This is How We Create 1y172x

Have you ever woken up feeling inexplicably frustrated for no apparent reason? This morning, I found myself battling some serious irritation. Through this raw, relatable moment, I discovered something important about what happens when our deepest values start pulling us in opposite directions.  In this mini-episode, I share a simple but powerful approach to navigating those moments when you feel torn between what you want and need to do. Sometimes the most profound insights come from the most ordinary moments.  Chapters 00:00 - Welcome to This is How We Create 00:30 - The Unexplained Frustration: A Morning Quiche Story 01:45 - Discovering Two Warring Values 02:20 - The Framework: Pause, Identify, and Plan Ahead 03:30 - Honoring Both Values While Moving Forward 04:15 - Call to Action and Closing  the Show  Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack   This podcast episode is produced and written by Martine Severin and edited by Daniel Espinosa.  

Have you ever had a moment when everything you thought you knew about your path suddenly shifted? In today's episode, I sit down with textile artist Qualeasha Wood, whose innovative work bridges digital imagery with traditional craft techniques. She reveals the unexpected moments that led her from a completely different path into textile art. Qualeasha also shares the profound encounter that changed the trajectory of her art practice. Through stories about family, creativity, and finding her authentic voice, Qualeasha offers powerful insights for any artist navigating their creative journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Qualeasha Wood and Her Art Journey 02:57 The Impact of Family and Community on Creativity 06:06 Early Influences and the Search for Representation in Art 08:53 Navigating the Art World: From Discouragement to Discovery 11:47 Finding a Medium: The Shift from Illustration to Printmaking 15:02 The Role of Textiles in Qualeasha's Artistic Expression 18:08 The Influence of Faith Ringgold and Career Shifts 21:09 Exploring Printmaking and the Intersection of Art and Identity 24:35 The Journey into Textile 27:50 Exploring Identity through Art 32:08 The Evolution of Artistic Mediums 37:12 Navigating Graduate School Decisions 41:00 Redefining Success in Art 47:35 Legacy and Impact through Textiles   Connect With Qualeasha: Website: Qualeasha’s Website Instagram: Qualeasha Wood the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives  

If you’ve ever needed to get your bum into gear but couldn’t find motivation, this episode is for you.  In this mini-episode, I share my personal toolkit for getting things done. Listen in for the tools and leave knowing that next time your brain tries to lure you with procrastination, you’ll be able to resist temptation.   Chapters 00:00 The Struggle with Procrastination 02:44 Understanding the Cognitive Behavioral Triangle 04:08 The Power of ability 06:46 Finding the Right ability Partner 07:44 Creative ability Techniques 09:33 Tools for Enhanced Focus and Productivity   Resources Mentioned: The platform that connects you with work partners worldwide: Focusmate Pomodoro timer app/website for task management: Pomofocus My favorite work with me videos: Celine and why not work with Marie Forleo   the Show Website: Martine Severin  Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate  Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack   This podcast episode is produced and written by Martine Severin and edited by Daniel Espinosa.  

Have you wondered how artists manage to capture the essence of their subjects?  In today’s episode, I sit down with portrait artist Tafy LaPlanche, whose cultural background shapes her distinctive artistic approach. She shares why certain creative detours—including a complete break from art ultimately strengthened her artistic voice. Through personal stories and artistic insights, Tafy offers powerful inspiration for anyone navigating their own creative path while searching for authentic connection in their work.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tafy LaPlanche 02:54 The Journey of an Afro-Latina Artist 06:11 Finding Artistic Voice Through Diverse Experiences 09:02 The Influence of Cultural Background on Art 11:51 Rediscovering ion During a Pandemic 14:58 The Impact of Fashion Photography on Portraiture 17:47 Creating Authentic Connections Through Portraits 21:07 The Process of Capturing Subjects 23:54 Dreams of Mural Art and Community Engagement 27:02 Balancing Flight Attendant Life with Art 30:01 The Importance of Focus in Artistic Creation 33:04 Advice to Younger Self and Conclusion   CONNECT WITH TAFY: Website: https://lepouf-art.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lepouf_art/ the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives  

Are you struggling to maintain creative momentum when motivation disappears? In this mini-episode, we chat about the neuroscience behind keeping promises to yourself. Through a battle with temptation at the grocery store, I share how small decisions rewire your brain and build creative resilience.  Tune in for practical strategies that may help you overcome seemingly impossible deadlines. This episode provides both scientific understanding and actionable wisdom for artists facing creative blocks, showing why each choice matters more than you realize.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Importance of Representation 01:26 Neuroscience of Keeping Promises to Yourself 03:15 The Battle of Impulses and Commitment 06:32 Building Neural Pathways Through Consistency 09:19 The Power of External ability 12:40 Creating a ive Community 14:10 Making Choices for Your Future Self   Website: Martine Severin  Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate  Subscribe to our newsletter, Creative Matters: Martine's Substack   Production Credits This podcast episode is produced and written by Martine Severin and edited by Daniel Espinosa.

What drives you to translate your innermost thoughts into visual expression?  Visual artist Lana Abraham-Murawski shares her creative journey and how her unique cultural heritage shaped her artistic style.  In this intimate conversation, Lana reveals the transformative power of mentorship in her development and her thoughtful approach to balancing artistic ambitions with family life.  She takes us behind the scenes of her striking piece 'Meeting of the Mind,' exploring how she weaves themes of nature, society, and human connection into her work.  Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Lana illustrates how art becomes not just a form of self-expression but a powerful bridge between identity, community, and the natural world. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lana Abraham Moravsky 03:03 Lana's Artistic Journey and Background 06:10 Exploring Identity Through Art 08:52 The Evolution of Artistic Style 11:56 Transitioning from College to Professional Art 15:02 Balancing Art and Life 17:50 Deep Dive into Specific Art Pieces 20:48 The Concept Behind 'Meeting of the Mind' 26:41 Exploring Imagination Through Art 27:47 The Evolution of Artistic Expression 29:30 Symbolism in Art: The Peregrine Orbs 35:20 Nature and Identity in Artistic Creation 40:25 Cultural Roots and Artistic Influence 45:04 Finding Community and Collectors 47:26 Advice for Aspiring Artists Connect with Our Guest: Lana’s Website: Lana Abraham Follow Lana on Instagram: Lana Abraham-Murawski on Instagram   the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack Production Credits This episode was produced by Martine Severin. This episode has been edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.  

In this mini episode, I’m sharing something that’s been on my heart lately: that uncomfortable place where our creative ideas get stuck. You know the one — where you’re holding onto something beautiful, but fear, perfectionism, or just plain old procrastination keeps it tucked away. This reflection was sparked by a recent conversation with my sister. She has an amazing idea she’s been sitting on since the pandemic, and it got me thinking… How often do we do this to ourselves? How often do we protect our ideas so much that we stop them from growing? In this episode, I talk about the power of small steps — the kind that might seem insignificant at first, but that slowly, steadily builds momentum. If you’ve been feeling stuck or overwhelmed about where to start, this one’s for you. No pressure, just a gentle nudge to begin. Even the tiniest action matters. Let’s walk through it together.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Life 02:58 The Dangers of Limbo and Resistance 06:14 Navigating Procrastination and Community 09:04 Taking Small Steps Towards Momentum 11:54 Embracing Your Creative Journey Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack   Production Credits This podcast episode is produced and written by Martine Severin and edited by Daniel Espinosa  

Have you ever wondered how childhood obsessions evolve into creative careers? Fiction writer Pemi Aguda takes us on her journey from creating mini-magazines as a six-year-old in Lagos, Nigeria to publishing internationally acclaimed fiction. In today's chat, Pemi reveals how her "lonesome" childhood with books transformed into a writing career that explores Nigerian women's experiences and the weight of ancestry. Stay for Pemi's tips on how to become a better writer and on how to find your artistic voice as a author. Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide as part of a fictional narrative. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know you are not alone. Resources for are listed below. Chapters 00:00 Introduction  02:56 Pemi Aguda's Journey from Lagos to Writing 05:50 The Evolution of Pemi's Writing Process 08:55 Understanding Creative Voice and Teaching 12:01 The Art of Revision and Storytelling 14:52 Exploring Themes in Pemi's Work 17:59 The Influence of Ancestry on Writing 21:12 Literary Influences and Inspirations 24:11 Writing Habits and Routines 27:06 Life Beyond Writing: Hobbies and Interests 29:55 Conclusion and Future Works Connect with Pemi Aguda Website: pemiaguda.com Instagram: @pemi.i Order "Ghost Roots" : Penguin Random House Connect with Your Host Website: martineseverin.com Instagram:Instagram Newsletter:Creative Matters This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinoza. Suicide Prevention Resources American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988lifeline.org If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. Veterans, press 1 when calling. Crisis Text Line Text TALK to 741-741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7

Are you self-sabotaging your creative success? In this mini-episode, we explore the psychology behind why we often set ourselves up for failure just when opportunities arise. Drawing from personal observations and psychological research, Martine Severin examine the "upper limit problem" - our internal thermostat for success - and offer practical strategies to break through these self-imposed barriers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to This Is How We Create 02:24 Understanding the Upper Limit Problem 04:38 The Grief of Transformation 06:52 How Social Media Amplifies Our Limits 09:10 Strategies to Overcome Upper Limit Problems 11:36 Invitation to Connect and Subscribe Connect With Us Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack the Show Leave a review to help other creators of color discover the show Subscribe to the Creative Matters newsletter for weekly inspiration Production Credits Podcast produced and edited by Martine Severin.  

What happens when a pediatric nurse turned wedding planner discovers her ultimate calling in champagne? our conversation with Samantha Danielle, founder of LoveLuvv a sparkling wine brand. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about career pivots, entrepreneurial tenacity, and building a purpose-driven luxury brand.  Samantha shares her remarkable journey from nursing to wedding planning to creating a social impact champagne brand that donates 10% of proceeds to domestic violence causes, proving that when vision meets determination, extraordinary things happen. Chapters 00:00 - The Journey of Samantha Danielle 23:25 - Building a Social Impact Brand 20:11 - Navigating the Champagne Industry 25:28 - Sales and Marketing: A Dual Approach 27:11 - Translating Skills: From Nursing to Business 29:15 - Creativity in Branding: Telling Love Stories 32:42 - Future Plans: Education and Non-Alcoholic Options 35:41 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Lessons Learned 41:27 - Living Life: Balancing Work and Leisure Connect with Samantha https://www.instagram.com/loveluvv_sparkling/ LoveLuvv Experience Samantha Danielle  Connect with Martine Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack Production Credits This episode was produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.  

Have you ever reached for a glass of wine after a stressful day, only to realize you're avoiding something important? In this intimate mini-episode, we talk about alcohol and anxiety, revealing how our emotions serve as powerful messengers in our creative lives. S Chapters/Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Emotions as Messengers 02:52 - Personal Journey with Alcohol and Emotions 05:45 - Understanding Emotions in the Creative Process Resources Mentioned: Huberman Lab podcast: What Alcohol Does to Your Body, Brain and Health The Triangle Method (as featured in Creative Matters) the Show Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Santiago Cardona.

Discover how Violeta Encarnación balances freelancing, illustration, and creative evolution. She reflects on her journey from growing up in Cuba to becoming a book illustrator, her experience at SVA, and her shift into tattooing. Violeta opens up about the realities of freelancing, managing carpal tunnel syndrome, and honing her distinctive color palette. She also shares how nature inspires her work, the significance of personal connections in art, and her projects.   Show Notes:    We talk with Violeta Encarnación, a freelance illustrator, about her creative journey and experiences in book illustration. She shares memories of growing up in Cuba, the impact of her artistic family, and her transition to life in the U.S. Violeta reflects on her time at SVA, her path into tattooing, and the lessons she has learned as a freelancer. She opens up about managing an unpredictable schedule, coping with carpal tunnel syndrome, and staying authentic in her work. Violeta also discusses her distinctive color palette, nature’s influence on her art, and the role of personal connections in creative careers. Episode Highlights   Childhood experiences and cultural background. Learning a new language and adapting to a new culture. Book illustration involves collaboration, patience, and the ability to convey complex emotions through images. Developing a unique color palette takes time and experimentation, and it can be influenced by nature and personal experiences. Finding one's voice in art and maintaining personal connections are essential for success.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Violeta Encarnacion 02:55 Cultural Influences on Creativity 05:50 Journey from Cuba to the U.S. 08:48 Navigating Language Barriers 11:54 Artistic Development and Education 15:05 Tattooing and Its Impact on Art 17:50 Freelance Career and Illustration Work 21:01 Illustrating Children's Books 24:31 Navigating Relationships in Publishing 25:43 Surprising Lessons in Illustration 27:16 The Journey to Illustrating a Book 32:30 Understanding Project Timelines 36:14 Managing Cash Flow as a Freelancer 39:54 Developing a Unique Color Palette 46:28 Exciting Future Projects CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Website: Violeta Encarnacion  Instagram: Violeta  the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives  

Do you feel uncomfortable with the sales process as a creative? In this candid mini-episode, Martine Severin tackles the topic many creatives dread: sales. Martine breaks down practical strategies for artists to sell their work authentically without feeling like "used car salesperson."  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Life 00:23 The Visibility to Sales Paradox 03:16 Understanding Sales for Artists 10:19 Building Community and Networking 14:00 Cultivating an Audience and Collectors 20:07 The Sales Process Explained 27:35 Transforming Sales Mindset Perfect for: Artists, photographers, designers, and creatives who feel uncomfortable with the sales process but want to improve their results. Danielle Chutinthranond: E28 Maria Bayer: https://.mariabayer.com/2025-is/ Maria on Instagram KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. #CreativeBusiness #ArtSales #CreativeEntrepreneurship #SalesForArtists  

Have you ever wondered how a movie gets made? Or better yet, where do the ideas from movies come from? And if you have your sight on making a short film, wouldn't it be great if someone helped you buff your idea and make the end product simply spectacular? Shannan E. Johnson is that someone! As a former creative executive at NBCU/The Syfy Channel, Shannan left her full-time gig to become a storytelling expert who develops creatives and their ideas for the screen. As a script consultant, teacher, and therapist, she uses her innate understanding of storytelling to make compelling TV and movies. In today's podcast, Shannan walks us through her wide-ranging career and shares what it's like to work in Hollywood. She offers invaluable tips on how to write and tell a great story. I walked away from our conversation with a framework on how to approach fear and how to position my vision to achieve my desired outcomes! As you listen to the interview, the conversation will skip forward here and there - this is because Shannan's audio cut off at certain points, but the insights remain powerful throughout. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Shannan E. Johnson 02:09 The Journey into Storytelling 07:14 Understanding the Craft of Screenwriting 12:23 The Differences in Storytelling Mediums 18:19 Transitioning to Executive Roles in Hollywood 24:15 Navigating the Business of Hollywood 26:48 The Evolution of Storytelling in TV 35:03 Navigating the Transition from Executive to Entrepreneur 41:08 Building Confidence and Leadership Skills 47:09 The Professional Pen: Empowering Screenwriters 51:03 Introducing Truffle Sauce: A New Film Experience Connect with Shannan: Website: http://www.shannanejohnson.com/ The Professional Pen: https://www.awriterforyourwriter.com/bio.html Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannanejohnson/ The Professional Pen IG: https://www.instagram.com/theprofessionalpen/ Connect with your host: Website: Martine Severin Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack This episode of This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Ray Abercrombie.  

In this mini-episode, we explore the unexpected parallel between toe yoga and creative practice. Through her personal experience with a daily exercises, our host, Martine Severin, reveals how small, consistent efforts lead to remarkable changes over time – both in physical flexibility and creative mastery. Martine challenges the myth of natural talent, showing how persistence and consistent practice often triumph over innate ability. This episode serves as your permission slip to begin that creative project you've been postponing – no matter how small your daily commitment might be. Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Creative Journeys  00:27 Understanding Toe Yoga  04:22 The Metaphor of Toe Yoga in Creativity  08:10 Taking Action and Consistency in Practice Key Takeaways: The benefits of toe yoga extend beyond foot health to our entire physical structure Just 1-5 minutes of daily practice can lead to significant improvements in any skill Consistent practice often trumps natural talent in creative pursuits You don't need expensive equipment or extensive training to begin your creative journey Stop waiting for permission and start with small, manageable commitments  Stay in touch: Website: MartineSeverin.com Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack - Creative Matters

We welcome fine art painter Rhonda K Brown, whose artistic story is deeply intertwined with a remarkable family legacy in the art world. us as Rhonda pulls back the curtain on her creative journey - from the influential gallery environment of her youth to her eventual return to painting after exploring other paths. How did growing up surrounded by prominent artists shape her artistic vision? What drew her back to the canvas after time away? And what inspired her to create a new platform ing fellow artists? Tune in for an intimate conversation about art, inspiration, and the mission to elevate diverse creative voices. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR: Rhonda's personal journey as a fine art painter and how she developed her unique style The remarkable legacy of the Malcolm Brown Gallery and its influence on her work Her approach to selecting color palettes and how she trained her artistic eye A treasure trove of recommendations for both historical and contemporary artists worth following The story behind Critique House, a new venture co-founded with her son to BIPOC artists CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Rhonda Brown's Creative Journey 01:31 The Malcolm Brown Gallery: A Family Legacy 10:59 Influences and Inspirations in Art 17:22 Honoring Everyday People Through Art 21:12 Navigating Artistic Challenges and Community 24:01 The Evolution of Rhonda's Color Palette 29:05 Sources of Inspiration and Artistic Growth 34:02 The Journey Back to Art and Critique House 38:57 Critique House: ing BIPOC Artists KEY MOMENTS: Discover how Rhonda approaches her creative practice and what fuels her artistic vision Learn about the influential Malcolm Brown Gallery and its place in art history Hear how Rhonda celebrates everyday people through her artistic expression Explore the development of her distinctive color palette and artistic eye ABOUT RHONDA K BROWN: Rhonda K Brown is an accomplished fine art painter whose work has garnered recognition for its distinctive style. Beyond her personal artistic practice, she's committed to creating opportunities for other artists. CONNECT & FOLLOW: Rhonda K Brown: @rhondabrownfineart Rhonda’s Website: https://www.rkbfineart.com Martine Séverin: martineseverin.com | @martine.sev This episode has been edited by Casandra Voltolina  

In this essential episode, host Martine Severin draws from her experience creating an artist statement for Scope Miami to provide a practical roap for artists struggling with this crucial professional document. From understanding your audience to finding your authentic voice, this episode breaks down the process into manageable steps that will help your work connect with galleries, collectors, and grant committees. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Artist Statements 03:13 Understanding Your Audience and Purpose 06:04 Essential Elements of an Artist Statement 09:09 Approaches to Writing Your Artist Statement 11:58 Common Pitfalls to Avoid 14:47 Refining Your Artist Statement What You'll Learn: How to tailor your statement for different contexts and audiences The five key components that make your statement effective Practical structural approaches to organize your thoughts Common mistakes that undermine your professional presentation Techniques to overcome writer's block and find your authentic voice Free : Get the Artist Statement Development Worksheet mentioned in this episode! This step-by-step guide walks you through targeted exercises that help you generate a compelling statement.  Key Insights from Martine: "Despite having AI at our disposal, writing an artist statement isn't a breeze. You still need to create a statement that helps collectors and curators understand the context of your work, creates a bridge between your artistic intentions and the viewer's experience, and distinguishes you in a competitive field." "Your statement should sound like you, not an academic journal, not a marketing brochure, not what you think a 'serious artist' should sound like." "The best artist statements aren't written in a single sitting. Give yourself permission to explore, experiment, and refine, just as you would with any creative project." the Show: Website: MartineSeverin.com Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack - Creative Matters This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.

This week on This Is How We Create: Award-winning photographer Tobi Shinobi reveals his fascinating journey from courtroom to camera lens. Discover the unique productivity framework that transformed his creative process and catapulted his career to global recognition. Episode Highlights The Name: How a playground nickname evolved into one of photography's most recognizable brands The Pivot: Why Tobi abandoned a successful legal career to pursue photography The Symmetry Connection: How childhood Lego obsessions influenced his distinctive visual style The Game-Changer: Tobi's intriguing "7 out of 10 principle" that revolutionized his workflow The Success Story: From Instagram experiments to Sony ambassador and TikTok creative strategist Sneak Peek: The 7 Out of 10 Principle Tobi introduces his enigmatic productivity framework that helped him post 3-4 quality images daily while maintaining his signature high standards. What are the ten elements he considers, and why is hitting just seven of them the sweet spot? Tune in to find out how this approach might transform your creative practice. Professional Insights Why photographing buildings became Tobi's specialty (hint: they're never late to photoshoots) The small details that separate amateurs from professionals in client relationships How self-taught photographers can bridge the knowledge gap when transitioning to professional work Quotable Moments "The worst piece of advice I've ever received was 'don't become a photographer'... I've been able to travel the world, make long-term friendships, change my life... all because I believed in myself."   Connect With This Is How We Create Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/ Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/ Follow Martine on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/ Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack This is How We Create is produced by and edited by Braila West, Alexis Sanchez and Martine Severin. Connect With Tobi Shinobi Follow Tobi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobishinobi Website: https://www.tobishinobi.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Tobishinobi  

Have you ever committed to creating even when you didn't believe in yourself? In this mini-episode of 'This Is How We Create,' Martine Severin explores the quiet yet persistent power that drives artists to create even when faced with doubt, external pressures, and self-criticism. She shares a profound revelation from a cinematographer who itted there were times in her successful career when she simply didn't believe in herself - yet continued moving forward. Episode Highlights There's a gap between creative dreams and current reality that can feel like failure Creative resilience isn't flashy - it's about honoring the contract you made with yourself to be an artist The difference between orchestrating success versus influencing it How separating actions from fluctuations in self-perception can liberate your creative process What if the next level of your art requires stillness rather than hustle? Embracing your unique way of being and seeing the world How generosity and genuine connection can help navigate the "valley of doubt" Key Takeaways Creative resilience is essential for navigating the natural ebbs and flows of artistic life External metrics shouldn't overshadow the simple joy of creating Stillness and quiet can lead to deeper creative insights than forced productivity Community makes navigating doubt easier - we're not meant to walk this path alone Your creativity is defined by commitment, not belief in yourself Your Creative Assignment Reconnect with the original contract you made with yourself about making art Carve out time for deliberative practice - 15 minutes of just being Ask yourself: "How might I be if I believed in myself every moment of the day?" Reach out to someone in your community with genuine curiosity - not to get something, but to give your full attention   Sound Bites "What if the next level to your art requires something that's counterintuitive? What if it requires stillness?" "Generosity turns out is a secret code and a that opens doors, especially for those of us who find traditional networking exhausting." "Your creativity isn't defined by beliefs or doubts, it's defined by your commitment." Episode Chapters 00:00 The Creative Journey Begins 02:45 Navigating Doubt and Resilience 06:12 The Power of Stillness 09:01 Community and Connection in Creativity 11:54 Commitment Over Belief   the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.

 Struggling to get your art in front of the right people? Then this episode is your roap. multidisciplinary artist Courtney Minor on "This Is How We Create" as she unveils the emotional underpinnings of her creative journey—from finding fresh inspiration in Vietnam to transforming personal therapy into powerful art. Courtney doesn't just inspire; she delivers actionable strategies for marketing your work, building a devoted email list, experimenting with unexpected materials, and connecting with collectors who truly value your vision. This isn't just about making art—it's about making making a place for your art in the world Here's what we discuss: Courtney Minor is a multidisciplinary artist specializing in collage, photography, and film. Her trip to Vietnam was a pivotal moment that reignited her creative spark. Art serves as a therapeutic outlet for Courtney, helping her express emotions she struggles to verbalize. She combines various mediums, including collage and graffiti, to convey her messages. Courtney's journey reflects the importance of embracing one's identity and creative voice.  Courtney creates prototypes in her head before starting. She collects artifacts and photographs for inspiration. Plexiglass allows viewers to see their reflection in her work. Prototyping is essential for her larger art pieces. Sourcing materials often involves unconventional places like Home Depot. Understanding her audience has been crucial for her sales. Building an email list is vital for artist outreach. Social media algorithms reward video content over static images. Connecting all platforms is important for artist visibility. Artwork Archive simplifies the inventory process for artists.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Courtney Minor and Her Art Journey 02:04 The Turning Point: Vietnam Trip and Creative Rebirth 12:08 Childhood Influences and Early Artistic Aspirations 16:57 Emotional Expression Through Art: The Therapeutic Process 20:06 Navigating Personal Loss and Its Impact on Creativity 30:03 The Artistic Process: From Emotion to Creation 31:07 The Art of Prototyping 36:47 From Ideas to Canvas 40:01 Sourcing Materials for Art 43:13 Marketing and Selling Art 55:26 Exploring New Mediums and Techniques   Get to know Courtney: https://thecmdstudio.com/pages/copy-of-about-courtney-minor  Courtney’s Instagram: heyitscourtneyminor  Buy Courtney’s Art: https://thecmdstudio.com/collections    Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/ Follow This Is How We Create ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/⁠ Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com Follow Martine on Instagram:  ⁠https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/⁠   This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.