The Art of Making Art

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/

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

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

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

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