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    Tag: creative courage

    Two artists concentrating on an artwork, one scribbling with a pencil while the other observes.

    Is It Really Possible to Build a Life as an Artist?

    For years, artists have been told a story. That it’s not a real career. That it’s irresponsible. That if you choose this path, you’re choosing…

    crista
    Crista May 5, 2026
    Event called Three Million Stories Arts Graduates in Changing Economy conference in Arizona, photographed by Crista Cloutier

    The Truth About Professional Artists

    Last weekend I learned an awful lot about the professional life of artists. I attended a conference that focused on arts graduates and how they’re…

    crista
    Crista May 19, 2017
    A woman holding a piece of paper with the words "the dead are inside us," photographed by Crista Cloutier.

    She Looked Like Georgia O’Keeffe

    Every family has a story. They called her “Grandma Ach” because of her habit of beginning each sentence with a guttural sound of disapproval. “Ach! What…

    crista
    Crista May 19, 2017
    Young boy with boxing gloves

    How To Be The Greatest

    I imagine that you’ve heard of the boxer named Mohammad Ali. When he passed away, the whole world mourned. But Crista, you’re probably asking, what…

    crista
    Crista May 19, 2017
    Photograph of Crista Cloutier immediately after completing a shark dive in Cape Town, emerging from shark-infested waters with a triumphant expression. The image captures her overcoming intense fear, symbolizing courage, personal growth, and creative breakthroughs for artists

    How Moments Lead to Creative Breakthroughs

    This picture of me is not the most glamorous, yet it’s my favorite. Let me explain. All my life I’ve been terrified of sharks. Truly…

    crista
    Crista May 19, 2017
    Collage image of Crista Cloutier: the first photo shows her at the back of a white-water raft navigating the Petrohué River in Chile, visibly focused and gripping her paddle; the second photo shows her celebrating survival on land by holding a cold beer labeled “Crista,” smiling after completing the rapids. This image illustrates overcoming fear, adventure, and creative courage.

    My Secret Remedy For Being Stuck

    There I was, up the Petrohué River. Luckily I had a paddle, however much good it did me. You see, last week found me white-water…

    crista
    Crista May 19, 2017

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    See Your Art Career with Fresh Eyes

    Created by art mentor Crista Cloutier, this short self-assessment reveals the  
    strengths of your current practice and offers insight into the next step of your professional path.

    Personalized insight

    Practical next steps

    Encouragement to grow your art

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