In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast, hyper-realist painter Denise Stewart-Sanabria is featured by the Professional Artist Association (ProfessionalArtist.com/join), the world's fastest growing global community for committed fine artists.
She shares the mindset and methods that have helped her sustain a long-term career in the art world. In her strikingly detailed works, Denise explores themes of desire, history, perception, and human psychology. Her paintings are held in permanent museum collections, including the Tennessee State Museum and the Knoxville Museum of Art.
Denise doesn’t hold back when it comes to practical advice. From building visibility and navigating gallery relationships to sharpening your self-awareness through critique, this episode is packed with tools artists can use to grow with intention and professionalism.
“The biggest thing is just to do your own critiques. Is your work on the same level as what you're looking at in these other galleries?”– Denise Stewart-Sanabria
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:17 The Importance of Self-Critique and Practical Advice for Artists
02:25 Godzilla Plus Two and Themes in Denise’s Work
06:33 Building Relationships in your Art Community
07:43 Visibility Through Juried Shows, Art Fairs, and Gallery Representation
13:14 18th Century French Pastoral Toile Culture Shock and Museum Acquisitions
16:16 Networking, Volunteer Work, and Peer Support
20:40 Residencies and Publications for Career Growth
24:40 Conclusion: Persistence, Visibility, and Meaningful Connections
Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here.
Links to artworks discussed:
Resources:
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