In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, self-taught oil painter Debbie Daniels is featured by the Professional Artist Association (
ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest-growing global community for committed fine artists.
Debbie is a painter celebrated for her immersive depictions of the sea and the natural beauty of the San Juan Islands. Her work captures the movement of water, inviting viewers to feel as though they are part of the scene. A member of the Professional Artist Association, the Oil Painters of America, and the American Society of Marine Artists, Debbie has also built a vibrant artist community through the Friday Harbor Atelier.
In this deep dive, Debbie shares pivotal lessons from her artistic journey, including the power of collaboration and how accountability sustains a creative career. She also discusses how overcoming the fear of rejection and being persistent can lead to meaningful growth as an artist.
“We discuss your challenges and define your next key step. You come back next week and share whether you've accomplished it. That’s where the accountability comes in.”
– Debbie Daniels
Timestamps:
01:50 Debbie’s Connection to the Ocean: Finding Peace Through Water
03:15 Painting Movement and Light: Evolving a Lifelong Theme
05:17 Building Community: The Mastermind Group and Artist Accountability
08:20 Founding Friday Harbor Atelier: Turning Vision into a Space for Artists
12:02 Redefining Success: Creating an Art Community Without Borders
13:30 Focus and Growth: Systems, Habits, and Pivotal Career Moments
16:22 Overcoming Fear and Rejection: The Power of Persistence
17:55 Painting for the Soul: Art Beyond Money and Recognition
19:07 Creativity in Community: Connection, Courage, and Shared Purpose
19:46 Outro: Gratitude and Call to Inspire Others
Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here:
Links to artworks discussed:
- Her artworks can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.
Resources:
Connect with Debbie:
Learn more about The Professional Artist Association:
Free training and resources:
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What is The Professional Artist Podcast: Art Business Transformations?
If you want to make it in the art world, talent is key - but so is mastering the business side. The Professional Artist Podcast is where fine artists and commerce meet.
Co-hosts Miguel L. Mayher and Cristina Demiany guide visual artists through an audio gallery, exploring how to show and sell your art, land commissions, apply for artist grants, license your art, and much more.
This is where your art career begins to grow.
Miguel L. Mayher is the Director of Education at the Professional Artist Association. Previously, he worked with Google Arts & Culture, striking partnerships with national museums. He is also a Global Economic Symposium Young Fellow and a One Young World Ambassador.
Cristina Demiany is a Senior Art Business Coach at the Professional Artist Association. She formerly served as Senior Program Manager at Sotheby’s Institute of Art and as Executive Director of the National Children’s Chorus.
The Professional Artist Association is a global organization dedicated to providing real-world education for visual artists, including painters, sculptors, and fine art photographers.