Art NXT Level with Sergio Gomez | Interviews, reso

Margaret Johnson had been carrying a vision for 25 years — large-scale botanical paintings that brought together her childhood love of nature, her training at the Denver Botanic Gardens, and her roots as an expressive, intuitive painter. This episode is the story of how that vision finally came to life in Emergence, her solo exhibition at the Cannon Center Art Gallery in Boulder, Colorado, curated through the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art. We talk about what it really takes to say yes to the biggest show of your career — including how Margaret worked through her inner critic, built a month-by-month studio schedule, and used a strategic marketing plan that included personal invitations to key contacts in the art world. One of those personal invitations led directly to a new opportunity to place her work. That story alone is worth the listen. We also go deep on what it means to work with a curator who helps you see the threads in your own work across 25 years, the unexpected connection to Georgia O'Keeffe that began at a childhood dinner party, and what the studio feels like after everything goes on the wall. If you have an exhibition coming up — or you're dreaming about one — this conversation will give you both the practical roadmap and the emotional permission to go for it.

Episode 400. It's hard to believe, but here we are. This milestone episode was recorded live aboard the Virgin Voyages Resilient Lady during the Cruise for Creatives 2026 — and it is one of the most meaningful episodes I have ever made. Instead of a solo reflection or a single interview, I went around the ship and asked the artists who joined us one simple but powerful question: What is the power of art to you? Each artist answered independently. No group circle, no shared answers in advance. And what came back was a beautiful tapestry of perspectives from painters, photographers, a physician, a psychologist, a children's book author, a wellness coach, and artists from Florida, Canada, the Bahamas, Illinois, and Massachusetts. In this episode you will hear from Barbara Gerdemann, Shirley Williams, Francine Sweet, Dr. Kevin Bethel, Keith Davidson, Mary Davidson, Richard Hershberger, and Dr. Yanina Gomez — each sharing what the power of art means to them personally. I also share two stories from my own life that shaped how I understand this question: the stick figure drawings I made in a church in Mexico City as a little boy, and the moment early in my career when a young woman stood in front of one of my paintings and quietly began to cry — because it reminded her of the last time she saw her father. That moment changed me as an artist. It may change how you see your work too. I also share exciting news about the Cruise for Creatives 2027 — now reimagined as a full Residency Experience at Sea running March 13–21, 2027. If you have ever wanted to step away from the studio, clear your head, and discover your next big thing surrounded by a community of serious artists, this is for you. Learn more and book your cabin at cruiseforCreatives.com. Thank you for being here for 400 episodes. If this podcast has meant something to you, the greatest gift you can give me is a review on Apple Podcasts. It helps more artists find this show. See you at the next level.

Are you working hard on your art but still feel invisible? In today's crowded and fast-changing art world, getting noticed isn't just about making great work. With AI, social media noise, and endless opportunities (and scams), many artists feel overwhelmed and unsure where to focus. In this episode, I share a simple 3-step plan to increase your visibility as an artist in 2026—without the overwhelm. You'll learn how to: • Clarify your message so people actually connect with your work • Choose the right visibility pathway instead of chasing everything • Build a clear opportunity blueprint to move your art career forward Because the truth is—waiting to be discovered is no longer a strategy. If you want your work to be seen by the right people and create real opportunities, this episode will help you get focused and take action.

Are you an artist over 40 who feels exhausted by Instagram? You are not alone. There is a myth that to succeed on social media in 2026, you need to be 20 years old, point at floating text, and dance to trending audio. That is not true. And frankly, it's not dignified for a serious artist with a studio practice. In this video, I'm breaking down the "No-Nonsense" Instagram strategy specifically for mature artists. We are moving away from the "Influencer" mindset (chasing likes and virality) and moving toward the "Connector" mindset (building relationships and sales). You don't need a million followers. You need the right followers. 🔥 NEW COURSE: Instagram for Artists Over 50 If you are tired of guessing where to click or feeling overwhelmed by the technology, I have created a step-by-step roadmap just for you. No jargon. No stress. Just a clear path to visibility. 👉 Join the Instagram Made Simple for Artists Course Here: https://www.theartistnextlevel.com/insta50

The 2025 Artsy.net Buyer Trends Report is out, and the data reveals a massive shift in what art collectors are actually buying right now. In this video, I break down the key trends you need to know and explain exactly how to prepare your art business strategy for success in 2026. As an artist and gallery owner for over 20 years, I've seen market shifts come and go, but the current move toward specific formats and aesthetics represents a huge opportunity for independent artists who are paying attention. We'll cover the rise of 'Mini Art,' the new color palette collectors love, and why domestic themes are selling fast. In this video, you will learn: 🎨 What art collectors are searching for right now (and paying for!) 📈 How to translate art market data into actionable steps for your studio practice 🖼️ Why the "Small Works" trend might be your biggest opportunity for Q1 2026 sales 💼 My professional take on how these trends impact marketing for artists 📝 Adjustments you should make to your 2026 art business plan immediately If you want to sell more art and build a sustainable career, understanding these buyer behaviors is critical. Stop guessing what collectors want and start using the data to your advantage!

Is it too late to be an artist? If you are considering starting an art career at 50, 60, or beyond, the answer is a resounding NO—but you can't follow the same rules as a 20-year-old. In this podcast, I break down the specific roadmap for the midlife artist who wants to turn a passion into a professional, income-generating business without wasting time. Starting a second career as an artist comes with unique advantages, but also specific challenges regarding time management and marketing. We will move past the fear of "being too late" and focus on actionable art business tips that leverage your life experience. In this podcast, we cover: 🎨 The 3 specific paths for building an art career later in life 🎨 How to perform a "Time Audit" to find studio time amidst adult responsibilities 🎨 The "90-Day Rule" to build a portfolio that actually helps you sell art 🎨 Much more It is never too late to build the creative life you want. Let's get to work! 🚀 READY TO LEVEL UP? Join the Art NXT Level Coaching Program: https://www.theartistnextlevel.com/

In this episode with Victoria Fry, CEO and founder of Visionary Art Collective, we talk about how to maintain a sustainable and focused art practice throughout the year. We cover the following topics: How morning routines and grounding practices create a buffer against overwhelm, and why they need to be personal, flexible, and enjoyable Navigating distraction, digital fatigue, and the constant pull away from creative work in a screen-driven culture The power of intentional boundaries, including Sergio's "add and subtract" rule for protecting time and energy Reframing success through self-reflection, accountability, and aligning daily choices with the highest version of yourself Learn more about Victoria Fry at: https://www.visionaryartcollective.com

The 2025 Artsy.net Buyer Trends Report is out, and the data reveals a massive shift in what art collectors are actually buying right now. In this video, I break down the key trends you need to know and explain exactly how to prepare your art business strategy for success in 2026. As an artist and gallery owner for over 20 years, I've seen market shifts come and go, but the current move toward specific formats and aesthetics represents a huge opportunity for independent artists who are paying attention. We'll cover the rise of 'Mini Art,' the new color palette collectors love, and why domestic themes are selling fast. In this video, you will learn: What art collectors are searching for right now (and paying for!) How to translate art market data into actionable steps for your studio practice Why the "Small Works" trend might be your biggest opportunity for Q1 2026 sales My professional take on how these trends impact marketing for artists Adjustments you should make to your 2026 art business plan immediately 👉 Join the Art NXT Level Coaching Program: https://www.theartistnextlevel.com/

Is your art career based on a plan or just hope? Most artists struggle financially because they treat their business like a lottery ticket—hoping to get "discovered" rather than building a predictable system. In this video, I'm cutting through the noise and giving you the exact 1-Page Art Business Plan I use with my coaching clients. This isn't a 50-page boring document you'll never read. This is a simple, actionable roadmap to help you predict your income, diversify your revenue streams, and focus on what actually moves the needle in 2026. Stop guessing and start building a sustainable career today. JOIN THE ART NXT LEVEL PROGRAM: https://www.theartistnextlevel.com/

Are you an artist who wants to increase your revenue without creating more artwork? In today's video, I break down smart, practical, and sustainable ways to grow your income without adding more hours in the studio. You'll discover how to: 🎨 Expand your income streams strategically 📈 Raise your prices with confidence 🛍️ Introduce profitable merch and product lines 💼 Build recurring revenue sources 🔁 Set an annual revenue plan that supports consistent growth Most artists rely only on selling originals—and that limits your potential. If you want to thrive, not just survive, you must think like a business and review your income strategy every year. If you don't plan it, it won't happen. Whether you're a mid-career artist, emerging artist, or ready to scale your business, this episode gives you actionable insights you can start using today. 👉 If this video helps you, don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE it with other artists who need this message. 🚀 Join our online coaching program and community the Artist Next Level today: https://www.theartistnextlevel.com

In this inspiring episode of the Artist Next Level Podcast, Sergio Gomez sits down with artist Linda Anderson to explore her artistic journey—from her early days growing up among the mountains of Utah to becoming a painter deeply connected to the woodland landscapes surrounding her Virginia home. Linda shares how nature, culture, motherhood, and personal evolution have shaped her creative voice, including her unique dimensional landscape technique that merges painting, printmaking, and sculptural form. We also dive into the powerful story of raising two daughters who became artists themselves, and Linda's participation in the landmark exhibition Women Artists of the DMV: Daughter of the Stars. If you love stories of artistic growth, nature-inspired work, and the interconnection between family and creativity, this episode will fill your cup. Visit Linda on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/artistlindalanderson/

In this inspiring episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, Sergio Gomez sits down with Barbara Gerdman and Elizabeth Goodwill, co-founders of Creative Liberties in Sarasota, Florida — a thriving artist-led organization providing studio spaces, exhibitions, and support services for local artists. Barbara and Elizabeth share how their vision for Creative Liberties grew out of their shared passion for community and collaboration. What began as an idea between two artists has become a creative hub serving over 40 artists through studio spaces, residencies, and emerging artist opportunities. You'll hear how they built their incubator-style model for artistic growth, the importance of collaboration over competition, and their mission to empower artists to see themselves as both creators and entrepreneurs. Barbara also shares insights into her own mixed media art practice, which fuses collage, music, and interactive storytelling. Together, they discuss how Creative Liberties continues to evolve and their upcoming Artist Wellness and Business Event in March 2026, co-hosted with Sergio and Dr. Yanina Gomez. 🎨 Topics covered: How Creative Liberties started and what makes it unique Supporting emerging artists through residencies and exhibitions Building a strong, collaborative artist community The connection between creativity, wellness, and business Barbara's interactive art process and evolution 📍 Learn more about Creative Liberties at http://www.creativeliberties.net 📸 Follow them on Instagram: @creativelibertiesart Barbara on Instagram: @bgerdemanart Elizabeth on Instagram: @clever_bookmouse   🎙 Hosted by Sergio Gomez 📌 Visit www.theartistnextlevel.com for more resources, coaching, and community for artists.

What makes a piece of art truly collectible? In this episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, host Sergio Gomez sits down with NYC-based art advisor Pato Paez to explore the elusive “it” factor that separates good art from unforgettable art. From visual impact to emotional resonance, this powerful conversation dives into the hidden dynamics collectors are really looking for—and why your story matters just as much as your brushstrokes. Whether you're an emerging artist or already building your collector base, this episode will help you gain clarity, refine your message, and make deeper, lasting connections with your audience. 🎯 Ready to grow as a professional artist? Join our thriving community at 👉 www.theartistnextlevel.com

In this honest and eye-opening episode, Sergio Gomez dives into a topic every artist needs to hear: the difference between simply having a website... and having a great one. These days, most artists have a website—but that doesn’t mean it’s working in their favor. A truly great artist website does more than just display your work—it builds trust, elevates your brand, and opens doors to real opportunities like sales, exhibitions, and collaborations. If your website feels more like a placeholder than a powerful tool, this episode is for you. Tune in as Sergio shares insights, common mistakes to avoid, and what it really takes to make your online presence stand out in today’s competitive art world. 🎨 Your website is your digital studio. Is it sending the right message? 👉 Ready to take your art career to the next level? Join our free Artist NXT Level community at www.theartistnextlevel.com

In this episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, host Sergio Gomez unpacks one of the most common struggles artists face: how to take on commissions that feel way outside your usual style without sacrificing your artistic identity. Whether it's a fantasy illustration, a commercial mural, or a portrait that doesn’t quite align with your aesthetic, Sergio shares a practical 5-step framework to help you stay true to your voice—and still deliver results your client loves. You’ll learn how to set clear style boundaries, ask the right discovery questions, keep the process collaborative with sketches and checkpoints, document your progress, and finish strong with your unmistakable creative flair. 🎧 Tune in now and learn how to say "yes" to new opportunities—without losing you in the process. 👉 Join our Artist NXT Level community today at www.theartistnextlevel.com and connect with artists navigating the same creative journey.

Feeling like the art world’s closed doors are just out of your reach? In this episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, host Sergio Gomez peels back the curtain on traditional art-world gatekeeping and shares his own story as an artist, curator, and gallery owner. Discover why the art world isn’t as exclusive as it seems—and learn practical strategies to disrupt the status quo, own your career, and build your own “art world” from the ground up. Whether you’re just starting out or carving a fresh path, this honest, empowering conversation will inspire you to claim your place in art today. 👉 Join our Artist NXT Level community for resources, feedback, and insider access at www.theartistnextlevel.com

Are you feeling lost in the ever-changing Instagram algorithm? In this episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, host Sergio Gomez unpacks the most important updates on Instagram and how they impact artists in 2025. From algorithm shifts and the evolving role of hashtags to what’s currently working with Reels and content distribution—this is your no-fluff guide to staying ahead on social media. Sergio breaks down the essential strategies artists need to grow their presence this summer—so you can stop guessing and start creating with confidence. 🎯 Ready to take your art career to the next level? Join our free Artist NXT Level community at www.theartistnextlevel.com for tools, resources, and connections designed to help you thrive.  

In this powerful and deeply honest episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, host Sergio Gomez tackles one of the most common yet least talked about struggles artists face: discouragement. Whether it's slow sales, feeling invisible, marketing fatigue, or simply losing your creative spark, discouragement can quietly sabotage even the most passionate artists. Sergio opens up with a raw personal story about his own battles with doubt and shares how he emerged with clarity and purpose. You’ll learn: Why discouragement happens—and how to recognize it early How it impacts your mindset, creativity, and career Practical strategies to build emotional resilience and regain momentum This episode is both a mirror and a map—inviting you to reflect and giving you tools to thrive in your artistic journey. 🎧 Listen now and reclaim your creative power. 👉 Join our community of thriving artists at www.theartistnextlevel.com and take your art career to the next level.

What you do in the first few minutes after waking up sets the tone for everything—your creativity, productivity, mood, and overall effectiveness as an artist. In this episode, Sergio Gomez shares why your morning routine might be the missing link between where you are and where you want to be as a creative. Are you starting your day with intention—or distraction? Join Sergio as he explores habits that elevate your mindset, optimize your energy, and position you to walk into your studio feeling clear, confident, and ready to create. 🎯 Ready to take your art career to the next level? Join our Artist NXT Level community at www.theartistnextlevel.com and surround yourself with the support and knowledge you need to thrive.

In this heartfelt episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, Sergio Gomez sits down with visual artist and hearing health advocate Nicolle Cure to discuss her journey living and creating with Meniere’s disease and hearing loss. Nicolle shares the emotional and physical challenges of chronic illness, how it impacted her life and art, and how she found strength in becoming a voice for others facing similar struggles. Sergio also opens up about his own experience with Meniere’s disease, creating an inspiring and deeply personal conversation about resilience, adaptation, and thriving as an artist—on your own terms. 🎨 Ready to take your art career to the next level with a supportive community of creatives? Join us today at www.theartistnextlevel.com