Create Art Podcast

Timothy Kimo Brien

Conversations, projects, interviews, and commentary are aimed at creating more than you consume. Timothy Kimo Brien with over 30 years in creating art in various disciplines helps you overcome any blocks that are holding you back from the potential artist we all have inside us.

  1. New Year, New Tools: Embracing My Inner Beginner

    FEB 8

    New Year, New Tools: Embracing My Inner Beginner

    We're diving deep into the world of creativity and transformation, reflecting on a year filled with unexpected changes rather than just a highlight reel of accomplishments. This episode isn’t just about the art I created; it’s about how I evolved while creating it. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t chasing mastery; I was all about following my curiosity, and boy, did I get my hands dirty with acrylics, music, and poetry along the way. I’m here to remind you that showing up is what really counts, way more than how polished your work is. So, grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let’s chat about embracing the messy process of creation and finding joy in every little step! Reflections: A Year of Creating is a closing chapter for The New Artist’s Compass — a solo episode about growth, curiosity, and what happens when you commit to showing up creatively over time. In this episode of the Create Art Podcast, Timothy Kimo Brien reflects on a year spent exploring multiple creative disciplines, including acrylic painting (Special thanks to The Art Sherpa), poetry, music production, and sound design. From painting with acrylics with instruction for the first time, to writing tankas, to learning a new DAW (Reaper) and experimenting with an MPE synthesizer (ROLI), this episode explores how creative growth happens when curiosity leads and ego steps aside. This conversation is for artists who are: Measuring progress beyond likes and outputLearning new creative tools later in lifeExploring multiple art formsReconnecting with joy through beginner energy 1. Showing Up Counts More Than MasteryYou didn’t wait until you were “ready”Acrylic painting for 2 months = permission to be newProgress came from consistency, not confidence 2. Letting Curiosity LeadWriting tankas: short form, intentional, imperfectSwitching mediums kept creativity aliveCuriosity replaced pressure 3. Learning New Tools Without EgoTeaching yourself Reaper as a beginner againExploring sound through an MPE ROLIBeing bad at something reopened creative joy 4. Measuring Growth DifferentlyNot output, not numbersGrowth = comfort with discomfortGrowth = staying engaged...

    21 min
  2. Setting Creative Goals Without Killing The Joy

    JAN 25

    Setting Creative Goals Without Killing The Joy

    Creative goals, my friends, are where it’s at! We're diving into how to set those goals without letting them suck the joy right out of your artistic soul. You know, the kind of goals that don’t just live in a dusty spreadsheet and make you feel guilty when you skip a day. We’re talking about the spark that keeps the creative flames burning bright, not the pressure that turns your passion into a job description. Join me as we explore redefining success, embracing the process, and remembering that joy isn’t the opposite of discipline; it’s the reason it works! So, grab your favorite snack, get comfy, and let's chat about creating a fun, flexible framework for your creative journey! Redefine What Success Looks Like Shift from outcome-based success (“Did I sell it?”) to process-based success (“Did I show up today?”).Remind yourself that creative growth doesn’t always look linear.Celebrate progress, not perfection. Create Flexible FrameworksReplace rigid deadlines with creative checkpoints—review and adjust as you go.Allow spontaneity within structure; it keeps your art alive.Think of your goals as a map, not a prison. Align Goals with Your “Why”Ask: Why am I creating this? Who is it for?Purpose-driven goals feel lighter and more sustainable.Revisit your “why” whenever burnout or doubt creeps in. Protect the Joy of PlayKeep a “no-pressure” creative space—sketchbook, sound experiments, word dumps—just for fun.Play fuels mastery; it reminds you why you started.Let joy be part of your process, not just the reward at the end. Build Reflection Into Your RoutineSchedule time to look back on what worked and what didn’t—this creates mindful progress.Reflection re-energizes your sense of purpose.Use journaling or short voice memos to capture insights between projects. Topics covered in this seriesSharing Your Work Online for the First Time Dealing With Criticism and Rejection Finding (or Building) an Artistic Community Collaboration as a Creative Catalyst Staying Motivated Long-Term Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Mental Health & Creativity Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Setting Up a Creative Workspace Creative Constraints & Prompts Measuring Growth as an Artist Why Do You Create? When to Call Yourself an Artist Balancing Art and LifeHow do I get such great guests?PodMatch I use Podmatch to get the best guests on...

    21 min
  3. Balancing Art and Life

    12/21/2025

    Balancing Art and Life

    Ever had one of those weeks where your creative spirit is ready to burst, but your to-do list is acting like an evil overlord trying to squash it? Yeah, I feel you! This week on the Create Art Podcast, we’re diving into the art of finding that elusive balance between life’s chaos and your creative pursuits. Spoiler alert: it’s not about doing everything; it’s about giving the important stuff the space it needs to flourish. We’ll chat about how to manage your time like a pro, prioritize your mental vibes, and embrace those moments when life tries to hijack your art. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s figure out how to keep that artistic heart beating amidst the madness! What Balance Actually MeansBalance isn’t perfect equality — it’s adaptability.Think of it as creative tides, not a tightrope.Recognizing seasons of productivity and rest keeps your art sustainable. Burnout is the tax you pay for ignoring your limits. Managing Time Like an ArtistProtect small creative windows — 15 focused minutes beat 2 distracted hours.Schedule creative sessions like appointments — respect your art as real work.Use constraints (like limited time) to spark focus and ingenuity. Prioritizing Mental and Emotional SpaceCreative energy thrives in calm environments — clutter steals focus.Give yourself permission to not create when you need rest.Mindfulness or journaling can help you reconnect with your “why.” When Life Interrupts ArtLife doesn’t stop for inspiration — learn to sketch ideas on the fly.Use “creative triage” — decide what must be done now, and what can wait.Even small acts (a note, a photo, a melody hum) keep the artistic rhythm alive. Building Belonging Through Art Your art and your life are not enemies — they’re dance partners.Balance changes daily; awareness is your compass.Give yourself grace, structure, and permission to create imperfectly. Takeaways: Creative balance isn't about doing everything, but about making space for what truly matters. Art and life are dance partners—embrace the rhythm of both and find your groove. Prioritizing rest and self-care is crucial for sustaining your artistic journey and creativity. When life interrupts your art, keep a notebook handy to capture those fleeting ideas and inspirations. Give yourself permission to take breaks; your creativity will thank you later for that downtime. Remember, balance is a dynamic dance, not a static state; learn to flow with the tides of life. Topics covered in this seriesSharing Your Work Online for the First Time Dealing With Criticism and Rejection Finding (or Building) an Artistic Community Collaboration as a Creative Catalyst Staying Motivated Long-Term Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Mental Health & Creativity Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Setting Up a Creative Workspace Creative Constraints & Prompts Measuring Growth as an Artist Why Do You Create? When to Call Yourself an Artist Balancing Art and Life Lessons From a Year of Creating How do I get such great guests?PodMatch I use Podmatch to get the best guests on the show. Check out PodMatch if you want to guest on other podcasts or if you have a podcast and need guests for your show. Guests from Podmatch Make Sharing your podcast easierUse a...

    24 min
  4. Finding Your Tribe: The Secret Sauce to Creative Growth!

    11/16/2025

    Finding Your Tribe: The Secret Sauce to Creative Growth!

    Feeling like your artistic creations are just drifting in the void? Yeah, we’ve all been there, pouring our hearts into art that feels unseen and unheard. That’s why we’re diving into the essential topic of finding or building your own artistic community. Because, let’s face it, no one—absolutely no one—grows creatively in a vacuum. We’ll explore how to spot supportive spaces, brainstorm ways to create your own if the perfect tribe seems MIA, and keep that warm fuzzy sense of belonging alive, even when pesky imposter syndrome tries to crash the party. So grab a snack, kick back, and let’s find out how your creative community might be closer than you think! 1. Why You Need a Creative CommunityIsolation can dull your creative edge — you need others to spark new ideas.Accountability: showing up for others helps you show up for yourself.Emotional support: having people who get it keeps burnout at bay. 2. What a Healthy Artist Community Looks LikeIt’s collaborative, not competitive — people share, not compare.There’s room for vulnerability: sharing unfinished work or honest struggles.The best communities are built on curiosity, not ego. 3. Finding Your People (Online and Offline)Check out local art collectives, open mics, or gallery nights — anywhere creativity lives.Online spaces can be gold — look for small, active groups on Discord, Reddit, or Mastodon where folks actually talk.Don’t chase big numbers — quality over quantity in connections. 4. Building Your Own Community (When You Can’t Find One)Start small: invite a few creators to meet monthly or share works-in-progress.Consistency builds trust — even a casual “creative coffee” check-in helps.Use your podcast, art, or blog as a magnet for like-minded artists. 5. Keeping the Community Alive and RealBe intentional about giving as much as you get — share resources, feedback, and wins.Handle conflict or creative tension openly — it builds long-term respect.Celebrate milestones together, no matter how small. Feeling like your art is echoing in a cavernous void? Yeah, we've all been there. In the latest episode of Create Art Podcast, we dive headfirst into the importance of finding your artistic tribe. Seriously, who wants to create in a bubble? I mean, it's like trying to enjoy a pizza without a slice of your favorite topping—totally unsatisfying! We’re chatting about how being part of a creative community can be a game-changer for your art. It's all about connection, folks! Whether it's online, local, or just a few friends who understand the struggle, finding your circle can give your creativity the jolt it desperately needs. We’ll explore how to discover supportive spaces, create your own if you’re stuck, and keep that sense of belonging alive, even when the dreaded imposter syndrome tries to sneak in. So, if you’ve ever felt like you’re pouring your heart into a black hole, come on over! Your creative community is waiting, and it might be closer than you think! Takeaways: Creating art in isolation can feel like shouting into the void, and it dulls your creativity. A supportive creative community is essential for accountability, emotional support, and sparking new ideas. Finding or building your own artistic community is crucial because it fosters collaboration over competition. Healthy artistic communities are based on curiosity, vulnerability, and sharing honest struggles to help one another grow. Topics covered in this seriesSharing Your Work Online for the First Time Dealing With Criticism and Rejection Finding...

    25 min
  5. Are You Growing as an Artist? Spoiler: It's Not Just About Likes!

    11/02/2025

    Are You Growing as an Artist? Spoiler: It's Not Just About Likes!

    How do you really know if you’re leveling up as an artist? Spoiler alert: it’s not just about the number of likes on your latest post or how many pieces you’ve sold. We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of measuring your creative growth in ways that matter, like boosting your confidence, honing your technique, and even how you bounce back from flops. It’s all about celebrating those sneaky little wins that often go unnoticed. So grab your favorite beverage and join me as we chat about tracking your skills, redefining what success looks like for you, and figuring out how to appreciate the journey of growth rather than just the destination. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it! Why Measuring Growth Matters Growth can be invisible if you don’t pause to look for it. Without reflection, you risk feeling stuck even while you’re improving. Skill-Based Growth Compare old work with new work (use past sketches, recordings, drafts). Notice improvements in speed, technique, or problem-solving. Personal Growth as an Artist Confidence in sharing or finishing projects. Resilience when facing criticism or setbacks. External vs. Internal Metrics Likes, sales, and followers can be motivating—but they aren’t the whole story. Personal satisfaction, creative risks taken, and consistency often matter more. Practical Tools for Tracking Growth Keep a “progress portfolio” or sketchbook timeline. Journaling about creative sessions. Set small measurable goals (finishing one piece per week, learning a new technique) Takeaways: Growth as an artist isn't just about the spotlight; it's often the invisible gains that matter most. Measuring your creative growth helps you appreciate your progress and avoid feeling stuck in a rut. Instead of focusing on likes and followers, prioritize your personal satisfaction and enjoyment in creating art. Take a trip down memory lane and compare your old work to your latest creations for a solid confidence boost. Links referenced in this episode: createartpodcast.comfindapodcastaboutxyz.comtkbpodcaststudio.com Topics covered in this seriesSharing Your Work Online for the First Time Dealing With Criticism and Rejection Finding (or Building) an Artistic Community Collaboration as a Creative Catalyst Staying Motivated Long-Term Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Mental Health & Creativity Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Setting Up a Creative Workspace Creative Constraints & Prompts Measuring Growth as an Artist Why Do You Create? When to Call Yourself an Artist Lessons From a Year of Creating Setting Creative Goals Without Killing the Joy How do I get such great guests?PodMatch I use Podmatch to get the best guests on the show. Check out PodMatch if you want to guest on other podcasts or if you have a podcast and need guests for your show. Guests from Podmatch Make Sharing your podcast easierUse Podcast Beacon for the best NFS products to share your podcast while out and about or at conferences. Reach Out To...

    21 min
  6. No Checklists, Just Art: Defining Your Own Creative Journey

    10/05/2025

    No Checklists, Just Art: Defining Your Own Creative Journey

    Ever freeze up when someone casually asks you what you do, like you just spotted a ghost? Yeah, we’ve all been there! Today, we're diving into that pivotal moment when you finally give yourself the green light to call yourself an artist. Spoiler alert: it’s time to mean it! I’m here to chat about breaking down those pesky barriers that keep you from owning that title and embracing your creative self. So, whether you’re painting toenail clippings or sculpting with spaghetti, let’s tackle the fears and societal expectations that make this journey feel like an episode of a reality show gone wrong. Grab your coffee, your paintbrush, or whatever fuels your creative fire, and let’s get this artistic party started! When Do You Get to Call Yourself an Artist? Are you an artist yet — or are you still “just dabbling”? This episode of Create Art Podcast: The New Artist’s Compass dives deep into one of the most common questions new creators face: when do you finally call yourself an artist? Whether you’re a painter, writer, musician, or any kind of creative, this conversation will help you overcome imposter syndrome, step into your identity, and confidently share your work with the world. We’ll explore what it really means to be an artist, why so many creatives wait too long to claim the title, and how saying “I’m an artist” can transform your confidence, your work, and how others see you. If you’ve ever felt stuck wondering if you’re “good enough” or “ready,” this episode is for you. 1. The Power of Naming Yourself Saying “I am an artist” changes how you view your work.Your brain takes identity seriously — claiming it can motivate action. 2. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Why many creatives wait for external validation before using the word “artist.”Tools to challenge the inner critic and redefine success. 3. External Milestones vs. Internal Decision Selling art, getting published, or winning awards are great — but not prerequisites.Deciding you are an artist is often the first step to reaching those milestones. 4. The Social Side of Calling Yourself an Artist How sharing your identity invites collaboration and community.Dealing with skepticism from others (and why that’s about them, not you). 5. Building Confidence Through Consistency Daily or weekly practice as proof to yourself that you are an artist.Why action — not titles — ultimately builds belief. Topics covered in this seriesSharing Your Work Online for the First Time Dealing With Criticism and Rejection Finding (or Building) an Artistic Community Collaboration as a Creative Catalyst Staying Motivated Long-Term Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Mental Health & Creativity Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Setting Up a Creative Workspace Creative Constraints & Prompts Measuring Growth as an Artist Why Do You Create? When to Call Yourself an Artist Lessons From a Year of Creating Setting Creative Goals Without Killing the Joy How do I get such great guests?PodMatch I use Podmatch to get the best guests on the show. Check out PodMatch if you want to guest on other podcasts or if you have a podcast and need guests for your show. Guests from Podmatch Make Sharing your podcast easierUse Podcast Beacon for the best NFS products to share your podcast...

    26 min
  7. Rest, Recharge, Repeat: The Secret Sauce to Long-Term Artistry!

    09/28/2025

    Rest, Recharge, Repeat: The Secret Sauce to Long-Term Artistry!

    Staying motivated as an artist is a tricky beast, isn’t it? We kick things off by diving into the nitty-gritty of what it really takes to keep that creative fire burning, especially when life decides to throw us a curveball—hello, Netflix binge! I’ll spill some secrets on how to build a lasting relationship with your art, share personal stories (yes, even my artistic slumps), and toss in some gold nuggets of wisdom to help you find your rhythm and reconnect with why you started in the first place. Think of this as your friendly nudge to cultivate habits that stick, celebrate the little wins, and maybe even find a creative community that gets your vibe. So grab your sketchbook or whatever floats your artistic boat, and let’s get to it! Starting a creative journey is exciting — but staying motivated for the long haul? That’s where many artists struggle. In this episode of The New Artist’s Compass on the Create Art Podcast, we dive into practical, proven ways to keep your creative fire burning even when inspiration runs low, life gets busy, or self-doubt creeps in. Whether you’re a painter, writer, musician, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will help you: ✅ Build habits that sustain creativity over months and years ✅ Break through slumps with small, intentional actions ✅ Find motivation when external validation is missing ✅ Learn how to celebrate progress (not just perfection) ✅ Reconnect with your original “why” when you feel stuck 🎧 Listen now and reignite your commitment to your craft. Your creativity deserves more than short bursts of inspiration — it deserves a sustainable, joyful practice. 1. Find Your "Why" and Keep It Visible Write down why you create art — post it in your workspace.Revisit your "why" during creative slumps to reset your focus.Share your "why" with your community for accountability. 2. Build Consistent Creative Habits Schedule art time like you would a doctor’s appointment — non-negotiable.Start small (15 minutes) and build up as it becomes part of your life.Use rituals — music, tea, candles — to cue your brain it’s "art time." 3. Celebrate Small Wins Track your progress — sketchbooks, photos, or a journal.Reward yourself for showing up, not just for finishing big projects.Reflect monthly on how far you’ve come — keeps motivation fresh. 4. Find Your Creative Community Join online or local artist groups for feedback and encouragement.Share works-in-progress — connection fuels motivation.Teach or mentor others — it reignites your own spark. 5. Give Yourself Permission to Rest Rest isn’t quitting — it’s recharging.Take intentional breaks so you don’t burn out.Use downtime for passive inspiration — books, museums, conversations. Topics covered in this seriesSharing Your Work Online for the First Time Dealing With Criticism and Rejection Finding (or Building) an Artistic Community Collaboration as a Creative Catalyst Staying Motivated Long-Term Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Mental Health & Creativity Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Setting Up a Creative Workspace Creative Constraints & Prompts Measuring Growth as an Artist Why Do You Create? When to Call Yourself an Artist Lessons From a Year of Creating Setting Creative Goals Without Killing the Joy Takeaways: Getting started with just one sketch can lead to a creative avalanche, trust me, I know the feels! Life happens,...

    23 min
  8. Kidney Stones and Critiques: A Painful Comparison You Didn't Know You Needed!

    09/21/2025

    Kidney Stones and Critiques: A Painful Comparison You Didn't Know You Needed!

    Criticism and rejection in art can feel a lot like passing a kidney stone—sharp, painful, and definitely not something you want to experience. In this episode, we're diving deep into this rather unique analogy, exploring how those pesky critiques can actually help us grow stronger, just like surviving a kidney stone ordeal. I'll share my personal adventures with these little buggers and how they’ve surprisingly mirrored my creative journey. We’ll also chat about the importance of separating ourselves from our work, because let’s be honest, nobody wants to be called ugly—especially not our artistic babies! So grab a comfy seat, maybe a glass of water (hydration is key, folks!), and let’s tackle the ups and downs of artistic rejection together. Dealing with Criticism and RejectionWelcome back to The New Artist’s Compass. Today we’re getting real about criticism and rejection. Both are as natural in the creative process as kidney stones are in life—painful, unwelcome, but sometimes unavoidable. And just like I recently had to pass one of those tiny nightmares, dealing with rejection can leave you doubled over, questioning your choices, and wondering why the universe insists on testing your endurance. Here’s the thing: rejection isn’t a verdict on your worth as an artist. It’s a kidney stone—sharp, unexpected, and it feels huge in the moment, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s tiny. Painful, yes. Life-ending? Not even close. The Kidney Stone Metaphor Criticism can feel sharp and painful, but like a kidney stone, it eventually passes.You’re not defined by the pain, but by how you handle it. Separating Self from Work Rejection of your art isn’t rejection of you.Learning to detach helps keep creativity flowing. Constructive vs. Destructive Feedback Not all criticism is created equal.How to spot the difference and use what actually helps. Resilience as a Creative Muscle Every “no” or negative review is a rep in building creative strength.Over time, rejection becomes less personal and more fuel Finding Humor in the Hurt Using levity (like the kidney stone tie-in) to diffuse the sting.Humor makes space for growth and healing. Topics covered in this seriesSharing Your Work Online for the First Time Dealing With Criticism and Rejection Finding (or Building) an Artistic Community Collaboration as a Creative Catalyst Staying Motivated Long-Term Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Mental Health & Creativity Art Challenges & Social Media Trends Setting Up a Creative Workspace Creative Constraints & Prompts Measuring Growth as an Artist Why Do You Create? When to Call Yourself an Artist Lessons From a Year of Creating Setting Creative Goals Without Killing the Joy Takeaways: Criticism and rejection are like kidney stones: painful, sharp, and inevitable, but they pass! Just like dealing with a kidney stone, facing criticism helps us emerge stronger and wiser in our creative journey. It's crucial to separate yourself from your work; the critique is about your piece, not you as a person. Analyzing feedback can be beneficial; it’s like examining a kidney stone to prevent future ones from forming! Embrace criticism with humor, because getting through it only makes your future work even better! When faced with rejection, remember: it's not about you, it's about the art you create, so keep creating! Links referenced in this episode: a...

    24 min
5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Conversations, projects, interviews, and commentary are aimed at creating more than you consume. Timothy Kimo Brien with over 30 years in creating art in various disciplines helps you overcome any blocks that are holding you back from the potential artist we all have inside us.

More From Gagglepod