Today, we’re talking about something that every artist encounters—but few talk about openly: rejection.Whether it’s a juried show, a gallery application, or simply putting your work on social media, the fear of hearing “no” often holds artists back in big ways. But here’s the truth: rejection isn’t the problem. It’s the meaning we attach to it that creates so much pain and paralysis.Antrese breaks down:Why rejection feels so intense—and why that’s totally normalThe science behind the physical response to rejection (it’s not all in your head)How your brain turns a simple “no” into a worst-case-scenario spiralReal stories from Growth Studio artists navigating fear, discomfort, and unexpected winsWhat it means to build rejection resilience—and how to do itYou’ll also hear about a two-month Rejection Challenge happening inside Growth Studio, and why some artists are already discovering that the “no’s” they feared are turning into surprising “yeses.”If rejection has ever stopped you from taking action, this episode is for you.Links and Resources:Learn more about Growth StudioConnect with Antrese: @savvypainterpodcastLike what you hear?Please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more artists find this show. And if you know someone who needs to hear this, send it their way.Support the show
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23:54
In the Zone: Artists Talk Flow State (and Losing Track of Time)
Have you ever been so immersed in your painting that you completely lost track of time? That magical moment where everything clicks, the inner critic goes quiet, and it feels like the brush is moving on its own? That’s what we’re diving into today—flow state.But here’s the twist: is flow always a good thing? Or can it actually hold you back from experimenting and growing as an artist?In this episode, I’m bringing you inside Growth Studio for a real, unfiltered conversation with artists who are wrestling with those exact questions. You’ll hear how each of us defines and experiences flow, the unexpected ways it shows up (or doesn’t), and why your version of it might look completely different from anyone else's.Whether you’ve had that dreamy, meditative painting session or you’re wondering why it feels so elusive, this conversation will make you think differently about what flow actually is—and how it might be the key to unlocking your most authentic work.In This Episode:What flow state actually feels like—and why it’s different for everyoneThe surprising relationship between flow and experimentationHow presence and letting go of self-judgment are key to deep creative focusThe role of technical skill in entering (and sustaining) a flow stateWhy some artists lose track of time, and others feel like they “wake up” to a finished paintingHow being seen by others can either block or boost your creative rhythmAnd why finding flow might just be a form of falling in love—with your art and with yourselfBig Takeaways:Flow isn’t a formula—it’s deeply individual and may even shift over time.Being fully present is what unlocks your most powerful creative moments.Community matters—having other artists to talk with, compare notes, and challenge your thinking expands what’s possible.And maybe most importantly: flow feels like love—something you never want to end.If this episode speaks to you, imagine having these kinds of conversations all the time. That’s exactly what we do inside Growth Studio. If you’re looking for a supportive, inspiring artist community that challenges you and cheers you on—come join us.Support the show
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47:52
Finding Joy and Creative Possibility in Unfinished Work
Do you often feel guilty or frustrated when you see a piece of unfinished art in your studio? Instead of seeing that as proof of something wrong with you or your art practice, let’s transform your relationship with your works-in-progress and unlock new (and often overlooked) possibilities!In this episode of the Savvy Painter Podcast, learn how unfinished work holds the key to your next creative breakthrough. I explore the various types of incomplete pieces and the emotional baggage attached to them, how to overcome the self-criticism surrounding unfinished work, how to know when it’s time to release your hold on partly-done artwork, as well as advocate for embracing the untapped potential of unfinished art as part of creating a positive practice.1:39 – How I tend to categorize unfinished work5:05 – Internal and external reasons for leaving paintings unfinished6:58 – Common negative thoughts about unfinished work and my philosophy for creating a positive art practice13:05 – How to embrace the idea of letting go of a painting without feeling like a quitter19:42 – Other ways you can utilize unfinished paintings23:58 – How to know when it’s time to let go of a piece of incomplete artwork28:47 – What trusting in your creative process and the potential of unfinished paintings offer youMentioned in Finding Joy and Creative Possibility in Unfinished WorkJoin Growth StudioSupport the show
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33:44
The Slow Art Revolution — Because Instant Results Are a Scam
Art is inherently slow. It demands time, thought, and presence, so embracing that slowness is essential for creating meaningful work and maintaining your artistic well-being. Yet, many artists feel behind in their art journey because they’re not producing fast enough.In this episode of the Savvy Painter Podcast, I’ll challenge the idea that faster is better in the art world. You’ll discover how hustle culture distorts our perception of the artistic process and get a refreshing perspective that’ll help you reclaim the joy and depth of art-making in a fast-paced world.3:57 – The mindset that clashes with the time-sensitive nature of art creation7:51 – How social media puts pressure on artists to create faster10:54 – The drawbacks of chasing quick results with your art14:52 – The perks of embracing a slower approach with your art17:53 – Four quick steps to reclaim time, space, and creative joy in your art practiceMentioned in The Slow Art Revolution — Because Instant Results Are a ScamJoin Growth StudioSupport the show
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21:53
How to Make Art When You Don’t Feel Like an Artist
Does staring at a blank canvas sometimes cause you to question your abilities? Many artists (even those you admire) struggle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome, and the current chaotic world only amplifies those feelings. But what if the only thing holding you back is the mere thought that you aren’t an artist?In this episode of the Savvy Painter Podcast, we’ll dismantle the myth of the "real" artist and explore why waiting to embody this ideal is a waste of time. You’ll discover how imposter syndrome can signal that you're in the wrong environment (not the wrong career), how external stress fuels self-doubt, and how to regain control of your thoughts and stop looking for permission to be the artist you truly want to be.3:15 – Challenge your inner critic who thinks you're not a real artist10:33 – Re-define for yourself what it means to be an artist 14:00 – The importance of identifying who you want (and don’t want) to support you 17:54 – The power of choosing to embrace imperfection and uncertainty22:38 – Questions to ask when in self-doubt about your status as an artist Mentioned in How to Make Art When You Don’t Feel Like an ArtistThe Work of Byron KatieJoin Growth StudioSupport the show
Savvy Painter, hosted by Antrese Wood, offers a treasure trove of insights artists can't afford to miss. Visit https://savvypainter.com Antrese's teachings focus on nurturing a creative mindset and prioritizing mastery over perfection, making it a must-listen resource for artists worldwide.Whether you're an emerging artist looking to hone your skills or an established pro seeking fresh perspectives, the show offers practical advice and inspirationBut the real magic happens when you apply Antrese's teachings in your own studio. Her guidance can help you unlock new levels of creativity and growth in your art. If you're serious about elevating your skills and mindset, join Growth Studio—a unique opportunity to work directly with Antrese and join an amazing community of like minded artists.
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