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Art & Cocktails

Ekaterina Popovaartandcocktails.substack.com
Art & Cocktails is a weekly podcast where contemporary art meets creativity, business, and real talk. Hosted by artist, Create! Magazine founder, and master coach Ekaterina Popova, each episode delivers honest, no-nonsense conversations that blend passion and vulnerability with real-world strategies for thriving as a creative entrepreneur. Created for artists, creatives, and artpreneurs, the show features inspiring stories and candid discussions with artists, curators, writers, and thought leaders in the arts and beyond. From navigating the art world to building a sustainable creative practice, each episode offers actionable tips, mindset shifts, and behind-the-scenes insights—served with your favorite drink in hand. Whether you're in the studio, on a walk, or unwinding after a long day, Art & Cocktails is your go-to space for fresh perspectives and practical tools to support your artistic journey. Tune in weekly and be part of the conversation—because your creative life deserves it. Find us at www.createmagazine.co/podcast — where the conversation about art and business starts.

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Episodes

Re-Introduction to Art & Cocktails!

Welcome to "Art & Cocktails: Exploring the World of Contemporary Art, Creativity, Business, and Inspiration." I am your host, Ekaterina Popova, the artist behind Create! Magazine, here to guide you through the flourishing and dynamic world of contemporary art, creativity, and entrepreneurship, one inspired conversation at a time. In this rejuvenated iteration of the previously known "Create!" podcast, we delve deeper, fostering a space where artists, creators, dreamers, and artpreneurs conve...

Sep 13, 20232 min

Dana Kohlmann on Becoming a Full-Time Artist and Healing Through Meditative Botanical Paintings

Have you ever told yourself that you won't succeed as an artist unless you have a giant audience? This inspiring episode dispels this myth and gives you the nudge to chase your biggest art dreams. ‍ Join us as we delve into Dana's transformative art journey. Transitioning from luxury branding to establishing herself as an independent visual artist, Dana shares the challenges and triumphs she's faced. Gain insights into her roles at Anthropologie and other retail brands, which shaped her path bef...

Sep 05, 202333 min

The Power of Acting As If

In this mini-episode with Kat, we explore the power of manifestation, acting 'as if,' and utilizing the law of assumption as taught by Neville Goddard. We discuss how assuming the feeling of your wish fulfilled and acting on that conviction can change your life. We break down the process into practical steps, from being clear about your desires to practicing gratitude and persistence. Tune in to discover how to align your thoughts, beliefs, and actions with your desired reality and unlock the po...

Aug 31, 202314 min

Honoring Our Unique Challenges and Finding Joy in the Journey

In this episode of the Create! Podcast , hosted by Ekaterina Popova, the founder of Create! Magazine , she discusses common misconceptions artists have, specifically the bias thinking that others have it easier or better. She emphasizes the importance of honoring one's current situation and discusses the challenges and realities faced by self-employed artists versus those balancing corporate jobs or other responsibilities like parenthood. Ekaterina talks about the financial instability, lack of ...

Aug 29, 202318 min

If I Were to Start Over: What Really Matters in Your Art Business

In this episode, Ekaterina Popova talks about the areas and strategies she would zero in on if she were to restart her art business today. Let's talk about where to allocate more time, what deserves your investment, and how to recalibrate your mindset towards what truly matters. Discover more with the Art Queens membership and get support inside our upcoming free masterclass: Join the membership: https://www.artqueens.co Join the free masterclass: https://my.demio.com/ref/mVIx8oEJjA9aqHXx Are yo...

Aug 26, 202323 min

The Power of Creating and Curating Your Own Exhibitions with Gita Joshi and Kat

Join curator Gita Joshi and host Kat in an inspiring episode that explains how to curate and create your own art show in galleries, pop-ups, public spaces, non-profits, and other spaces. Listen to how Gita got started and learn how to turn your exhibition vision into reality. Get our free guide and 5-day challenge to create and plan your art exhibition this year: https://createmagazine.mykajabi.com/opt-in Need support in creating and marketing your show? Join our signature four-week program, You...

Aug 16, 202329 min

Alonsa Guevara: Creative Evolution, Navigating International Residencies, and Cultivating an Entrepreneurial Mindset for Artists

In this special episode of the Create! Podcast, Ekaterina Popova sits down with Alonsa Guevara to discuss: Her transformative residency experience at Tashkeel in Dubai. How immersing herself in a different culture shaped her art. The power of unconventional thinking in the realm of creative business and entrepreneurship as an artist. Moving to LA and creating new opportunities by connecting with local communities Givine ourselves time to foster new ideas and direction in the studio Dive in to ge...

Aug 10, 202347 min

Embroidery, Art, and Life in Dubai: A Conversation with Samar Hejazi

Join host Ekaterina Popova and Samar Hejazi as they delve into the world of embroidery, contemporary art, and life in Dubai. From traditional embroidery techniques to innovative art installations, Samar's journey offers insightful perspectives on being an artist in Dubai and exploring transience through art. Tune in to this episode of the Create! Podcast to discover more about the artist featured in issue #37 of Create! Magazine. Explore Samar Hejazi's artwork at: https://www.samarhejazi.com Don...

Aug 08, 202321 min

The Profound Interconnectedness of Art and Nature with Zhanna Tsytsyn

In this episode, join host Ekaterina Popova as she delves into a conversation with Zhanna Tsytsyn, a talented full-time working artist originally from Siberia and now based in the US. Zhanna's art practice is deeply rooted in eco-somatics, exploring the profound interconnectedness between humans and nature. Through her unique creative process, which involves dance and meditation, Zhanna draws inspiration from her transformative experiences with a mushroom ceremony. Get a sneak peek into her upco...

Jul 31, 202334 min

Humor for Wellness: Exploring Performance Art with Barbara Ann Michaels, Jester of the Peace

Join us in this fun and uplifting episode as Barbara Ann Michaels, also known as the Jester of the Peace, takes us on a 30-year journey as a performance artist with a unique background in humor. Discover how Barbara's profound realization led her to embrace humor and wellness as her true mission, creating audience interactive activations that are both funny on the surface and deeply transformative. Uncover the power of humor as a secret sauce that breaks down barriers and fosters genuine connect...

Jul 25, 202328 min

No Art Sales? Perspective and Encouragement From Kat

In this episode, Kat shares some reasons why art sales may have slowed down and what you can do about it. Listen in to gain perspective, uplift your spirits, and initiate a shift that will help you return to a joyful studio time and navigate your way back to making sales. www.createmagazine.com Get full access to Art & Cocktails by Ekaterina Popova at artandcocktails.substack.com/subscribe...

Jul 20, 202313 min

Breaking the Cycle: Defeating Self-Sabotage in Business with Kat

Join host Ekaterina Popova, artist, coach, and founder of Create Magazine , as she shares her personal experiences and insights on self-sabotage in the creative business realm. In this episode, Kat opens up about her own vulnerabilities and discusses the mistakes she made along her entrepreneurial journey. From investing in unnecessary expenses to comparing herself to others, she provides valuable lessons learned to help you navigate your own path to success. Discover how to avoid common pitfall...

Jul 12, 202318 min

Exploring the Darker Side of Pop Characters with Artist Anthony Rondinone

Join host Ekaterina Popova in a fun and insightful conversation with artist Anthony Rondinone as they dive into his work and the inspiration behind his intriguing pop characters. Anthony shares valuable insights into the darker side of his art, skillfully expressing melancholy and nostalgia while infusing a touch of humor into his creations. Despite lacking a formal art education, Anthony takes us on his journey of creating these distinctive pop characters and reveals his fascination with moment...

Jul 05, 202351 min

Seeing Through the Lens of Opportunity

Feeling stuck? Change the way you see the world to shift out of any situation quickly. In this podcast episode, Ekaterina Popova (Kat) talks about the importance of shifting one's perspective from seeing problems to seeing unlimited possibilities. Kat shares her experience of attending an inspiring recent event and observing how successful brands and artists run their businesses. Work with me to build your creative business: https://unlimitedcreator.com/ Read our new book: https://a.co/d/czHkAgW...

Jun 23, 202313 min

How to Start a Microgallery with Mia Risberg

In this episode, you'll meet Mia Risberg, a Michigan-based artist who paints and draws in acrylics, oils, and colored pencils. Her work depicts places and people that appear to hold secrets. Informed by personal memories, photographs, and imagination, she renders fleeting moments, contemplative landscapes, and partially revealed or enigmatic figures. In addition to having a discussion about her art, she and host Alicia Puig also discuss what microgalleries are and how she started her own called ...

Jun 21, 202324 min

Strategies for Artists to Connect with Their Audience and Promote Their Work with Hayley Price

In this episode, Hayley Price and Kat share effective strategies for artists to connect with their audience and promote their work. They highlight the importance of thoroughly understanding your audience to identify the ideal platforms and events for engagement. While acknowledging Instagram as an excellent platform, they also recommend exploring other options such as hosting your own show or attending events. Additionally, they suggest building an email list as a backup means of reaching and co...

Jun 14, 202330 min

Unlocking Your Next Level with Sergio Gomez

In this episode, Alicia hosts an interview with artist, curator, gallery owner, coach & podcaster Sergio Gomez. He shares his experiences building his career as an artist as well as the story behind the founding of 33 Contemporary gallery. Tune in for insightful tips about time management for busy artpreneurs and helpful advice on mindset from the book he co-wrote: Crush Self-Sabotage and Live Fully! The Artist’s Wellness Journey to Confidence & Success. https://www.sergiogomezonline.com...

Jun 05, 202349 min

When Your Back-Up Plan Becomes The Plan with TJ Walsh and Ekaterina Popova

BONUS Episode! Join Kat and TJ on a special episode from Bold Creatives Collective - TJ Walsh Coaching. Join TJ Walsh and Ekaterina Popova on the BCC Podcast as they delve into the transformative power of pursuing dreams, embracing uncertainty, and charting one's own course. Discover how backup plans can evolve into the very plans that were meant to be pursued. Through personal anecdotes, TJ and Kat share their experiences of taking risks and breaking free from societal expectations, leading to ...

Jun 05, 202338 min

Empowering Artists: Navigating the Creative Landscape with Ekaterina Popova, Erika B. Hess and Alicia Puig

In this podcast episode, Erika B. Hess, Alicia Puig and Ekaterina Popova discuss the challenges of running creative brands and supporting artists. Erika is a painter, curator, writer, and the host of the I Like Your Work podcast, while Alicia is a curator, co-founder of PXP Contemporary, and the director at Create. They talk about their experiences and the need for resources and communities that support and lift artists and creative entrepreneurs. Erika discusses her membership program called "T...

Jun 01, 202337 min

The Ultimate Artist Success Toolkit with Kat and Alicia

Wouldn't it be great to have an artist success toolkit available on-demand? This is exactly why we created the Smartist School. Join Ekaterina Popova and Alicia Puig in this episode of the Create! Podcast as they unveil their new on-demand online course, Smartist School, tailored for emerging artists. Discover the inspiration behind this accessible program and delve into its empowering content designed to fuel success in art careers. Whether you're starting out or looking for a career refresh, t...

May 30, 202323 min

Finding Creative Momentum: A Journey of Art, Motherhood, and Public Art Projects with Camille Myles

Join host Ekaterina Popova as she interviews Canadian artist Camille Myles in this inspiring episode. Camille takes us on her journey of rediscovering her artistic voice and embracing creative momentum. She shares her transition from a career in conservation to becoming a multidisciplinary artist, including her experiences with public art projects and collaborations. Discover how Camille's passion for history and archaeology influences her artwork and gain insights into how she successfully bala...

May 29, 202330 min

The Creative Business Handbook: Our New Book is Here! Alicia and Kat Share Key Differences

In this podcast episode, Kat and Alicia, are thrilled to share our excitement about the release of our new book, "The Creative Business Handbook: Follow Your Passions and Be Your Own Boss." This book is specifically tailored to creatives who have aspirations of starting their own thriving businesses. We extend a heartfelt thank you to Chronicle Books for publishing this incredible title. If you enjoyed our previous book, "The Complete Smartist Guide," you'll find immense value in this new step-b...

May 23, 20239 min

From Passion to Profession: Empowering Artists with the Milan Institute's Founder, Elli Milan

In this episode of the Create Podcast, host Ekaterina Popova welcomes Elli Milan, founder of the Milan Institute, to discuss their shared mission of supporting the art community and elevating careers and skillsets. Elli shares her journey as a professional artist, starting from her passion for art sparked in high school to attending art school and eventually establishing her own art career. Along the way, she faced challenges in finding mentors and guidance, which fueled her desire to help other...

May 22, 202327 min

Self-Publishing & Body Positivity with Sophie Tea

In this episode, Alicia interviews figurative painter Sophie Tea. Sophie has trailblazed a new route to success for contemporary artists. Abstaining from traditional gallery representation, she leveraged social media to build her brand to cult status. In her most recognized series of nudes, the female form is celebrated in all its unique splendor. Her work is defined by vibrant colors, energetic drips, and signature splats and conveys a powerful message of inclusivity. This episode dives deep in...

May 18, 202328 min

Collaboration at the Intersection of Art & Interior Design with Karolina Barnes

In this episode, Alicia interviews Karolina Barnes. Karolina is a brand storytelling consultant and co-founder of STUDIO/ESTILA and ESTILA design and art trade platform. They discuss the gap in the market that led Karolina to launch ESTILA, the reasoning behind the company's values, and how artists and creative brands can incorporate storytelling into their marketing. https://estila.co/ Our new book, The Creative Business Handbook comes out on May 23rd! Pre-order here: https://lnk.to/creativebus...

May 12, 202345 min

Michelle Gomez on Cultivating Mental Health and Wellness for Creatives and Business Owners

Tune in to Michelle Gomez's podcast episode as she engages in an open conversation with Kat on how to improve mental health and wellness as an artist or entrepreneur. Gain insights on overcoming business obstacles, maintaining focus, preserving peace of mind, and managing distractions. Join us for an informative discussion on all things related to mental health and wellness in the creative and entrepreneurial world. We discuss the Mental Health Network and its upcoming workshops, which aim to he...

May 09, 202348 min

7 Years as a Creative Entrepreneur and Self-Employed: Lessons Learned (From Kat)

In this episode, I (Kat) share insights from my seven years of experience as a self-employed artist, creator, and entrepreneur. Topics covered include charging for your work, financial management, hiring an accountant, utilizing kindness in business, and networking effectively. Let me know what you want to learn about my journey in the comments! Join our community for women artists and creative entrepreneurs at www.artqueens.co Grab our new book: https://a.co/d/ewPBhZE Read Create! Magazine: htt...

May 08, 202319 min

Art Sales & Artist Websites with Alissa Sexton

In this episode, Alicia hosts an interview with ARTWRK gallery co-founder, curator and consultant, Alissa Sexton. She has worked with artists, galleries and institutions since 2005 and one of her specialties is creating websites for artists. Connect with Alissa here: https://www.alissasexton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/alissasextonart/ https://www.artwrk.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/artwrk.ca/ - Thanks to today's sponsor Superfine Art Fair: https://www.superfine.world/art-fairs-for-individua...

May 01, 202340 min

The Strengths of Multipassionate Creatives with Sharif Pendleton

In this episode, you'll meet Sharif Pendleton. Pendleton is a University of the Arts-educated multimedia artist enamored by product design. He has made a career developing interactive learning and designing handmade housewares and accessories under his Masters of None label, which has since been relaunched and rebranded as Laser Philly. https://laserphilly.com/ Use code CREATE for 30% off of our new book The Creative Business Handbook at www.chroniclebooks.com Get full access to Art & Cockta...

Apr 28, 202346 min

Transforming Spaces Through Color and Joy with Sarah Stieber

Join Kat and Sarah Stieber on this uplifting and energizing episode where the artist talks about her new venture of transforming spaces with her art. Sarah shares her approach to building a sustainable and unique art business beyond the traditional gallery system, discusses how she creates events and gives us a preview of her brand-new project Stieber Spaces. www.sarahstieber.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/sarahstieber Applauded as “San Diego’s Best Local Contemporary Artist” by Modern Luxury ...

Apr 17, 202330 min
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