Top Secrets of Successful Corporate Art Commissions with Shirley Williams
Release Date: 07/12/2023
The Artist Next Level Podcast
The 2025 Artsy.net Buyer Trends Report is out, and the data reveals a massive shift in what art collectors are actually buying right now. In this video, I break down the key trends you need to know and explain exactly how to prepare your art business strategy for success in 2026. As an artist and gallery owner for over 20 years, I've seen market shifts come and go, but the current move toward specific formats and aesthetics represents a huge opportunity for independent artists who are paying attention. We’ll cover the rise of 'Mini Art,' the new color palette collectors love, and why...
info_outlineThe Artist Next Level Podcast
Is your art career based on a plan or just hope? Most artists struggle financially because they treat their business like a lottery ticket—hoping to get "discovered" rather than building a predictable system. In this video, I’m cutting through the noise and giving you the exact 1-Page Art Business Plan I use with my coaching clients. This isn’t a 50-page boring document you’ll never read. This is a simple, actionable roadmap to help you predict your income, diversify your revenue streams, and focus on what actually moves the needle in 2026. Stop guessing and start building a...
info_outlineThe Artist Next Level Podcast
Are you an artist who wants to increase your revenue without creating more artwork? In today’s video, I break down smart, practical, and sustainable ways to grow your income without adding more hours in the studio. You’ll discover how to: 🎨 Expand your income streams strategically 📈 Raise your prices with confidence 🛍️ Introduce profitable merch and product lines 💼 Build recurring revenue sources 🔁 Set an annual revenue plan that supports consistent growth Most artists rely only on selling originals—and that limits your potential. If you want to thrive, not just survive,...
info_outlineThe Artist Next Level Podcast
In this inspiring episode of the Artist Next Level Podcast, Sergio Gomez sits down with artist Linda Anderson to explore her artistic journey—from her early days growing up among the mountains of Utah to becoming a painter deeply connected to the woodland landscapes surrounding her Virginia home. Linda shares how nature, culture, motherhood, and personal evolution have shaped her creative voice, including her unique dimensional landscape technique that merges painting, printmaking, and sculptural form. We also dive into the powerful story of raising two daughters who became artists...
info_outlineThe Artist Next Level Podcast
In this inspiring episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, Sergio Gomez sits down with Barbara Gerdman and Elizabeth Goodwill, co-founders of Creative Liberties in Sarasota, Florida — a thriving artist-led organization providing studio spaces, exhibitions, and support services for local artists. Barbara and Elizabeth share how their vision for Creative Liberties grew out of their shared passion for community and collaboration. What began as an idea between two artists has become a creative hub serving over 40 artists through studio spaces, residencies, and emerging artist opportunities....
info_outlineThe Artist Next Level Podcast
What makes a piece of art truly collectible? In this episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, host Sergio Gomez sits down with NYC-based art advisor Pato Paez to explore the elusive “it” factor that separates good art from unforgettable art. From visual impact to emotional resonance, this powerful conversation dives into the hidden dynamics collectors are really looking for—and why your story matters just as much as your brushstrokes. Whether you're an emerging artist or already building your collector base, this episode will help you gain clarity, refine your message, and make deeper,...
info_outlineThe Artist Next Level Podcast
In this honest and eye-opening episode, Sergio Gomez dives into a topic every artist needs to hear: the difference between simply having a website... and having a great one. These days, most artists have a website—but that doesn’t mean it’s working in their favor. A truly great artist website does more than just display your work—it builds trust, elevates your brand, and opens doors to real opportunities like sales, exhibitions, and collaborations. If your website feels more like a placeholder than a powerful tool, this episode is for you. Tune in as Sergio shares insights, common...
info_outlineThe Artist Next Level Podcast
In this episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, host Sergio Gomez unpacks one of the most common struggles artists face: how to take on commissions that feel way outside your usual style without sacrificing your artistic identity. Whether it's a fantasy illustration, a commercial mural, or a portrait that doesn’t quite align with your aesthetic, Sergio shares a practical 5-step framework to help you stay true to your voice—and still deliver results your client loves. You’ll learn how to set clear style boundaries, ask the right discovery questions, keep the process collaborative with...
info_outlineThe Artist Next Level Podcast
Feeling like the art world’s closed doors are just out of your reach? In this episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, host Sergio Gomez peels back the curtain on traditional art-world gatekeeping and shares his own story as an artist, curator, and gallery owner. Discover why the art world isn’t as exclusive as it seems—and learn practical strategies to disrupt the status quo, own your career, and build your own “art world” from the ground up. Whether you’re just starting out or carving a fresh path, this honest, empowering conversation will inspire you to claim your place in art...
info_outlineThe Artist Next Level Podcast
Are you feeling lost in the ever-changing Instagram algorithm? In this episode of The Artist Next Level Podcast, host Sergio Gomez unpacks the most important updates on Instagram and how they impact artists in 2025. From algorithm shifts and the evolving role of hashtags to what’s currently working with Reels and content distribution—this is your no-fluff guide to staying ahead on social media. Sergio breaks down the essential strategies artists need to grow their presence this summer—so you can stop guessing and start creating with confidence. 🎯 Ready to take your art career to the...
info_outlineWelcome to Episode 353 of the Next Level Podcast, where hosts Drew Harris and Sergio Gomez sit down with Canadian painter Shirley Williams to unveil the top secrets of successful corporate art commissions. Shirley Williams, a renowned artist with nearly 30 years of experience, takes us behind the scenes and shares her valuable insights on working with corporate clients, meeting deadlines, navigating contracts, selecting materials, and much more.
Shirley Williams is celebrated for her captivating multi-layered abstract paintings, which draw inspiration from the organic rhythms of nature and the vibrant energy of colors. Her distinctive style has garnered international acclaim, with her work being exhibited across North America in prestigious solo and juried group exhibitions. Museums and commercial art galleries in Toronto, Detroit, Dallas, Austin, New York, San Francisco, and Naples have showcased her remarkable talent.
Notably, Shirley's artwork has found a home in major corporate collections, including Hub International, Caesars International, General Motors, BMO Financial, Ethan Allen Global, and A&W Food Service, among others. Furthermore, her creations grace several public collections, such as Ronald McDonald House, University of Windsor, Ste. Cecile Academy Library, and WF Credit Union. In the realm of private collections, Shirley's paintings have found a place in the esteemed Zekelman Family Foundation and the Odette Family Foundation.
Throughout her career, Shirley Williams has been the recipient of numerous art grants, acknowledging her exceptional artistic contributions. In 2012, she was honored with the prestigious Endowment for the Arts, Elizabeth Havelock Foundation Award, recognizing her achievements as a mid-career artist. In 2013, she received a Letter of Recognition from Canadian Prime Minister Harper and Mayor Ed Francis of the City of Windsor.
Shirley's artistic journey has seen her collaborate with Grammy-winning symphony conductor Maestro John Morris-Russell of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra. Together, they embarked on a year-long fundraising project, showcasing her talents as a Visual Artist in Residence.
Beyond her remarkable collaborations, Shirley Williams has also worked extensively with international designers and art consultants, leaving her artistic imprint on significant projects. Her artistic prowess has graced a private jet lounge and a 127-foot yacht, demonstrating her versatility and ability to adapt her creativity to diverse settings.
Currently, Shirley operates from a spacious warehouse studio with an adjoining Studio Gallery in Windsor, Ontario, situated across the river from Detroit, Michigan. This airy and inspiring space serves as the backdrop for her continued artistic endeavors and as a hub for engaging with art enthusiasts and collectors.
Tune in to this enlightening episode of the Next Level Podcast, as Shirley Williams, Drew Harris, and Sergio Gomez share invaluable advice and unravel the secrets of successful corporate art commissions. Whether you're an artist, a collector, or simply curious about the intersection of art and the corporate world, this conversation promises to be both insightful and inspiring.