In this episode of
The Professional Artist Podcast, figurative realist painter Patricia Watwood is featured by the Professional Artist Association (
ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world’s fastest growing global community for committed fine artists.
Celebrated for merging classical techniques with contemporary themes, Patricia shares her journey from training at the New York Academy of Art and the Water Street Atelier to a thriving career as both an artist and educator. She also reflects on her experience with major portrait commissions, including projects for institutions like Harvard University, and the balance between client expectations and artistic vision.
This episode highlights Patricia’s strategies for building a sustainable teaching practice, marketing effectively through platforms like Instagram and email, and staying authentic while navigating the business side of art. She also underscores the importance of community as a foundation for long-term professional growth.
Whether your focus is expanding visibility, refining your practice, or navigating the commission process, this deep dive offers actionable lessons and inspiration for fine artists.
“In terms of really nurturing your individual voice, I think it is more deeply connected to loving the self that you are, and feeling that what you have to express is good enough.”
– Patricia Watwood
Timestamps 00:00 Introduction
01:10 Patricia’s Journey: Balancing Classical Techniques and Modern Themes
02:08 Exploring
Dance of Life and Death and Art During Crisis
05:13 Transition from Theater to Classical Painting
07:00 Early Career: Selling Work and Developing a Personal Voice
09:40 Teaching Evolution: From Atelier to Online Platforms
12:55 Marketing and Visibility: Social Media, Email, and Sharing Process
14:48 Femen Flora: Protest, Beauty, and Justice in Art
18:24 Building a Career in Portraiture and Commission Work
21:18 The Role of Community, Peer Support, and Collaboration
27:01 Final Reflections: Nurturing Your Individual Artistic Voice
Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here:
Links to artworks discussed:
- Her artwork can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here.
Resources:
Connect with Patricia:
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.