Empowering The Artist Within

Overcoming self-doubt, embracing imperfection, and finding clarity on your creative path.
Sponsor the Podcast;  https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross
Episode Summary
In this warm, uplifting conversation, Liz Ross welcomes gentle creative guide Jo McCarthy to explore the real journey of being an artist and creative entrepreneur. Together, they discuss overcoming self-doubt, embracing imperfection, and building confidence in your creative business. This episode is a nurturing space for creative souls, offering gentle encouragement, practical advice, and soulful support for anyone seeking authenticity and growth in their creative path.
Guest Introduction
Jo Mcarthy
Jo is a gentle creative guide based in Wales, known for supporting makers, artists, and creatives in finding clarity and confidence. With a background in education, business, and creative mentoring, Jo brings a holistic, nurturing approach to helping creative souls thrive.
Key Topics & Quotes
Timestamp
Topic
Key Quote
00:00
Introduction to Jo and her creative journey
“I was always a creative child, and now my greatest joy is supporting other artists and makers to find clarity in their work.”
06:00
Creating for wellbeing and mental health
“Creating is so important for our mental health and wellbeing—it doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.”
07:00
Social media, self-perception, and the ‘Looking Glass Self’
“Our sense of self is shaped by how we think others see us, especially in the age of social media.”
09:00
Permission to create imperfectly and overcome fear
“If you allow your creativity to be intuitive and imperfect, you give yourself and others permission to begin.”
13:00
Gardening analogies for creative business and personal growth
“Real growth starts in the soil—know your roots before you reach for results.”
18:00
The privilege of supporting creatives one-to-one
“It’s a privilege to draw people out and give them the space to be truly seen and heard.”
23:00
Gentle, actionable marketing tips for artists
“Marketing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—sometimes it’s as simple as making sure your name appears on your website.”
39:00
Accepting overthinking and building it into your process
“Don’t fight overthinking—build it into your creative process and make it work for you.”
44:00
Working with personal cycles, seasons, and respecting your capacity
“Pay attention to your own rhythms and seasons, and let your creative practice adapt to what you need.”
56:00
Investing in yourself and pursuing creativity for wellbeing
“Investing in your creativity is an act of self-care and responsibility for your own wellbeing.”
57:00
Final reflections: giving yourself time, attention, and permission to create
“Give yourself the time and attention you deserve—your creative journey matters.”
 
Resources Mentioned
Connected Artist Club with Alice Sheridan https://www.soulrocketstudio.com/connected-interest
Jo’s Website https://jomccarthy.com
& Newsletter https://jo-mccarthy.myflodesk.com/the-garden-shed
Stay Connected with Me! 
Website: https://www.artbylizross.com/
Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross Support the podcast + creative work.
Instagram (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast
Join our creative community on Telegram for creative support and gentle guidance. https://t.me/+9EW5_m6DdSU5YTc0
Download: Take five minutes for yourself today! Get your free creativity guide and start building confidence, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in your creative journey. Coming Soon!
Subscribe for creative support, nurturing words, and heartfelt encouragement. **https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share**
Buy Me a Coffee: Support the podcast + creative work. https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross
Music Credit: Feeling Good by Doug Maxwell

In this deeply honest and heartfelt solo episode, Liz Ross opens up about the real behind-the-scenes of being an artist — the self-doubt, the limiting beliefs, the tiny steps of courage, and the unexpected ways confidence grows through showing up again and again.
From navigating open calls and the emotional rollercoaster of rejection and acceptance, to the overwhelm of producing a weekly podcast, Liz shares the EXACT thoughts, fears, and breakthroughs that so many creatives quietly hold inside.
This episode is a gentle reminder that you’re not alone.
You're not behind.
And you're allowed to grow slowly.
If you’ve ever doubted your voice, questioned your worth, or felt like everyone else is “further ahead,” this conversation will bring you comfort, clarity, and a renewed belief in what’s possible.
🌿 From the Episode
“Confidence grows in tiny moments. One brave step, one small conversation, one creative action — they all shift something inside of you.”
A grounding reminder that you don’t need to transform all at once…
You just need to take the next small step.
💫 What You’ll Hear
– Why Liz is shifting the podcast from weekly to fortnightly
– How approaching gallery owners feels scary for almost everyone
– The surprising way confidence grows through tiny, repeated actions
– The emotional process of submitting to open calls (and handling rejection)
– The belief-action-outcome cycle and how it shapes your entire creative life
– Why your “messy middle” is worth sharing and never something to be ashamed of
💬 Key Messages
– Your limiting beliefs are not your the truths.
– Tiny steps count. They build confidence gently and sustainably.
– One rejection doesn’t define your worth or your future.
– Galleries, opportunities, and creative growth all start with simply showing up.
– Your voice, your story, and your journey matter far more than you realise.
– You are allowed to change your mind, slow down, rest, and choose a path that feels good.
✨ Free Resources that support this Episode
💛 The Limiting Beliefs Ladder
A gentle framework to help you shift the stories that hold you back.
✨ The Creative Confidence Tracker (7-Day Practice)
Build momentum and self-belief through tiny, intentional creative actions.
Download coming soon — make sure you're subscribed to Liz’s newsletter so you don’t miss it 👇🏻
💌 Stay Connected
💌Sign up to my email list:
https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share
✨ Website: https://www.artbylizross.com
Explore Liz’s artwork, podcast notes, and creative offerings.
☕ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross
Support the podcast + creative work.
🎨 Instagram (Art): https://www.instagram.com/artbylizross
Behind the scenes, art process & inspiration.
🎧 Instagram (Podcast):
https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast
Episode updates & creative reflections.
🎁 Free Printable:
https://subscribepage.io/affirmationgift
Mentioned in this episode
Anna Mcdonald; Listen to Anna on episode #17 & #18 @annafmcdonald http://www.annafmcdonald.com
Alice Sheridan Listen to Alice on episode #20 @alicesheridanstudio http://www.alicesheridan.com
Kaisa Hart; Listen to Kasia on episode #11 & #24 @artistkaisahart http://www.kaisahart.com
Simone Russell @simonerussellart http://simonerussellart.com
Sara Hoque @sarahoqueart https://www.sarahoque.com
 

In this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, Liz Ross speaks with Matija, founder and director of MASA UK Gallery, about what it really means to be an artist — from developing your craft and trusting your voice, to navigating galleries, rejection, and the courage it takes to show your work.
This nourishing conversation is filled with wisdom for artists at every stage. Matija shares her heartfelt mission to support local creatives, uplift emerging artists, and make original art accessible to everyone.
If you’ve ever wondered how to approach a gallery, whether your work is “good enough,” or how to keep going when doubt creeps in — this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and the reminder that you are not alone.
From the Episode
“Don’t paint what you think will sell. Paint what’s in your heart — that’s what people connect with.”
A grounding reminder that your authentic artistic voice is your greatest strength.
What You’ll Hear
How MASA UK Gallery began and their mission to support local artists
Encouragement for artists who feel nervous or unsure about approaching galleries
What galleries look for in artwork (and what they don’t)
Why practice, consistency, and lifelong learning matter
Honest conversations about rejection, readiness, and developing your craft
The emotional connection between artist, gallery, and collector
Stories of inspiring artists exhibiting at MASA, including Jo Morton and Julian Lees
The importance of community, relationship-building, and showing up
💬 Key Messages
Your art is a moment in time, it deserves to be seen. 
You don’t have to be perfect to begin.
Every artist grows through practice, passion, and patience.
Approaching a gallery isn’t something to fear, it’s part of your journey.
Galleries love watching artists evolve over time.
Keep learning, keep experimenting, keep showing up.
✨ Mentioned in This Episode
🖼️ MASA UK Galleries
MASA UK Gallery – Bury
Website: https://masa-uk.co.uk
Instagram: @masa_art
MASA UK Gallery – Altrincham
Website: https://masa-uk.co.uk
Instagram: @masa_art
🎨 Artist: Jo Morton
Currently exhibiting at MASA Gallery Bury
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jomortonartist/
🎨 Artist: Julian Lees
Exhibiting at MASA Gallery Altrincham
🎨 Other Artists Mentioned
Kate Collins – Painter known for her beautiful china work
Dave Coulter – Self-taught artist with an extraordinary journey
David Swithenbank – Celebrated sculptor, former President of Bury Art Society
🎪 Events & Exhibitions
✨ MASA UK ArtX Biennale Exhibition
Featuring 30 artists including ME! - I’m very excited to have 2 of my artworks in this exhibition!
5 December – 21 December 2025
Exhibited across both MASA galleries (Bury & Altrincham)
A beautiful opportunity to discover new artists, support local talent, and gift meaningful artwork for the holidays.
✨ Manchester Art Fair
MASA UK Gallery will be exhibiting artists work at manchester Art Fair 22nd & 23rd November 2025
Details: https://manchesterartfair.co.uk
💌 Stay Connected
✨ Website: https://www.artbylizross.com – Explore Liz’s artwork, blog posts, and creative offerings.
☕ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross – Support the podcast and Liz’s creative work.
🎨 Instagram (Art): https://www.instagram.com/artbylizross – Artwork, inspiration, and behind the scenes.
🎧 Instagram (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast – Episode updates and creative reflections.
🎁 Free Printable: Get your free affirmation gift now: https://subscribepage.io/affirmationgift

🎁 Free Download
✨ Download your free Affirmation Printable + Colouring Page:
Gentle reminders for when life doesn’t go to plan — designed to inspire calm, reflection, and creative self-care.
👉 Get My Free Affirmation Gifts 💜
In this soothing affirmation episode, Liz Ross offers gentle motivation for artists and creatives navigating life’s unpredictable moments. Through mindful breathing, reflection, and affirmations, Liz reminds us that slowing down and caring for ourselves is a vital part of the creative process.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, tired, or off-rhythm, this episode is a quiet space to pause, reconnect, and remind yourself that you are enough — exactly as you are.
🌿 Excerpt from Donna Ashworth “To The Women” - ‘Warrior’
“You have grown into a version of She
The world had no idea you could ever be.”
A reminder to believe in your own growth and strength. You are already becoming everything you were meant to be.
💫 What You’ll Hear
– Gentle affirmations for when things don’t go to plan
– Words of self-care and compassion for creatives
– Reflections on rest, overwhelm, and returning to balance
– An excerpt from Donna Ashworth’s poem Warrior
– A reminder that rest and reflection are part of consistency
💬 Key Messages
– You don’t have to do it all to be enough.
– Resting is part of your creative rhythm.
– Every pause holds purpose.
– You are worthy of the same tenderness you give to others.
💌 Stay Connected
✨ Website: artbylizross.com – Explore Liz’s artwork, blog posts, and creative offerings.
☕ Buy Me a Coffee:  – Buy a coffee for Liz ☕️ Support the podcast and Liz’s creative work.
🎨 Instagram (Art): @artbylizross – Artwork, inspiration, and behind the scenes.
🎧 Instagram (Podcast): @empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast – Episode updates and creative reflections.
🎁 Free Printable: Get my free affirmation gift
A special message for you 💜
You are beautiful 💜 You are loved 🧡 Release the need for perfection. What matters is taking the next step 🩷 Each step we take brings us one step closer to our true authenticity. Choose progress over perfection. Choose yourself 🩷 Choose authenticity 🩵 You are a beautiful soul and the world needs you just as you are💜💖

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within! I'm your host Liz Ross and after a few weeks away, I’m catching you up on what’s been happening behind the scenes. In this week’s episode I’m sharing an honest catch-up on life, art, and creative courage. From taking time off for rest to showing up live on YouTube for the first time! We’ll talk about embracing imperfection, what consistency really means, and why sharing the messy moments matters just as much as celebrating the wins.
In this episode, I talk about:
🌿 Why I was forced to rest and take a break from the Podcast 
🎨 My recent experiences with open calls and what happens when things don’t go the way you hope
💻 Going live on YouTube for the first time (and how I found the courage to hit “Go Live”)
💫 Why consistency doesn’t always mean perfection — and what it can look like for artists like us
🖌️ My latest art explorations and what’s inspiring me creatively right now
This is a gentle, honest catch-up episode about the highs and lows of being a creative and how sharing the “messy middle” can be just as uplifting as sharing our wins.
✨ Mentioned in this episode:
My YouTube Channel: Art by Liz Ross
Free Procreate Masterclass: http://subscribepage.io/freeprocreatemasterclass
Buy Me A Coffee;
Podcast guest episodes mentioned:
Ep. 29 — Bury Art Museum
Ep. 30 — Gabriel Lipper 
💜 Let’s stay connected:
Podcast Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithin
My website; https://www.artbylizross.com
ETAW Facebook Group; https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity
Procreate Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/procreateartcommunity
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to follow, rate, or leave a review - it means so much and helps others find the show.

In this gentle reflection episode, Liz Ross shares an honest update about slowing down, recovering, and learning to show up — even when things don’t go to plan.
After a few weeks away from the mic, I reflect on finding inspiration in everyday moments, navigating creative consistency, and redefining what it really means to “keep showing up” as an artist.
Recorded on a quiet autumn walk, this episode is a reminder that creativity and self-expression don’t have to be perfect - they just have to be real.
Mentioned in this episode:– The Connected Artist Club– Gabriel Lipper’s figure workshop– Local artist opportunities in Manchester
🎧 Tune in for warmth, honesty, and gentle encouragement to embrace rest, reflection, and inspiration in your own creative rhythm.

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth!
I’m your host Liz Ross, and today we’re diving into an inspiring episode with the wonderful artist Gabriel Lipper.
Gabriel joins me to share his evolution from classical realism to blending abstraction with representation, and his philosophy on creating art that’s both skillful and free. We explore the balance between disciplined practice and creative freedom, the role of community, and the importance of carving out time for art in everyday life. Gabriel also introduces his courses, including Learning to See and the upcoming Figure Workshop, designed to guide artists at every stage of their journey.
Sign up for Gabriel Lipper’s Figure Workshop; https://www.8paint.art/a/2148170151/JAN3t2oU (Affiliate link) - If you sign up through my link, I’ll earn a small commission - at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support my podcast while you enjoy the course.
This conversation is full of insights for anyone looking to grow as an artist, overcome fear, and embrace a more joyful, authentic approach to making art.
💛 In this episode:
How Gabriel navigated his artistic journey from classical training to personal style.
Gabriel talks about his 21 a Week Sketch Challenge, great for improving drawing skills.
The value of community and connecting directly with fellow artists and buyers.
How to create cohesive collections while embracing experimentation.
We discuss our thoughts on tools like tracing and digital drawing to support learning.
Why you should prioritise art over life’s other demands.
Gabriel shares practical advice for aspiring artists at any stage.
Art is a journey, and this episode is a beautiful reminder that growth, joy, and connection flourish when we approach it with curiosity and courage. 🌿
✨ Mini Challenge:
Pick one way to make time for your own creative practice this week. It could be a 15-minute sketch, experimenting with a new technique, or starting a small collection of pieces. Notice how it feels to create without pressure or expectation. Come over to the Facebook group and let us know what you created. https://facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity
⭐️ Question of the week:
What’s one way you’re embracing creative freedom in your art right now?
Come over to my podcast Instagram account and share your thoughts. I can’t wait to hear your stories!
🗣️ Mentioned in this episode:
Sign up for Gabriel Lipper’s Figure Workshop; https://www.8paint.art/a/2148170151/JAN3t2oU (Affiliate link) - If you sign up through my link, I’ll earn a small commission - at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support my podcast while you enjoy the course.
Gabriel Lipper Website  https://artofgabriel.com
https://www.8paint.art 8PaintArt - Explore Gabriel’s courses, including Learning to See and the upcoming Figure Workshop.
💌 Connect & Support:
Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️ — Every cup helps me create more inspiring episodes for you!
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show.
Join my Free Procreate Masterclass here - https://subscribepage.io/freeprocreatemasterclass
Sign up to my email list;
https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share
Join me on Instagram at my podcast account: @empoweringtheartistwithin
Explore my art, free resources, and creative inspiration here: www.artbylizross.com
Follow my main Instagram: @artbylizross
Submit a question: Email liz@artbylizross.com — I love hearing from you!
Keep creating, keep exploring, and above all, keep believing in yourself.
Liz 🌿

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth!
I’m your host Liz Ross, and today we’re shining a spotlight on something inspiring in my local community; the Bury Festival of Arts.
Joining me are Sarah Evans and Katie Stansfield from Bury Art Museum and Gallery, who share the story of how the festival began, how it’s evolved, and the beautiful way it’s supporting both artists and the wider community.
We talk about the festival’s impact on local creatives, the opportunities it offers for artists at every stage of their career, and the importance of keeping art inclusive and accessible. From free workshops and affordable art initiatives to personal success stories, this episode is a celebration of connection, creativity, and the power of coming together through art.
💛 In this episode, you’ll discover how the Bury Festival of Arts:
Creates opportunities for artists at all stages of their journey.
Builds community connections through free and affordable events.
Provides inspiring stories of artists whose careers have been uplifted.
Keeps creativity accessible to families and the wider community.
Welcomes and encourages local artists to participate.
Plans for an exciting and impactful future.
Art is for everyone and this episode is a beautiful reminder of the joy, inspiration, and connection that bloom when we make creativity part of everyday life. 🌿
✨ Mini Challenge:
If you’re local, find a way to get involved with the Bury Festival of Arts - attend an event, join a free workshop, or show up to support local artists. If you’re listening from further afield, explore what creative festivals or community events are happening near you and make space to be part of them.
⭐️ Question of the week:
How has your local art community inspired you?
Come over to my podcast Instagram account and share your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear your stories!
💌 Connect & Support:
Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️ — Every cup helps me create more inspiring episodes for you!
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show.
Join me on Instagram at my podcast account: @empoweringtheartistwithin
Explore my art, free resources, and creative inspiration here: www.artbylizross.com
Follow my main Instagram: @artbylizross
Submit a question: Email liz@artbylizross.com with your thoughts or questions — I love hearing from you!
🗣️ Mentioned in this episode:
Bury Festival of Arts — Upcoming events, free workshops, and ways to get involved through the Bury Art Museum and Gallery
Keep creating, keep exploring, and above all keep believing in yourself.
Liz 🌿

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth!
I’m your host Liz Ross, and this episode is all about allowing for freedom in your creativity through traditional & digital art journaling.
If you’ve ever felt stuck staring at a blank page, pressured to “finish” an art journal spread, or afraid of ruining something you like, you are not alone. So many artists get caught up in perfectionism and fear of the outcome. In this episode you’ll hear about my experience with art journaling, how it can provide us with a safe space for expression, and how digital art can change everything.
We’ll talk about how digital art tools, like Procreate, can open new doors to creativity. Just like traditional art journaling, they give you permission to experiment, explore, and create without the pressure of a finished result.
💛 In this episode, you’ll discover how to:
Release the need for perfection in your art journaling.
Use unfinished and layered pages as part of your creative practice.
Use digital tools like Procreate to inform your artistic practice and create new art from old.
Gather photos of existing work, gel prints, collage papers and photographs and use them in a Procreate.
Use Procreate as a playful, pressure-free tool to explore, experiment and play.
Art is not about the medium, it’s about the freedom to express yourself. Your creativity is valid, meaningful, and worth celebrating🌿
✨ Mini Challenge:
Import a photo of your art into Procreate
If you don’t know how sign up for my FREE Procreate Masterclass and I’ll show you
You could choose to import a gelli print, collage paper, page from your art journal or a canvas piece.
Play around with the brushes, make some marks and have some fun playing.
Export as a jpg and sae to your camera roll.
Come over to my new Facebook group and share your explorations with us.
⭐️Question of the week:
Do you use Procreate or another digital tool in your creative practice? How do you feel about mixing digital and traditional ?
Head over to my new instagram account and let me know your answer in the comments - look for the question above in my feed and pop your thoughts under it.
💌 Connect & Support:
Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️ — Every cup helps me create more inspiring episodes for you!
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show.
Join me on Instagram at my new podcast account: @empoweringtheartistwithin
Explore my art, free resources, and creative inspiration here: www.artbylizross.com
Follow me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/artbylizross/
Submit a question: Email liz@artbylizross.com with a question you’d like me to discuss on the Podcast or if you want to reach out and let me know your thoughts on any of the episodes so far - I love to hear from you.
🗣️ Mentioned in this episode:
Kaisa Hart - 7 Day Mark Making Challenge https://www.kaisahart.com/mindful-mark-making-challenge 
Kaisa Hart Free Art Journaling Course https://www.kaisahart.com/art-journaling-joy-course
Follow Kaisa on instagram https://www.instagram.com/artistkaisahart/
Keep creating, keep exploring, and remember your art doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerful. 🌿

✨ Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth! I’m your host Liz Ross, and today’s episode is a gentle yet powerful affirmation session to help you show up boldly as a creative, even when fear or self-doubt shows up.
If you’ve ever hesitated to share your art, felt nervous about posting your work, or worried that your creations aren’t “perfect,” these affirmations are here to ground you, remind you of your worth, and encourage you to take brave steps in your creative journey.
💛 In this episode, you’ll learn how to:
Build courage and confidence as a creative
Feel safe to show up imperfectly
Transform fear and self-doubt into motivation
Embrace vulnerability as a strength in creativity
🎨 Sample Affirmations from this episode:
I am learning to show up with courage, even when I feel afraid.
I am learning to show up with courage, even when I feel afraid.
I celebrate my creativity; messy, imperfect, and beautifully mine.
I am safe to take up space as an artist.
Every time I share my art, I grow stronger and more confident.
✨ Remember: confidence is built step by step, one brave moment at a time. Take a small action this week: Share your art, try something new, or simply acknowledge your progress. Every act of showing up is a victory!
💌 Connect & Support:
Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️  Every cup bought helps fuel more creativity and wonderful episodes!
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show!
Follow me on Instagram to keep the conversation going at my NEW instagram account for the podcast www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithin 
Explore more inspiration and art here: www.artbylizross.com 
Keep creating, exploring, and keep believing and trusting in yourself. Your voice and your art matter.