In this episode of
The Professional Artist Podcast, art curator Amber Creswell Bell is featured by the Professional Artist Association (
ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest-growing global community for committed fine artists.
Amber is a PAA Faculty member, curator, author, and advocate for emerging creatives. As Director of Emerging Art at Michael Reid Galleries for six years and founder of the National Emerging Art Prize, she has championed unrepresented artists and created platforms that amplify their voices.
In this episode, Amber dives deep into the strategies and principles that define her work. She shares how she identifies and supports emerging artists, the methods she uses to help them find their voice and audience, and actionable ways to create platforms that foster community and growth. She also explores how artists can balance the demands of the art world with staying true to their creative vision, offering practical advice for navigating the industry while maintaining authenticity.
This conversation is packed with insights and inspiration for any creative looking to advance their career and make a meaningful impact in the art world.
“Don't sit back in your quiet studio and wait for it to come to you. I think the burning lesson there is that you really need to be proactive.”
– Amber Creswell Bell
Timestamps
01:10 Championing Emerging Artists and Creating Platforms
02:08 Amber’s Artistic Inspirations and Cy Twombly’s Influence
04:03 Approaching Galleries: Common Mistakes and Best Practices
09:01 Amber’s Transition from Corporate Career to Curator
13:06 Making Art Accessible: Exhibitions and Inclusive Approaches
15:18 Creating Opportunities: Pop-Up Exhibitions and Collaboration
17:00 Pivotal Moments: Curating First Show and Working with Michael Reid
19:39 Founding the National Emerging Art Prize
22:19 Writing Books: Breaking Down Barriers in the Art World
27:02 The Role of Books and Digital Platforms in Promoting Art
29:02 Social Media and Balancing Content Creation with Art Practice
31:04 Final Advice: Be Proactive, Push Past Comfort Zones, and Stay Engaged
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 Amber:
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.