The Power of Art Advisors in Building an Artist’s Career

In this episode of The Professional Artist Podcast , painter Forrest Kirk is featured by the Professional Artist Association ( ProfessionalArtist.com/join ), the world’s fastest-growing global community for committed fine artists. Forrest Kirk is known for his powerful explorations of race, identity, and power, often reimagining classical subjects through a contemporary lens. His layered paintings combine figurative realism, collage, and bold color, inviting viewers to reflect on power and representation. History plays a central role in his work, from the Black Power movement to contemporary social issues, shaping narratives that are both personal and universal. In this episode, Forrest opens up about his artistic evolution, the meaning behind his striking visual language, and how he builds narratives that challenge and move audiences. He also shares practical advice on art advisors, highlighting how strategic relationships can help artists place work more effectively and build sustainable careers. From staying grounded in a fast-changing art world to pushing boundaries in storytelling and technique, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration for artists seeking depth, authenticity, and actionable guidance for their practice. “An advisor would be 10 times more likely to want to work with you as an artist, and it's a lot easier relationship to foster than galleries. I probably have 50 advisors that I work with. To me, it's just a better system. “ – Forrest Kirk Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:10 Forrest's Artistic Focus and Network of Art Advisors 02:08 The Story Behind Moving the Black Power Piece 05:01 Forrest's Five-Step Creative Process 08:00 Transition to Full-Time Artist and Career Momentum 10:21 Reality Check: The Calling and Challenges of Being an Artist 12:03 The Importance of Community and Visibility in the Art World 13:32 Extinction Level Event : A Reflection on Mortality and Survival 16:06 Building a Network of Art Advisors and Securing Major Commissions 24:00 Farewell to the Flesh : A Meditation on Love, Vulnerability, and Connection 27:26 Forrest's Final Advice to Artists: Be Bold and Express Yourself Access the members-only full unabridged conversation here: https://hub.professionalartist.com/c/deep-dives-vault/forrest-kirk Links to artworks discussed His artworks can be seen in the YouTube version of this podcast here. Resources Hammer Museum in Los Angeles: https://hammer.ucla.edu/ California African American Museum: https://caamuseum.org/ Hauser & Wirth: https://www.hauserwirth.com/ UUSC (Unitarian Universalist Service Committee): https://www.uusc.org/ Connect with Forrest Website: https://artbyforrest.com/home.html Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrestkirk/?hl=es Learn more about The Professional Artist Association Join 50,000+ artists getting Free advice & inspiration: https://professionalartist.com/letter Join ≈1,000 committed artists around the world for less than $1, £ or € a day: https://professionalartist.com/join Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/professionalartistaccelerator Free training and resources Free training on how to find art buyers without a big following: https://professionalartist.com/find-your-next-3-fine-art-collectors/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=2025-06 Free insider report on how Painters, Sculptors, and Fine Art Photographers make their art income stable and consistent: https://professionalartist.com/report/?utm_source=PODCAST&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=free_report If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with another artist and leave us a review. We read every single one.