Embrace Your Uniqueness: Infusing Art into Business, Fitness, and Leadership with Heart – Antonio DeAscanis of BlkOps Fitness
Release Date: 10/07/2024
Art Criticism Redefined with Zarina Muhammad of The White Pube
Art & Cocktails
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, I’m joined by Zarina Muhammad, co-founder of The White Pube, to explore the evolving world of art criticism. From their journey as art students to becoming influential voices, Zarina shares how The White Pube redefined criticism with humor, accessibility, and bold honesty. We discuss the creation of their book Poor Artists, the importance of criticism as a form of generosity, and how artists can engage with critics while maintaining their creative integrity. Whether you're an artist, critic, or simply passionate about art culture, this episode offers...
info_outline
Tenacious & Luxurious: Emily Jeffords on Building an Art Career with Authenticity, Grace, and Determination
Art & Cocktails
In this inspiring episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova welcomes the talented Emily Jeffords, an abstract impressionist painter, creative educator, and writer from Greenville, South Carolina. Together, they dive into Emily's journey of learning to sell and market her art independently, creating eco-friendly art practices, and discovering a fulfilling creative process. Emily shares her path from art school to building a thriving career outside the traditional gallery system, offering insights for artists eager to navigate the art world on their terms. She discusses the...
info_outline
Creating with Heart and Vision: Expert Collector Sonia Borrell’s Guide for Artists and Aspiring Collectors
Art & Cocktails
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, join us for an inspiring conversation with art collector and curator Sonia Borrell, founder of the Tryson Collection. Sonia shares her journey in the art world, discussing her passion for discovering new artists and building a collection that resonates on a personal level. She offers invaluable advice for artists on creating authentically and for new collectors on how to start a collection with meaning and purpose. Key Takeaways: Art as a healing and transformative force Collecting what you love over following market trends The importance of...
info_outline
Empowering Artists to Curate Their Own Opportunities with Gita Joshi
Art & Cocktails
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova is joined once again by curator Gita Joshi. Together, they explore how artists can take control of their careers by curating their own exhibitions and creating opportunities rather than waiting for art world recognition. Ekaterina and Gita share highlights from their recent trip to Paris, where they explored both Art Basel and the thriving indie art scene, revealing how large art fairs and intimate pop-up shows can coexist and enrich the art community. They discuss the importance of independent initiatives, the power of...
info_outline
Tim Fowler on Creative Confidence, Betting on Yourself, and Painting Big
Art & Cocktails
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Tim Fowler, a full-time artist based in Leicester, UK. Known for his bold, semi-abstract paintings bursting with vivid pinks, teals, and blues, Tim opens up about his creative journey, from experimenting with portraits and cityscapes to finding his voice in botanical themes inspired by his Caribbean heritage. We discuss how a serendipitous encounter with banana plants in his studio led him to explore the intersections of art, history, and cultural identity. Tim shares invaluable insights on developing creative...
info_outline
Creativity is Incompatible with Lack: Breathwork, Regulating the Nervous System, and More with Dr. Aubry Alvarez Bakker
Art & Cocktails
In this insightful episode, Dr. Aubry Alvarez Bakker shares her expertise in using breathwork and creativity to manage stress, regulate the nervous system, and enhance overall well-being. She discusses how these practices can improve performance and support the manifestation of personal goals. The conversation explores the synergy between science and spirituality, focusing on how nervous system regulation can help individuals move beyond survival mode, embrace creativity, and foster a mindset of abundance. Dr. Aubry and Ekaterina Popova examine the healing potential of art, explaining how...
info_outline
Why Art Matters Today: Reflections from Art Basel Paris 2024
Art & Cocktails
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, I’m (host Ekaterina Popova, Kat) sharing my personal reflections on the power of art after an amazing experience at Art Basel Paris. I’ll dive into the joy of reconnecting with my art community, the inspiring conversations I had, and some of the most meaningful moments from the fair. This isn’t just about what I saw—it’s about how art connects us, helps us grow, and why it’s more important now than ever. So, join me as we explore how we can all embrace our unique creative paths and make art a bigger part of our lives. Blog Post: Call For...
info_outline
Unblocking Creativity Through Tarot: A Conversation with Chelsea Pippen-Mizzi
Art & Cocktails
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Ekaterina Popova speaks with Chelsea Pippen-Mizzi, author and tarot reader, about the fascinating intersection of tarot and creativity. Chelsea shares her personal journey from skeptic to tarot enthusiast, discussing how tarot can serve as a powerful tool for artists and entrepreneurs. Together, they explore practical tips for beginners, the importance of personal exploration, and how tarot can help overcome creative blocks without fostering fear. Chelsea also delves into her book Tarot for Creativity, offering valuable insights and exercises designed to...
info_outline
Come Home to Your Art: Rebuild Your Life with Art and Heart
Art & Cocktails
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova shares a personal update as an artist and entrepreneur. She dives deep into the challenges of balancing business and creativity, the importance of self-care, and the joy she’s found in returning to the basics of direct art sales. Ekaterina emphasizes the need to reconnect with your artistic roots and nurture your creativity to overcome burnout and rediscover abundance. Tune in for inspiring insights on personal growth, mindfulness, and the power of simplicity in your art practice. Key Takeaways: Success can be a distraction; stay...
info_outline
Embrace Your Uniqueness: Infusing Art into Business, Fitness, and Leadership with Heart – Antonio DeAscanis of BlkOps Fitness
Art & Cocktails
In this inspiring episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat sits down with Antonio DeAscanis, founder of BlkOps Fitness, Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, and fitness coach. Antonio shares his powerful journey from his time in the Marine Corps to becoming a successful gym owner, blending his passion for fitness, community, and creativity. Episode Highlights: Antonio's Early Life & Inspiration: Learn how a strong sense of adventure and early life experiences shaped Antonio’s drive to create something unique in the fitness world. Marine Corps Influence: Antonio discusses his journey...
info_outlineIn this inspiring episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat sits down with Antonio DeAscanis, founder of BlkOps Fitness, Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, and fitness coach. Antonio shares his powerful journey from his time in the Marine Corps to becoming a successful gym owner, blending his passion for fitness, community, and creativity.
Episode Highlights:
- Antonio's Early Life & Inspiration: Learn how a strong sense of adventure and early life experiences shaped Antonio’s drive to create something unique in the fitness world.
- Marine Corps Influence: Antonio discusses his journey through the Marine Corps, overcoming challenges, building leadership skills, and how this shaped his approach to fitness and entrepreneurship.
- Entrepreneurial Journey: Discover the humble beginnings of BlkOps Fitness and how Antonio integrated various experiences from his military service, love for music, and DJing into creating a gym that feels more like a creative space than a traditional fitness facility.
- Creative Vision for BlkOps Fitness: Antonio’s gym is known for its unique aesthetic, featuring murals, neon lights, and a vibe that combines the best of fitness and art. He shares the inspiration behind his design choices and how art and fitness can intersect in meaningful ways.
- Building a Strong Community: Antonio talks about the importance of creating a supportive, inspiring environment at BlkOps Fitness, where individuals from different walks of life come together and push each other to achieve their goals.
- Navigating Challenges: From building a business from scratch to handling the pressures of entrepreneurship, Antonio offers invaluable insights on perseverance, branding, and standing out by embracing your uniqueness.
- Advice for New Entrepreneurs: Whether you're an artist or an entrepreneur, Antonio shares practical tips on starting with limited resources, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of staying true to your vision.
Key Takeaways:
- Life experiences, even the tough ones, can fuel creativity and entrepreneurship.
- Branding is personal—don’t let external noise distract you from who you are and what you want to create.
- Perseverance and community-building are critical elements in sustaining a successful business.
- There’s no blueprint for creativity; sometimes, breaking the mold is what makes your brand stand out.
Connect with Antonio:
- Instagram: @blkopsfitness
- Website: blkopsfitness.com
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram for more inspiring conversations with creatives and entrepreneurs!