Episodes

  • The Core4: How to Make Progress as an Artist
    Nov 19 2024

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    Have you ever felt like your journey as an artist is more complicated than it needs to be? On "The Thriving Christian Artist," I, Matt Tommey, share my personal experiences of wrestling with this very notion and how I discovered a clearer path to thriving in God's kingdom. This episode reveals how we can often become our own biggest roadblocks and how, with consistent action and faith, we can overcome these challenges. By focusing on the "core four" pillars—Connect, Clarify, Create, and Cultivate—I guide you on how to invite God's wisdom into every corner of your life and art. You'll hear about my breakthrough moments and the powerful transformations I've witnessed in others who embrace this approach.

    You'll learn about the incredible power of setting clear goals and pursuing them with intention. We discuss the importance of writing down your vision and the real impact daily actions can have on achieving your creative dreams. This episode emphasizes the dance between prayer and proactive effort, showing how both are crucial to aligning with God's plan. I also highlight the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive community, which can open doors and help you steward your God-given talents. It's a journey of faith, action, and growth that promises to illuminate your creative path and lead to success.

    Need help starting or growing your art business? Join us inside the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program! http://www.matttommeymentoring.com/artmentor

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    17 mins
  • What Does it Profit an Artist: Reflections on Creating
    Nov 12 2024

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    Picture this: you're flipping through an old sketchbook, and suddenly, ideas from over a decade ago leap off the page, still brimming with potential. That's exactly what happened to me, and it sparked a realization about the cyclical nature of creativity and the profound connection between inspiration and time. Join me, Matt Tommey, in this episode of The Thriving Christian Artist as I delve into the concept of "prophetic percolation," where ideas are like coffee beans, needing time to mature and reveal their full essence. Through personal stories, I explore how patience and reflection can uncover the seeds of great creative projects and how revisiting those forgotten sketches can inspire fresh, mature works.

    Balancing the joy of experimentation with the steadiness of consistency is crucial for any artist. I share my experiences of playful seasons filled with risk-taking and those times when focusing on successful pieces brought both satisfaction and market success. As an art mentor and business coach, I emphasize the importance of pursuing work that resonates with both the artist and their audience, hitting that sweet spot of convergence. By embracing both spontaneity and structure, you can embark on a truly fulfilling and thriving creative journey. Tune in to discover how these insights can transform your approach to art and life.

    Join the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program!

    Read the entire article here: https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/blog/what-shall-it-profit-an-artist-a-reflection-on-creative-integrity-and-soulfulness

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    11 mins
  • 6 Common Roadblocks for Artists 45-70+
    Nov 5 2024

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    Have you ever felt stuck in the relentless hustle, wondering how to rekindle your creative spirit? Join me, Matt Tommey, as I share my personal journey of stepping back from the chaos to embrace a season of rest and renewal in the studio. Together, we'll uncover the secret to sparking successful art projects by prioritizing play and experimentation inspired by nature.

    This episode is a heartfelt exploration of common struggles faced by artists aged 45 to 70-plus, focusing on the art of balancing creativity with life's many responsibilities and the importance of aligning with divine guidance during these pivotal times.

    We'll also tackle the critical elements of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care to amplify your creativity and well-being. Discover how adapting your workflow, seeking community support, and redefining success can empower you to thrive artistically, spiritually, and in business, even amidst the evolving challenges of technology and entrepreneurship.

    With reflections and guidance from the Created to Thrive program, this conversation offers a roadmap to help you celebrate your artistic journey, stay open to new expressions of creativity, and find fulfillment by trusting in a higher plan for your unique path forward.

    If you've not already, join us inside the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring program at http://www.matttommeymentoring.com/artmentor

    To read and comment on a full article on this subject, visit https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/blog/most-common-roadblocks-for-artists-approaching-or-in-retirement-and-want-to-start-an-art-business

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    22 mins
  • Embracing Fallow Seasons: Finding Spiritual Renewal and Growth
    Jul 9 2024

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    Have you ever wondered why certain seasons in life feel unproductive and barren? Join us on this enlightening episode of the Thriving Christian Artist, where we uncover the hidden value of these fallow periods. Inspired by biblical principles from Leviticus 25 and personal stories, we reveal how these times of rest and renewal are crucial for preparing us for future growth and productivity. Learn how to navigate the enemy's tactics of doubt and reaffirm your identity in Christ, as we discuss the necessity of stepping away from constant busyness to realign with God's timing and voice.

    Get your copy of my best selling book on the Kingdom of God, God's Plan for Living and the accompanying devotional, Awakening to God's Kingdom Within now on Amazon:

    • https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Plan-Living-Roadmap-Kingdom/dp/B0BZ34CNFY
    • https://www.amazon.com/Awakening-Gods-Kingdom-Within-Encouragement/dp/B0C9S7PH84


    Discover the spiritual significance of fallow seasons as outlined in Jeremiah 29:11. Even when God's hand seems absent, His heart is ever-present, guiding us through periods of healing and recovery. Reflecting on scriptures such as Psalm 23 and Philippians 1:6, we dive into personal experiences and insights on how these dormant times help us deepen our relationship with God, address wounds, and shift mindsets in preparation for His blessings. Embrace these moments as opportunities for spiritual growth and the fulfillment of God's promises, trusting that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion.

    Dive into practical steps for embracing divine rest through the stories of biblical figures like Noah and Abraham. Understand that rest is not a sign of weakness but a reflection of God's own rhythm. We'll share tips on seeking God's presence, the benefits of journaling, and the importance of community connection. Find joy and rejuvenation in life-giving activities, trusting in God's guidance and provision. Finally, stay connected and inspired by following us on social media and exploring resources at matttommymentoring.com. This episode is a call to artists everywhere to thrive by embracing every season of life with unwavering faith and trust in God's promises.

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    25 mins
  • You Have a Hope & a Future
    Jul 2 2024

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    Ever felt like your emotions and life's hurdles are pulling you away from your true calling? Discover how to fortify your spirit and align your journey with God's promises, even when facing the toughest roadblocks. Join me, Matt Tommy, as I share personal reflections and transformative insights on recognizing and resisting the enemy's lies. This episode is a heartfelt conversation designed to inspire and equip you with practical steps to stay focused on God's true intentions for your life, no matter what challenges come your way.

    We'll explore the significance of immersing yourself in God's word and reshaping your inner being to withstand the enemy's tactics. Through my own experiences and biblical wisdom, learn how to navigate seasons of doubt, rejection, and overwhelm. Plus, get a glimpse into my devotional book, "Awakening to God's Kingdom Within," for daily encouragement. Tune in to uncover how to live fully as the artist God created you to be, with unwavering faith and resilience.

    Start encouraging yourself in the Lord with my book Awakening to God's Kingdom Within at https://www.amazon.com/Awakening-Gods-Kingdom-Within-Encouragement/dp/B0C9S7PH84

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    12 mins
  • 12 Golden Nuggets from Santa Fe
    Jun 25 2024

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    What happens when your nest suddenly feels empty? Join Tanya and me as we navigate the bittersweet journey of becoming empty nesters after our son's move to Salt Lake City. We recount our thrilling travels through Moab, Arches National Park, Durango, and the artist's paradise of Santa Fe. Santa Fe’s art scene isn't just vibrant; it's the NFL of the art world. Discover essential tips on how to thrive as an artist, including the critical role of gallery location, the power of a reputable gallery, and why asking for the sale isn't just advisable—it's necessary.

    Ever wondered how much your art should cost? In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of pricing art realistically and discuss the importance of gradually raising prices with your gallery partners. Relationships with galleries are more than just business transactions; they’re partnerships. I share how a simple act of friendliness in Santa Fe led to unexpected opportunities, highlighting the value of taking risks and trusting in divine timing. Plus, learn how the Created to Thrive mentoring program can nurture both your art business and faith. Tune in for actionable strategies and heartfelt advice that could transform your journey as an artist.

    Join us inside the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program at http://www.matttommeymentoring.com/artmentor

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    19 mins
  • Overcoming Overthinking, Indecision & Your Comfort Zone
    Jun 20 2024

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    Are you struggling with overthinking, indecision, or a lack of self-discipline in your artistic journey? Discover how to break free from these common roadblocks with practical insights and spiritual encouragement in this uplifting episode of The Thriving Christian Artist. I’m Matt Tommey, and I'll share revelations from recent coaching sessions in our mastery program, focusing on how overthinking can mask itself as wisdom and paralyze your progress. You'll learn how stepping out in faith, as inspired by scriptures like 2 Timothy 1:7 and 2 Corinthians 5:7, can empower you to overcome these mental barriers.

    We also tackle the crippling effects of indecision, often rooted in fear of failure or success. By aligning your identity with who God says you are, you can embrace the truth of Philippians 4:13 and unlock your full potential as an artist. This episode is packed with actionable advice and spiritual guidance to help you renew your mind, make decisive steps forward, and live the life God intended for you. Tune in and be inspired to move past your fears and fully step into your God-given potential.

    Join us inside the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program at http://www.matttommeymentoring.com/artmentor

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    9 mins
  • Inflation & Your Art Prices
    May 22 2024

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    Struggling to price your artwork in an ever-changing inflationary economy? You're not alone. Join me, Matt Tommey, on the Thriving Christian Artist podcast, where we'll explore the delicate dance of pricing art that honors both your craft and the realities of today's financial climate. As artists, we often hesitate to raise our prices, fearing we'll burden our customers or risk sales. But in this episode, we dive into why your art deserves fair valuation and how to navigate pricing amid inflation without compromising your passion or livelihood.

    We get down to brass tacks, discussing the tangible costs that affect your art business – think studio rent, materials, and the unseen hours of creativity poured into every piece. Let's talk numbers, strategy, and the heart behind your work, ensuring you communicate the true value of your art to your audience. By the end of our time together, you’ll be equipped with practical steps to confidently price your art and thrive in God's kingdom as a creator. Ready to embrace your worth as an artist? Tune in and transform how you price your masterpiece.

    Read the Blog: https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/blog/why-artists-must-raise-their-prices-to-keep-up-with-global-inflation

    Join Created to Thrive: https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/artmentor.html

    Stories of Artists Who Are Thriving: https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/storiesofthrivingartists

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    12 mins