In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, contemporary sculptor Daniel Lai is featured by the Professional Artist Association (
https://professionalartist.com/join), the world's fastest-growing global community for committed fine artists.
Daniel is a Malaysian-born, self-taught artist based in St. Petersburg, Florida, best known for his narrative sculptures that combine books, clay, and metaphor. Through playful yet intellectually charged forms, his work examines the human experience and addresses social issues with clarity, curiosity, and depth.
Transforming discarded and everyday materials into story-rich sculptures, Daniel has built an internationally recognized practice, earning major awards and cultivating a dedicated base of collectors drawn to the emotional and conceptual accessibility of his work.
In this deep dive, Daniel shares the pivotal moments that shaped his artistic path—from finding his voice to sustaining a meaningful studio practice. He reflects on the importance of patience, long-term thinking, and relationship-building in developing a resilient art career.
This episode offers thoughtful guidance for artists seeking to leverage their unique perspective, build authentic connections with collectors, and navigate the challenges of creating a sustainable art business rooted in purpose and storytelling.
“You cannot deny who you truly are. I knew that if I were to follow the conventional path , get a nine to five job or teaching, it will eat up my soul..”
— Daniel Lai
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:10 The Importance of Following Your Heart in Art
02:09 Transitioning from Academia to Full-Time Art
03:47 Exploring His Narrative Sculpture, "Together, We Rise"
08:10 The Role of Found Materials in Daniel's Work
11:30 The Journey from Mundane to Socially Engaged Art
14:30 The Process of Connecting Dots in Sculpture
19:00 Inviting Collectors into the Artistic Narrative
22:30 The Value of Building a Supportive Email List
25:30 Navigating the Logistics of a Traveling Art Career
29:30 The Impact of Weather on Outdoor Art Shows
31:00 Confronting Social Issues through Art
33:00 The Importance of Patience and Preparation in the Artistic Process
Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here:
Links to artworks discussed:
- His artworks can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.
Connect with Daniel:
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.