Do you ever ask yourself, why do I keep inventing massive projects when all I really want to do is make my own art? Why do I keep building infrastructures for other people when what I actually crave is to be in the studio, in rehearsal, on a stage? And why, at the end of these enormous, impressive undertakings, do I feel quietly resentful?

If this lands in your chest, stay with Ceri and learn how to avoid this trap

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Impressive collaborative projects can be draining. Yet they feel far safer than standing there with one vulnerable artwork and saying, “This is enough.” - Empire projects offer access, validation, funding, titles - a sense of being legit.

• When you're the organ grinder, the monkey, the organ and the music, something shifts. You stop making decisions based on creativity. You start making decisions consciously or unconsciously based on compliance.

• It’s not that big structures are bad - some people are meant to build institutions. If you are not one of them, ask - If there were no funders, partners, or applause, what would I still make and what would I stop building altogether? – then, create the pieces you really want to make.

BEST MOMENTS

“Maybe the next bold move is not another empire. Maybe it's a small, precise, unapologetic piece of work, one performance, one painting, one body of work, one show. No Empire required.”

“If you grew up believing art alone couldn't sustain you, building an infrastructure can feel like the sensible compromise.”

“Collaboration can be electric. Working with people at your level or beyond, can sharpen you, stretch you make you braver.”

“There's a difference between building something because it genuinely expands you and building something because you're trying to fill a gap.”

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She has sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

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Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!

https://cerihand.com/membership/

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Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course

Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/

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Book a Discovery Call Today

To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com

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Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity

Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/