Free Inspiration
The Gift a Gentle Giant Left Me
Mickey was born the moment that his father died. His dad was rushing to the hospital to greet his firstborn son when he was hit by a train and killed instantly. A few years later, Mickey’s
What Will Become of You?
I found myself at a crossroads when I was eighteen years old. I’d grown up in a family where science and mathematics made proper courses of study for university. But my behavior gave my family reason
Overcoming Overwhelm
I recently suffered a crisis. My relationships weren’t connecting, my creativity wasn’t flowing. I was overwhelmed and overwrought. It felt like the work was stagnant and it became a battle to get through all the stuff
What’s your Artist Dream?
Artists are dreamers. Often we operate in two different worlds: the vibrant, colorful, mystical world inside of our heads and…well… the real world. The real world isn’t as fun. Bills demand to be paid. Responsibilities need
Are You Playing In The Land Of No?
As she wiped away the tears, the artist told me her story. She’d applied for a project that was a perfect match for her work. She had all the right qualifications. She was certain that she’d
Every Artist Makes This Choice
Is your life’s journey a true expression of your self? Too many people just follow what’s right in front of them, without discernment. They choose what’s easy and available. They don’t realize that we can
Validation
One of the first questions I ask aspiring artists is, “What is it that you want?” Invariably the answer has to do with wealth and fame. Heroes named include Damian Hirst and Andy Warhol. And then I sigh,
Is Your Art Making You Wealthy?
“But Crista,” the artist asked, “How can I make a living from my art?” “I wanna be wealthy! I wanna live on a beach! I wanna be dripping in jewels! And I want my art to pay for all of
Are You Ready to Become a Professional Artist?
Have you come to a point on your path where you’re considering turning your passion for making into a career as a professional artist? But this is where many artists ask me, “How do I know
Is The Working Artist Masterclass the Right Art Course for You? – An honest assessment
Investing time and money into a course for artists is a great way to build your knowledge, expand your skill set, and develop confidence. And artist masterclasses, courses and programs are invaluable to artists at all
What Is An Artist?
I went all the way to France to write my book. But that didn’t make it any easier. Chapter One. Page One. The bright white of the paper glared accusingly. How do I begin? At
The Ghosts in Our Blood
It was on September 13th, when she was just 13 years old, that Orelle was struck by a car as she crossed 13th Street. Unlucky number 13. Orelle spent the remainder of her short life in
Are You An Artist-Warrior?
I believe that the best artists are Artist Warriors. But instead of taking up arms, we take up brushes and cameras and clay. Artists are warriors of the spirit. Like any warrior, artists must be tested,
How Having Fun Can Save You *no, seriously
It was the last day of the College Art Association conference in Washington DC and I was beat. I’d spent weeks preparing for it. And then 4 long days either in meetings or chasing more meetings.
He Did It His Way
Jack was 90 years old and still the town rascal. I first met Jack when he came to my rescue in the pub. I had just moved to England, to Tunbridge Wells, a small town
When Did You First Suspect You Might Be Creative?
When did you first suspect you might be creative? Do you remember the delight you took in colors when you held your first crayons? Or the thrill of building sand castles on the beach? Maybe you
The Artist Who Made Everything Better
My friend Mark shined the light of his creativity on all he did. We met years ago in art history class, where we fell in love. Not with each other, mind you, but with Vincent Van
What’s the gift?
I have always been right! Handed, that is. It’s my dominant side and I’ve often shuddered at the thought of having to change. Life must have heard me and had a chuckle at my expense. Last