Are you willing to put your art out into the world—to put yourself out in the world—knowing that you may not get the validation you seek. My conversation with Southern California abstract painter PRIYA SHARMA ASENCIO digs into the nitty-gritty reality of making the transition from a prior profession (in Priya’s case advertising media) to being a full-time painter, including the highs and lows of showing your work in public forums like art fairs and growing into your art practice within the social media gaze.

Priya’s dogged optimism has helped her weather the disappointments and recognize how all of her art experiences are interconnected. Rather than relying on external measures of success, Priya is learning how to validate herself first and appreciating the relationships each new stage presents.

How do you create a sustainable art career over 40 years? New Orleans native ADELE SYPESTEYN shares how paying attention to everything— what’s working, what’s not—and not being afraid to change directions has allowed her to maintain a successful career as a contemporary artist and educator, including walking away from gallery representation, embracing new venues, Instagram sales and YouTube videos.

Abstract painter Robin Davisson carefully considers the variables when designing her artistic experiments with paint fluidity and viscosity, a skill that comes naturally after twenty years as a researcher and professor of molecular physiology. Robin shares the common element for her love of both science and art—“the exhilaration of discovery”—as well as her survival skills for a research career adapted for the arts and the characteristics of a good mentor.

The ARTish Plunge podcast explores how artist JULIE FRITZ creates multi-layered landscapes with her cold wax technique. Julie shares how she developed her art practice after years working in event marketing and authoring two books. Throughout her life, a strong appreciation for place has guided her work.

The ARTish Plunge podcast explores how artist ARIELLE AUSTIN made the transition from graphic design, re-establishing her art practice in Austin, Texas, and recently making the big plunge to be a full-time Artist.