Shows
Ask An ArtistAsk An Artist - Finding the BalanceIn this episode, Tom and Peter discuss the somewhat illusive work-life balance; whether it is achievable as a self-employed Artist, how they manage it in their own situations and some tips which might help you to find your own.In the first half of the episode they share their own, somewhat similar, circumstances, particularly in relation to family life, and how these can both dovetail and clash with a creative career. In the second half of the episode, they discuss what they have learnt works (and doesn't work!) and share some tips for finding the balance between...2025-05-0954 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Marc Jackman of Jackman's Art MaterialsIn this episode, Tom and Peter interview Marc Jackman, master chemist and director of Jackman's Art Materials; one of the newest and best manufacturers of artist quality paints, in the UK. Marc started the company in 2019, creating watercolour paints to begin with, followed by gouache and acrylic. In this episode, Marc shares the story of how he got into the industry and answers our questions about what makes "good" paint, why some colours are always more expensive than others and shares some advice to help anyone who is running a small, artistic business.For more i...2025-04-251h 05Ask An ArtistAsk an Artist - Listener Questions 26In this episode, Peter and Tom answer some of your questions. Firstly there's a question about pricing workshops for community groups, followed by a discussion about stretched canvas vs canvas paper, and finally, who to invite to your private view.If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us to answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via our website here or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Jackson’s Art Supp...2025-04-1142 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - How do you juggle it all? Interview with Hashim AkibIn this episode, Tom and Peter interview one of the busiest artists working today. Hashim Akib is an internationally renowned Artist, represented by several galleries in the UK. He has exhibited with The Royal Society of Marine Artists, The Royal Institute of Oil Painters and The New English Art Club. He also writes instructional books, which have been translated into several languages; he teaches here in the UK and abroad, as well as online; he has worked with Daler Rowney to produce teaching DVDs and he regularly writes for magazines… and he still finds time to paint! We’re deli...2025-03-2859 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Taking on commissionsIn this episode Peter and Tom discuss taking on commissions. They discuss the pros and cons of working to someone else's brief, suggest how to go about gaining them and what the process of completing one might look like. This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Jackson’s Art Supplies and Search Press publishers.For more information about our sponsors, please visit:Rosemary & Co Brushes: www.rosemaryandco.comJackson’s Art supplies: www.jacksonsart.comSearch Press publishers: www.searchpress.comTom's website: tomshepherdart.comPete...2025-03-1453 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Planning for 2025Ask An Artist podcast is back for 2025 and we will be releasing new episodes every fortnight, throughout the year.In this episode Peter and Tom look back to the planning meeting they had this time last year, and discuss what went well, not so well, whether they achieved their goals and if not, why not. Peter and Tom use this reflection to plan what needs to stay, go and be changed as they move into the coming year. This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Jackson’s Art Supplies and Search Press publi...2025-02-2855 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Season 7 returns on February 28thAsk An Artist will be back with brand new episodes, every fortnight, from Friday February 28th 2025.There will be the usual chat and topic episodes by Peter Keegan and Tom Shepherd, plus interviews with artists and industry experts. Already lined up for this season are Hashim Akib, Rodney Kingston and Marc Jackman, of Jackman's Art Materials. Plus, we need your questions! Email them to us at askanartistpodcast@gmail.com or visit the website, www.askanartistpodcast.com and we will do our very best to answer them for you on the podcast.Make sure y...2025-02-2101 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Look back at 2024In this special episode of Ask An Artist, we take a look back at some of the highlights of 2024. In the first part, we feature our planning episode from back in March, then our interview with Tom Croft about judging art competitions and finally, a question about knowing when to go full time..After the break, we feature the episodes on selling strategies, the interview with Laura Boswell and studio spaces. We hope you have enjoyed listening this year, and if you want to listen to any of these episodes in full, follow the links...2024-12-201h 24Ask An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 25In this episode, Peter and Tom answer some of your questions. Firstly there's a question about making ends meet, followed by payment terms when writing an article and finally, what to do if you attend a workshop which turns out not to be that good!If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us to answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via our website here or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co...2024-12-0633 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Estelle Lovatt FRSA, Art CriticIn this episode Peter and Tom interview art critic, Estelle Lovatt FRSA. Estelle has the experience of being on both sides of the canvas; having trained as a painter, read art history and worked as a gallery exhibition curator. Estelle works as a freelance art critic for the BBC (radio and TV), as well as for various independent radio stations throughout Great Britain. She writes for numerous magazines and newspapers and lectures at the Hampstead School of Art, in London. She also runs her own walking tours and masterclasses. In this fascinating episode, Estelle talks knowledgeably and p...2024-11-2259 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Teaching In this week’s episode, there was a problem with the audio and we had to use the back up track for a section of Peter’s audio; we apologise for the poor quality audio between 20 and 32 minutes.In this episode, Peter and Tom discuss teaching and share their advice and best practice for whether or not teaching might be for you.They share how they both began teaching, the different forms it may take, as well as discussing the passion they both have for it. They also talk about lesson planning, best pract...2024-11-081h 10Ask An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Laura Boswell ARETom and Peter are delighted to welcome back, podcast founder, Laura Boswell. Together with Peter, Laura founded this very podcast and recorded over 100 episodes. In 2022, she and her husband, "The Talented Mr B", made the decision to move from their home in Buckinghamshire, to Scotland.In this episode, Peter and Tom catch up with Laura, find out how her work and business have developed and discuss what it has been like to effectively start again in a new area. To find out more about Laura, visit her website: https://www.lauraboswell.co.uk/T...2024-10-2553 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 24In this episode, Peter and Tom answer some of your questions. Firstly there's a question about someone who will not pay, followed by a gallery offer which seems too good to be true and finally, being paid fairly for an art group workshop.If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us to answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via our website here or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Sea...2024-10-1136 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Jenny Aitken ARSMAIn this episode Peter and Tom interview artist Jenny Aitken, one of the UK's most successful oil painters working today. Jenny is a member of the Royal Society of Marine Artists, exhibits her work nationally and internationally, has won numerous awards and regularly teaches, both in-person and online. In this episode she shares some really helpful insights into being a working Artist and talks about what inspired her to write her first book; "Painting into the Light".To find out more about Jenny, visit her website: https://jennyaitken.co.uk/This Podcast is...2024-09-2753 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - InsuranceIn this episode Peter and Tom discuss insurance. Drawing on their own experience, they discuss the different elements of your business that you may need to insure and some important aspects to take into consideration.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Search Press publishers and Jackson’s Art Supplies.For more information about our sponsors, please visit:Rosemary & Co Brushes: www.rosemaryandco.comSearch Press publishers: www.searchpress.comJackson’s Art supplies: www.jacksonsart.comAudience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and conve...2024-09-1330 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - A Judge's Perspective; Interview with Tom CroftIn this episode, Peter and Tom welcome back fellow Artist, Tom Croft. Tom is a portrait painter who has appeared on Sky Portrait Artist of the year, as well as other TV art shows. He became more widely-known during the pandemic, for his work organising the Portraits for NHS Heroes project. Since gaining this recognition, Tom has been asked to be on the judging panel of several major art competitions and in this episode, Peter and Tom interview him about what it's like to be on both sides of the competition - to judge and to be...2024-08-301h 06Ask An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 23In this episode, Peter and Tom answer some of your questions. Firstly there's a question about the use of AI, followed by a question about varnishing and finally, what judges are looking for in art competitions.If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via our website here or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Search Press publishers and Jackson’s Art Supplies....2024-08-1642 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Evie Hatch, Artist, Writer & Pigment Connoisseur from Jackson's Art SuppliesIn this episode, Peter and Tom interview Evie Hatch, Artist, Writer & Pigment Connoisseur from Jackson's Art Supplies, to talk about all things colour!What is your favourite colour? A question which we have probably all thought about and asked someone at some point. Evie is an Artist herself and works for Jackson's Art Supplies, writing for their blog and presenting on their social media channels. In this episode she chats with Tom and Peter about the origins of certain pigments, the ways in which Artists of the past and present have utilised colour, the qualities of different...2024-07-1959 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Studio SpaceIn this episode, Peter and Tom, discuss the different studio and creative spaces they have worked in during their careers. They talk about the different forms that creative spaces may take, important factors to consider when choosing a space and some practical advice in terms of storage, health & safety and financial considerations.Tom and Peter talk in depth about their own, current, studio set-ups, share some of their own preferences, some of their studio routines and also, what their "dream" studio would be like.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Search Press publishers a...2024-07-0557 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 22In this episode, Tom and Peter answer some of your questions. Firstly there's a question about terms and conditions when selling through a website, followed by a question about using the "gridding-up" method and finally, how to go about writing an article for a magazine. If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via our website here or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.This Podcast is sponsored by...2024-06-2137 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Chas and Liz Wood from PatchingsIn this episode, Peter and Tom interview Chas and Liz Wood, the founders and managers of Patchings Art Centre in Nottinghamshire. The episode focuses on the annual art festival, now in its 31st year, which they host every July; Patchings Art Fest.They discuss how the art festival came about, what it takes to run, why Artists should consider being part of a festival and how to do so successfully. If you would like to find out more about the festival and busy your tickets, please visit: https://www.patchingsartcentre.co.uk/patchings-festival/...2024-06-0755 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Selling StrategiesIn this episode Peter and Tom talk about strategies for selling your artwork. The ways in which Artists sell their work can be numerous, difficult and confusing. Amongst other things, the episode covers making use of different platforms, selling with a gallery, price points and knowing your audience. This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Search Press publishers and Jackson’s Art Supplies.For more information about our sponsors, please visit:Rosemary & Co Brushes: www.rosemaryandco.comSearch Press publishers: www.searchpress.comJackson’s Art supplies: www.jacksons...2024-05-2445 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 21In this episode, Peter and Tom answer some of your questions. Firstly, there's a question about creating prints, and whether it is possible to thrive as an Artist if you are not selling your originals. Secondly, they discuss whether it is possible to monetise your artwork as a teenager and last but by no means least, they discuss the use of AI; is it a handy tool or something to avoid as an Artist?If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the po...2024-05-1036 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - International Watercolour Masters 2024In this episode, Peter and Tom interview David Poxon again, this time about how and why he set up the International Watercolour Masters Festival; a biannual festival taking place in Shropshire in May 2024.For more information about the event, to purchase tickets and for IWM TV, visit the website by clicking here.This episode of the podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Jackson’s Art Supplies and Search Press Publishers.For more information about our sponsors, please visit:Rosemary & Co Brushes: www.rosemaryandco.comJackson’s Art supplies: www.jack...2024-04-2632 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Interview with James Ort about Inspired by KneppIn this episode Tom and Peter interview sculptor, teacher and now, exhibition curator, James Ort about his latest project; Inspired by Knepp.In the first half, James summarises his journey to becoming an Artist and what led him, as a wildlife Artist, to want to do more to help nature. He talks about how he came to find out about the Knepp Estate, their rewilding project and the germination of his ideato use art to help spread awareness.In the second half, James talks in more detail about what Inspired by Knepp has...2024-04-1252 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 20In the episode, Peter and Tom answer some of your questions. Firstly, there's a question about knowing when to go full time as an Artist, secondly, how to honour and manage a collection of art work after the Artist dies, and finally, do you need a gallery to be successful?If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via our website here or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.2024-03-2826 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with David Poxon R.I, N.W.S.In this episode Tom and Peter interview Watercolour Artist, David Poxon. In the first half, David identifies some key moments from early childhood which started his artistic journey and ultimately informed his choice of medium and subjects today. After a long break from making art, David re-found his love of painting as a adult and with hard work and perseverance, has built an international reputation and following.In the second half, David shares his advice and guidance for how to be a successful working Artist, as well as discussing the teaching side of his career. 2024-03-151h 04Ask An ArtistAsk An Artist - Planning MeetingAsk An Artist podcast is back for 2024 and we will be releasing new episodes every fortnight, throughout the year.In this episode Peter and Tom have a planning meeting for the forthcoming year. Rather than simply share their advice, in this episode, they let you "behind the curtain", to eavesdrop on their own planning meeting for the year.Starting by looking back and reviewing positives and negatives from the last 12 months, Peter and Tom use this reflection to plan what needs to stay, go and be changed, as they move into the coming year. 2024-03-0159 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Returns from Friday 1st March 2024Season 6 of Ask An Artist returns on Friday 1st March 2024. In this teaser episode, Peter and Tom talk about the topics and interviewees they have planned for the season. New episodes will be released fortnightly, on Fridays, throughout the year!We look forward to speaking to you in the studio from this Friday 1st March!This season of the podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes and Jackson’s Art Supplies.For more information about our sponsors, please visit:Rosemary & Co Brushes: www.rosemaryandco.comJackson’s Art suppl...2024-02-2641 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Interview with Marine Costello from Parker HarrisIn this episode Tom and Peter interview Marine Costello, the Head of Communications at Parker Harris. The focus of the episode is all about online marketing for Artists. Marine talks about her background in art history and arts management and shares her wisdom, in a no-nonsense way, offering tips and strategies which Artists can implement easily and immediately, to grow their business.Find out more about Parker Harris and the opportunities they are involved with on their website: www.parkerharris.co.ukThis Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Search Press publishers and Jackson’s A...2023-10-0651 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 19In this episode, Peter and Tom answer some of your artistic questions. This week they discuss what they would create if no-one was watching, the do's and don'ts of putting together an Artists' CV and collecting other Artists' work.If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via our website here or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Search Press pub...2023-09-2926 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Penny Harris from Parker HarrisIn this episode, Peter and Tom interview Penny Harris, co-founder and expert mentor at Parker Harris. Emma Parker and Penny Harris created Parker Harris in 1990. Their partnership is now one of the leading visual arts consultancies in the UK. Penny explains the importance of providing real opportunities for Artists and how this underpins everything which Parker Harris gets involved with. She also discusses the role of an Artist's mentor.Find out more about Parker Harris and the opportunities they are involved with on their website: www.parkerharris.co.ukThis Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary...2023-09-2248 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Discounting Your WorkIn this episode, Peter and Tom discuss discounting work; when it might be appropriate and even beneficial to do so for your business.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Search Press publishers and Jackson’s Art Supplies.For more information about our sponsors, please visit:Rosemary & Co Brushes: www.rosemaryandco.comSearch Press publishers: www.searchpress.comJackson’s Art supplies, blog: www.jacksonsart.com/blogAudience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2023-09-1531 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Dr Curtis Tappenden - Should I go to Art School?In this episode, Peter and Tom welcome back Dr Curtis Tappenden, this time to pick his brains as a Senior Lecturer in Art and Design and ask the question Peter and Tom get asked most often; should I go to art school?This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Search Press publishers and Jackson’s Art Supplies.For more information about our sponsors, please visit:Rosemary & Co Brushes: www.rosemaryandco.comSearch Press publishers: www.searchpress.comJackson’s Art supplies, blog: www.jacksonsart.com/blogAudience Conne...2023-09-081h 10Ask An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Edd Ralph; Senior Editor at Search PressIn this episode Peter and Tom talk to Edd Ralph, Senior Editor at Search Press publishers, leading supplier of Art & Craft books. They discuss Edd's role as senior editor, the process of writing a book and how and why it can be beneficial for working Artists to consider writing one.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Search Press publishers and Jackson’s Art Supplies.For more information about our sponsors, please visit:Rosemary & Co Brushes: www.rosemaryandco.comSearch Press publishers: www.searchpress.comJackson’s Art supplies, canvas build...2023-09-011h 00Ask An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 18In this episode, Peter and Tom answer some of your artistic questions. This week they discuss AI, creating work under pressure and copying other Artists’ work. If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via this website here or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.This Podcast is sponsored by Rosemary & Co Brushes, Jackson’s Art Supplies and Search Press publishers.For more information about our sponsor...2023-08-2526 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Dr Curtis Tappenden, IllustratorIn this episode, Peter & Tom interview Dr Curtis Tappenden about his 30 year career as a professional illustrator.For Curtis, art and drawing have always been passions and he shares the story of how he became an illustrator with grace, humour and humility. Curtis discusses what it is to be an illustrator and what his working day or week might look like. Curtis also shares his wisdom on the necessary qualities for anyone considering illustration as a profession and why the world needs illustrators, perhaps now more than ever.Find out more about Curtis on his...2023-08-181h 15Ask An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Gary Thompson, CEO of Jacksons Art SuppliesIn this episode Tom and Peter interview Gary Thompson, the founder and CEO of Jacksons Art Supplies about his journey from humble painter to founding and growing a now global, art supplies company. Gary's story is an example of how careers in the art world are not necessarily planned or straight forward but how creativity, drive and a belief in delivering the best you can, will ultimately bring about success. Visit their website: www.jacksonsart.comFor more details from our sponsors please visit:- Rosemary & Co, www.rosemaryandco.com- Jacksons...2023-08-1133 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 17In this episode, Peter & Tom answer some of your artistic questions. This week they discuss having a part-time job alongside your art, how to respond if someone asks you to do something for free and some top tips for giving titles to your work.If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via our website at askanartistpodcast.com or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.For mo...2023-08-0425 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Alec White, AccountantIn this episode, Tom and Peter interview Alec White, who is the owner and manager of AJR & Co, chartered accountants, tax and business advisors.If ever any of the financial side of things about running a small business has confused or befuddled you in any way, this episode is for you - concise explanations of some of the accountancy terminology, helpful guidance about what you need to do to comply with the law and best practice advice for saving you time and making your life easier - which will ultimately give you more time to create....2023-07-2858 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Jim Patterson from Two Rivers PaperIf there is one material that nearly all Artists use, whatever their medium, it's paper. In this episode, Peter and Tom talk to Jim Patterson from Two Rivers Paper in Somerset; makers of fine handmade paper for Artists. They discuss how Jim started in the business, the processes involved in creating paper and how and why, we as Artists, should all give handmade paper a try.Visit their website: https://www.tworiverspaper.com/ For more details from our sponsors please visit:- Rosemary & Co, www.rosemaryandco.com- Jacksons Art Materials, www.jacksonsart.c...2023-07-2157 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Group ShowsEven with online art sales booming (and predicted to rise) there will always be an important place for exhibiting and showing work in person. It is a completely different experience for both artist, viewer and buyer.From galleries to art fairs and solo exhibitions there are many ways to do this. Many artists, Tom and Peter included, love being part of group shows and exhibitions. In this episode they discuss the pros and cons of group exhibitions, giving advice and talking about good practice, using examples from their own, first-hand, experience. For more details from ou...2023-07-1445 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Best Bits of Season 4Well it’s been a busy season for the podcast, so for this final episode of Season 4, we have compiled some of the best bits from the past few months. To begin with, we take a look back at our episode on “Asking for Help”, followed by our controversial and enlightening discussion about NFT’s. We also revisit our interview with Portrait Painter, Tom Croft. After the break, we feature highlights from two of the most recent episodes; the Artist’s website and our episode on YouTube. And how could we forget our special interview episodes with T...2023-02-241h 21Ask An ArtistAsk An Artist - The Artist's Mindset with Adebanji AladeIn this episode, Peter and Tom welcome back Adebanji Alade to the podcast. As well as being a successful Artist, Adebanji is also a motivational speaker and in this episode he shares more about his journey to becoming a professional Artist and his advice for others who want to do the same and "make it" in the business of art.You can find out more about Adebanji at his website, www.adebanjialade.co.ukAudience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen...2023-02-1751 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 16In this episode, Tom & Peter answer some of your artistic questions. This week they give their views on getting back into making "real" art and what that means; how much art history knowledge do you need to have to be a working artist; and whether there is still a place for printed marketing literature in amongst all the digital options.If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast please send it to us via our website at askanartistpodcast.com or...2023-02-1028 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Is Your Website Harming Your Business?There was time when every one said you must have a website! In this age of social media, online galleries, YouTube, teaching platforms and so on, do we as Artists still need our own website? In this episode, Peter and Tom discuss whether websites are still relevant, some good practice and some pitfalls to avoid. There are many different ways a website can be used but essentially, it is your Artist's shop window. If we want to be clean and professional then the website must align with this; if we are more informal, then our website should ali...2023-02-0345 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Adebanji Alade aka The Addictive SketcherIn this special interview episode, Peter and Tom talk to award winning Artist, Adebanji Alade. Not only is Adebanji a regular presenter on BBC’s The One Show, he is also the Vice President of the ROI and a self-professed, addictive sketcher! With two new books out now, Adebanji joins Peter and Tom to discuss his route to becoming a professional Artist and why he believes sketching is so important. To find out more about Adebanji, visit his website: www.adebanjialade.co.ukAudience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects an...2023-01-2755 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 15In this episode, Tom & Peter answer some of your tricky questions. This week they give their views on limited edition prints, when to approach a gallery for the first time and giving work to charity. If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast, please send it to us via our website at askanartistpodcast.com or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram, Twitter or Facebook2023-01-2022 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - YouTubeIn this episode, Peter and Tom discuss YouTube and the possibilities it can present for us, as creative Artists and makers.YouTube is a video sharing platform which attracts 2.6 billion monthly users, which accounts for nearly 1/3 of monthly active internet use. 1 billon hours of content per day is watched on YouTube. 500 hours of video is uploaded every minute! Those stats are pretty overwhelming but how, can we as Artists, utilise it effectively.Peter and Tom both have YouTube channels and begin by discussing some of the different content you could create:· Studio vlog / plei...2023-01-1340 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Interview with Tom CroftIn this special interview episode, Peter and Tom talk to Tom Croft; Portrait painter and founder of the Portraits for NHS Heroes initiative, started in 2020.In the first half of the episode, the trio discuss Tom's route into the art world and his practice as a portrait artist. After the advert, Tom talks about where the idea for Portraits for NHS Heroes came from, how it grew and what an important and beautiful, yet humbling and poignant project it became. For more information, take a look at the following:http://www.thomascroft.co.uk ...2022-12-2349 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 14In this episode, Peter & Tom answer some of your tricky questions. This week they give their views on what to do with unsold work, an accusation of copying and how to go about things if and when you want to change your artistic style.If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast, please send it to us via our website at askanartistpodcast.com or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram, Twitter or FacebookAudience Connection2022-12-1625 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - NFT'sIn this episode, Peter and Tom attempt to have an open minded discussion about the ins and outs of the controversial, potentially exciting, and certainly intriguing world of NFTs.Even for those who don’t know much about them, maybe don’t know anything about them, the presence of NFT's has been unavoidable. It seems to be something taking the art world (and beyond) by storm but what a divider of opinion! Some artists are going all in, other people think they are utter non-sense... with just about every possible opinion in between.So...what are N...2022-12-0943 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Asking for helpIt is a sad fact that about 20% of small business fail in their first year and around 60% of small businesses fail within the first 3 years. That is indeed a sobering thought for us working artists, trying to earn a living. And the reasons for this? After poor cash flow, the second reason small businesses give is the inability to source and afford help; help to grow, help to promote and help to create the work we are all so passionate about. So today, Peter and Tom discuss the range of ways they have sought help from others to help...2022-12-0244 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Social Media: Love it or Hate it?Welcome back to Season 4 of Ask an Artist. There are a lot of things that have happened since Tom and Peter were last together - certainly lots of things happening around the world and indeed plenty of ideas, problems and opportunities to navigate through during these challenging times. In this first episode of a new series, Peter and Tom have a long over-due catch-up in the first half and in the second, they talk about their changing relationships with social media (in particular, Instagram) and whether they love it or hate it. For the full sho...2022-11-2538 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 13In this episode, Peter & Tom answer some of your tricky questions. This week they give their views on best practice when using reference images, whether or not a listener should consider undertaking a Fine Art degree and how to price work. If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast, please send it to us via our website at askanartistpodcast.com or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram, Twitter or FacebookAudience ConnectionDiscover how top...2022-05-2732 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Interview with Andrew TischlerIn this week's episode, Tom interviews New Zealand based artist, Andrew Tischler. Andrew has been a professional artist for the past 17 years. He is drawn to vast landscapes, people, objects and animals, painting a wide variety of subjects in a realist style. His goal for every painting is to achieve a convincing sense of reality and break the constraints of the two dimensional surface.His obsession with realist painting led him to study many of the great masters from the past and seek to understand how they made such magnificent pictures. From this, alongside his pa...2022-05-2047 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Mailing ListsMailing lists – on the face of it, not the most exciting of topics but a crucial part any working, creative business and a fantastic way to stay in touch with an already keen and receptive audience. Both Peter and Tom have developed a newfound love for their mailing lists during the past couple of years and in this episode they talk about what they are, how to collect and manage one, why they can be such an amazing tool and also some of the nitty gritty of being responsible for other people’s information.Mailing lists can be a...2022-05-1338 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Listener Questions 12In this episode, Peter & Tom answer some of your tricky questions. This week they give their views on shipping work abroad, how to get to grips with instagram and whether they wear gloves whilst painting.If you have a question you’d like to put to us and would be happy for us answer it here on the podcast, please send it to us via our website at askanartistpodcast.com or alternatively you can send it to us via Instagram, Twitter or FacebookAudience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects an...2022-04-2929 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Choosing and changing mediumsIn this episode, Tom and Peter talk about their own experience with different mediums, how they came to choose their dominant medium, the pros and cons of changing mediums, as well as how they have found a balance between experimentation and honing their expertise. Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2022-04-2237 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Interview with Rosemary from Rosemary & CoIn this episode, Peter visited the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park, the home of Rosemary & Co Artists’ brushes, to interview Rosemary herself. Peter and Rosemary discuss exactly how she makes her famous brushes, the tools and materials involved in brush making and why so many artists around the globe consider her paint brushes the best in the world.Painter or not, for anyone interested in Art, this podcast is not to be missed!This week’s takeaway… If you want to find out more about Rosemary & Co and their magnificent, handmade Artists’ brushes, visit htt...2022-04-1559 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Taking Risks: Is it worth it?Running your own business is a risky business, with 20% of businesses failing in their first year and a shocking 60% failing within the first three. But making decisions and taking risks is all part of running any business, including the creative business of being an Artist. The calculation of risk is an essential skill which all artists and makers need to hone in order to forge ahead in their career. In this episode, Peter and Tom share examples of creative and business orientated risks that they have taken and discuss why and how taking risks can be crucial i...2022-04-0829 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Listener Questions 11In this episode, Peter and Tom give over the podcast to you, the listener. They answer three listener's questions about:1) Framing work for an Art Fair2) How to get re-started after a break away from the studio, and 3) What to do when a customer does not pay!To submit your question to Peter and Tom, visit the website at www.askanartistpodcast.comAudience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2022-04-0126 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Interview with Haidee-Jo SummersIn this episode, Tom and Peter venture outside (well, metaphorically at least) as they are talking all about painting the great outdoors, en plein-air, with the renowned British painter, Haidee-Jo Summers.Haidee-Jo Summers is famed for her paintings full of light, colour and all painted from life. As well as being an author of the internationally popular book Vibrant Oils, Haidee-Jo is a member of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, the Royal Society of Marine Artists, is an editorial consultant for The Artist Magazine and has won multiple awards and prizes for her paintings. I...2022-03-2549 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Transitioning your art business, post-covidIn this episode, Peter and Tom talk about the challenges they have both faced over the past two years, due to the pandemic and how they have changed their artistic businesses and continue to transition to this “new-normal” way of working.Back in the spring of 2020, both Peter and Tom were hit hard when Covid hit the UK, losing a large proportion of their income in a very short space of time. With this uncertainty and lack of security, their creativity fell completely flat! They move on to reflecting on how, once the initial “damage control...2022-03-1842 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - Introducing our new co-host, Tom ShepherdIn this first episode of Season 3, Peter introduces his new co-host, Tom Shepherd.Tom has been a previous guest on the podcast and after a re-introduction to Tom and his work, in this episode, he and Peter discuss what they think it means to be a “working artist”.Both Tom and Peter are proud to call themselves working artists and discuss some of the dilemmas which can occur – such as decisions when creativity and financial matters seem to pull you in different directions.Tom concludes by introducing some of the things the pair will be discussing during...2022-03-1141 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Interview with Tom Knowles JacksonIn this episode of Ask an Artist Laura and Peter are talking to Tom Knowles Jackson: Potter, Gallerist, Director of 'The Clay Loft' an open access clay studio maker-space and business consultant. Tom excels at all of these things and this interview is full of fascinating insights Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2021-08-1359 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Listener Questions 8in this 'Listener Questions' episode Laura and Peter get to grips with some tricky questions: Is it OK that an 'Open Submission' Exhibition should say that they do not return the works submitted? How would you react if your child said that they wanted to be an artist? Finally, how do you deal with a situation where a friend starts making and selling work that is similar you yours?If you have a Question for Laura and Peter then get in touch through www.askanartistpodcast.com or search Ask an Artist on IG or FBAudience Co...2021-06-2526 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Open Studios part twoFollowing on from last week's episode Laura and Peter continue their discussion about Open Studios or Art Weeks events. Whether you are just starting on your art career or are established in your practice opening up your studio space, or joining a group of other artists in a shared space gives you the opportunity to show your work and your techniques to the public, especially the people who live around you who may have no idea about the artist who lives in their midst! More practical advice on things you should do and things you shouldn't.For an...2021-06-1144 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Open Studios part oneRefreshed and back from their brief break Peter and Laura are both taking part in Bucks Art Weeks during June. Local Art Weeks, or Open Studios events are one of the best ways to start interacting with the public. Whilst the exact format differs depending on where you are they offer an opportunity to be part of a larger event and for you to benefit from the marketing and advice that the organisers supply. Laura and Peter have been involved in the Buckinghamshire event for quite a few years and both of them are enthusiastic advocates for the concept.2021-06-041h 00Ask An ArtistAsk an Artist - Titling Your workIn this episode Peter and Laura discuss some of the issues that arise from putting a title on the masterpiece you have just created. Is it necessary, will it make a difference to whether it will sell, or what people will think of it. It's not always easy to find the title that is going to fit best with the piece, so sit back and hear what Laura and Peter doAudience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2021-02-2631 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Maximising your Creative ContentAs an artist or maker your primary function is to make things. However the things you make and the things you do can often be used in ways other than just for their appreciation! In this episode Peter and Laura talk about ways of making the most out of your output: greetings cards, teaching aids, books, videos, content for social media.Much of what you do day to day can be incorporated into teaching or marketing in ways that you might otherwise have had to create from scratch. It may sound a bit too business-like, but Peter and Lau...2020-10-2330 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - On Being the Other HalfLaura and Peter are both fortunate in having partners who share their creative views. For each of them this has developed into something more though and in this episode Laura and Peter talk with Ben and Kimberley about being the other half of an art business partnership.Ben - The Talented Mr B - is framer, photographer, video producer, carpenter, packer, delivery-man, exhibition stand builder, driver, and various other things for Laura - he is also a photographer in his own right.Kimberley - The equally Talented Mrs K - is a teacher, an administrator, writer, book-keeper, c...2020-10-1650 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Listener Questions 3Peter and Laura tackle a few more listener questions: Is it OK for an artist to work across various genres or should they find their place and stick with it? As a portrait artist should I advertise pricing on my website? I am an artist by I'm also very shy. Can I avoid being the public face of my work? Listen to what Peter and Laura have to say about these topics and if you have questions yourself then send them to us via our social media or through our website: www.askanartistpodcast.com2020-10-0916 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Teaching Children, an interview with Kimberley KeeganLaura and Peter have talked about teaching several times, it forms a part of both of their working lives. However they both teach adults; people who have sought them out. Teaching children is a bit different, but maybe not as different as you might think. Peter's wife, Kimberley is a qualified primary school teacher and in this episode she discusses the experience of teaching children and in what ways it compares to teaching grown-ups!Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2020-10-0256 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - BrandingIn this episode of Ask an Artist Peter and Laura discuss 'Branding' - they are not trying to get you to burn symbols into your flesh, but is it a good idea to develop a brand identity? On balance they believe it is, a consistent look and feel to your communications and interactions with your customers helps them to recognise you right from the start.Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2020-09-1131 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Interview with James Dougall, SilversmithIn today's episode Laura and Peter interview James Dougall whose journey into being a silversmith had a few fascinating twists and turns. Now a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths James came to the business late after working in several other fields. His story will hopefully give hope to many 'second career' artists!Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2020-09-0452 minAsk An ArtistAsk An Artist - The Artist's ReputationAn artist is constantly judged, it is inevitable, a part of the very nature of what they do. However it would be wrong to assume that the judgement is only about the work that the artist produces. Today, Peter and Laura discuss the importance of the artist's reputation: how it develops, how to look after it and how not to lose it!2020-08-2820 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Listener QuestionsOver the last months we have had some really good questions from listeners and we are going to try out this slightly different format for this episode. Here are Laura and Peter's thoughts on 3 questions, looking at work/life balance, selling work for the first time and troublesome students!If you have a question that you would like to submit to us then please visit www.askanartistpodcast.com 2020-08-2122 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Doing Charitable WorkAs an artist it is very likely that, from time to time, you will be asked to do things for charity. It could be something that you do anyway, that generates funds for a charity you wish to support, or it could be an approach from a charity asking you to do something specific. Whatever the scenario if you are going to do work like this it needs to be taken just as seriously as for any other client. Both Peter and Laura have done things for charity - and for charitable reasons, in this episode they talk about the...2020-08-1429 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Interview with Fitch and McAndrewIn todays episode Laura and Peter chat to Doug Fitch and Hannah McAndrew. Doug and Hannah are 'Fitch and McAndrew', the husband and wife team of slipware potters whose work has a national and international standing. Working in a very traditional medium, that of earthenware clay decorated with different coloured slips (liquid clay) in rich earthy colours they manage to create a very personal style, working mainly on their own individual pieces, but sometimes collaborating their work is to be found in some of the best galleries in the UK and also as far afield as America and Japan. P...2020-08-0750 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Making a 'Body of Work''A Body of Work'... One of those expressions that pops up in art contexts all the time. Laura and Peter unpick what it means. It can be whatever you want it to be. A group of pieces linked thematically, stylistically, chromatically, progressively or anything else. A collection that will allow you to be assessed maybe, by a gallery or a prospective client. Certainly a way of showing your exploration of your work - and that has to be a good thing!2020-07-3122 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Making Work at Different Price PointsPricing your work is a complex issue and being consistent is one of the things that needs to be considered while working out your pricing. However that does not mean that all your work should be the same price, only that it should be priced consistently, according to its value. Small simple things clearly need to be cheaper than big complex things. Having work in different price brackets allows you so attract a wider range of clients with varying budgets - both Laura and Peter have works at different levels when they are in selling mode! 2020-07-2419 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Delivering a Great Art ClassPart of the lives of many artists is the business of teaching. For some it is a financial necessity and for others it is an emotional or moral imperative. Whatever the reasons you have for teaching it does need to be taken seriously, you have an obligation to your students and doing it well can be massively rewarding.Both Laura and Peter teach and both of them have years of positive experiences, hundreds of students who have had a great time and have gone away with a better understanding of the subject. Isn't that something to feel warm and...2020-07-1745 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Doing a Talk or a Demo in Public!Given the huge interest in art and crafts most professional artists and makers will be asked from time to time to talk about their work, or to demonstrate their methods. There is no compulsion to do this of course, you can just say no! Peter and Laura have never been known to refuse an opportunity to get up in front of the public though, they both enjoy the experience and the benefits that talks and demos bring. In this episode they talk about the way that they approach an event, covering planning, set-up, technology and so on.Audience Con...2020-07-1031 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Studio SpaceThe natural habitat of an artist is usually a studio: This could be a wonderful, purpose built edifice, or a corner of their sitting room, but it is a space to work and needs respect! Today Laura and Peter talk about the places they have called their studio over the years and discuss some of the things that are important about about a creative workspace.Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2020-06-2642 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Interview with Artist Tom SheperdTom Shepherd is a full time artist, specialising in painting wildlife which he does in oils, acrylics and especially in watercolours. Peter and Laura talk to him about his career-path and how he has adapted to working mainly 'on-line' during the current health crisis. Creative adaptation to the situation seems to be the secret and like Peter and Laura Tom is busier than ever.Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2020-06-191h 09Ask An ArtistAsk an Artist - Sending things by post or courierIn this week's episode Laura and Peter are talking about the difficulties of sending original artwork by post.2020-06-1221 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Keeping a SketchbookRecorded during Lockdown, apologies for the sound quality.Should you keep a sketchbook? Laura and Peter have very different responses to this, Peter has kept sketchbook throughout his professional career whilst Laura has some but their use is slightly more ad hoc. The consistent thing for both of them is that it is important to take notes, both written and visual.The sketchbook is peter's go to place for these, but Laura is quite likely to use the back of an envelope, or a sheet of paper.2020-06-0518 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Protecting Yourself Against ScamsRecorded during lockdown, apologies for the sound quality.Peter and Laura chat in this episode about various scams that are rife in the art world, and in the wider arena of small businesses.2020-05-2919 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist keeping track of your work and building an archiveRecorded during the lockdown, apologies for the sound quality!By its very nature, being an artist generates work. The things that your artistic practice is channelled towards. You may be able to sell everything that you do, but more likely there will be works that need to be stored - and catalogued. In this episode of Ask an Artist Laura and Peter talk about recording details of their work and storing it safely for future sale or reference.Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: App...2020-05-2235 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Paperwork and AdministrationRecorded remotely (and with a few technical difficulties...sorry!) during our isolation.It is unlikely that there are many artists who embark on their careers thinking "I'd really like to be doing something that generates lots of adminstration", but inevitably thast is what will happen. Peter and Laura discuss in this episode, how they deal with book-keeping, calendars, e-mails and all the other paperwork that being a professional artist throws up.Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2020-05-1534 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - COVID-19 special no. 4This episode was (obviously) recorded remotely and with a few technical problems. In this fourth special COVID-19 episode Laura and peter talk about some of the things they have done in response to the shutting down of what was planned to be a very busy year for both of them. Keeping busy, being generous and working out new ways to run your business: these things are all second nature to creative people.2020-05-0912 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist, making and selling Greetings CardsThis episode was recorded remotely (and with a few technical issues!) whilst we are all in isolation.Greetings cards can be a useful additional revenue stream if you are an artist whose work lends itself to being reproduced in this way. Laura and Peter talk through their very different responses to Greetings cards: Laura embraces them as a significant part of her business whilst Peter (quite rightly) does not see how they would fit into his work as a commissioned portrait artist. However a little lateral thought may change his mind!Audience ConnectionDiscover how top st...2020-05-0836 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist, Buying Art MaterialsPeter and Laura give their views on buying art materials. What is important? is it the price, is it the service, is it the quality of the materials themselves? That might sound a little basic, but it really does depend on what you are doing and where your work is likely to end up!Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2020-05-0126 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Online TeachingPrompted by the extraordinary situation during the Covid 19 pandemic Laura and Peter have explored different solutions to remain connected with their respective audiences. Today's podcast is not specifically about crisis management, it is more about how the crisis can be seen as a reason to think about new ways of working, in particular using the inherent creativity that we have as artists laterally to solve other problems.Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2020-04-2428 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - Framing and Presentation of Your WorkThis episode was recorded before the restrictions imposed due to COVID-19Selling 2D art often comes with the additional responsibility of framing and presentation, adding that finishing touch to your work. It is so important that you get this right, putting an inferior frame around your picture will not do it justice so how should you approach this tricky subject. Peter and Laura have dragged the Talented Mr B out from behind his sound desk again to discuss different ways of getting your work looking its best.Audience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that co...2020-04-1740 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist interview with Steve Pill: Editor of Artists and Illustrators MagazineThis episode was recorded before the restrictions imposed due to COVID-19Many artists will read magazines about Art and one of the most popular is Artists and Illustrators Magazine. Steve Pill has been working there for many years, most of that time as editor. Laura and Peter (both on their best behaviour - since they both write for A and I) discuss with Steve the value of magazines, how they can help inspire and educate and also how they can be a part of your artistic output if, like Laura and Peter you end up writing for one!...2020-04-1038 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist Covid-19 SpecialLaura and Peter are both professional artists, paying the bills by making art. At this hugely difficult time they discuss how the situation is affecting them and what measures they are taking to ensure that when things get back to something closer to normality that they will be able to resume their work with as little lasting damage as possible.Don't expect advice on the virus itself, Laura and Peter are as much in the dark about that as the rest of you, but their plans and their problems may help you to see that you are not a...2020-03-2134 minAsk An ArtistIntroducing Peter KeeganPeter Keegan is a professional Portrait painter, he studied at university and went very quickly into painting portraits for clients, initially doing other jobs at the same time, but now he also runs an art school teaching adult learners various art practicesAudience ConnectionDiscover how top storytellers build content that connects and converts. Follow us!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify2019-11-0828 minAsk An ArtistAsk an Artist - TrailerPeter Keegan and Laura Boswell introduce the Ask an Artist Podcast. Do you treat art as a hobby, but dream of making it your job? Laura and Peter are both full time, professional artists, paying the bills by making art. In Ask an Artist, Laura and Peter share their experience, giving candid advice to help you into a career in art. They'll be covering topics like pricing work, approaching galleries, social media, artist statements, self doubt, finding your own style and many other things. 2019-10-2408 min