Just Make Art

What if the path to becoming an artist wasn't shrouded in mystery but illuminated by practical wisdom? In this deep dive into Jerry Saltz's transformative book "How to Be an Artist," we explore the Pulitzer Prize-winning critic's generous, accessible, and remarkably grounded advice for creative souls at any stage of their journey.

"Art is for everyone," Saltz declares, immediately dismantling the barriers that keep so many from pursuing their creative calling. Whether you're wondering if you can be an artist without formal education, while working full-time, or while wrestling with crippling self-doubt, his answer rings clear: "Of...

Have you ever felt like your artwork knows more than you do? In this intimate, unplanned conversation recorded during a Montana retreat, Ty and Nathan explore the vital yet often overlooked practice of soul care for artists.

Surrounded by the sounds of birdsong and nestled in Montana's rolling landscape, we dive into what happens when artists intentionally step away from their studios. More than just a luxury, these moments of pause—whether through travel, immersion in nature, or simple daily rituals—fundamentally transform our creative practice and the work that emerges from it.

Drawing wisdom from...

Leonardo Drew invites us into the physical, philosophical, and sometimes painful world of material transformation. Unlike artists who work with found objects carrying built-in histories, Drew deliberately purchases new materials that he must personally weather and transform. "I need to become the weather," he explains, describing a process where he subjects materials to rigorous physical manipulation that often results in literal bloodshed.

This physical commitment reflects Drew's deeper philosophy about creation. He describes himself as "the crack addict of art," chasing the highs of creative breakthrough through persistent experimentation and a willingness to fail. His practice demands...

The journey from discarded material to transcendent art forms the foundation of our conversation about Leonardo Drew, one of contemporary art's most physically committed and philosophically profound creators. Drew's remarkable journey began in the most unlikely of places—playing in a dump as a child in Tallahassee, Florida—a formative experience that would later inform his artistic sensibility and material relationship.

What strikes you immediately about Drew is the joyful contradiction between his ebullient personality and the weighted gravity of his installations. His work appears weathered, aged, and discovered rather than created, yet as we learn, this is a...

From Jan 2024. Dive into the provocative world of artistic "theft" as Ty and Nathan explore how creative innovation truly emerges from our influences. This conversation challenges the myth of pure originality, arguing instead that the greatest artists throughout history have been masterful collectors and transformers of ideas.

Beginning with Japanese fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto's transformative quote—"Start copying what you love... at the end of the copy you will find yourself"—the duo examines how creative development flourishes through strategic borrowing. From Quentin Tarantino's open acknowledgment of film references to David Bowie's musical influences, the most distinctive voic...

Have you ever wondered what exactly an artist residency is and whether it might be the missing piece in your creative journey? In this comprehensive guide, Ty Nathan Clark takes you through everything you need to know about these transformative opportunities.

Artist residencies aren't just retreats—they're powerful creative accelerators that provide dedicated time, space, and freedom to focus exclusively on your work. From rural sanctuaries nestled in nature to dynamic urban studios, these programs offer artists the chance to step away from daily distractions and immerse themselves in their practice.

The benefits extend far be...

Doubt isn't the enemy of artistic greatness—it's the catalyst. Reuniting after two months apart, Ty and Nathan dive into the profound relationship between artistic excellence and uncertainty through Robert Hughes' provocative quote: "The greater the artist, the greater the doubt."

Ty shares his exciting news about being accepted to the Marfa Invitational after years of persistent applications, exemplifying how perseverance through doubt eventually bears fruit. We explore Charles Bukowski's observation that intelligence breeds uncertainty while ignorance fosters unearned confidence, and how this paradox shapes the creative journey.

The conversation weaves through profound insights from An...

This episode is a replay from Dec 28th 2023. Just Make Art will be back with a brand new episode on March 20th.

What happens when an artist truly understands their medium? For Robert Rauschenberg, that's precisely when it was time to stop and move on. His philosophy—"I usually work in a direction until I know how to do it. Then I stop. At the time I am bored, or understand, and I use those words interchangeably"—serves as the launching point for a deep dive into artistic evolution and the creative mindset.

Ty Nathan Clar...

Join us for an exploration of art and materials in this interview Nathan Terborg, recorded at his solo exhibition at Galerie Benjamin Eck in Munich. Nathan skillfully transforms found objects into thought-provoking art pieces. Discover how his early experiences in his grandfather's woodshop influenced his artistic journey, leading him away from traditional painting towards an immersive sculptural practice. Nathan dives into the essence of experimentation, stressing how the relationship between artist and materials is foundational to creating meaningful work. 

Nathan’s approach of curiosity and discovery emphasizes that artistic freedom resides in the acceptance of imperfection and the...

Imagine the thrill of witnessing your art travel across oceans for a debut in Europe. Join Nathan Terborg he recounts the exhilarating journey of his solo exhibition at Gallerie Benjamin Eck in Munich and the captivating artist talk with curator Domenico de Cirico. This episode promises an insider's look into the logistics of moving over 1,300 pounds of art, the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi that fuels his worldview, and the concept of Weltanschauung that shapes his artistic vision. With Domenico's engaging questions, they traverse the landscape of impermanence and decay, finding beauty in the overlooked and forgotten materials Nathan incorporates...

What if the mind could fish for ideas just as easily as one casts a line into the sea? Join us on a voyage into the enigmatic world of the late David Lynch as we explore his profound influence on creativity. From the haunting landscapes of "Twin Peaks" to the visceral imagery in "Eraserhead," Lynch's work has left an indelible mark on the arts. We share personal stories about encountering Lynch's films for the first time and how his distinct vision has shaped our own artistic paths. The episode also highlights Lynch's unique approach to capturing ideas, likening them...

The episode explores the importance of creating art for oneself rather than seeking outside validation. Through insights from influential figures like Rick Rubin and Patti Smith, it emphasizes the need for genuine expression, resilience amid challenges, and setting clear goals for the creative journey.

• Rick Rubin advocates making art for oneself 
• Reflecting on the year highlights periods of apathy 
• The importance of setting micro-goals for artistic progress 
• Patti Smith’s insights on artistry without audience expectations 
• William Burroughs on maintaining a good reputation in art 
• Embracing life’s challenges as part of the creative process ...

What if embracing uncertainty could unlock your artistic potential? Inspired by Jack Whitten’s "Notes from the Woodshed," Nathan Terborg embarks on a reflective journey through the philosophical depths of creativity and doubt. This episode unpacks Whitten’s profound insights, shared through compelling quotes and personal anecdotes, revealing how his struggles with self-doubt and conviction resonate with our own artistic journeys. 

Nathan navigate's the beauty of complexity and the transformative power of journaling, drawing from Whitten’s 1987 journal entries. This episode emphasizes the significance of acknowledging emotions and using journaling as a tool for growth and introspection. By expl...

Ever had your Black Friday order turn into a comedy of errors, with just a single tube of paint arriving instead of the anticipated haul? Join us in our reunited episode as we kick things off with this true-life mishap, setting the stage for a deeper discussion about the role of vulnerability in our creative lives. This lighthearted tale leads us to reflect on the joys and challenges of celebrating a milestone birthday and how such personal experiences fuel our artistic endeavors.

Navigating the art world as an introvert or someone with anxiety can feel daunting, but...

Can an artist truly live without creating? Join us as Ty Nathan Clark explores this compelling question and offers an intimate view of his creative journey while Nathan prepares for his much-awaited exhibition in Munich alongside the talented Kit King. Through the lens of cherished literary works by Lewis Hyde and Rainer Maria Rilke and the poetic brilliance of Theodore Roethke and Allen Ginsberg, Ty shares insights into the transformative power of turning inward for inspiration. Together, we unravel the essence of inviting past artistic influences into our work, embracing the natural flow of creativity, and celebrating the raw...

Could social media be the key to unlocking an artist's full potential? Join us for a special episode of Just Make Art as VIsionary Projects co-founder Blayne Planit sits down with our Ty Nathan Clark, to uncover the transformative power of digital platforms in the art world. Ty takes us through his journey, enriched by family influences and global experiences, demonstrating how modern tools like Instagram have become critical in building connections and expanding an artist's reach. With tales of unexpected opportunities and strategic self-promotion, Ty's insights reveal the intricate dance between digital presence and artistic success.

...

Is turning 50 the new beginning you've been waiting for? Join us as we explore this exciting milestone and the possibilities it brings for personal reinvention and artistic growth. We dive into a lively conversation inspired by our listener, Brittany Clifford, who is contemplating a move from New York's art scene to Miami's vibrant landscape. Learn how to establish a new creative community by attending local gallery openings, connecting with fellow artists, and leveraging the power of social media.

Trusting your instincts is an art in itself, and we reflect on how spontaneity can lead to stunning creations...

Join us as we wrap up our exploration of "Art and Fear," where we uncover the tumultuous yet exhilarating path artists navigate. We dive into the artist's struggle and the high cost of idealism, emphasizing the need for lifelong learning and self-education beyond the structured confines of art school. Uncover how embracing curiosity and self-education can prevent stagnation and nurture continuous artistic growth.

As artists, are we just chasing shadows, or is there more to be gleaned from completed artworks? We explore the dynamic between artists and critics, sparking a debate on the utility of viewing finished...

What if chasing your dreams and confronting your fears are two sides of the same coin? Join us on a journey through the intricate dance of art and fear. We unveil the tightrope artists walk between ambition and dread, sharing personal stories and insights on how external expectations and internal critics can often hijack our creative instincts. With a nod to Agnes Martin’s studio rituals and Andrew Wyeth's secretive Helga series, we discuss how action and routine can triumph over fear, creating a safe space for authentic artistic expression.

The creative process is often a battlefield be...

What if every artist experienced the same fears and hurdles, regardless of their success? Join us as we unpack the timeless wisdom from David Bayles and Ted Orland's "Art and Fear: Observations on the Perils and Rewards of Art Making." Discover how the intense stress of a blank canvas and reflect on the profound insights of Gene Fowler and Hippocrates. We'll explore the poignant reality that envisioned works often feel more real than their completed counterparts, and how this universal uncertainty shapes the artistic journey.

Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the power of embracing ordinary struggles and...

Ty Nathan Clark and Nathan Terborg are taking a moment to reflect and recharge after a whirlwind week filled with residency applications, art making and family milestones—Nathan's oldest daughter just started college! But don't worry, we're gearing up for some incredible new content on Just Make Art. From artist features to Q&A sessions, and even guest co-hosts, there's a ton of exciting stuff on the horizon. We're kicking it off with an in-depth discussion on "Art and Fear" by David Bayliss and Ted Orland, a book so pivotal that it's a staple in our studio practice and te...

What happens when an artist's "unit" of work is rooted in "trouble"? Join us as we explore this fascinating concept through the insights of Amy Sillman, uncovered in an enlightening Art21 episode. We dive into the gripping narrative of how tension and contradiction can be both a hurdle and a muse, shaping the creative grammar that artists use to articulate their vision. By reflecting on Sillman's methodology and the wisdom of experienced artists, we uncover the power of understanding and defining our own unique artistic foundations.

Have you ever thought about the intimate relationship between an artist...

Ever wondered what it truly means to be a perpetual student in the world of art, or more simply put, an Art Nerd? We're pulling back the curtain on the relentless pursuit of knowledge that fuels creativity. Join us as we share our personal stories of embracing the titles of "nerd" and "elitist" with pride, and reveal why there is a heavy responsibility on an artist of continuous self-education. We also reflect on wisdom from Winston Churchill, Gandhii, Haruki Murakami and others about the real journey of learning, urging you to never stop seeking new information and diversifying your...

Ever wondered how to turn happy accidents into artistic masterpieces? Join us as we sit down with Jeremy Cowart, the visionary photographer known for his high-profile subjects like Taylor Swift and Barack Obama, to explore the unpredictable nature of art and the magic of childlike creativity. Jeremy shares his journey from launching the impactful Help Portrait initiative to pioneering the world of Lightographs and NFTs. Get ready to be inspired by his relentless pursuit of innovation and his unique approach to photography that ensures no two photos are ever the same.

Discover the intricate dance between passion...

What if the rules you live by are holding you back rather than guiding you? Join us as we dive into the complex relationship between rules, creativity, and personal freedom. Inspired by Laurie Anderson and Lou Reed's three profound rules—don’t be afraid of anyone, get a good bullshit detector, and be really tender—we kick off a conversation that challenges conventional thinking. Ty opens up about how childhood trauma influenced his rebellious spirit and artistic path, shedding light on the necessity of setting your own guidelines to foster genuine creativity and authenticity.

We delve into the du...

Discover the transformative journey of Helen Frankenthaler (in her own words), a pioneering artist whose mantra "Let Her Rip" symbolizes a fearless approach to creativity. In this episode, we unpack Frankenthaler's innovative philosophy, where she blends the past and present to achieve a fluid, emotionally rich conversation with her art. From her early encounters with Jackson Pollock's radical drip paintings to her evolution within the Color Field movement, we explore the monumental influences that shaped her six-decade-long career.

Find out how achieving a flow state can revolutionize your creative process, guided by insights from Steven Kotler's "The...

Join us on "Just Make Art" as we tackle this age-old dilemma of pricing your art, when to show the world the work you have been experimenting on, exploring new ideas, maintaining studio focus and more.

In our latest episode, we uncover strategies for setting art prices with confidence and consistency, exploring methods like per square foot pricing, market research, and peer comparison. We emphasize the delicate balance between overpricing and undervaluing your work, and the critical role of supply and demand. Discover the importance of not just setting the right price, but also finding the right...

In Part 1 of this special episode, we respond to our listener's questions. What if you could seamlessly navigate the art world, securing gallery representation and maintaining creative momentum, all while maximizing your visibility? This episode promises to equip you with practical strategies for approaching galleries, managing artwork accumulation, and staying productive post-show. We delve into the nuances of continuous creation, setting realistic goals, and forging genuine relationships with galleries through research and social media interaction. Learn invaluable tips on handling unsold work and the importance of patience and persistence in your artistic journey.

Discover innovative ways to...

Embark on an artistic odyssey with us as we trace Eric Breish's remarkable transformation from a novice to a trailblazing artist captivating the  art scene with his holographic marvels on metal. Eric's story isn't just a chronicle of aesthetic evolution; it's a testament to the sheer tenacity it takes to chase a dream where others see impossibility. His upcoming exhibition at Ferrari Gallery isn't merely a display of shimmering artistry; it's a beacon for late bloomers in creativity, proving that with the right mix of courage and risk, it's never too late to seize your calling.

The j...

The intimacy of a personal journey weaves through this episode, with our special guest host who recounts a moment back in 2006 when a dream compelled them toward the canvas, marking the beginning of a lifelong passion. Their narrative strikes a chord with anyone who has discovered art's calling later in life, illustrating that it's never too late to reimagine your path. I mirror this sentiment, sharing the defining day I chose art over the corporate ladder, a reflection of my own quest for deeper meaning. Together, we celebrate these pivotal decisions—the courage to embrace a new chapter, the em...

When we first encountered the visceral sculptures of Louise Bourgeois, their raw emotion struck us in ways we couldn't articulate. Join Ty Nathan Clark and Nathan Terborg on a profound exploration of art's power to heal and transform, as Bourgeois' life and work become the prism through which they examine the intimate dance between creation and the human experience. Her belief that art should evoke without explanation serves as our guiding principle, leading the artists through her biography and beyond, into a discussion on how the act of creating can alter our very perception of life.

Venture...

Have you ever watched an artist wrestle with their inner demons as they try to capture something ethereal on the canvas? It's this very struggle between ego and insecurity that we unravel in our latest episode, where we uncover how artists balance confidence with vulnerability. We discuss the critical role of ego—not as a symbol of arrogance but as a beacon of assurance—and how this impacts an artist's interaction with the art world. Join us and a panel of artists as we share candid experiences of wrestling with self-doubt, all while boldly owning the title of 'artist' with...

Have you ever felt the magnetic pull towards the unknown realms of creativity, while the familiar clutches at your sleeves? That's where you'll find us in Pouch Cove, Newfoundland, ensconced in the James Baird Gallery's artist residency. Our latest gathering will come to you in 2 parts, minus the dearly missed Nathan Terbord, his spirit ever-present, delves into the heart of artistic innovation. Through a melding of voices—from the cobblestoned streets of Spain to the hustle of Philadelphia—we unravel the threads of comfort and courage that bind every artist's journey.

Think scarcity stifles creativity? Think again! We c...

Embark with Ty and Nathan on a reflective odyssey through the ebbs and flows of our art careers and the burgeoning community of our podcast. The artists peel back the layers of their journeys, from the leap into full-time artistry after two decades in another profession, to Ty's lifelong commitment to creative expression, inspired by his family's artistic legacy. Together, they delve into the significance of mentorship, the bond of friendship, and celebrate the milestones that have marked their paths in the unpredictable world of art.

Step inside the artists' studio where the canvas of conversation stretches...

Stepping through the doors of the Clyfford Still Museum, I found myself enveloped in the emotional intensity of an artist who revolutionized Abstract Expressionism. On this journey, Ty and I embark on a profound exploration of Clyfford Still's dynamic brushstrokes and vibrant colors that echo his internal struggles and profound emotions. As we navigate Still's decision to resist the commercial art market, we uncover the paradox of how an artist's demand for independence and control over his work can lead to greater public accessibility after his passing—a poignant discussion for artists contending with their legacies today.

Am...

Discover the secret to infusing your art with the timeless vibrancy of childhood wonder—a theme Aldous Huxley and Madeline L'Engle have both touched upon. Our episode unravels the delicate balance between preserving that infectious enthusiasm and the professionalism demanded by the art world. Join Nathan and Ty as they share tales from their own creative journey, facing critics while staying true to the abstract expressionist passion, and discuss the universal struggle of artists to protect and rekindle the creative spark that adulthood often dims.

Feel the tension lift as we uncover ways to bring playfulness back in...

Unlock the mysteries of artistic mastery with us, as we celebrate the remarkable Hedda Stern, who brought a revolution to the New York Art School and abstract expressionism. This episode is a treasure chest of insights, drawing from the profound connections between Stern's innovative use of commercial spray paint and her influence on art's major movements. Ty and Nathan bring to light the intertwining of technique, vision, and integrity in creating impactful art, reflecting on the patience and courage necessary to make lasting marks on the canvas of history, and how these virtues are essential to the artist's journey.<...

Ever find yourself minimizing your own talents because they feel too natural? This episode is a rallying cry for artists everywhere to reclaim their gifts, with a special nod to the iconic Marilyn Minter. From her sage advice on valuing our inborn artistic strengths to navigating the temptation of chasing trends, we uncover the power of personal transformation in the art world. 

Have you ever unleashed your creativity using the humble cardboard? Join us as we delve into the unorthodox realms of monotype printing and discover how such experimentation can lead to exciting new textures in our w...

Have you ever stood before a work of art, lost in its abstract forms, and felt a story unfolding within you? This episode takes you on a journey into the world of Cy Twombly, where art speaks in hushed tones of history, mythology, and a quest for essence. As we navigate through the intimate chambers of Twombly's mind, we begin to unravel the tapestry of ideas and emotions that his work provokes, from the echoes of his American roots to the whispers of ancient Rome that permeated his life after 1957.

Join us as we share candid moments...

Ever wondered how a brush stroke influenced by the past can paint a future of unique artistic expression? This episode serves as your canvas, guiding you through the complexities of imitation and innovation in the art world. We start by unraveling the controversy of copying in art—a topic that often stirs heated debate among creators. Fashion mogul Yohji Yamamoto's provocative stance on imitation anchors our discussion, as we dissect the transformative journey from imitating the greats to developing one's own creative language. Whether you're a fledgling painter or a seasoned sculptor, this dialogue promises an enlightening exploration of ar...