Colour Me Happy! - By Brandi Hofer Studios

If an opportunity sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The best opportunities in art are built on real relationships, not expensive promises. - Brandi
What does a genuine creative partnership look like, and how can artists protect themselves from scams disguised as opportunities?
In this candid conversation, Rosso Art and Brandi share nearly 40 years of combined experience navigating the art world. From vanity exhibitions and pay-to-play features to building authentic relationships that support a sustainable career, this episode offers practical advice every artist needs to hear.
2 Takeaway Tips:
1. Don’t pay for validation.
Legitimate opportunities are built on mutual value, not large upfront fees for exposure, awards, or exhibitions.
2. Focus on relationships, not shortcuts.
The strongest careers are built through genuine connections, collaboration, and consistent work and not promises of overnight success.

"The more materials you explore, the more skills you gain—and eventually you’ll find the medium that helps you say exactly what you want to say.”
— Viktoria Maliar
What happens when two artists start geeking out over art supplies? In this episode, artist Viktoria Maliar shares her favourite materials, why she loves working with oils, and what it really takes to build a life as a full-time artist. From experimenting with mediums to adapting in a changing creative landscape, this conversation is packed with practical insights, studio talk, and a glimpse into the everyday realities behind a successful art career.

2 Takeaways:
Experiment before you commit. Try a variety of art supplies and mediums. Every material teaches you something new, even if it doesn’t become your forever medium.
Adaptability is part of the job. Building a sustainable art career isn’t just about making great work—it’s about staying curious, evolving, and being willing to learn as opportunities change.

Real creativity often happens in the middle of the chaos, not outside of it. Even if you take 15 minutes a day just for you, it counts!
In this honest and deeply relatable episode, Brandi sits down with artist and mother McKenzie Elston to talk about the emotional crossroads so many creatives face. From school morning meltdowns to the pressure of constantly monetizing creativity, they unpack the reality behind being a working artist and a mother at the same time.
Together, they share the longing many artists have to simply create without turning every idea into content or income.
This conversation feels like sitting down with a friend who finally says the quiet parts out loud. The exhaustion. The guilt. The dreaming. The uncertainty. And also the beauty of building a creative life anyway.
2 Takeaways:
Creativity does not need to be constantly monetized to have value. Sometimes making art for yourself is enough.
Motherhood and creativity can coexist, but not always in perfect balance. Giving yourself grace during the messy seasons matters.

What if the first step to living a creative life is simply believing you are worthy of one?
In this inspiring conversation, Carrie Schmitt shares how creativity begins with self-worth.
Together, Brandi and Carrie discuss the stubborn courage required to protect your energy, say no to what no longer serves you, and remain devoted to the life you know you are meant to live.
This episode is a reminder that creativity is not reserved for a select few. It is a relationship, a calling, and a sacred force waiting patiently for you to say yes!
Two Takeaway Tips:
1. Believe You Deserve to Create
A thriving creative life starts with self-worth. When you recognize that your ideas and perspective are valuable, you give yourself permission to pursue creativity with confidence. This is so important, if we can do you it that means you can too!
2. Build a Temple for Your Creativity
Design your environment and daily habits to nurture your imagination. Whether it is a dedicated studio, a sketchbook by your bedside, or simply protecting your mental energy, creating supportive space allows your creativity to flourish.

Fear can ask endless questions. Intuition makes a clear statement and your body already knows the answer.
This week on Colour Me Happy Podcast   I sit down with Jennifer Halls to explore how to quiet the noise of overthinking, move beyond fear, and begin trusting the inner voice that has been guiding you all along.Jennifer shares powerful insights from her new book You know: How to Invite & Nourish a Relationship with Your Intuition. Where she teaches practical tools to help people reconnect with their intuition in everyday life. We talk about one of the biggest challenges many creative people face: distinguishing anxiety from genuine intuitive guidance. When fear takes over, it often disguises itself as urgency or doubt. Intuition, on the other hand, feels clear, grounded, and present. 
One of my favourite takeaways from our conversation is Jennifer’s simple but transformative practice of making statements instead of asking questions. If you have ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your path, this episode offers practical wisdom to help you reconnect with your inner knowing and move forward with greater confidence.
Takeaway Tips:
1. Turn Questions into Statements
Instead of asking, “What should I do?” make a clear statement such as, “This is the right next step for me.” Then pay attention to how your body responds. Your intuition often communicates through a sense of calm and openness.
2. Notice Where Fear Lives in the Body
Anxiety often creates physical tension, while intuition tends to feel steady and grounded. By tuning into your body’s signals, you can better distinguish between fear-based thinking and genuine inner guidance.