The Laura Horn Art Podcast
Each week, artist Laura Horn and her husband Richie share their experiences of making art, running a business, and juggling family life. They discuss hot topics facing artists today, from finding a personal style to navigating social media. The podcast is packed with relatable stories and practical strategies to help listeners grow as artists.
Episodes
193. How I Choose My Colour Palettes
If you’ve ever struggled with choosing a colour scheme for your paintings, this one is for you! In this episode, I share how I approach choosing colours and a few simple design principles that help guide my choices. We also chat about finding inspiration, allowing colours to mix and mingle, creating contrast and understanding the importance of value. I hope you enjoy this little insight into my co
192. 5 Ways to Start a Sketchbook Page
Staring at a blank sketchbook page and not sure where to begin? In this episode, I’m sharing five of my favourite ways to get started on a sketchbook page. If you love mixed media, you’re going to love this one! We’re talking collage, monoprinting, watercolour, ink, drawing and all sorts of creative possibilities.And as I chat through these simple starting points, I think you’ll hear just how exci
191. Why Is It So Hard to Just Start Making Art?
There's a fine line between preparing and procrastinating! This week, we answer a listener question about why it can be so hard to actually sit down and make art.It's not that we don't want to. In fact, we might be happily stocking up on art supplies, organising our creative spaces or watching art videos. But when it comes to putting those ideas into action, something holds us back.So
190. What Actually Helped Me Grow as an Artist
I'd love to say that my journey as an artist has been a smooth one, filled with joyful painting and effortless learning, but I think we all know that's not quite how things go!This week, I reflect on how I started to make sense of the chaos of my early creative years, get to know myself creatively, recognise what felt authentic to me, and develop a mindset that helped me finish more painti
189. Flow State vs. Hyperfocus
What is flow state, why is it so beneficial for artists, and what can we do to create more opportunities for it to show up in our creative practice?Today, Richie draws on his background in performance coaching to help us better understand what’s required to enter a flow state and how it differs from hyperfocus.Whether you’re creating a painting, writing a blog post, filming a video, or immersed in
188. Marketing Is Not Easy
Marketing is a tricky part of running a creative business. It can feel pushy, icky or simply like a chore — but at other times, it can be surprisingly interesting and even fun.Over the years, we’ve dialled our marketing up and down, tried different things, and learned through plenty of trial and error.This week, as we head into a more marketing-focused period, we’re chatting about our experiences
187. Finding Your Sustainable Sweet Spot
In this episode, Richie shares a simple mindset tool for checking in on how we’re doing. Are we flat chat and edging towards burnout? Or have we eased off so much that we’re starting to disconnect and stagnate? It’s a helpful way to find that sustainable sweet spot and keep the spark alive over the long term.We get there through a slightly meandering conversation that spans course launches, fitnes
186. How Do You Work Best?
Are you a lover of lists, a creature of habit, or more free-flowing in how you go about your days?Today we’re talking about different working styles and how they have both served and hindered us at different times. If you’re looking for a one-size-fits-all system, this probably isn’t the conversation for you. But if you’re looking for encouragement to find a way of working that suits your unique p
185. When Is Something Good Enough?
This week, we talk about the question: when is something good enough? This came about because I’ve been struggling to make some decisions around my signature course, Modern Mixed Media.We talk about the urge to keep improving and levelling up, and how this can sometimes be counter-productive. Sometimes, what we really need is to give ourselves permission to let something be what it was and be okay
184. The Unexpected Gifts of Watercolour Painting
This week I chat with Richie about watercolour painting and why it can be such a helpful medium, even if you usually work with acrylics, oils, or other materials. Whether you use it as a meditative practice, a way to create quick studies, or as a tool for improving your colour knowledge, it has so much to offer.As usual, this conversation leads to a bigger discussion. We talk about the beauty of d
183. It’s Never Too Late To Start
Join us for a conversation about taking small steps towards your dreams, no matter what stage of life or your creative career you’re at. We talk about overcoming self-doubt, asking for help, building confidence through connection, and chipping away at your goals one day at a time.We hope this episode gives you a little nudge to give your dream the attention it deserves — not in a hustle kind of wa
182. Why Authenticity Matters More Than Ever
In this episode, Richie and I ponder the question: is this even an art podcast anymore? Over the years, the topics we discuss have widened to include more about lifestyle, health, family and relationships. We’ve loved having the opportunity to talk honestly and let our conversations go where they want to.This leads us to chat more about the advantage of being authentic and genuine in a world that
181. The Art of Creative Kindness
Today, Richie and I chat about how small acts of kindness can transform your creative practice. The idea for this conversation came about when I finally decided to clean and refresh my watercolour palettes. Taking the time to do this got me thinking about other ways I could be kind to my creativity and how that kindness might have a ripple effect on my entire art practice.If you’ve been hard on yo
180. When Life Pulls You Away From Creating
We're back after nearly two years! In this more personal episode, we share why we stepped away from the podcast, the health journeys we've both been navigating, and how they've changed our approach to creativity.We also talk about letting go of certain things, embracing the natural seasons of a creative life, and why stepping away from your art doesn't erase your identity as an art
179. The Therapeutic Power of Art: Sharing Our Personal Experiences
In this season finale, Richie and I discuss the healing power of art and how creativity has helped us both process emotions, find mindfulness, and reconnect with our playful side. I share how painting helped me navigate grief and social anxiety in my twenties, while Richie talks about how he accidentally discovered the meditative benefits of photography and why, as humans, we need struggle and cha
178. For the Love of Layers: An Insight Into My Mixed Media Process
This week, Richie and I dive deep into my mixed media layering process. From the initial burst of excitement, through the problem-solving middle, to knowing when to stop, we share tips and personal insights on every stage of a painting. We chat about why planning isn’t always the best approach, and the surprising value of keeping a bit of mess (or, should I say, mystery) in our work.
We also refl
177. The Art vs. Admin Battle - Managing Overwhelm and Tricky Transitions
Ever feel like you're constantly shifting between being an artist and wearing all the other hats that come with life and work? In this episode, Richie and I dive deep into the challenge of balancing creative flow with the demands of admin, routines, and the complexities of daily transitions—from work to home, from creating to planning. We share how we've been navigating a particularly roug
176. Why "What the Heck Moments" are Important in Our Creative Lives
Not all decisions can be made with logic or business in mind. Today, Richie and I chat about the importance of "what the heck moments"—those times when we follow a creative instinct, even though it may not make sense on paper. We share examples from our own creative journey, discussing how embracing these impulses can bring deeper fulfillment, growth, and unexpected opportunities. From t
175. 5 Creative Ways to Use Sketchbooks in Your Art Process
This week, Richie and I discuss how my sketchbooks came to the rescue, providing comfort after a challenging week of admin. This leads us to explore the many ways sketchbooks can benefit artists. Whether for observation, experimentation, therapy, inspiration gathering, or colour palette organisation, sketchbooks offer incredible versatility. We chat about approaches used by artists like Matisse an
174. How Books Can Inspire and Motivate Your Art Practice
With social media becoming increasingly fast-paced and fewer photographs of artwork showing up, my appreciation for a good old book filled with art and creativity has grown! In this episode, I talk about a new series I’m sharing on YouTube where I explore my favorite creative books across different categories. Richie and I chat about how these books inspire my art practice, and I also open up abou
173. The Art of Letting Go: Embracing Simplicity in Your Creative Process
Ever feel like you have too many tabs open in your brain? In this episode, I share my recent struggles with overwhelm and how simplifying my art business and practice helped me find balance. I chat with Richie about the clarity I gained from organising my thoughts on a whiteboard and the comfort of returning to simple watercolour techniques. This conversation also helped me refine my vision for th
172. Art Butterfly or Art Hermit? Exploring Art Sales Strategies
In today's episode, Richie and I explore the evolution of my art sales strategy. I reflect on my early days exhibiting at cafes and art markets, where community connections and personal interactions were key (the butterfly approach). We then look at my more recent experience utilising online sales, e-course teaching, and art licensing (the hermit approach). We chat about the pros and cons of e
171. When Rushing in Backfires: A Re-Branding Attempt Gone Wrong!
Have you ever embarked on a creative project only to find yourself questioning your choices midway through? In this episode, I talk with Richie about my recent attempt at re-branding my website and social media. What started as a fun day of choosing new colours, fonts, and design elements quickly escalated into website chaos, leaving me questioning my artistic identity. It wasn't what I had ho
170. The Mid-Year Wake-Up Call: Getting Clear on Your Creative Goals
This week, I chatted with Richie about how I had a bit of a wobble. Maybe we'll call it mid-year panic. Suddenly, I could feel the year slipping away with goals unmet. Specifically, I've been feeling blocked when it comes to making online classes. How much prep does one need to do and is a rebrand of my website colours really what I should be doing right now? Yep, it's an honest one. B
169. Navigating the Ups and Downs of Creativity: Tips for Staying Inspired
The ebb and flow of creativity is inevitable. There will be times when we are itching to paint and know exactly what we want to do, and there will be times when turning up feels hard. In this episode, I answer your questions on this topic and share the ways I stay inspired, build compassion for quieter periods, honour my own rhythms, and continue seeking self-discovery and self-expression, even in
168. Blogging Is Not Dead - Getting Re-inspired by Artist Blogs
Recently, I made a delightful discovery: artists are still blogging! I am not sure why I thought the blogging scene was all but forgotten, but it's not. It's a little different now, especially with so many social media platforms to contend with. However, many artists are still blogging in various ways—on their own websites, on Substack, via email newsletters, and more. In this episode, I s
167. Is It Okay to Have Multiple Art Styles?
There is a lot of pressure on artists to develop one strong style, but is this the only way? This week, Richie and I discuss my personal experience with having multiple art styles and share some of the benefits of embracing variety in your work. We explore how casting a wider creative net can be advantageous and talk about how, over time, your creative voice becomes stronger, making your work iden
166. Taking Your Ideas Beyond the Sketchbook
This week, we're answering a listener question about how to transition from your sketchbook to a canvas or alternative substrate. This topic is perfectly timed, as I've been in a sketchbook phase myself and am beginning to take the leap out. Join Richie and me as we discuss signs that you're ready, practical strategies to make the transition easier, ideas for setting up your space, and
165. Bucking Social Media Trends - Why Your Way Might Be Better!
Do you miss the days of looking at gorgeous photographs of art on Instagram and zooming in on all the details? We sure do. That's why we've been bucking the trends and sharing more photos again, despite the platform's push towards reels. Is it the best thing for account growth? Probably not. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a good decision. Tune in to hear more about our social media swi
164. Studio Upgrades We've Made - Celebrating One Year in the Art Cottage!
There are many ways to improve a creative space and make it feel like home. This week, Richie and I reflect back on the past year in our beloved art cottage and share the favorite updates and tweaks we've made to the space. We talk about everything from furniture, lighting, and decorating to our most recent trip to IKEA. Plus, there's plenty of laughs along the way. I'll admit I do nee
163. Embracing Artistic Exploration Without Needing To Know “The Why”
Feeling the pressure to figure out and define your art? This conversation might get you thinking differently. What if you allowed yourself to play a little longer, to explore without constraints, and to gather inspiration from far and wide? That's exactly what I've been doing.
Inspired by Rick Rubin's book "The Creative Act," I've discovered a fresh enthusiasm, confiden
162. Persist, Pivot, or Pack It In?
How long should you persist with a creative pursuit, art style, or medium if you are not enjoying it? This episode could also have been titled: I really want to love acrylics, but I am not sure if I do?
It's a personal conversation about the confusion I sometimes experience when choosing materials and processes as a mixed-media artist, but of course, it goes beyond this! If you've ever fo
161. Taking a Step Back To Inspire My Art and YouTube Channel
This week, Richie and I chat about why it can be helpful to revisit previous art styles or processes in your art practice or business. This idea emerged as I've rediscovered and fallen back in love with the playful style of art from my very first online class, The Melting Pot.
We also discuss the challenges we've faced in defining a style and approach for our YouTube channel and why we'
160. How To Find Your Creative Flow Again After a Break
Breaks are wonderful and necessary, but they can also make it hard to get back into your artistic groove. This week, Richie and I discuss this challenge and offer practical guidance and encouragement to help you turn your creative drought into a fresh, exciting chapter. Discover the importance of taking that first step, embracing risk-taking, optimising your workspace, and selecting a project that
159. Nostalgic Musings: Rediscovering the Joy of Being an Artist
Is it nostalgia? Maybe I've got those rose-tinted glasses on again. Do you ever get the feeling that being an artist was more enjoyable before? Is all this pressure to do more and be on multiple social media platforms accumulating, taking away the joy of making art? Join me and Richie as we delve into these questions and explore how I am combating these feelings by immersing myself in my studi
158. How Becoming More Relaxed Improves Art & Life (Season Finale)
Today, we re-explore the main theme of this podcast’s season: “relaxation” and how valuing more R&R has improved our art practice, creative business, and well-being. We also answer your questions relating to this season and set a realistic break and return date for the continuation of the podcast. As we head into this short break, we wanted to say thank you for tuning in and supporting the pod
157. 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Making Reels and What To Do Instead
What's your relationship with reels at the moment? Many artists feel the frustration of spending endless hours on editing apps, searching for the perfect audio, and condensing messages into mere seconds. Both Richie and I have struggled with this, but we've had some breakthroughs recently and learned a lot about what not to do! Curious about our take on things?
Tune in to episode 157 for
156. Pinterest Mini Training: Get More Eyes on Your Creative Work!
Are you missing out on the benefits of Pinterest? In the art world, Pinterest often flies under the radar compared to Instagram, yet it's a powerhouse for art-related content. Over half of my social media website traffic comes from Pinterest, where people discover my art, podcasts, classes, YouTube channel, and blog posts. And yet, I spend as little as a few days a year on my Pinterest strateg
155. Where Do You Feel the Most Friction in Your Creative Process?
When it comes to your creative process, what feels hard? Is it getting started on a new project? Or perhaps it's that final 10%, like varnishing and finishing a painting. Or is sharing your art with the world a stumbling block? We all have different friction points that need attention. Talking it out can really help, so come join us as we put our heads together to explore the intricacies of ou
154. Old Art: Should You Keep, Transform, or Set Free?
If you've been on this artistic journey for a while, chances are you've accumulated your fair share of artwork. From quick studies to finished pieces that feel a bit so-so, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the stuff! Should you keep everything, or are there benefits to clearing the clutter and creating space for new ideas? And what about reinventing old pieces? Tune in to hear our tho
153. Making Time for Art and Protecting Your Creative Energy!
If there's one episode to tune into this season, it's this one. Today, we're tackling the challenge of finding time to paint when life gets hectic and competing demands, whether they be business admin, work commitments, or family responsibilities, leave you frustrated. Perhaps it feels like putting paint on paper is a distant dream. If that resonates with you, this episode is a must-li
152. Creative Crossroads: Navigating Changes in Your Art Style and Focus
What happens when you've developed an art style but you're not feeling it anymore? Or maybe you’ve focused on teaching art, but now you want to teach the business side of art. The desire to change is there, but concerns about losing followers, letting people down, or struggling financially hold you back. These worries are valid, but there are also amazing benefits that can come from switch
151. Should You Share Your Art Process Online? Exploring the Pros and Cons
There’s no denying the popularity of art process videos on social media, and offering classes can be a wonderful way to generate income as an artist. However, it's not all roses. From the issue of being copied to dedicating substantial time to editing and administration, there's a lot to consider when sharing your creative process. Today, we dive into both the perks and pitfalls of teachin
150. Aim to Be Average! The Hidden Benefits of Mediocre Days
The beginning of the year is a time when many of us set big goals, but is this the best approach? Or are we setting ourselves up for failure? Whether you're creating art, launching a podcast, or making a film, not everything is going to hit the mark. Mediocre days are part of the journey. So with that in mind, could the answer lie in 'aiming to be average'? Join us as we chat about thi
149. Does the Perfect Art Studio Exist? (We're back with a new podcast season!)
Exciting news! We're back podcasting, and we're coming to you from our new studio! Join us as we reflect on the various creative spaces we've had, dive into the pros and cons of home vs. external studios, and share our thoughts on what makes for a positive studio environment.
Visit my resources page for more details on my classes, YouTube videos, free guides, and more!
Find me on Inst
148. Establishing a Weekly Creative Schedule. A Game-Changer for Artists!
Life sure is hectic, isn’t it?? Between work, hobbies, children, and all of the other aspects that make up life as a whole, it can be hard to maintain consistency, clarity, and structure.
In this podcast episode, you will hear how I schedule my week as an artist, business owner, and parent. The goal here is to give you some simple tips and ideas that you can incorporate into your daily, weekly, an
147. Social Media Struggles: Is Instagram Still the Best App for Artists?
Instagram: the O.G. photo-sharing social media platform. It was once so beloved by artists, photographers, and day-to-day photo sharers. But now, is it still considered the best social media platform for artists? We are going to dive deep into whether or not that is still the case, or if artists (and other creatives) should be turning towards other platforms such as Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, or
146. Making Art Fun Again + Podcast Changes
I’ve been quiet on social media lately but I have been working on something really important - making art fun again! The studio has had a makeover, new art supplies have been ordered and ALL my sketchbooks are out!! Plus, Richie and I have been having some BIG ol' chats about the future direction of the podcast and art biz in general.
With a new year coming, it’s time for a change. In this week’s
145. Juggling Art, Business and Family (Q&A Session)
This week, Richie and I answer your questions. You’ll hear personal stories including how we met, whether we always wanted children and what’s been the hardest part of our journey so far. We also share business tips on areas such as Facebook advertising and getting started with teaching.
One thing you’ll notice is that things are always changing. Being a creative couple is a juggling act that requ
144. How to Make an Income From Your Art - 5 Key Stages
Can you still grow on Instagram? Is it worth starting a YouTube Channel? When should you leave your day job? Is your art biz covid-proof? Just a few things that come up in today’s chat about making an income from your art.
We have talked about this topic many times but these are our latest thoughts and tips taking into account how the world and social media platforms have changed.
Plus we talk abo
143. Living a Well Rounded Creative Life
I wasn’t sure what to call this week’s episode as we chat about so many things. Yoga, social anxiety, the progress I have been making on my paintings, accounting, books, Netflix - it’s a mixed bag!
Then it came to me. While I haven’t been painting as much lately, my life has felt rich with creativity. I’ve had time to discover new passions and I have finally learned how to take breaks and tackle t
142. It's Okay To Feel Confused About Your Art
This week, Richie and I are chatting about creative confusion. Sometimes you can think you have your art figured out and then lo and behold you are back at square one, uncertain about where you are heading and what direction you want to take.
I have been experiencing this over the past week or two, so it was good to unpack it with Richie.
We talk about why my art is changing, the negative impacts
141. Showing Up & Embracing Your Personality
In today’s episode, Richie and I chat about showing up when you don’t feel like it. This topic came about because I really didn’t feel like recording a podcast!
We also talk about our very different personalities and how they gel in our business as well as our relationship.
It’s a short episode but a good one! I hope you really enjoy it.
Find the show notes for this episode with all the links at h
140. Starting New Work - Surface Prep, Studio Set-Up and Blank Canvas Jitters!
Even if you have been painting for years, a new canvas or series can be daunting. This week, Richie and I chat about getting started. This includes surface preparation, studio-set-up and facing the blank canvas (or in my case, wooden boards).
While we share tips and ideas for getting prepared and setting up your space, we also talk about the value of jumping right in. Sometimes, the most important
139. Proactive Ways to Reduce Stress & Tension
This is a conversation about tea that tastes like dusty flowers, hipsters on YouTube, the lost art of reading books and the wonders of bamboo clothing! It’s a humorous take on a serious topic - stress.
Over the past few months, I have been exploring different ways to reduce stress and tension in my daily life. I’ve tried meditation, journaling, reading, yoga, walking, reducing caffeine and more. S
138. Redefining Success - What We Have Learned
This week, Richie and I reflect back on the ‘Redefining Success Series’ and share what we have learned.
You’ll hear how Richie is incorporating an idea from each interview into his daily routine.
Meanwhile, I talk about creating simple self-care habits, shifting my mindset in relation to marketing and feeling ready to try something new in my art.
We hope you enjoy the recap and that you enjoyed th
137. Angela Terris - It's Never Too Late to Pivot and Change Your Path
This week is the last interview in the 'Redefining Success Series' and I am chatting with UK artist Angela Terris!
Angela shares the story of how she moved away from digital art and embraced her childhood dream of becoming a fine artist. The conversation includes wonderful tips for loosening up, making art regularly and finding your own style.
We also chat about the discipline it takes to run your
136. Emmeline Webb - Taking Risks and Building Confidence Along the Way
Creativity requires risk. It’s a given. There are times when things are going to feel scary. But on the other side of scary, you’ll find GROWTH and CONFIDENCE.
My guest today is UK artist, Emmeline Webb. These days, Emmeline works full-time in her studio making vibrant mixed media artworks while her daughter, Maisie, runs her art gallery in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.
Getting to this point has been qu
135. Stefanie Stark - Healthy Ways to Deal with Rejection and Failure
Stefanie Stark didn’t start creating until later in life, after years and years of wanting to paint. Once she started there was no turning back. It wasn’t long before Stefanie was exhibiting her work in shows, galleries and art fairs across the US and even internationally.
In this episode, Stefanie talks about dealing with art rejection, making bad paintings and letting go of the pressure to stick
134. Simone Linehan - Letting Go of People-Pleasing and Making Authentic Art
We spend so much of our lives trying to fit in and make others happy. Often it can leave very little energy or space for our own art. The art that we truly want to make.
In this week’s podcast, my guest, Simone Linehan, talks about letting go of people-pleasing and embracing her love of quirky faces even though they aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.
We also talk about Sim’s long and wonderful career.
133. Kiala Givehand - Growing a Creative Business That Feeds Your Soul
When Kiala Givehand launched her first online poetry course, one student signed up. While it wasn’t the result she was hoping for, the relationship she built with that student shaped what was to come.
Since then, Kiala has created over 100 courses and helped women all over the world to find what makes them happy.
Her work is the culmination of many passions including poetry, book-binding, teaching
132. Jenny Grant - The Creative Power of Feelings
My guest today is Swedish mixed media artist, Jenny Grant. When I reflected back on this conversation, there was one beautiful overarching theme. I can sum it up in one word - FEELINGS!
Jenny talks about getting quiet and listening to your inner voice, taking risks and embracing the ugly phase of making art.
We also chat about mountain bike riding, Swedish houses, and Lagom which means not too muc
131. Leana Fischer - Turning Your Art Practice Into a Sustainable Business
Leana Fischer discovered her love of painting in 2013 when she left her job as an architect and moved from Virginia to Arkansas. While Leana was in-between jobs she had a bit of time or as Leana calls it ‘white space’. She broke out her watercolour paints and quickly realised that this was what she really wanted to do.
In 2014 she opened her online shop (May We Fly). Little by little, one painting
130. Helen Hallows - Valuing Your Work, Wisdom and Well-Being
This week, the ‘Redefining Success Series’ continues. My Guest is Helen Hallows, a mixed media artist based in the UK.
Helen has a deep love of nature and it shows in the way that she uses paint, collage and stitch to capture the essence and mood of a place.
In this episode, Helen talks about building creative confidence, using sketchbooks as 'process' books and becoming a more business-minded art
129. Christina Kwan - Finding Your Sense of Self as an Artist
I’ve been itching to share this conversation! Today is the first interview in the ‘Redefining Success Series’ and I am chatting with Atlanta-based artist, Christina Kwan.
Christina is well known for her abstract and floral works on paper as well as her large-scale murals. She has recently reached the point where art is her main career.
In the episode, she talks about the winding road to becoming a
128. Know Your Limits. Busy vs. Not Busy Enough!
Running a creative business is a lot like painting, sometimes you have to take things too far to know your limits. This week, Richie and I chat about this and why our 3-week break turned into 3 months. You'll hear our perspectives on burnout as well as the flipside - What happens when you slow down too much and become isolated and disengaged?
We also talk about changes in the art community includi
127. Turning Things Around and Tapping Into Positivity
In this week’s episode, I am sharing a few posts and podcast episodes from other artists that have helped me to get back on track after a bit of a slump in my creative practice. They say a problem shared is a problem halved and I certainly have to agree with that. I’ve been taking a lot of comfort from other artists in the community and I wanted to share some of that comfort and support with you.
126. How to Make a Time-Lapse Video
I'll just make a quick video for Instagram. It'll be easy. 5 hours later and with much cursing, I had nothing. Well actually, I did have some footage of the back of my head and some interesting shadows!
If this sounds all too familiar, stay tuned! This week, Richie is taking over the mic and sharing his skills and knowledge as a videographer. Don’t worry though, it’s not super techy!
This is the K
125. Balancing Making Art with Running a Business
Sometimes the administration side of being an artist takes over to the point where you don’t feel like much of an artist at all! Too many hours behind the computer screen can leave you feeling tired, exhausted and full of self-doubt.
When this happens something has to give! This week we chat about making painting a priority again. You’ll hear about the new collection I am working on, why I am layi
124. What Makes an Artist Stand Out From the Crowd?
Why are some artists so popular? And what about those artists that work really hard doing all the things (posting on social media, sending out newsletters, creating tutorials, exhibiting in galleries …) but barely see any growth in their audience year after year?
That’s what we are chatting about this week. To help us answer this question, Richie and I took a look at who we follow on Instagram and
123. Richie's Q&A - Making videos, taking photos + coping with Laura!!
How many cameras do you set up? What type of light do you use for taking photos? How do you cope with Laura? Love that last question!! Just a few of the themes that Richie is diving into this week in his first solo episode.
For those of you that don’t know, Richie is my husband and for the past few years, he has been working full-time behind the scenes in the Laura Horn Art business. He also co-ho
122. Efficiency - How Important is it for Artists?
How important is it to be efficient as an artist? That’s the question I posted on Instagram yesterday and today we are unpacking your answers. There’s so much to talk about!
Does efficiency take away from the magic of the process? Is it different for working artists vs. non-working artists? Can taking a break be the most efficient thing you do?
Plus there were so many wonderful tips left on the IG
121. Setting Up a Small Art Space + Storage Ideas
With a bit of creative thinking, even the smallest space can give birth to all kinds of art! Over the years I’ve made art in various corners and spots around the home. Personally, I thought that the kitchen table was very practical. Turns out Richie wasn’t as keen!
Since then I have worked in a converted garage, offsite studio and most recently a loft area in our new home.
As we talk about this jo
120. The Challenge of Creating an Art Challenge!
In today's podcast, we chat about what it's been like to create our first art challenge and share a few tips and insights from behind the scenes. It hasn't exactly been plain sailing but creative life rarely is. My goodness though, it feels good to push through and be at the stage where we can say that the challenge is live.
So what does it take to run an art challenge? How do you choose a theme?
119. Sketchbook Supplies - Tips and Tools to Get You Started!
This week on the podcast we are continuing our conversation about sketchbooks! I want to say a big thank you to everyone as we had a huge response to the first part of this sketchbook series. In the first part, we chatted about the mindset side of things and today we are diving into the practical stuff. ⠀
We cover how to choose a sketchbook and talk about common challenges including pages smearing
118. How to Overcome Sketchbook Anxiety
What if my best work gets stuck here? What if I mess up a spread and ruin the whole journal? Why can’t I stick with a theme? It’s taken me eight years to move past these fears and cultivate a sketchbook practice that not only makes me happy but is also beneficial for my art.
This is such a big topic that Richie and I have decided to devote two episodes to it. In today’s episode, I am talking about
117. Getting Started is the Hardest Part!
It's not always easy to get back into creative work after a break. You can feel overwhelmed with too many ideas or struggle to even make a mark on the page.
Or as you'll hear about in today's episode, you can plan a big studio day and end up going for breakfast, having a hair cut and doing a bit of shopping!
It would be fair to say that Richie and I are easing our way into 2021! So with that in mi
116. Sarah Simon (The Mint Gardener) - Recharging Your Soul With Creativity
How much value do you place on your creative time? Have you set things up in a way that makes it easy to jump right in? If you need some inspiration in this area, you’ll love my guest today. I am chatting with Sarah Simon!
Sarah is the designer, artist-illustrator and author at The Mint Gardener. Based in Seattle, Washington, Sarah creates and teaches lush watercolours inspired by the divers
115. Plan Your Creative Year + Trello Tips
With the end of the year fast approaching, this week I felt the urge to talk about planning! And in particular, how I use Trello to get organised and stay focused throughout the year. Trello is a tool that I often get asked questions about so if you are curious about what it is and how you could make use of it in 2021, stay tuned.
For anyone that doesn’t know what Trello is, it’s an online o
114. We Finally Moved into Our New Home!
Well, it's finally happened! We are in our new home and this is the episode where we get to chat all about it and answer your questions! Thank you, everyone, for your lovely messages and for encouraging us to make this house related episode. Well, let’s be honest I didn’t really need the encouragement but Richie did!
In this episode, we talk about where we have moved to, why we have made this chan
