Art & Cocktails: Exploring the World of Contemporary Art, Creativity, Business, and Inspiration
Join host Ekaterina Popova, artist and founder of Create! Mag...
Navigating Art Fairs with Alicia Puig of PXP Contemporary
Join host Ekaterina Popova (Kat) as she reconnects with Alicia Puig, curator and founder of PXP Contemporary, fresh from their recent experience at Superfine Art Fair (The Super Fair). Alicia shares valuable insights and expert advice on how to make the most of your first or next art fair, whether you're an emerging artist, seasoned professional, or curator. In this episode: Practical strategies for exhibiting at art fairs Essential tips for artists on preparing and presenting their work How storytelling builds meaningful connections with collectors Pricing strategies to attract diverse art buyers Why authenticity and clear communication lead to long-term success Turn your next art fair into a powerful opportunity with Alicia's expert advice. Stay Connected: Follow Alicia Puig & PXP Contemporary: Website: pxpcontemporary.com Artsy: PXP Contemporary Join Create! Magazine by becoming a subscriber: Subscribe at www.createmagazine.co/subscribe Use code NEWREADER to save 20% off your digital subscription.
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Spring Cleaning for the Soul: Identity Reset, Powerful Habits, and Lasting Growth
In this fresh episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova guides you through a gentle spring reset for your identity, creativity, and personal growth. Inspired by the season of renewal, Kat dives deep into the power of self-concept, visualization, and daily habits to help you achieve meaningful change. Learn practical techniques to reconnect with your ideal self, build sustainable habits, and leverage the support of community and accountability to maintain your momentum. Whether you're letting go of draining activities or embracing new, empowering routines, this episode will equip you to transition gently and effectively into your next phase. Key Takeaways: Spring cleaning is a powerful opportunity for personal transformation. Identity and self-concept shape your ability to achieve lasting change. Visualization bridges your imagination with your ideal reality. Your self-image sets the limits of your achievements. Imagination can profoundly influence real-life outcomes. Community and accountability reinforce and sustain new habits. Letting go of activities that drain your energy makes room for growth. Approaching transitions gently prevents burnout. Small daily habits accumulate into significant identity shifts. Reflecting regularly aligns your life with your deepest desires. Join Kat for this inspiring reset—your best self awaits! Chapters: 00:00 – Spring Cleaning for the Soul 03:08 – Identity and Self-Concept 06:12 – Visualization and Aspirations 09:03 – Building Lasting Habits 11:53 – Community and Accountability 14:38 – Transitioning and Letting Go Ready for your own spring reset? Subscribe, rate, and review Art & Cocktails on iTunes and join the community to continue your journey of creative and personal growth! Need community? Check out my membership AQ Society www.aqsociety.com Start learning with Create! U www.createu.co
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The Power of Incremental Upgrades: How Small Changes Create a Thriving Life and Creative Business
Hey, it’s Kat (Ekaterina Popova)! In this episode, I’m sharing how small, intentional upgrades have helped me build a more fulfilling and sustainable life and creative business. From moving into bigger spaces and setting better boundaries to learning when to say no to misaligned opportunities, I’ve realized that real growth isn’t about overnight success—it’s about the small, consistent changes that add up over time. I’ll also talk about why a holistic approach is key—success isn’t just about business, it’s about nourishing all areas of life: creativity, health, relationships, and mindset. Plus, I’ll share how making space for the right opportunities has led to more ease, freedom, and alignment in my career. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to change everything at once—just start with one small upgrade. Sponsored by Create U This episode is brought to you by Create U, my micro-learning platform designed for artists who want to grow their careers with bite-sized, actionable courses. Whether you're looking to improve your creative practice, build a stronger brand, or learn how to sell your work, Create U gives you the tools to take the next step—one small upgrade at a time. Start learning today at https://www.createu.co/. Takeaways Small, sustainable changes lead to a thriving life and business. Growth isn’t about one big leap—it’s about small, intentional upgrades. Creating a supportive environment (physically and mentally) enhances creativity. A holistic approach—nurturing health, relationships, and mindset—is essential. True success includes career fulfillment, creativity, and self-care. Learning to say no to the wrong opportunities makes space for the right ones. Investing in yourself, even in small ways, leads to long-term success. Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming—start with one upgrade at a time. Sound Bites "Growth happens step by step. You don’t have to change everything at once." "True nourishment isn’t just about food—it’s about creativity, relationships, and fulfillment." "What’s one small upgrade you can make today?" This episode is for anyone who wants to build a thriving, sustainable life and creative career without burnout. Let me know what small upgrade you're making this week—DM me on Instagram or share your thoughts in a review! Explore Micro-Learning on Create U at https://www.createu.co/.
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Your Burning Questions, My Honest Answers: Burnout vs. Limiting Beliefs, Studio Visits, How to Be Seen, Avoiding Scams, Pop-Up Shows & More
In this special Ask Me Anything episode of Art & Cocktails, I (Ekaterina Popova) answer your top questions about navigating the art world, growing a sustainable career, and protecting yourself from common pitfalls. From securing studio visits and avoiding art scams to social media strategies and the value of pop-up shows, this episode covers the realities of being a professional artist today. What You’ll Learn How to recognize and avoid art scams The importance of pop-up shows and how they can expand your audience Why studio visits with curators and galleries matter and how to prepare Social media in 2025—should artists still rely on it, and what are the alternatives? How to reach new audiences beyond other artists Protecting your work online and dealing with art theft The difference between burnout and breaking through creative blocks How to overcome artist block and keep creating Resources & Links Mentioned Explore Create! U: www.createu.co – Micro-courses on art career, business, money, mindset and more coming soon! Start learning today. Shop My Books: Amazon Author Page
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Reclaiming Power and Ambition, Navigating the Art Market & Building Meaningful Connections with Emily McElwreath
In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Emily McElwreath—art advisor, independent curator, educator, and host of The Art Career Podcast. With nearly two decades of experience, Emily has worked with some of the most influential figures in the art world, from Andy Warhol to Alice Neel. She shares how artists can reclaim their power, normalize ambition, and take control of their careers. We also explore what collectors are looking for today, how to navigate the art market, and the evolving role of art advisors. Emily offers practical networking strategies for artists and industry leaders, insights on working with high-profile guests, and details on her recent Art21 collaboration. Plus, she introduces her must-have resource for emerging artists, Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists. Whether you’re an artist looking to elevate your career or a collector seeking guidance, this episode is filled with expert insights and actionable strategies to help you thrive. Key Takeaways: Artists must reclaim their power—they are at the center of the art ecosystem. Ambition is not a dirty word—owning your career is essential for success. Networking isn’t about chasing opportunities—it’s about building authentic relationships. Art collectors should buy what they love but also stay informed about the market. The art world is unregulated, making it crucial to work with trusted advisors. Artists should not rely solely on galleries—direct sales and relationships matter. Emily’s free artist guide, Navigating the Art World, is a must-have resource for emerging artists. Sound Bites: 🎙️ "Artists need to understand they are at the center of the ecosystem—it’s not the other way around." 🎙️ "You don’t have to wait for permission—take the wheel and create your own opportunities." 🎙️ "The best collections are built with a mix of passion, education, and a long-term vision." Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Art & Ambition 04:12 – Emily’s Journey in the Art World 07:12 – How Artists Can Reclaim Their Power 09:33 – What Collectors Look for in Artists 12:32 – Why Networking Is Essential in the Art World 15:19 – How to Attract High-Profile Guests & Build Industry Connections 18:26 – The Role of Art Advisors & How to Work with One 24:05 – The Truth About the Unregulated Art Market 26:48 – Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists 41:36 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Emily Where to Connect with Emily: Free Artist Guide: Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists – Download at https://theartcareer.gumroad.com/l/wigdw Website & Art Advisory: McElwreath Art Advisory – https://www.mcelwreathadvisory.com/ Instagram: Follow Emily at https://www.instagram.com/emilymcelwreath_art/ Podcast: The Art Career Podcast – Available on all major platforms Create! Magazine: Explore more at www.createmagazine.co If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts—it helps us reach more artists and art lovers like you!
Art & Cocktails: Exploring the World of Contemporary Art, Creativity, Business, and Inspiration
Join host Ekaterina Popova, artist and founder of Create! Magazine, as she uncorks the vibrant and multifaceted world of contemporary art, creative entrepreneurship, mindset, and creativity one episode at a time. Welcome to "Art & Cocktails," a podcast where artists, creatives, dreamers, and artpreneurs gather to share their journeys and their art over their favorite drinks.
Building on the success of the "Create!" podcast, Ekaterina steers the artistic conversation towards more intimate, heart-to-heart discussions that fuel the spirit and inspire the artist's soul. Tune in for insightful, honest discussions with leading artists, curators, writers, coaches, leaders, and artpreneurs who not only share their journeys in the creative world but also enjoy a "fireside chat" over a glass of wine or a cup of tea. This podcast offers a rich blend of inspiration, art business insights, and the simple joy of sipping your favorite beverage while discussing what lights your heart on fire.
Pour your favorite drink into a beautiful cup, get comfy, and settle down for a session of "Art & Cocktails" each week. Let's celebrate the artist in all of us with a toast to creativity and the limitless possibilities it brings to our lives.