Alyson Stanfield, Author at Art Biz Success

Bravery, Luck, and Persistence with Debbie Mueller (212)

Debbie Mueller’s painting journey began unexpectedly during a rainy day visit to her parents’ home. With no prior art experience, she discovered a passion that would transform her life.

Now balancing a career as an OBGYN with her thriving art practice, Debbie attributes her success to bravery, persistence, and the support of her community. Her story is a reminder that courage and a little luck can open extraordinary opportunities.

Bravery, Luck, and Persistence with Debbie Mueller (212) Read

Sbagliato negroni. Photo ©Alyson Stanfield

My Favorite Things in 2024

I haven’t done a favorite things post in so long that I feel compelled to catch you up on all of my favorite things since … mmm … 2018. But I’m not going to do that to you.

These are some things that make my work easier, life more joyful, give my brain a workout, help me destress or defrizz, and fill my tummy with yumminess.

My Favorite Things in 2024 Read

Fostering Clarity and Confidence Through Writing with Samantha Clark (211)

From sketchbook notes and letters, to authoring her own exhibition catalogues and eventually publishing a memoir, to her thoughtful weekly Substack newsletter, The Lifeboat, Samantha Clark reflects on how writing fosters clarity and confidence for herself and the artists she mentors.

We discuss how writing can deepen one’s creative practice, the value of opening conversations, and how Samantha maintains a writing schedule alongside her work in the studio.

Fostering Clarity and Confidence Through Writing with Samantha Clark (211) Read

Writing on Substack Can Be Integral to Your Creative Process with Ann Balaam Miller (210)

Ann Balaam Miller has found a powerful way to merge her creative passions with her love for writing while growing her audience. Using Substack, she refines ideas for books, shares insights into calligraphy and design, and engages her audience with educational content.

Substack has become integral to her process, helping her manage projects, organize thoughts, and extend her teaching. By offering free content to build community and exploring paid options, Ann balances creativity with income generation.

Writing on Substack Can Be Integral to Your Creative Process with Ann Balaam Miller (210) Read

The Art Biz Unfiltered: Dealer Michael Findlay on Collectors, Curiosity, and Changes (ep. 209)

Veteran art dealer Michael Findlay joins me to discuss his memoir and share insights from 60 years in New York’s art world. He recounts memorable stories, including a funny Andy Warhol moment, and underscores the value of in-person art experiences that prioritize looking over reading.

Findlay also reflects on the qualities of great collectors and how technology has reshaped the complex relationships between dealers, artists, and collectors today.

The Art Biz Unfiltered: Dealer Michael Findlay on Collectors, Curiosity, and Changes (ep. 209) Read

Advice for Those Who Want to Help the Artists in Their Lives (ep. 208)

This is THE post to share with friends and loved ones. I offer heartfelt advice to non-artists who want to support you—emphasizing acceptance of your individuality, respect for your need for solitude, and acknowledgment of the challenges you face in balancing creativity with business demands.

I encourage your friends and family to show up for you. The key message is to love and believe in the artist, offering encouragement and reassurance when needed.

Advice for Those Who Want to Help the Artists in Their Lives (ep. 208) Read

Artist Contracts, Studio Loans, and Collaboration with Virginia Broersma (ep. 207)

Artist and advocate Virginia Broersma talks with me about her efforts to support fellow artists through practical resources. Virginia shares how she founded The Artist’s Office to help artists manage administrative tasks and created The Artist’s Contract, a free tool for artist protections.

We also explore her Studio Loan program, which connects artists needing temporary studio space. Virginia’s work highlights the importance of collaboration, transparency, and empowering artists to navigate their careers confidently.

Artist Contracts, Studio Loans, and Collaboration with Virginia Broersma (ep. 207) Read

Creating demand for your art: why it matters and how to start (206)

In this solo episode of The Art Biz, I dive into the necessity of creating demand for your artwork in order to achieve a certain level of success—stressing the importance of setting realistic expectations, refining your original artistic voice (key!), and nurturing genuine relationships.

I discuss the balance between ambition and practicality in the art market and offer five essential tips to assess and cultivate demand effectively.

Creating demand for your art: why it matters and how to start (206) Read

The internet might be ruining artists’ livelihoods with William Deresiewicz (205)

A deep discussion about the significant impact of the internet on the arts economy and the evolving role of artists in today’s market that is ruled by the internet.

Alyson and Bill discuss the challenges of discoverability and financial instability while emphasizing the importance of community support as artists navigate this changing landscape. Bill offers valuable insights on adapting to new opportunities in the digital era, helping artists feel less alone in their journeys.

The internet might be ruining artists’ livelihoods with William Deresiewicz (205) Read

Establishing Yourself in a New Art Community with Joan Chamberlain (ep. 204)

Joan Chamberlain reflects on her beginnings as a dentist and botanical artist to licensing her work and launching her “Recipe Nest” product.

After moving from Texas to Oregon in 2022, Joan reignited her passion for painting—now focusing on still life that celebrates food, wine, and joy. She discusses the challenges of relocating, the importance of finding community, and the evolution of her art practice, while emphasizing how her new environment has inspired a fresh perspective on her work.
Iris also shares insights on overcoming doubt, using AI in her creative process, and balancing her art with motherhood. She touches on her time in Taiwan, which was key to her development, and how her income breaks down between originals and reproductions.

Establishing Yourself in a New Art Community with Joan Chamberlain (ep. 204) Read