The Art of Making Art

Christina Lowry
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Podcast by Christina Lowry

  1. Episode twenty-three: Sarah McDonald

    10/19/2025

    Episode twenty-three: Sarah McDonald

    The Art of Making Art: Sarah McDonald's Journey from Urban Landscapes to Conceptual Tree Portraits In this episode of the 'Art of Making Art' podcast, visual artist Christina Lowry chats with Sarah McDonald, a celebrated painter from Adelaide. They delve into Sarah's extensive 30-year career, exploring her transition from urban landscapes to her acclaimed close-up tree portraits. Sarah shares her insights on studio practice, the conceptual development of her works, and her environmental message. They also discuss the importance of artist residencies, the challenges and rewards of plein air painting, and the impact of community and mentorship. This episode is a rich exploration of artistic practice, resilience, and the pursuit of creative authenticity. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:08 Meet Sarah McDonald 02:32 Sarah's Artistic Journey 04:49 The Evolution of Sarah's Art 15:36 Conceptual Development and Environmental Themes 26:01 Connecting with Nature: Birds and Trees 26:41 A Memorable Hike in Alligator Gorge 27:54 Educating the Next Generation 29:01 Career Highlights and Artistic Residencies 41:15 The Importance of Artistic Practice 48:22 Final Thoughts and Advice for Artists 48:42 Exciting News and Future Prospects https://www.sarahmcdonald.com.au/

    50 min
  2. EPISODE TWENTY_TWO: Jen Valender

    06/08/2025

    EPISODE TWENTY_TWO: Jen Valender

    Exploring the Multidisciplinary Art of Jen Vader In this episode of the Art of Making Art Podcast, host Christina Lowry, a visual artist based in Logan, Brisbane, interviews Jen Valender, a multidisciplinary artist who delves into the relationships between art and the natural world through various mediums. Jen discusses her formative art education, including her transition from sculpture to moving image and performance during her master's and honors projects, and her current PhD work at the Victorian College of the Arts. They explore Jen's journey, multidisciplinary practice, and notable career highlights, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of being an artist. The conversation also touches on the importance of resilience and adaptability in an artist's career, with practical advice on seizing opportunities and dealing with rejection. 00:00 Introduction to the Art of Making Art Podcast 00:36 Meet Jen Valender: Exploring Art and Nature 01:21 Jen's Artistic Journey and Influences 02:23 Residencies and Their Impact on Jen's Work 03:46 The Role of Experimentation in Art 20:10 Balancing Art and Life 25:16 Advice for Aspiring Artists 31:51 Conclusion and Upcoming Events https://jenvalender.com/ https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast https://ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au/exhibitions/sharon-mckenzie-exquisite-corpse

    34 min
  3. EPISODE TWENTY-ONE: Sarah Mc Grath

    05/25/2025

    EPISODE TWENTY-ONE: Sarah Mc Grath

    The Art of Nostalgia: Sarah McGrath's Realistic Oil Painting Journey In this episode of the Art of Making Art podcast, host Christina Lowry interviews Sarah McGrath, a realistic oil painter. Sarah shares her artistic journey, from her background in graphic design to becoming a full-time artist during COVID. The discussion covers her passion for vintage items, the challenges of painting flowers and landscapes, and her affinity for birds, especially the nostalgic sparrow. They delve into the intricacies of composition, the importance of supportive artistic communities, and the psychological challenges faced by artists. Sarah highlights key career moments, including her first solo show and her entry into prestigious art prizes. Listeners are encouraged to support and celebrate the art community. https://www.sarahmcgrath.com.au/ 00:00 Welcome to the Art of Making Art Podcast 00:56 Meet Sarah McGrath: Realistic Oil Painter 01:48 Sarah's Artistic Journey and Evolution 03:37 The Role of Realism and Mediums in Sarah's Work 06:28 Themes and Symbols in Sarah's Still Life Paintings 09:15 The Fascination with Birds 12:32 The Art of Composition 20:38 Challenges and Triumphs with Flowers 23:38 Career Highlights and Reflections 26:33 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Comparison 27:58 The Psychological Challenges of Being an Artist 31:03 Finding Balance and Avoiding Burnout 37:15 Exploring New Mediums and Techniques 40:57 The Importance of Community and Support 42:50 The Reality of Being an Artist 52:29 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

    56 min
  4. EPISODE TWENTY: Conceptual Visual Journaling

    05/18/2025

    EPISODE TWENTY: Conceptual Visual Journaling

    Exploring the Essentials of Visual Journaling In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, visual artist Christina Lowy delves into the concept and practice of visual journaling. Christina shares her insights on how visual journals differ from traditional sketchbooks, emphasizing their role in conceptual development and personal reflection. She narrates her journey with visual journaling, outlines its importance in her creative process, and provides practical tips for setting up and maintaining a visual journal. Christina also discusses methods and tools for effective visual journaling, including Venn diagrams and mind maps, and invites listeners to join her in-studio for a hands-on workshop. The episode underlines the significance of visual journaling in enhancing creativity, developing ideas, and achieving personal artistic growth. 00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast 00:33 Weekly Update and Conceptual Visual Journaling Session 01:11 The Importance of Visual Journals 03:24 Defining Visual Journals 05:15 Materials and Tools for Visual Journaling 09:16 How to Use a Visual Journal 16:57 Visual Journaling Prompts and Exercises 23:43 Invitation to Studio Workshop 25:00 Conclusion and Farewell PDF: https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast/episode-twenty-conceptual-visual-journaling

    25 min
  5. EPISODE NINETEEN: Bree DiMattina

    05/11/2025

    EPISODE NINETEEN: Bree DiMattina

    Exploring Artistic Practices with Bree DeMattina In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, host Christina Lowry, a visual artist based in Logan Brisbane, shares her weekly experiences and insights. She is joined by Bree DeMattina, an arts consultant, writer, and researcher, who recently completed her PhD focusing on the emergence of textile and fiber art in Australia from the mid-1960s to early 1990s. Together, they discuss the importance of critical thinking in creative practices, making connections within the artistic community, and navigating opportunities in the field of art writing and consulting. Christina also shares personal milestones, including her 22nd wedding anniversary and Mother's Day celebrations. 00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast 00:33 Creative Week Recap and Workshop Highlights 01:10 Interview with Arts Consultant Bree DeMattina 09:33 Bree DeMattina's Journey into Art and Writing 25:37 The Importance of Critical Thinking in Art 33:02 Advice for Aspiring Arts Writers and Researchers 37:37 Final Thoughts and Personal Updates

    40 min
  6. EPISODE EIGHTEEN: Clare Purser

    05/04/2025

    EPISODE EIGHTEEN: Clare Purser

    Exploring the Creative Process with Clare Purser In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, visual artist Christina Lowry interviews Clare Purser, a Brisbane Bayside painter known for her environmental themes and plein air painting techniques. Claire shares her journey as an artist, emphasizing the importance of nature, research, and community in her work. They discuss her process of developing concepts, keeping visual diaries, and the interplay between environmental science and art. Claire also talks about her teaching, workshops, and various residencies, offering valuable advice for aspiring artists. Additionally, they delve into the challenges and rewards of balancing artistic practice with other life responsibilities. Join them for an inspiring conversation about the creative process and the intersection of art and nature. 00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast 00:38 Interview with Clare Purser: An Accomplished Painter 01:17 Clare Purser's Artistic Journey and Practice 03:53 Workshops and Community Engagement 05:22 Career Highlights and Collaborations 08:16 Artistic Residencies and Inspirations 16:28 The Role of Visual Diaries in Artistic Development 27:41 Advice for Aspiring Artists 32:40 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts Scotney Creative Solutions - https://www.scotneycreativesolutions.com.au/ Clare Purser - https://clarepurser.com/ https://www.instagram.com/clarepurserstudio/ https://www.christinalowryartist.com/news

    37 min
  7. EPISODE SEVENTEEN: How Do Artists Make Money?

    04/06/2025

    EPISODE SEVENTEEN: How Do Artists Make Money?

    10 Ways Artists Can Make Money and Succeed in the Art World In this episode of The Art of Making Art Podcast, visual artist Christina Lowry explores various strategies for artists to generate income and thrive in their careers. Drawing from her personal experiences, Christina discusses the financial realities faced by artists and presents ten methods she has used to support her art practice, including gallery exhibits, online sales, grants, residencies, talks, workshops, competitions, merchandise, catalogs, and volunteering. Christina also delves into the findings of a significant research report by the National Association of Visual Arts in Australia, which highlights the financial struggles and gender pay gaps within the art community. Additionally, she shares insights into her master's thesis focused on interdisciplinary artistic practices and avian population decline, providing listeners with inspiration and practical advice to navigate the art world. 00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast 00:36 The Financial Struggles of Artists 02:39 10 Ways Artists Can Make Money 04:10 Diverse Income Streams for Artists 09:16 Additional Opportunities and Volunteering 10:43 Master's Thesis and Conclusion NAVA article: https://visualarts.net.au/news-opinion/2025/visual-artists-leaving-sector-new-report-confirms-urgent-need-action/ www.christinalowryartist.com www.instagram.com/christinalowryartist/ Podcast blog post: https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast/episode-seventeen-how-do-artists-make-money

    12 min
  8. EPISODE SIXTEEN: Fiona Scotney

    03/30/2025

    EPISODE SIXTEEN: Fiona Scotney

    The Art of Making Art: Professional Practices and Twin Insights In this episode of 'The Art of Making Art Podcast', host Christina Lowry, a visual artist based in Logan Brisbane, introduces the show, detailing its purpose to explore artist studios, practices, and community. Joined by her identical twin sister Fiona Scott, they discuss the significance of professional presentation for artists, highlighting the importance of headshots, a cohesive online presence, and maintaining consistency across platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. The episode also touches on personal anecdotes about life as twins, providing a blend of professional advice and personal stories. 00:00 Introduction to The Art of Making Art Podcast 00:33 Upcoming Workshop Announcement 01:04 Meet My Twin Sister, Fiona Scott 02:50 The Importance of Professionalism in Art 05:26 Defining Your Unique Value Proposition 10:13 Building a Professional Artist Brand 17:49 The Value of Showing Up and Making the Work 18:41 The Importance of Professional Headshots 22:40 Creating a Professional Website 24:16 Leveraging LinkedIn for Artists 26:07 Instagram as a Visual Portfolio 28:23 Curating Your Social Media Presence 29:13 Building a Professional Artist Toolkit 30:54 Consistency in Branding 31:52 The Power of Business Cards 34:44 Homework for Artists 37:19 Leveraging Content Across Platforms 40:34 The Importance of Consistency and Engagement 44:02 Twin Stories and Personal Anecdotes 48:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts https://metroarts.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/p/DHr-MrABVL6/?img_index=1 https://www.scotneycreativesolutions.com.au/

    50 min
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About

Podcast by Christina Lowry

Information

  • Creator
    Christina Lowry
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    The Art of Making Art