Art Crush

Paula Telizyn and Fi Marks

Art Crush with Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) is the art business podcast for contemporary artists, painters, and visual creatives navigating the modern art world. From bypassing traditional art gallery gatekeepers and hosting independent art shows to pricing fine art, finding your visual style, and overcoming imposter syndrome, Fi and Paula deliver punchy, unfiltered creative advice every week. Whether you’re an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or running a full-time studio practice, subscribe for actionable art marketing strategies, mindset shifts, and artist insights.

  1. 1d ago

    How to Sell Art Without Being Pushy | Rethinking Art Exhibitions & Independent Artist Business Guide | Art Crush

    In this episode of Art Crush, Fi Marks and Paula Telizyn deconstruct their recent independent exhibition, "Wild Within," to challenge traditional gallery norms and rethink what an art show should be. Moving past the tired idea of an exhibition as just a "shop window" for merchandise, Fi and Paula explore how bringing "unreasonable hospitality," warm engagement, and immersive storytelling into your art business can transform the attendee experience and make fine art truly accessible. KEY TAKEAWAYS & TOPICS COVERED: - Why treating an exhibition like a shop window adds unnecessary pressure to sell - Applying the principles of hospitality to make gallery visitors feel welcome and comfortable - Moving past traditional gallery gatekeeping by organizing independent art events - Overcoming artist imposter syndrome and the fear of rejection during live shows - Cultivating deep audience engagement through slow looking, conversation, and storytelling CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introduction: Deconstructing the "Wild Within" Exhibition 03:15 - The Problem with Treating Art Shows Like Shop Windows 06:09 - Shifting from Validation and Fear to Attendee Experience 09:08 - Applying "Unreasonable Hospitality" to the Art World 12:59 - The Danger of "Letting the Art Speak for Itself" 16:34 - Making Contemporary Art Accessible to All Walks of Life ___ Art Crush with Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) is the art business podcast for contemporary artists, painters, and visual creatives navigating the modern art world. Two artists. Two continents. Infinite perspectives. From bypassing traditional art gallery gatekeepers and hosting independent art shows to pricing fine art, finding your visual style, and overcoming imposter syndrome, Fi and Paula deliver punchy, unfiltered creative advice every week. Whether you’re an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or running a full-time studio practice, subscribe for actionable art marketing strategies, creative mindset shifts, and artist community insights. Connect & Learn More: Fi Marks: ⁠⁠⁠⁠fimarks-art.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠ Paula Telizyn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠paulatelizyn.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ The 51% Collective: ⁠⁠⁠⁠thefiftyonepercent.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Artcore Gallery: ⁠⁠⁠artcoreuk.com

  2. Nov 7

    How to Run an Independent Art Show & Surviving Gallery Exhibitions | Art Crush S3E40

    In this episode of Art Crush, Fi Marks and Paula Telizyn break down the lessons learned from their successful Wild Within group exhibition at Artcore Gallery in Derby. Moving past the theory of running your own art business, Fi and Paula share unfiltered insights on what happens when artists step out of the studio and take control of their own exhibitions. Key Takeaways & Topics Covered: PR & Media Strategy: How a strong press release hook landed them on the BBC. The Power of Presence: Why being at the gallery every day transforms sales, market research, and audience connection. Professionalizing Your Art Practice: Dispelling the "flaky artist" myth through organization, clear gallery communication, and structured planning. Navigating Rejection: Learning how to separate personal artistic worth from feedback on narrative-driven work. Looking Ahead: The realities of touring internationally, planning ahead for 2027, and why the podcast's message resonates with all creatives. Chapter Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & Reflecting on the Wild Within Show at Artcore Gallery 03:15 - Public Relations, Media Pitches, and Getting on the BBC 07:07 - Gallery Collaboration: Organization, Professionalism, and Being Present 09:09 - Opening Night, Goodie Bags, and Overcoming Stormy Weather 11:21 - Market Research, Audience Impact, and Future Tour Plans 14:33 - Handling Rejection and Separating Ego from Artwork 17:23 - Connecting with Writers, Creatives, and Expanding the Creative Community 20:00 - Collective Unpacking, Thanking Artcore Gallery, and What’s Next ___ Art Crush with Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) is the art business podcast for contemporary artists, painters, and visual creatives navigating the modern art world. Two artists. Two continents. Infinite perspectives. From bypassing traditional art gallery gatekeepers and hosting independent art shows to pricing fine art, finding your visual style, and overcoming imposter syndrome, Fi and Paula deliver punchy, unfiltered creative advice every week. Whether you’re an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or running a full-time studio practice, subscribe for actionable art marketing strategies, creative mindset shifts, and artist community insights. Connect & Learn More: Fi Marks: ⁠⁠⁠fimarks-art.co.uk⁠⁠⁠ Paula Telizyn: ⁠⁠⁠paulatelizyn.com⁠⁠⁠ The 51% Collective: ⁠⁠⁠thefiftyonepercent.com⁠⁠⁠ Artcore Gallery: ⁠⁠artcoreuk.com

  3. Oct 30

    Why Skill Isn't Enough: How to Put Substance and Storytelling Into Your Art | Art Crush

    In this episode of Art Crush, Fi Marks and Paula Telizyn explore what it means to go deeper in your art practice beyond mere technical skill. Discover why creating thought-provoking, story-driven artwork matters more than ever in the age of AI, and how to conquer imposter syndrome to share your authentic perspective with the world. Whether you're a painter, landscape artist, or visual creator, Fi and Paula discuss how embracing vulnerability, finding your artistic voice, and building emotional resonance can transform your work from "nice" to unforgettable. Key Topics Covered: Moving past technical replication to create thought-provoking art Why storytelling and messaging matter in an AI-dominated art world Overcoming the "who do you think you are?" mindset trap The difference between arrogant pride and quiet creative confidence ___ Art Crush with Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) is the art business podcast for contemporary artists, painters, and visual creatives navigating the modern art world. Two artists. Two continents. Infinite perspectives. From bypassing traditional art gallery gatekeepers and hosting independent art shows to pricing fine art, finding your visual style, and overcoming imposter syndrome, Fi and Paula deliver punchy, unfiltered creative advice every week. Whether you’re an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or running a full-time studio practice, subscribe for actionable art marketing strategies, creative mindset shifts, and artist community insights. Connect & Learn More: Fi Marks: ⁠⁠fimarks-art.co.uk⁠⁠ Paula Telizyn: ⁠⁠paulatelizyn.com⁠⁠ The 51% Collective: ⁠⁠thefiftyonepercent.com⁠⁠ Artcore Gallery: ⁠artcoreuk.com

  4. Oct 23

    Professional Development for Artists: Why Your Art Business Needs More Than AI | Art Crush

    In this episode of Art Crush, Fi Marks and Paula Telizyn dive deep into professional development for contemporary artists and creative entrepreneurs. Discover why continuous learning, mindset shifts, and bespoke one-on-one artist mentorship are essential for scaling your fine art practice, and why generic AI answers and group courses often fall short. Whether you're a self-taught painter, emerging visual artist, or running a full-time studio business, Fi and Paula explore how to overcome self-sabotage, invest in your art business ethically, and redefine ambition without losing your community focus. Key Topics Covered: Why professional development (CPD) is critical for freelance artists The limits of AI and group training vs. customized one-on-one mentoring Overcoming resistance and learning to invest in your art business Redefining artistic ambition and building a sustainable 90-day business plan ___ Art Crush with Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) is the art business podcast for contemporary artists, painters, and visual creatives navigating the modern art world. Two artists. Two continents. Infinite perspectives. From bypassing traditional art gallery gatekeepers and hosting independent art shows to pricing fine art, finding your visual style, and overcoming imposter syndrome, Fi and Paula deliver punchy, unfiltered creative advice every week. Whether you’re an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or running a full-time studio practice, subscribe for actionable art marketing strategies, creative mindset shifts, and artist community insights. Connect & Learn More: Fi Marks: ⁠⁠fimarks-art.co.uk⁠⁠ Paula Telizyn: ⁠⁠paulatelizyn.com⁠⁠ The 51% Collective: ⁠⁠thefiftyonepercent.com⁠⁠ Artcore Gallery: ⁠artcoreuk.com

  5. Oct 17

    Are Art Certifications a Scam? + Why Art Competitions Are a Waste of Time | Art Crush

    Do you need to pay for art certifications or enter contests to be a "real" artist? In this episode of Art Crush, hosts Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) tackle the uncomfortable truth behind paid art society memberships, "international artist" certifications, and the competitive nature of traditional art awards. Discover why competing against other visual artists is a waste of creative energy, how art television shows make creativity accessible, and the crucial nuance between toxic art contests and beneficial small business awards. Whether you're an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or building your contemporary art business, learn how to protect your budget and skip the gallery gatekeepers. Key Topics Covered: The reality behind paid art certifications and prestige societies Why art competitions and contests hold artists back The pros and cons of popular television art shows A smart business approach to awards and visibility ___ Art Crush with Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) is the art business podcast for contemporary artists, painters, and visual creatives navigating the modern art world. Two artists. Two continents. Infinite perspectives. From bypassing traditional art gallery gatekeepers and hosting independent art shows to pricing fine art, finding your visual style, and overcoming imposter syndrome, Fi and Paula deliver punchy, unfiltered creative advice every week. Whether you’re an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or running a full-time studio practice, subscribe for actionable art marketing strategies, creative mindset shifts, and artist community insights. Connect & Learn More: Fi Marks: ⁠⁠fimarks-art.co.uk⁠⁠ Paula Telizyn: ⁠⁠paulatelizyn.com⁠⁠ The 51% Collective: ⁠⁠thefiftyonepercent.com⁠⁠ Artcore Gallery: ⁠artcoreuk.com

  6. Oct 10

    Behind the Scenes of The 51% Collective’s Debut Art Exhibition | Art Crush

    In this special episode of Art Crush, hosts Fi Marks and Paula Telizyn are joined by fellow The 51% Collective artists Jela Prancic and Susan Gardner for an episode recorded just weeks before their major, first-ever international in-person exhibition, The Wild Within, opening at the Artcore Gallery in Derby. Tune in as the collective breaks down how they curated their bodies of work—from mixed-media collage and wildlife portraiture to powerful storytelling about women's journeys, overcoming disempowerment, and stepping into creative power. Find out what to expect on opening night on October 23rd, why attendees are encouraged to wear their wildest velvets, and what special surprise awaits the first 51 people through the door. ___ Art Crush with Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) is the art business podcast for contemporary artists, painters, and visual creatives navigating the modern art world. Two artists. Two continents. Infinite perspectives. From bypassing traditional art gallery gatekeepers and hosting independent art shows to pricing fine art, finding your visual style, and overcoming imposter syndrome, Fi and Paula deliver punchy, unfiltered creative advice every week. Whether you’re an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or running a full-time studio practice, subscribe for actionable art marketing strategies, creative mindset shifts, and artist community insights. Connect & Learn More: Fi Marks: ⁠fimarks-art.co.uk⁠ Paula Telizyn: ⁠paulatelizyn.com⁠ The 51% Collective: ⁠thefiftyonepercent.com⁠ Artcore Gallery: artcoreuk.com

  7. Oct 3

    Why Unsolicited Art DMs Fail (And How to Actually Market Your Art) | Art Crush

    Are you sending unsolicited pictures of your artwork to other artists or gallery owners without any context? In Season 3, Episode 35 of Art Crush, Fi Marks and Paula Telizyn dive into one of the most widespread—yet ineffective—marketing habits visual artists fall into: the "spray and pray" social media DM. Fi and Paula unpack why sending context-free artwork asking for validation or attention fails to build an art business. They explore how effective art marketing requires intentionality, answering the fundamental question: Why should someone give you their time, attention, or money? Beyond marketing tactics, this episode delves deep into mindset shifts, the power of active choices, eliminating unnecessary busyness, and taking bold risks in your creative life instead of floating passively. KEY TAKEAWAYS & TOPICS COVERED: The "Context-Free" DM Trap: Why sending unprompted art photos alienates potential supporters and how to fix your approach. The Buyer's Perspective: Asking "What’s in it for them?" to make your art posts, newsletters, and emails effective. The Power of Intentionality: Defining your "Why" in your studio practice, website, and social media strategy. Overcoming Passive "Busyness": Shifting from reacting to your day to actively making conscious life and career choices. Stepping Into the Discomfort: Why growth requires leaving your comfort zone, taking big creative risks, and refusing to settle. CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 – Introduction & Existing vs. Thriving in the Art World 00:42 – Ineffective Marketing: Receiving Random Art DMs 02:49 – Why Context & Clear Communication Matter in Art Marketing 04:51 – The Power of the "Why" Question for Your Art Business 07:54 – What’s in it for the Audience? Shifting Perspective 09:53 – Existing vs. Living: Stop Letting Busyness Dictate Your Life 11:39 – Life is a Choice: Taking Control of Your Responses & Priorities 18:04 – Building Clarity in Your Brand & Personal Communication 22:15 – A Real-World Example of How Context Drives Results RESOURCES & LINKS MENTIONED: Art Crush Website: artcrush.co.uk The 51% Collective: thefiftyonepercent.com Fi Marks: fimarks-art.co.uk Paula Telizyn: paulatelizyn.com Enjoyed this episode? Hit follow on Spotify, rate us 5 stars, and share this episode with an artist friend! ___ Art Crush with Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) is the art business podcast for contemporary artists, painters, and visual creatives navigating the modern art world. Two artists. Two continents. Infinite perspectives. From bypassing traditional art gallery gatekeepers and hosting independent art shows to pricing fine art, finding your visual style, and overcoming imposter syndrome, Fi and Paula deliver punchy, unfiltered creative advice every week. Whether you’re an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or running a full-time studio practice, subscribe for actionable art marketing strategies, creative mindset shifts, and artist community insights. Connect & Learn More: Fi Marks: fimarks-art.co.uk Paula Telizyn: paulatelizyn.com The 51% Collective: thefiftyonepercent.com

  8. Sep 26

    When the Client Hates Your Art: Navigating Commissions, Pricing, & Rejection | Art Crush

    What happens when you pour your time and talent into a custom commission, only for the client to say, "I don't like it"? In Season 3, Episode 34 of Art Crush, hosts Paula Telizyn and Fi Marks dive into the tricky, sometimes emotionally fraught world of art commissions. From navigating endless revision requests to dealing with flat-out rejections, Paula and Fi share their personal experiences and hard-earned business boundaries. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a new artist terrified of sharing your work, this episode is packed with candid advice on protecting your time, your income, and your peace of mind. In this episode, we discuss: Handling Rejection: How to not take it personally when a client doesn't connect with a commissioned piece. The "Disconnect Point": How physical acts like varnishing or framing can help you emotionally detach from a finished painting so you can let it go. Managing Expectations: Why clear communication and setting firm boundaries from day one are crucial to a successful project. Pricing Your Work: Why you should be charging 25% to 50% more for commissions than off-the-peg art, and why taking money upfront is non-negotiable. Owning Your Expertise: Reminding yourself that you are the expert being hired—and why you shouldn't let non-artists dictate your creative process. Tune in for an honest conversation about the business of art, overcoming the fear of criticism, and learning how to confidently navigate client relationships. --- About Art Crush: Hosted by artists Fi Marks and Paula Telizyn, Art Crush is your unfiltered look into the realities, struggles, and triumphs of running an art business. We tackle everything from deconstructing colonialism in the art world to mastering the modern hustle, delivering punchy, thought-provoking episodes designed to shake up your creativity. Listen and subscribe! Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and your favourite podcast platforms. Connect with the hosts: Check out The 51% at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thefiftyonepercent.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Fi Marks' art at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.fimarks-art.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Paula Telizyn's art at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.PaulaTelizyn.com⁠ Catch up on the official Art Crush website at www.artcrush.co.uk

About

Art Crush with Fi Marks (UK) and Paula Telizyn (Canada) is the art business podcast for contemporary artists, painters, and visual creatives navigating the modern art world. From bypassing traditional art gallery gatekeepers and hosting independent art shows to pricing fine art, finding your visual style, and overcoming imposter syndrome, Fi and Paula deliver punchy, unfiltered creative advice every week. Whether you’re an emerging painter, self-taught artist, or running a full-time studio practice, subscribe for actionable art marketing strategies, mindset shifts, and artist insights.