gallery owner, and aspiring off grid, bus life farmer, finding time to unleash my creativity often feels like a never-ending struggle. Balancing these diverse roles can be overwhelming, but I’m determined to make room…
Keep readingSoup Slinging the Mona Lisa
What are your favorite sports to watch and play? Soup slinging at masterpieces like the Mona Lisa should never become a sport. It’s a bizarre notion that seems to have crawled out of the depths of absurdity. In a world teeming with issues, where climate change and environmental…
Keep readingS is for Salamander – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
S is for Salamander, cold-blooded and true. Regulating their temperature, with the sun’s warm hue. Dancing through fire, and not set alight. With stories so wild of this mythical sight. Regenerating limbs, like magic they mend, In nature’s mysterious symphony, they’re a spectacular friend.
Keep readingThe Art of Winning
What would you do if you won the lottery? Winning the lottery, a dream many entertain at least once in their lives. But what if this dream became a reality? The first step: calculating the actual winnings post-tax. It’s essential to assess the reality of the windfall and…
Keep readingBooks Every Aspiring Artist Should Read
What books do you want to read? Here are my top 3 books I want to read as a wannabe thriving artist and why I think I should read them. They all sound like pretty good reads right? Have you read any of these and what was your…
Keep readingR is for Ring Tailed Lemur – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
R is for Ring-tailed lemur, a primate with flair, sporting a striped tail in the Madagascan air. Agile and social, they love to play, communicating with scents in their unique way. A social bunch, in troops they swing, Ring-tailed lemurs, the forest’s sun loving king.
Keep readingUnlocking Artistic Success: The Power of Livestreams for Thriving Artists
Live-streaming has revolutionised the way artists connect with their audience, providing a dynamic platform for creative expression and financial gain. In this post, I’ll explore how livestreams can benefit thriving artists, what content they should focus on, how to leverage various platforms, and strategies to monetise their livestreams…
Keep readingQ is for Queen Charlotte Goshawk – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
Q is for Queen Charlotte Goshawk, a feathered queen with a majestic squawk. In the forest, she reigns supreme, soaring high in a vibrant dream. With feathers sleek and eyes so keen, this regal bird, fierce and serene.
Keep readingP is for Platypus – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
P is for Platypus, a peculiar delight, with a bill so flat and webbed feet just right. They lay eggs, a rare feat, and when they swim, it’s quite a treat. A monotreme unique, in Australia’s land, with fur so soft, it’s simply grand
Keep readingFun Art Stuff
List five things you do for fun. Things I should probably do for fun if I’m serious about becoming a thriving artist. 1️⃣ Explore Other Art Forms: Step outside your comfort zone! If you’re a painter, try baking scones. Dabble in crochet animals if you’re a writer. But…
Keep readingConversations with My Furry Muse
If you could make your pet understand one thing, what would it be? As a wannabe thriving artist, my journey has been a canvas filled with messy scrawls of inspiration and the subtle nuances of potential creativity. Amidst the hustle of crayons and the dance of colors, there…
Keep readingO is for Okapi – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
O is for Okapi, a creature quite rare, with legs like a zebra, and velvety hair A secret it keeps, its tongue is so long, It reaching for leaves, in treetops filled with birdsong. In Congo’s forests, this shy creature roams, a relative of the giraffe, happily at…
Keep readingN is for Narwhal – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
N is for Narwhal, the sea’s unicorn delight, with tusks so long, a mesmerising sight! Up to 10 feet they spiral, oh my, but surprise! Those tusks are teeth, not horns in disguise. In Arctic waters, they gracefully glide, skilled divers in icy tides. In pods they roam,…
Keep readingWho’s Andrew?
Write about your first name: its meaning, significance, etymology, etc. So, Andrew, my official title according to banks and scolding parents, has a strong and somewhat stern vibe. I prefer the more playful moniker, Andy, as it aligns more with my wannabe thriving career as an illustration artist.…
Keep readingM is for Manatee – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
M is for Manatee, in the river and sea. Grazing sea grass, herbivores wild and free. Related to elephants, often mistaken for mermaids fair, they’re the sweet manatee, with a gentle, friendly air. In waters blue, where they roam and play, these lovable creatures make hearts sway.
Keep readingL is for Lynx – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
L is for Lynx, a wildcat so grand, with fur like a cloud in a snowy land. Silent and stealthy, She hunts at night, with tufted ears keen, ready for a bite. The Lynx is a creature of mystery and grace, in the alphabet of the wild, She…
Keep readingArt Blocks
If you could un-invent something, what would it be? In the twisted carnival of creation, where chaos and brilliance dance a reckless tango, there are inventions that mock the very essence of the thriving artist. As I plunge into the depths of invention un-wishlisting, imagine a world where…
Keep readingK is for Komodo Dragon – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
K is for Komodo Dragon, a lizard so grand, world’s biggest reptile, ruling the land. With strong limbs that climb, sharp teeth, toxic spit. They’re the real life dragon That’ll make you wanna split.
Keep readingCreating for Passion, Not Popularity
Can you share a positive example of where you’ve felt loved? Artists often find themselves at a crossroads – torn between creating what they love and producing work they think will garner attention. It’s a dilemma that has plagued many creatives, but the path to true success lies…
Keep readingJ is for Jumping Spider – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
J is for Jumping Spider, so tiny and hairy, Jumping about like an eight-legged fairy. Pumping blood to their legs, Propelling them high in the air, Fifty times their body length, Quite an ejector chair.
Keep readingThe Art of Decluttering
Where can you reduce clutter in your life? This is more of a wish list on where I’d like to be and where I’d like to take my creative practice, but it’s hard. I’ve been a minimalist before and I believe I can be one again. As a…
Keep readingI is for Immortal Jellyfish
I is for Immortal Jellyfish, a wonder of the Sea. If she’s not eaten, she can live an eternity. In the watery world below, these jellyfish twirl and flow with watery blood, no brain or heart, they are a tentacled cartwheeling work of art!
Keep readingThe Best Social Media Platforms for Visual Artists
In what ways do you communicate online? Social media has become an essential tool for visual artists to showcase their work, connect with a global audience, and even make it as a thriving artist. However, with a plethora of platforms available, choosing the right ones can be a…
Keep readingH is for Howler Monkey
H is for Howler Monkey, hanging with their troop, They’re extra funky. They swing back and forth with their branch grabbing tails, letting out a deafening noise that fill the forest with excited howls and wails.
Keep readingSnacking on Art for a Healthy Instagram Experience
What snack would you eat right now? Social media platforms like Instagram have become virtual art galleries, allowing artists to showcase their work and connect with a global audience. However, much like snacking on your favorite treats, navigating Instagram requires mindfulness to ensure a healthy and enriching experience.…
Keep readingG is for Goliath Beetle – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
G is for Goliath Beetle, a bug so immense, with armor-like wings, it’s a natural defense. In the jungles it dwells, where the tall trees entwine, munching on fruits, it’s beetle feasting time.
Keep readingUnveiling the “Thriving Artist”: A Crazy Business Idea Turning Dreams into Dollars
Come up with a crazy business idea. In a world where unconventional business ideas are reshaping industries, being a thriving artist might just be the next big thing. What some may perceive as a wild notion is, in fact, a reality for many creatives who have successfully transformed…
Keep readingF is for Flying Fish – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
F is for Flying Fish, gliding with glee, Using their fins to soar above the sea. Speeding through the air at a dazzling pace, Over 55 kilometres per hour, a flying fish ace. Escaping predators with their aerial dance, Covering 200 meters in a single chance.
Keep readingTools to unlock your creativity
Describe an item you were incredibly attached to as a youth. What became of it? As a child in the ’80s, my big red ghetto blaster was more than just a portable audio player – it was a gateway to a world of creativity and self-discovery that still…
Keep readingE is for Electric Eel – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
E is for the Electric Eel, jumping from the muddy Amazon with shocking zeal. The long knife fish with poor eyesight, finds its way with electric pulses that fright. Limited Edition Prints $80ea Gallery Pickup – Jamestown, South Australia – Framed limited edition prints (10 available) Choice of Oak,…
Keep readingDocumenting my artistic Journey to Success… eventually
What is your mission? To become a thriving, successful artist that can not only make a living, but actually support my family by creating the work that I love. I’ve decided to document almost every step of my artistic journey through various platforms. My podcast, YouTube channel, and…
Keep readingD is for Dumbo Octopus – Uncommon Animal of the Alphabet #KidsBook
D is for the Dumbo Octopus from up to 13,000 feel below, with gelatinous bodies, through small crevasses they can go, feeding on crustaceans with tentacles to eat, and fins like elephants ears they look so sweet. Limited Edition Prints $80ea Gallery Pickup – Jamestown, South Australia – Framed…
Keep readingLive long and make Art
What are your thoughts on the concept of living a very long life? As an artist, especially one rediscovering my artistic roots later in life. The idea of a long, healthy life is not only a personal goal but also a bit of a transformative journey that extends…
Keep readingC is for Coconut Crab – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
C is for Coconut Crab, a giant delight, Not a monster or robber, but look at their might. They’re charming hermit crabs that grow to great size, with the strongest pinch that could win first prize. Opening coconuts with ease that they knock down from trees. They aren’t…
Keep readingAn Artist’s Perspective on ‘Atomic Habits’ by James Clear”
What could you do differently? I could apply some Atomic Habits to my creative practice 🤔 Habits play a massive role in shaping an artists creative journey. James Clear’s ‘Atomic Habits’ proves to be a bit of a guide for artists seeking to refine their craft through intentional…
Keep readingB is for Babirusa – Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet #KidsBook
B is for Babirusa the fastest of pigs. As fast as a deer, on skinny deer legs. That can paddle them across vast rivers and seas, and take them to islands to eat what they please. With canine teeth which grow to enormous size, right out of their…
Keep readingReal Artists Don’t Starve
If you had a freeway billboard, what would it say? Have you ever been told that pursuing a career in art is impractical, that it’s more of a hobby than a legitimate profession? I can certainly relate, having carried that misconception for a massive part of my life.…
Keep readingA is for Aardvark Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet
A is for Aardvark at the top of the list, the nocturnal mammal that shouldn’t be missed. From her lovely piggy snout, and her long sticky tongue for licking up ants from the nest it’s been flung. 50,000 ants should do for dinner and give her the energy…
Keep readingThe Future of Art and Artists in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
As we step into this murky uncharted world of science fiction, artists find themselves at the forefront of innovation, the bit where robots steal all of the fun creative jobs and leave the shit jobs for those human meat suits. But keeping it positive tho…
Keep readingThe Gift of Time
What is the greatest gift someone could give you? The greatest gift someone could give is time—time to nurture creativity, time with loved ones, time to connect with nature, and even time to embrace boredom, where the seeds of creativity take root. Embarking on the adventure of running…
Keep readingFrom University to Road Movies: A Cinematic Journey
What colleges have you attended? In the pursuit of a dream, sometimes the conventional path isn’t the only way to success. My journey into the world of filmmaking began with a decision that many might find unconventional – I left university just a few months into my film…
Keep readingElevate your art with creative play
Do you play in your daily life? What says “playtime” to you? In the relentless shitstorm of our daily lives, we often underestimate the massive impact that play can have on our creativity, particularly with making art. Play is not just reserved for children; it is a timeless…
Keep readingNavigating the Challenges of Artistry Amidst a Busy Life
What are your biggest challenges? Being a successful artist is a journey filled with passion, creativity, and relentless determination. However, for many, the path is not just about finding the inspiration and creating the art but also about balancing the demands of everyday life. Managing a bustling cafe…
Keep readingArt & Nostalgia
What makes you feel nostalgic? There’s nothing like a dusty old VHS blockbuster to get the nostalgia racing back. Family trips to the video store, adjusting the tracking on our top loading VHS player, those were the days. As a filmmaker, the lens through which I revisit cherished…
Keep readingMy relationship with art
What relationships have a positive impact on you? As a child, the world was a blank page waiting to be scribbled across with big fat brightly coloured crayons. I fell in love with art early on, finding joy in immersing myself in my imagination and filling pages with…
Keep reading10 Essential Elements of a Successful Artist’s Website
An artist’s website is more than just an online portfolio—it should be your hub platform to showcase your creativity, connect with audiences, and cultivate a distinct artistic identity. Whether you’re a painter, photographer, sculptor, or any other creative professional, you need an awesome website. Remember, your artist’s website…
Keep readingThe Power of Podcasting for Artists
In the ever-evolving world of the creative industry, artists are continually seeking innovative ways to connect with their audience and fellow creators. One way of gaining momentum is podcasting – a dynamic platform that goes beyond traditional mediums, offering artists a unique and powerful tool to showcase their…
Keep readingHippy Dippy Artist
You get to build your perfect space for reading and writing. What’s it like? Building a forest could be the answer to a lot of things, yes I’m a hippy. If I had to build the perfect space for reading, writing and creativity in general I don’t think…
Keep readingAn Artist’s Take on ‘Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook’ by Gary Vee
Gary Vaynerchuk, renowned entrepreneur and marketing guru, might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think about artistic inspiration. However, his book “Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook” offers a unique perspective on marketing that artists can find surprisingly applicable to their creative marketing efforts.…
Keep readingChoose Buslife
What is your all time favorite automobile? Meet Milly, the unassuming school bus from Mildura that has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once a humble carrier of students, Milly now stands as a testament to creativity and resourcefulness, having been converted into a charming tiny house on wheels. The…
Keep readingUnleashing Creativity Through Visual Storytelling
How are you creative? Creativity has been the guiding force throughout my journey, evolving from a visual storyteller in film school to crafting whimsical illustrations for children’s books. My creative adventure began with directing and shooting numerous short student films, but it was my ability to illustrate storyboards…
Keep readingArtistic Influences
Who are the biggest influences in your life? In the random patchwork quilt of my creative journey, the threads of influence are woven from diverse sources that have shaped my perspective and fueled my artistic passion. Among these influential figures are Gary Vee, Banksy, Alfred Hitchcock, Salvador Dali,…
Keep readingAI-Generated Art and the Complexities of Copyright and Royalties
Share what you know about the year you were born. In the year I was born artificial intelligence was 100% science fiction. Now I’m asking it legal questions about using it to create art. So I asked Chat GPT about AI-Generated Art and the Complexities of Copyright and…
Keep readingTop 10 Traits of a Successful Artist
Are you a good judge of character? I’m not sure that I’m a very good judge of character but one thing I do notice is the characteristics of the thriving artist. There are many repeating traits, that I try to include in that avatar of the thriving artist…
Keep readingThe unhappy perfectionist
When are you most happy? Ever feel like your blank page or blank canvas is plotting against your happiness? Fear not, fellow artist! Embrace the quirks, work with your imperfections and enjoy the chaos. Because in a future of perfect AI creations, humans are going to be able…
Keep readingThe benefits of creative play
What was the last thing you did for play or fun? Kids are always encouraged to make art, mud pies and cubby houses but somewhere along the line all these creative play activities seem to fall by the wayside, and I have no idea why. It’s probably that…
Keep readingLoading…
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
Discover what’s at the Fork in the Road between starving and thriving artist.
I’m Andy, and I’m a kids book illustrator obsessed with the concept of how you can change course from that of the starving artist to the path of the thriving artist.
I believe all the answers are out there right in front of us in the artists we know and love. Because as they say success leaves clues, so I’m planning on becoming part detective and part guinea pig. As each week I’ll be interviewing artists that are making money, surviving and thriving on my ‘Fork in the Road’ Podcast (The fork in the road between starving and thriving artist) that is.
Then i’ll be implementing the key take aways from each interview and road testing them in my own creative practice to see if it can move the needle and direct artists on to the road to success.
Kids Book Illustrator Andy C Marshall 