There Is Nothing but Money in Art – Nicholas Wilton – Ep 105
October 25, 2023
ON TODAY’S EPISODE
The stigma of the starving artist has done no favors for our mindsets around money. The truth is, there is nothing but money in art! On this episode, I’m taking a deep dive into how we view finances in the context of our art practice and how reframing our perspectives around money and art can radically change our businesses and lives.
Listen if you are interested in…
- Growing up with a healthy view of art and money [3:24]
- Redefining the meaning of money and art [9:00]
- Understanding the shadowy side of money [14:09]
- Three mindset shifts for shaping healthy ideas about money [17:59]
- Practical advice for the financial side of your art business [28:55]
Redefine your money mindset
Understanding why there’s nothing but money in art means redefining what money and art mean for you. Money is often seen as a shadowy word. But for me, it’s about energy, creativity, and inspiration. It’s about taking risks and trusting your instincts, much like a painter with their brush. And art, of course, is about what lights you up inside. It is a direct expression of your authenticity.
When money becomes synonymous with energy from your soul and art symbolizes authenticity, we redefine what a luxurious life means for us. Luxury can be found anywhere! From the smallest details of nature to the grandeur of a Moroccan resort. Money itself is an anonymous and soulless entity, but we give it soul by reframing it in the context of our art. When you connect your art to what lights you up, the money flows as a byproduct.
Work inspired, not harder
I used to believe that making money required relentless hard work. So I tirelessly toiled away day in and day out. Now I understand the key is not grinding endlessly but aligning with what truly ignites my passion. When you work in harmony with your passion, the effort feels like painting a masterpiece: exciting, challenging, and invigorating. Many of the folks attending our upcoming workshop are eager to embark on this transformative journey. They’ve found themselves stuck in a rut, longing for change but unsure how to break free. Every endeavor outside your comfort zone leaves a trail of breadcrumbs that hint at your true energy source.
Demystifying money and acknowledging your desire for abundance is not wrong or selfish. In my case, I run Art2Life, a business with a mission to impact as many lives as possible. And that business requires financial resources to achieve that mission. But it’s not about money. It’s about the potential to effect positive change. If you find resistance within yourself or have been told that desiring wealth is wrong, you should reevaluate your perspective. Your mindset directly influences the course of your life. Don’t feel conflicted if you realize that achieving your dreams requires substantial financial support. It’s just the nature of pursuing your passions!
Start with gratitude
Gratitude is the key to unlocking life’s true luxuries. It’s when you genuinely appreciate what you’re experiencing that your soul shines the brightest. Gratitude isn’t something you chase; it naturally swirls around you when you’re aligned with your best self. Feeling thankful and truly appreciative is a clear sign that you’re on the right path. It’s about being authentic, which is what art is all about.
Living in Art2Life means living a life steeped in gratitude. It should permeate every aspect of your existence. Whether you’re just starting your journey or you’ve come a long way, there’s a ton of incredible things surrounding you. Taking the time to slow down, appreciate them, and reconnect with what brings them to life is the first step towards finding genuine wealth. Listen to this episode for more on money and art!
Resources & People Mentioned
Connect with Nicholas Wilton and Art2Life
Get the Free COLOR TIPS PDF here
- Follow the Sunday Art2Life Vlog here
- Follow Nicholas Wilton’s Art on Instagram
- Follow Art2Life on Instagram
- Subscribe on Youtube
Subscribe to Art2Life on
Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts
Hi! I’m
Nicholas Wilton
the founder of Art2Life.
With over 20 years experience as a working artist and educator, I’ve developed a systematic approach that brings authenticity, spontaneity and joy back into the creative process.
Join me and artists from all over the world in our Free Art2Life Artists Facebook Group or learn more here about Art2Life.