Empowering The Artist Within

Overcoming self-doubt, embracing imperfection, and finding clarity on your creative path. Sponsor the Podcast; https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross Episode Summary In this warm, uplifting conversation, Liz Ross welcomes gentle creative guide Jo McCarthy to explore the real journey of being an artist and creative entrepreneur. Together, they discuss overcoming self-doubt, embracing imperfection, and building confidence in your creative business. This episode is a nurturing space for creative souls, offering gentle encouragement, practical advice, and soulful support for anyone seeking authenticity and growth in their creative path. Guest Introduction Jo Mcarthy Jo is a gentle creative guide based in Wales, known for supporting makers, artists, and creatives in finding clarity and confidence. With a background in education, business, and creative mentoring, Jo brings a holistic, nurturing approach to helping creative souls thrive. Key Topics & Quotes Timestamp Topic Key Quote 00:00 Introduction to Jo and her creative journey “I was always a creative child, and now my greatest joy is supporting other artists and makers to find clarity in their work.” 06:00 Creating for wellbeing and mental health “Creating is so important for our mental health and wellbeing—it doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.” 07:00 Social media, self-perception, and the ‘Looking Glass Self’ “Our sense of self is shaped by how we think others see us, especially in the age of social media.” 09:00 Permission to create imperfectly and overcome fear “If you allow your creativity to be intuitive and imperfect, you give yourself and others permission to begin.” 13:00 Gardening analogies for creative business and personal growth “Real growth starts in the soil—know your roots before you reach for results.” 18:00 The privilege of supporting creatives one-to-one “It’s a privilege to draw people out and give them the space to be truly seen and heard.” 23:00 Gentle, actionable marketing tips for artists “Marketing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—sometimes it’s as simple as making sure your name appears on your website.” 39:00 Accepting overthinking and building it into your process “Don’t fight overthinking—build it into your creative process and make it work for you.” 44:00 Working with personal cycles, seasons, and respecting your capacity “Pay attention to your own rhythms and seasons, and let your creative practice adapt to what you need.” 56:00 Investing in yourself and pursuing creativity for wellbeing “Investing in your creativity is an act of self-care and responsibility for your own wellbeing.” 57:00 Final reflections: giving yourself time, attention, and permission to create “Give yourself the time and attention you deserve—your creative journey matters.” Resources Mentioned Connected Artist Club with Alice Sheridan https://www.soulrocketstudio.com/connected-interest Jo’s Website https://jomccarthy.com & Newsletter https://jo-mccarthy.myflodesk.com/the-garden-shed Stay Connected with Me! Website: https://www.artbylizross.com/ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross Support the podcast + creative work. Instagram (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast Join our creative community on Telegram for creative support and gentle guidance. https://t.me/+9EW5_m6DdSU5YTc0 Download: Take five minutes for yourself today! Get your free creativity guide and start building confidence, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in your creative journey. Coming Soon! Subscribe for creative support, nurturing words, and heartfelt encouragement. **https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share** Buy Me a Coffee: Support the podcast + creative work. https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross Music Credit: Feeling Good by Doug Maxwell

In this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, Liz Ross speaks with Matija, founder and director of MASA UK Gallery, about what it really means to be an artist — from developing your craft and trusting your voice, to navigating galleries, rejection, and the courage it takes to show your work. This nourishing conversation is filled with wisdom for artists at every stage. Matija shares her heartfelt mission to support local creatives, uplift emerging artists, and make original art accessible to everyone. If you’ve ever wondered how to approach a gallery, whether your work is “good enough,” or how to keep going when doubt creeps in — this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and the reminder that you are not alone. From the Episode “Don’t paint what you think will sell. Paint what’s in your heart — that’s what people connect with.” A grounding reminder that your authentic artistic voice is your greatest strength. What You’ll Hear How MASA UK Gallery began and their mission to support local artists Encouragement for artists who feel nervous or unsure about approaching galleries What galleries look for in artwork (and what they don’t) Why practice, consistency, and lifelong learning matter Honest conversations about rejection, readiness, and developing your craft The emotional connection between artist, gallery, and collector Stories of inspiring artists exhibiting at MASA, including Jo Morton and Julian Lees The importance of community, relationship-building, and showing up 💬 Key Messages Your art is a moment in time, it deserves to be seen. You don’t have to be perfect to begin. Every artist grows through practice, passion, and patience. Approaching a gallery isn’t something to fear, it’s part of your journey. Galleries love watching artists evolve over time. Keep learning, keep experimenting, keep showing up. ✨ Mentioned in This Episode 🖼️ MASA UK Galleries MASA UK Gallery – Bury Website: https://masa-uk.co.uk Instagram: @masa_art MASA UK Gallery – Altrincham Website: https://masa-uk.co.uk Instagram: @masa_art 🎨 Artist: Jo Morton Currently exhibiting at MASA Gallery Bury Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jomortonartist/ 🎨 Artist: Julian Lees Exhibiting at MASA Gallery Altrincham 🎨 Other Artists Mentioned Kate Collins – Painter known for her beautiful china work Dave Coulter – Self-taught artist with an extraordinary journey David Swithenbank – Celebrated sculptor, former President of Bury Art Society 🎪 Events & Exhibitions ✨ MASA UK ArtX Biennale Exhibition Featuring 30 artists including ME! - I’m very excited to have 2 of my artworks in this exhibition! 5 December – 21 December 2025 Exhibited across both MASA galleries (Bury & Altrincham) A beautiful opportunity to discover new artists, support local talent, and gift meaningful artwork for the holidays. ✨ Manchester Art Fair MASA UK Gallery will be exhibiting artists work at manchester Art Fair 22nd & 23rd November 2025 Details: https://manchesterartfair.co.uk 💌 Stay Connected ✨ Website: https://www.artbylizross.com – Explore Liz’s artwork, blog posts, and creative offerings. ☕ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross – Support the podcast and Liz’s creative work. 🎨 Instagram (Art): https://www.instagram.com/artbylizross – Artwork, inspiration, and behind the scenes. 🎧 Instagram (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast – Episode updates and creative reflections. 🎁 Free Printable: Get your free affirmation gift now: https://subscribepage.io/affirmationgift

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within! I'm your host Liz Ross and after a few weeks away, I’m catching you up on what’s been happening behind the scenes. In this week’s episode I’m sharing an honest catch-up on life, art, and creative courage. From taking time off for rest to showing up live on YouTube for the first time! We’ll talk about embracing imperfection, what consistency really means, and why sharing the messy moments matters just as much as celebrating the wins. In this episode, I talk about: 🌿 Why I was forced to rest and take a break from the Podcast 🎨 My recent experiences with open calls and what happens when things don’t go the way you hope 💻 Going live on YouTube for the first time (and how I found the courage to hit “Go Live”) 💫 Why consistency doesn’t always mean perfection — and what it can look like for artists like us 🖌️ My latest art explorations and what’s inspiring me creatively right now This is a gentle, honest catch-up episode about the highs and lows of being a creative and how sharing the “messy middle” can be just as uplifting as sharing our wins. ✨ Mentioned in this episode: My YouTube Channel: Art by Liz Ross Free Procreate Masterclass: http://subscribepage.io/freeprocreatemasterclass Buy Me A Coffee; Podcast guest episodes mentioned: Ep. 29 — Bury Art Museum Ep. 30 — Gabriel Lipper 💜 Let’s stay connected: Podcast Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithin My website; https://www.artbylizross.com ETAW Facebook Group; https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity Procreate Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/procreateartcommunity If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to follow, rate, or leave a review - it means so much and helps others find the show.

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth! I’m your host Liz Ross, and today we’re diving into an inspiring episode with the wonderful artist Gabriel Lipper. Gabriel joins me to share his evolution from classical realism to blending abstraction with representation, and his philosophy on creating art that’s both skillful and free. We explore the balance between disciplined practice and creative freedom, the role of community, and the importance of carving out time for art in everyday life. Gabriel also introduces his courses, including Learning to See and the upcoming Figure Workshop, designed to guide artists at every stage of their journey. Sign up for Gabriel Lipper’s Figure Workshop; https://www.8paint.art/a/2148170151/JAN3t2oU (Affiliate link) - If you sign up through my link, I’ll earn a small commission - at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support my podcast while you enjoy the course. This conversation is full of insights for anyone looking to grow as an artist, overcome fear, and embrace a more joyful, authentic approach to making art. 💛 In this episode: How Gabriel navigated his artistic journey from classical training to personal style. Gabriel talks about his 21 a Week Sketch Challenge, great for improving drawing skills. The value of community and connecting directly with fellow artists and buyers. How to create cohesive collections while embracing experimentation. We discuss our thoughts on tools like tracing and digital drawing to support learning. Why you should prioritise art over life’s other demands. Gabriel shares practical advice for aspiring artists at any stage. Art is a journey, and this episode is a beautiful reminder that growth, joy, and connection flourish when we approach it with curiosity and courage. 🌿 ✨ Mini Challenge: Pick one way to make time for your own creative practice this week. It could be a 15-minute sketch, experimenting with a new technique, or starting a small collection of pieces. Notice how it feels to create without pressure or expectation. Come over to the Facebook group and let us know what you created. https://facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity ⭐️ Question of the week: What’s one way you’re embracing creative freedom in your art right now? Come over to my podcast Instagram account and share your thoughts. I can’t wait to hear your stories! 🗣️ Mentioned in this episode: Sign up for Gabriel Lipper’s Figure Workshop; https://www.8paint.art/a/2148170151/JAN3t2oU (Affiliate link) - If you sign up through my link, I’ll earn a small commission - at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support my podcast while you enjoy the course. Gabriel Lipper Website https://artofgabriel.com https://www.8paint.art 8PaintArt - Explore Gabriel’s courses, including Learning to See and the upcoming Figure Workshop. 💌 Connect & Support: Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️ — Every cup helps me create more inspiring episodes for you! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show. Join my Free Procreate Masterclass here - https://subscribepage.io/freeprocreatemasterclass Sign up to my email list; https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share Join me on Instagram at my podcast account: @empoweringtheartistwithin Explore my art, free resources, and creative inspiration here: www.artbylizross.com Follow my main Instagram: @artbylizross Submit a question: Email liz@artbylizross.com — I love hearing from you! Keep creating, keep exploring, and above all, keep believing in yourself. Liz 🌿

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth! I’m your host Liz Ross, and this episode is all about allowing for freedom in your creativity through traditional & digital art journaling. If you’ve ever felt stuck staring at a blank page, pressured to “finish” an art journal spread, or afraid of ruining something you like, you are not alone. So many artists get caught up in perfectionism and fear of the outcome. In this episode you’ll hear about my experience with art journaling, how it can provide us with a safe space for expression, and how digital art can change everything. We’ll talk about how digital art tools, like Procreate, can open new doors to creativity. Just like traditional art journaling, they give you permission to experiment, explore, and create without the pressure of a finished result. 💛 In this episode, you’ll discover how to: Release the need for perfection in your art journaling. Use unfinished and layered pages as part of your creative practice. Use digital tools like Procreate to inform your artistic practice and create new art from old. Gather photos of existing work, gel prints, collage papers and photographs and use them in a Procreate. Use Procreate as a playful, pressure-free tool to explore, experiment and play. Art is not about the medium, it’s about the freedom to express yourself. Your creativity is valid, meaningful, and worth celebrating🌿 ✨ Mini Challenge: Import a photo of your art into Procreate If you don’t know how sign up for my FREE Procreate Masterclass and I’ll show you You could choose to import a gelli print, collage paper, page from your art journal or a canvas piece. Play around with the brushes, make some marks and have some fun playing. Export as a jpg and sae to your camera roll. Come over to my new Facebook group and share your explorations with us. ⭐️Question of the week: Do you use Procreate or another digital tool in your creative practice? How do you feel about mixing digital and traditional ? Head over to my new instagram account and let me know your answer in the comments - look for the question above in my feed and pop your thoughts under it. 💌 Connect & Support: Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️ — Every cup helps me create more inspiring episodes for you! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show. Join me on Instagram at my new podcast account: @empoweringtheartistwithin Explore my art, free resources, and creative inspiration here: www.artbylizross.com Follow me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/artbylizross/ Submit a question: Email liz@artbylizross.com with a question you’d like me to discuss on the Podcast or if you want to reach out and let me know your thoughts on any of the episodes so far - I love to hear from you. 🗣️ Mentioned in this episode: Kaisa Hart - 7 Day Mark Making Challenge https://www.kaisahart.com/mindful-mark-making-challenge Kaisa Hart Free Art Journaling Course https://www.kaisahart.com/art-journaling-joy-course Follow Kaisa on instagram https://www.instagram.com/artistkaisahart/ Keep creating, keep exploring, and remember your art doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerful. 🌿

So many of us long to share our art, our voice, or even just a glimpse of ourselves online but when it comes to actually doing it, confidence crumbles. The inner critic kicks in, negative thoughts spiral, and before we know it, we’ve shrunk ourselves small again. If that feels familiar, this episode is for you. I open up about my own journey of building confidence; from barely being able to speak up on video calls, to recording podcast episodes without a script. Along the way, I share the practices and mindset shifts that helped me grow braver, and the importance of having community support when you’re learning to show up. Together we’ll look at: Why negative thoughts and limiting beliefs keep us quiet and small. How to reframe those stories into encouragement and possibility. Why giving yourself permission to be imperfect is one of the most freeing things you can do. The magic of sharing your work even if it’s messy, unfinished, or unpolished. How letting go actually makes space for new opportunities. You’ll walk away from this episode with encouragement to start showing up as you are, permission to be imperfect, and a reminder that your creativity is worth celebrating. Because your art is magic. And it deserves to be seen.----more---- With thanks to my supporters; @artistkaisahart @annafmacdonaldart @sg_art_and_journals ----more----Connect with me - Liz Ross:For more inspiration & creative encouragement follow me on Instagram @artbylizross or sign up for my newsletter at artbylizross.com ☕️ If you enjoyed this episode support the show by buying me a coffee Grab my FREE Procreate Masterclass here

Welcome to Empowering the Artist Within, the podcast that nurtures your creativity, builds your confidence, and reminds you that your art and your story matter. I’m your host, Liz Ross, and today’s conversation is a tender and expansive one with the wonderful artist and community builder, Kasia Hart. Together we explore what it really looks like to keep showing up for your creativity while navigating the realities of life. We talk about creative momentum, resistance, and the beauty of being witnessed by someone who just gets it. It’s open, honest, and full of those “me too” moments that make artist friendships so meaningful. If you’ve ever questioned your pace, your voice, or your place in the creative world, this one’s for you. What to Expect: Honest reflections on creative identity and self-doubt The difference between being productive and being present How to keep going when resistance shows up Why community and artist friendships matter so much Thoughts on showing up as yourself Talking about your work, showing your work, and letting it evolve Key Takeaways: Your art doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful. Artist friendships are medicine - you don’t need to create alone. It’s okay to grow slowly. It’s okay to start again. Your creativity doesn’t disappear - it transforms. Talking about your work helps you understand it. Showing up imperfectly is better than not showing up at all. Artists & Links Mentioned: Liz Ross @artbylizross | www.artbylizross.com Kasia Hart: @artistkaisahart | Galia Alena: @galiaalena | galiaalena.com Lewis Noble: @lewisnoble_artist | //www.lewisnoble.co.uk/ Louise Fletcher @louisefletcher_art | https://www.louisefletcherart.com/ If this conversation resonated: Subscribe to Empowering the Artist Within Leave a review; it helps others find this space Share it with an artist friend who needs encouragement Find more stories + support at artbylizross.com Follow me on Instagram: @artbylizross Join my mailing list for private podcast episodes.

Is it ever too late to become a full-time artist? In this episode, Host of Empowering the Artist Within, Liz Ross talks with painter and printmaker Sam Waters, Sam shares how she reignited her creativity after decades in corporate life and what it really took to rebuild her confidence, momentum, and art practice from the ground up. Liz and Sam explore how past experiences can support your creative future, why community and artist friendships matter, and the mindset shifts that helped Sam step into life as a working artist. For anyone navigating the space between a creative calling and real-life responsibilities, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and honest encouragement. Sam's encouragement; “It’s never the worst thing that happens. In fact, usually more opportunities open up.” 🎯 Key Takeaways You’re never too late. Creative energy doesn’t disappear - it waits. Your past is not a detour. Every job or skill can fuel your art life now. Treat your art like it matters. Know your worth, track your numbers, and plan intentionally. Creative friendships are fuel. Find your people - they’ll keep you going. Momentum is built, not found. Small actions; sketchbooks, shows, community - it all adds up. Give yourself freedom. Time spent organising, thinking, or pausing is still part of the process. 🔗 Links & Resources Sam’s Website Follow Sam on Instagram – @samwatersartist Connected Artist Club Waitlist – Listen to Episode 20 with Alice Sheridan ✨ If this episode resonated with you… Share it with a friend who’s returning to their creativity. Leave a review - it helps other artists find the show. Join my newsletter for inspiration, private podcast and support for your art journey: I'm in! Explore more episodes at: artbylizross.com/podcast

In this soul-nourishing episode, Liz Ross is joined by the incredible Alice Sheridan; artist, mentor, and founder of the Connected Artist Club. Alice has been a guiding light in my own creative path, and it was such a joy to sit down with her and explore what it truly means to live a creative life. We talk about how our art reflects the seasons we’re in, how it helps us explore who we’re becoming, and why creativity is never linear. Alice shares powerful insights on permission, process, and what it means to create from the heart. We also explore the origins and evolution of the Connected Artist Club and why Alice has always made space for both structure and softness, strategy and soul, in the way she supports artists. This episode is an open-hearted look at how we grow; not just as artists, but as humans. ✨ Takeaways from this episode include: Why art is a space to explore the parts of yourself that aren’t fully formed yet How your creative seasons shift with your life and that’s okay The value of community and why artists thrive when they're not isolated That you don’t have to monetize your art for it to matter The difference between gathering information and making real change The three pillars of growth inside the Connected Artist Club: Self, Studio Practice, and Structure Why Alice created a membership instead of a course and how it’s evolved over time How to make peace with going at your own pace That nurturing your creativity can be enough, it doesn’t need to be justified The value of slow, steady, heart-led growth 🌼 Listen in for a thoughtful, real and encouraging chat and don’t forget to check out Alice’s Connected Artist Club if you’re looking for long-term support in your creative life. You can find out more and put your name on the waitlist here; Connected Artist Waitlist Find Alice Sheridan: www.alicesheridan.com | @alicesheridanstudio Find Liz Ross: www.artbylizross.com | @artbylizross Find Kaisa Hart: www.kaisahart.com | @artistkaisahart If this conversation resonated: Subscribe to Empowering the Artist Within Leave a review; it helps others find this space Share it with an artist friend who needs encouragement Find more stories + support at artbylizross.com Follow me on Instagram: @artbylizross

In Part 2 of my conversation with minimalist artist and founder of The Organised Artist, Anna Macdonald, we dive even deeper into how she created clarity and calm in the midst of life’s chaos. Anna shares how her experience with ADHD, anxiety, and motherhood led her to seek a more peaceful, structured way of living and how her passion for minimalism, organisation, and creativity came together to support her own healing. Now she's helping artists to take control of their lives, through her membership - The Organised Artist. We talk about: The overstimulation creatives often experience and how to gently reduce it How physical space affects emotional wellbeing and creative focus The power of giving yourself permission to do what feels right Simple ways to create structure when time, energy, or brain space is limited How Anna discovered her gift and built a business around helping others do the same Whether you’re navigating overwhelm, ADHD, or just craving a more intentional way of creating and living, this episode offers both comfort and practical insight. 🌿 LISTEN NOW to hear how Anna turned personal challenges into a calm, connected creative life and how you can too. 💬 Connect with Anna: 🌐 The Organised Artist Website📸 Organised Artist on Instagram 🌐 Anna F Macdonal Website 📸 Anna F Macdonald on Instagram 💛 Stay Connected with Me: 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com📸 Instagram: @artbylizross👥 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community📌 Pinterest: artbylizross 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & your favourite podcast app.

Welcome to Empowering the Artist Within! I’m Liz Ross, and in this gentle, grounding episode, I’m inviting you to step away from pressure and perfection and reconnect with the joy of creating from the heart. These affirmations are here to support your creative journey; to help you release fear, honour your voice, and make space for honest, imperfect expression. This episode is your reminder: you don’t have to be perfect to begin. You’re enough, just as you are. ✨ Affirmations: Creating Without Fear I release the need to be perfect. My creativity flows with ease and truth. I give myself permission to create freely and messily. I trust the process, even when the outcome is unclear. I honour progress over perfection. I allow my art to be honest and raw. I am safe to express myself exactly as I am. My creativity is valid, even in its roughest form. I make art from my soul, from a place of joy, not stress. I am enough, not when it’s finished, not when it’s polished—right now. I honour my voice, just as it is. Every time I share, I grow stronger. 💬 Connect with Me: ✨ Instagram: @artbylizross✨ Facebook: Art by Liz Ross🎨 Join the community: Empowered Artist Facebook Group🌐 Website: www.artbylizross.com If this episode resonated with you, I’d love it if you’d subscribe, leave a review, or share it with a fellow creative. Your voice and your presence here matter. Let’s keep showing up, messy and magical. Until next time keep creating, keep exploring, and most of all, keep believing in yourself. 💫

Join me, Liz Ross for this gentle and uplifting affirmation episode of Empowering The Artist Within. Today I'm inviting you to slow down, tune in, and reconnect with your creative spirit. Through a calming mini meditation and 10 powerful affirmations, this episode is here to remind you: you are enough exactly as you are. You don’t need to be perfect to be worthy, visible, or creative. Let these words help you release self-doubt, embrace your imperfections, and show up with courage and authenticity in your art and your life. ☕ Take a moment for yourself, breathe deep, and press play. 🔗 Connect with Me & Explore More 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com📸 Instagram: @artbylizross📘 Facebook Page: Art by Liz Ross🎥 YouTube: @artbylizross📌 Pinterest: @artbylizross🎵 TikTok: @artbylizross💬 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community

Start your day with affirmations designed to help you reconnect with your creativity, nurture your inner artist, and find the courage to be seen. This gentle, uplifting episode weaves together a short guided meditation and 10 powerful affirmations inspired by themes of healing, self-expression, and creative rediscovery. Remember; your creativity is always waiting for you. Liz Ross 🔗 Connect with Me & Explore More 🌐 Website: artbylizross.com📸 Instagram: @artbylizross📘 Facebook Page: Art by Liz Ross🎥 YouTube: @artbylizross📌 Pinterest: @artbylizross🎵 TikTok: @artbylizross💬 Facebook Group: Empowered Artist Community