The Artists Business Lounge
Art Business Coaching for Visual Artists
Exploring Creativity & Business: Amanda van Gils on The Art of Making Art Podcast
What does it take to build a thriving art career while staying true to your creative vision? How do artists balance their passion with the practicalities of running a business?
These are just some of the topics explored in this episode of The Art of Making Art podcast, hosted by visual artist Christina Lowry.
In this episode, I had the pleasure of joining Christina for an in-depth conversation about my journey as a professional artist and business coach. From my early artistic explorations to my work as the founder of The Artists Business Lounge, we discuss the challenges, breakthroughs, and strategies that have shaped my career.
https://www.christinalowryartist.com/podcast/episode-eight-amanda-van-gils
A Brief Summary
The Evolution of an Artist: Embracing the Unexpected
Like many artists, my path wasn’t always linear. My passion for painting began almost by accident, but once I discovered it, I embraced it wholeheartedly. My work, known for its motion landscapes, captures the fleeting moments experienced during road trips, bringing movement and emotion into each piece. Recently, I’ve been expanding my practice, pushing boundaries with larger-scale watercolours and exploring new ways to express my artistic vision.
But alongside the creative journey, I’ve also had to navigate the realities of building a sustainable art career. Overcoming self-doubt, learning to manage the business side of art, and embracing opportunities beyond the studio have all been key elements of my growth as an artist.
Bridging the Gap Between Art & Business
As artists, we’re often told that making art should be our sole focus, but the truth is, a successful career requires more than just creativity. That’s why I founded The Artists Business Lounge—a space designed to support artists in growing their careers with confidence and clarity. Through coaching, resources, and programs like The Success System, I help artists refine their strategies, from marketing and sales to goal setting and professional development.
In my conversation with Christina, we break down the myth that there’s only one ‘right’ way to be an artist. Whether it’s leveraging social media, refining a website, or networking effectively, every artist’s journey is unique. What matters most is finding a path that aligns with your values and ambitions.
The Power of Community in an Artist’s Journey
One of the most meaningful parts of our discussion was exploring the importance of community in an artist’s career. The idea of the ‘isolated genius’ is outdated—collaboration, shared experiences, and support from fellow creatives can be game-changers. In The Artists Business Lounge, I encourage artists to embrace the power of connection, seeking guidance and inspiration rather than struggling alone.
Listen & Connect
If you’re an artist looking to gain insights into building a sustainable career while staying true to your artistic vision, I invite you to listen to this episode of The Art of Making Art podcast.
Christina and I discuss practical strategies, share personal stories, and offer encouragement for artists navigating their own creative and business journeys.
🔗 Listen to the episode below
On Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/episode-eight-amanda-van-gils/id1777655757?i=1000688124820
On Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/1xnqYYjVk7Sut19J92DI5Y?si=577138df4aa34c8c
📢 Follow along for more insights:
Website: Amanda van Gils
Instagram: Amanda van Gils
Instagram: The Artists Business Lounge
🌐 Explore resources & coaching: http://www.TheArtistsBusinessLounge.com
Your artistic journey is yours to shape—embrace the process, seek support, and build a career that reflects your unique voice. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the episode, so feel free to reach out and share your biggest takeaways!
Christina Lowry is an award-winning fine artist, recognised for her photography and installations with central themes of nature, memento mori, and cabinets of curiosity. She has been a practicing artist for over two decades and has a studio just outside Brisbane.
Christina holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts/ Visual Arts majoring in Intermedia, and is currently working towards her Masters of Visual Arts.
Christina hosts the weekly podcast, The Art of Making Art, where she discusses studio practice and conceptual development with contemporary exhibiting artists. The series is attracting sponsorship, and there are opportunities to collaborate in the future with artists, galleries and art industry partners.
Learn more about Christina on her website at https://www.christinalowryartist.com
