Clean Break with Matt Gondek
196 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 131 ratingsDeconstructive Pop Artist Matt Gondek presents - Clean Break.
An informative podcast dealing with the business of the art world. In each episode Matt talks with different guests who will share the no holds bared truth behind how they advanced their own careers.
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Episodes
Inside Cj Hendry's Art World: Transforming Spaces Into Experiences
March 12, 2024 10:01 - 51 minutes - 72.8 MBInside the vibrant world of Cj Hendry, a visionary artist from Brisbane to New York, known for her hyper-photorealistic drawings and immersive exhibits. Cj reveals the motivation behind her unique creations like Monochrome and Rorschach, and the impact of her work on audiences worldwide. Delve into the essence of her art, which merges viewer interaction with stunning visual narratives, and discover what it takes to be among the 3,000 collectors awaiting her pieces. This interview offers a ra...
The Street Art Museum: STRAAT: With head curator David Roos.
February 27, 2024 11:01 - 57 minutes - 78.8 MBJoin us as we delve into the vibrant world of street art with David Roos, the esteemed Head Curator of STRAAT. Since 2016, David has transformed his passion for street art into a professional pursuit, curating a dynamic collection that showcases both renowned and emerging talents. In this episode, he shares insights into how he navigates the complexities of the art form, ensures the museum's collection remains relevant, and fosters exciting collaborations. Discover the stories behind the art...
Unlock Your Art's Potential: Your Exclusive Look at the AlwaysArt Revolution!
February 13, 2024 10:01 - 29 minutes - 41.6 MBGain exclusive access to the forefront of art management and authentication with AlwaysArt. Matt and Patrick provide an insider's perspective on groundbreaking AlwaysArt tools and strategies set to revolutionize the art world. From custom COAs to premium printing services, discover how AlwaysArt grants artists, galleries, and collectors privileged insight to amplify their success. Don’t miss this episode - this is a must watch. Sign up for your Free Account at: https://www.alwaysart.com/...
Sage Szkabarnicki-Stuart Interview: Discussing Daring Self-Portraits in Wild Settings
January 30, 2024 11:03 - 43 minutes - 61.1 MBThis week, we welcome Sage Szkabarnicki-Stuart, a remarkably innovative photographer who transformed her passion into a unique art form. Starting her journey in Canada, Sage developed a distinctive style of self-portraiture, combining her skills with the unpredictability of natural settings. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her complex, time-intensive photoshoots, often conducted in public parks and without a traditional studio. Join us as we delve deep into the art world with Sage....
Jeremy Biggers: Dallas' Multi-Hyphenate Artist, From Canvas to Camera and Beyond
January 16, 2024 11:00 - 46 minutes - 64.7 MBThis week, Matt sits down with Jeremy Biggers, an award-winning Dallas artist renowned for his painting, murals, and filmmaking. Educated at Booker T Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Jeremy honed his diverse artistic talents from a young age. His acclaimed work, featured in galleries across the country, skillfully combines his unique artistic vision with high-profile collaborations with brands like IBM and Nike. Biggers is a true innovator in the art world, constant...
Ken Harman Hashimoto: Mastering Art Curation from Hi-Fructose to Iconic Galleries
January 02, 2024 11:00 - 57 minutes - 79.8 MBThis week, Matt Gondek welcomes Ken Harman Hashimoto, a distinguished curator and gallery owner, for an insightful podcast episode. Ken, the creative mind behind Harman Projects, Hashimoto Contemporary, and Spoke Art galleries, discusses his evolution from an online editor for Hi-Fructose Magazine to a curator for esteemed art institutions. He shares his experiences running galleries across San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York, and his approach to shaping the contemporary art scene. Get ...
A Conversation with Danny Casale (AKA Coolman Coffeedan): Blending Humor and Humanity in a Digital World
December 19, 2023 11:01 - 53 minutes - 74.6 MBThis week, Matt is joined by Danny Casale, also known as Coolman Coffeedan, renowned for his quirky, humorous animations that gained fame with his viral hit "Snakes Have Legs." From his early YouTube days at age 12 to global exhibitions like Art Basel, Danny's distinct style combines low-fi aesthetics with meaningful messages. Join Matt as he delves into the creative process, inspirations, and aspirations of this unique artist. Websites: Clean Break: https://cleanbreakpodcast.com/ Powe...
Inside the Art World: Alan Bamberger's Unparalleled Expertise and Insights
December 05, 2023 11:01 - 58 minutes - 81 MBThis week we welcome Alan Bamberger, a renowned art consultant and author with decades of experience. Bamberger has advised artists, galleries, and collectors, penned the influential "Art Talk" column, and authored seminal books like "The Art of Buying Art". His expertise has been sought after by top media outlets such as the New York Times and CNN. Join us as we delve deep into the art world with Alan. This is an episode not to be missed. Websites: Clean Break: https://cleanbreakpodcast....
Elise Swopes: Redefining Digital Art & Entrepreneurship - A Journey of Inspiration
November 21, 2023 11:01 - 55 minutes - 77.4 MBDiscover how an iPhone 4 led her to artistry and Instagram, setting her on a unique path to becoming a global influencer. Hear how Swopes returned to college in 2013 to study graphic design but ultimately made the bold decision to drop out. Post-graduation, she partnered with industry giants like Apple and Adidas, even delivering a TEDx talk titled "Child of the Internet." Swopes also delves into the world of NFTs, sharing her experiences with platforms like Nifty Gateway and SuperRare. Be...
Art & Web3 | MUMBOT's Journey to Artistic Success & Artist Community Building
November 14, 2023 11:01 - 55 minutes - 128 MBAs a beacon in the Web3 landscape and a creator of the GHOST CLUB community, MUMBOT redefines success by lifting others rather than climbing alone. Learn how collaborative spirit and community support in the digital era pave the way for individual growth and collective empowerment. From pioneering toy design to fostering inclusivity in Web3, MUMBOT's tale is a testament to the adage that we rise by lifting others. Immerse yourself in this inspiring narrative and discover how unity in creativ...
Justin Mensinger: LA Designer Merging Craftsmanship & Sustainability
October 24, 2023 10:00 - 1 hour - 119 MBDive into the world of Justin Mensinger, the LA-based designer championing sustainability through exceptional craftsmanship. Influenced by his Midwest roots and inspired by the blend of luxury streetwear and vintage at Goodwill and RSVP Gallery, Mensinger transforms discarded materials into fashion masterpieces. Celebrated as the winner of HBO Max's 'The Hype', his mission "From the Past, For the Future" resonates powerfully in today's fashion world. Join us as we uncover the journey of a ri...
Artists, Beware! Exclusivity Contracts - Top Things to Know Before You Consider
October 10, 2023 10:00 - 22 minutes - 24.9 MBDive into the world of artist exclusivity with hosts Matt Gondek and Patrick Coulson. As artists venture into partnerships, the idea of exclusive contracts with galleries or agents often presents itself. This episode unravels the complexities of such decisions, exploring the advantages like guaranteed income and exposure, against potential limitations. We'll guide you through essential considerations: understanding contract terms, the balance of pros and cons, negotiation strategies, and way...
How to Fast-track Your Art Career - When and Why Should Artists Hire an Agency for Career Growth
October 03, 2023 10:00 - 33 minutes - 77.1 MBJoin Matt as he explores the agent/artist relationship with Aaron Barr, co-founder of Atrbute. Matt and Aaron break it down and discuss how agencies can supercharge an artist's career. Aaron's expertise in digital strategy, sales, management, business development, and marketing strategy makes this a must-listen episode for anyone in the art world. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation that could transform your perspective on art and business.
ADD FUEL Interview: Meet The Visual Artist who Transforms Azulejos Into Murals
September 26, 2023 10:01 - 1 hour - 96.6 MBJoin host Matt Gondek as he engages in a captivating conversation with the renowned Portuguese visual artist, Diogo Machado, popularly known as ADD FUEL. From his early days in design studios to his mesmerizing journey into the art world, ADD FUEL brings forth a universe that oscillates between the eccentricities of urban visual culture and the timeless beauty of traditional tile designs, especially the iconic Portuguese Azulejo. Whether you're a lover of contemporary art, or traditional des...
How Artists SHOULD Communicate with Art Galleries - Marketing Tips for Artists to Sell More Art Today
September 21, 2023 03:49 - 24 minutes - 28.2 MBJoin hosts Matt Gondek and Patrick Coulson on "Communicating with Galleries." In this episode, they dive deep into the essentials for artists aiming to gain visibility and connect effectively with art galleries. Learn about the importance of researching the right galleries, maintaining professionalism, adhering to submission guidelines, and understanding the need for patience and openness to feedback. Plus, get insights into establishing clear terms when partnering with galleries and maintai...
Do You Need PR as an Artist? With Maxime Richard.
September 12, 2023 10:01 - 37 minutes - 50 MBJoin Matt Gondek, as he dives deep into a conversation with Maxime Richard, the mastermind behind Maximus Communications. Discover how Maxime's profound relationships with elite media and influencers have become the bedrock of his agency's achievements. Listen in and uncover the secrets behind the impressive media coverage his clients receive in esteemed outlets like VOGUE, The New York Times, GQ, ELLE, The Wall Street Journal, T Magazine, Architectural Digest, and Wallpaper. Don't miss this...
32 Troy Kelley
September 05, 2023 10:01 - 59 minutes - 139 MBJoin host Matt Gondek as he sits down with Troy Kelley, the dynamic Artist Development and Project Manager with Goldman Global Arts, the esteemed curators of the Wynwood Walls in Miami and the Houston Bowery Wall in NYC. With a background that stretches from creating stained glass windows to pushing cubicle life at a major tire manufacturer, Troy has become a pivotal force in the street art community since joining GGA in 2015. Whether it's ordering paint, building relationships with artists ...
31 Set Free Richardson
August 29, 2023 10:01 - 1 hour - 184 MBMatt Gondek sits down with Set Free Richardson, a man known to some as a creative genius, and to others, the Cultural Conduit. Born in the Bronx and bred in Philadelphia, Set Free has turned urban culture into breakthrough ideas, taking the AND1 brand to international sensation status. As the mastermind behind Compound, where art, music, fashion, sports, and charity blend seamlessly, he's created an adult playground that fuels creativity and a cultural nerve center that taps into big-name fi...
30 Ben Frost
August 22, 2023 10:01 - 46 minutes - 52.7 MBMatt speaks with Ben Frost, renowned for his audacious and thought-provoking work often using pharmaceutical packaging. Frost opens up about his creative process, sharing insights on using imagery like children's books, mixing things up with different media, and his organic approach to art that bypasses digital mock-ups. The conversation also delves into sustaining a career over 20 years, the struggle between innovation and expectation, and the often-unspoken fear of stepping out of the comf...
29 Jessica Brilli
August 15, 2023 10:00 - 34 minutes - 78.1 MBMatt speaks with East Coast-based artist Jessica Brilli. Jessica shares her journey as a painter, detailing her transition from a graphic design career to wholeheartedly embracing her passion for art. She discusses her unique approach to drawing inspiration from vintage photographic film, sifting through countless images to find the perfect one. She also opens up about the grant she received, which paved the way for her to become a full-time artist, establish an external studio, and invest i...
28 Fidia & Charlie Edmiston
August 08, 2023 10:00 - 1 hour - 144 MBMatt talks with renowned artists Charlie Edmiston and Fidia about their creative journeys, influences, and challenges in the art world. They discuss breaking away from past labels and embracing authenticity in their artistic visions. From Fidia's graffiti background to Charlie's evolving color palettes, they share insights into their styles and experimentation. The conversation also touches on the role of galleries and the value of self-expression in the creative process. This candid discuss...
27 Dan Lam
August 01, 2023 10:00 - 51 minutes - 118 MBMatt talks with Texas-based artist Dan Lam - known for her “drippy” sculptures and use of vibrant color. With no guides or instructions available, Dan’s work was organically discovered and refined through her own experimentation. We discuss how she went from teaching art appreciation to exhibiting in galleries, her creative process and the materials used in the work, sales, the benefits of working with a PR company, getting press, and a lot more. Listen to the full episode now.
26 Jan Kaláb
July 25, 2023 10:00 - 47 minutes - 108 MBWe speak with artist Jan Kalab - an artist whose work has been described as nuclear, bombastic, and looking like a thermal wave. From cutting his teeth on the 90’s graffiti scene in Czechoslovakia, Jan’s work has transitioned from the streets to the fine art world. We discuss his first solo exhibitions, running his own gallery Trafačka, and the art market in his current home of Prague. We also dive into how he creates his work, which uses colorful squares and circles as an obsessive vocabula...
25 Secret Walls x POSCA - Mr B Baby & Dreyfus
July 18, 2023 10:30 - 56 minutes - 129 MBClean Break's Matt Gondek speaks with artists Mr. B Baby and Dreyfus, recorded live at the Secret Walls compound in collaboration with POSCA. Mr. B Baby is best known for her Mexican Maria rag doll and "Chucho" characters, which come to life through fine art, murals, and toys. Dreyfus's work has a strong message of positive mental health through her "Alter-Egos" depicting people experiencing joy. Clean Break talks with both artists about their upbringing, navigating the art market, and vario...
24 Dulk - Updated
July 12, 2023 05:09 - 57 minutes - 133 MBDulk is a Spanish born artist best known for his vibrant paintings that blend nature and fantasy. In this episode of Clean Break, Matt Gondek, street artist Dulk, and Sara, his wife and manager, traverse Dulk's artistic journey. From Dulk's early days drawing as a child, a brief stint in economics, to studying illustration, they explore the pathway to his recognition as a successful artist. The trio unpacks the intricacies of the art business, discussing partnerships, collaborations, and t...
23 Communicating with your Collectors
July 04, 2023 10:30 - 43 minutes - 98.6 MBWe discuss the art of communicating with collectors. We emphasize the need for transparency when discussing prices, and encourage artists to stand firm on their pricing decisions while avoiding excessive haggling. The importance of respectful follow-ups, respecting collectors' privacy, and keeping thorough records of interactions for reference and organization is also underscored. We suggest transitioning conversations from social media to email for better control and organization of communi...
22 Making Prints
June 27, 2023 10:30 - 53 minutes - 122 MBIn this episode of Clean Break, Matt and Patrick dive into the world of printmaking, discussing everything from traditional to modern practices. They share a wealth of knowledge on effectively selling and packaging prints, with a particular focus on the medium's importance and the strategic use of color. They navigate the intricacies of print-on-demand services, unearthing the benefits of low upfront costs and quality control, while addressing the challenge of not being able to sign prints. ...
21 Robert Burden
June 20, 2023 10:30 - 1 hour - 189 MBIn this episode of Clean Break, Matt sits down with Robert Burden, renowned for his large-scale oil paintings of childhood action figures set against ornate backdrops. Burden, whose meticulous works often require 3,000 hours each to complete, recently had his first museum exhibition in Oceanside, California, showcasing 33 pieces from his 17-year career. Burden discusses his journey and artistic process, where he combines elements of pop surrealism and religious iconography to create what he ...
20 How to get walls
June 13, 2023 10:30 - 21 minutes - 50.1 MBIn this episode, Matt and Patrick share valuable tips for finding your first mural wall. They suggest starting small by painting interior walls to gain experience, and emphasize the benefits of offering free assistance to experienced mural artists and volunteering to learn techniques. Building networks and obtaining referrals are crucial for connecting with wall or business owners. The hosts stress the significance of professionalism, punctuality, and preparedness when an opportunity arises....
19 Brett Crawford
June 06, 2023 10:30 - 1 hour - 157 MBIn this episode of Clean Break (powered by Always Art), Matt and Brett reconnect after 5 years, discussing Brett’s transformative artist’s journey. Overcoming a tumultuous past involving drugs, theft, violence, and jail, Brett discovered his artistic passion during his time behind bars. Encouraged by a guard while in jail, he joined a prison art program and later entered a rehabilitation program in San Francisco. Relocating to LA, Brett committed himself to his art after turning his life aro...
18 Mon Dieu Contemporary
May 30, 2023 10:30 - 46 minutes - 105 MBIn an exciting conversation with Juno and Spencer, the dynamic duo behind Mon Dieu Contemporary, a vibrant new gallery in the heart of Los Angeles, we delve into a multitude of subjects. From unveiling their process of discovering artists to represent, to shedding light on the paths artists can take to get noticed by galleries, we explore the inner workings of this innovative art space. We also dive into the essence of their curatorial philosophy and the captivating genres of artwork they ai...
17: Selling Your Artwork Direct
May 23, 2023 10:00 - 30 minutes - 70.6 MBWe discuss selling your artwork directly, without the help of a gallery or dealer. We cover various strategies such as organizing group shows, participating in art fairs, licensing, and more to help you generate income from your artwork. Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
16: King Saladeen
May 16, 2023 10:00 - 29 minutes - 67.5 MBWe chat with King Saladeen from West Phiadelphia. We discuss his motivation, career, and creative process. We also explore his characters, his contemporary work, and his passions. He came into art on his own with no formal training. We also discuss his mentor that inspired his signature bear and how is career has evolved to brand collaborations. This is a great conversation that covers a lot of ground. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your...
15: Learning to say "NO"!
May 09, 2023 15:35 - 25 minutes - 58.7 MBAre you tired of accepting every job offer or opportunity that comes your way, only to find out it's not the right fit? It's time to start learning the power of saying "no." We'll explore the art of declining unsuitable jobs and opportunities and why it's just as important as finding the right ones. Tune in to discover how saying "no" can lead you to success and unlock opportunities you never thought possible. Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner. Please visit ...
14: Kaplan Bunce
April 25, 2023 10:00 - 56 minutes - 128 MBKaplan is a Native American artist who lives and works in Kauai Hawaii. He created a working studio and artist residency on Kauai called KRNT Studios whose goal is to help both Hawaiin artists show their work, and offer a space for national artists. We also discuss his work and involvement with World Wide Walls mural festival, which was originally called Pow! Wow! Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
13: Shantell Martin
April 18, 2023 10:00 - 59 minutes - 137 MBShantell's unique combination of art + storytelling has earned her international recognition, with her work being shown in museums, galleries, and public spaces across the world. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
12: Kim Rose + Listener Questions
April 11, 2023 11:03 - 56 minutes - 130 MBWe answer listener's questions, and Kim shares how she planned her exhibtion Venus's Garden. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
11: Statement of Understanding - Gallery & Artist
March 28, 2023 10:00 - 18 minutes - 41.5 MBWhat questions should you ask a gallery before working with them? We go over the big ones - and provide a free checklist when you're having the conversation. Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
10: What Galleries Should Do (and why they deserve their commission)
March 21, 2023 10:00 - 20 minutes - 47.9 MBShould you work with a gallery? We talk about what galleries SHOULD be doing for an artist (and vice versa) Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
09: Ron English
March 14, 2023 10:00 - 1 hour - 149 MBRon English's impact on the art world cannot be overstated. His unique style and bold messages have inspired countless artists and have made him an icon in the world of street art and beyond. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
08: Working from Home versus a Studio
March 07, 2023 11:00 - 20 minutes - 47 MBWhere do you make your art? We discuss pros and cons of working from home versus a studio space. Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
07: Brent Estabrook & Mikael Brandrup
February 28, 2023 11:00 - 1 hour - 161 MBBrent and Mikael are both back on the podcast to discuss morning routines and daily habits to improve physical and mental well-being while pursuing their art careers.
06: Make and Sell Merchandise
February 21, 2023 11:00 - 23 minutes - 53.1 MBA webstore is a vital source of passive income. We discuss getting started without investing money on inventory. Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
05: VEVE with David Yu
February 14, 2023 11:00 - 54 minutes - 124 MBVEVE sells digital collectibles and collaborates with some of the biggest entertainments brands like Marvel, Disney, and DC. We speak with the New Zealand based founder, David Yu, about the company's explosive growth and the steep learning curve that comes with starting a business of this magnitude. With over 290,000 Active users on their app, and over half a million NFT's sold - VEVE is the largest mobile collectibles platform on the market.
04: Leveraging Social Media
February 07, 2023 11:00 - 24 minutes - 55.5 MBGrow your brand, get more collectors, and get people interested in what you're doing. Social Media is a cost effective way to reach a wide audience that wants to learn about you and the art you create. Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career
03: The Andy Warhol Museum
January 31, 2023 11:00 - 53 minutes - 123 MBThe Andy Warhol Musuem in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania boasts over 900 paintings, 100 sculptures, 4,000 photographs and more from Andy's storied life and career. We speak with the director of the Warhol, Patrick Moore, about Andy's life as well as the museum. We also speak with Anneliese Martinez, the senior director of the "Pop District" - a development plan that's transforming the museum’s surrounding neighborhood into a cultural hub for Pittsburgh - drawing on the artist’s legacy Contact...
02: Financial Planning Your Art Career
January 24, 2023 11:00 - 21 minutes - 49.8 MBFinancial planning is critical to launching your art career and having stability. With adequate financial planning, you can have more control over your art business, set professional and personal goals, and ensure a long-lasting career. Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career.
01 Interview: Artist Lefty Out There
January 17, 2023 11:01 - 49 minutes - 114 MBBy creating intuitive, repeated shapes, Lefty Out There (aka Franco Campanella) achieves the rare feat of working in contradictions. His work is both bold and intricate. Organic but uniform. A simple mark makes up a considerably more complex whole. We discuss his art practice, entering the gallery world, management, and advice for aspiring artists.
How to price your artwork
January 17, 2023 11:00 - 20 minutes - 47.6 MBWelcome to the new and improved Clean Break Podcast! For our first episode back, we're laser focusing on one particular topic - How to price your artwork and make your very first sales. Gondek is joined by Patrick of AlwaysArt, our podcast partner. Please visit CleanBreakPodcast.com for free resources, tips, and guides to grow your artistic career.
Clean Break -Simone Legno + Dharni - Episode 145
December 27, 2022 15:55 - 1 hour - 145 MBSimone Legno is the creative director and founder of TokiDoki - an internationally recognized and iconic lifestyle brand. Dharni is a Singaporeon Beatboxer whose traveled the world competing. We interviewed them both recently during the Culture Cartel Expo in Singapore. Clean Break will return for our new season Mid-January 2023. For now, enjoy this bonus episode.