Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Matthew R. Paden. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Matthew R., looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Transitioning into a freelance visual artist was undoubtedly a bold decision that came with its fair share of risks. In 2017, I formed my brand, Savvy Palette, not only as a means to brand my own art but also to help and guide other artists on their creative journey.

Through my engaging art blog, I offer business advice and inspiration to artists who may lack the business skills needed to succeed. I had to navigate the uncertainty of a fluctuating income, relying on securing clients and projects to sustain myself financially.

There was also the risk of rejection and criticism, as putting my work out there meant opening myself up to potential criticism and rejection. Handling feedback, both positive and negative, took resilience and confidence, using it constructively to improve my craft.

Freelancing often involves working independently, which can be isolating compared to a traditional office environment. Despite these risks, I believe the decision to pursue freelancing as a visual artist was ultimately worth it.

The freedom to choose the projects I work on, the flexibility to set my own schedule, and the opportunity for creative expression make it all worthwhile.

Every risk I took has been met with invaluable lessons and growth, both personally and professionally. Being a freelance visual artist is not just a career choice; it’s a lifestyle that I’ve embraced wholeheartedly.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Matthew R. Paden, a.k.a. “The Savvy Artist” and my journey as an artist began in my senior year of high school in 1997 when one of my first paintings, “Victory Touchdown,” took first place in the state of Oregon.

This painting went on to be displayed in the Nation’s Capitol for a year, igniting my passion for visual arts.

In the fall of 2001, I relocated to Phoenix, AZ, to attend art school, where I studied digital media and illustration for four years. It was during this time that I honed my skills and developed a deep appreciation for the intersection of art, business and technology.

In 2017, I founded my brand Savvy Palette as a platform not only to showcase my own artwork but also to provide valuable resources and guidance to other artists embarking on their creative journeys.

At Savvy Palette, I offer a range of products and services aimed at supporting artists in their pursuit of success. This includes one-on-one creative coaching and in-depth workshops on topics such as marketing, branding, and business strategies tailored specifically for artists.

One of the primary problems I aim to solve for my clients is the challenge of balancing artistic passion with practical business skills. Many talented artists struggle to navigate the complexities of marketing, pricing, and client management, which can hinder their ability to thrive in a competitive industry.
Through Savvy Palette, I provide practical solutions and resources to empower artists to confidently pursue their creative goals while building sustainable careers.

What sets Savvy Palette apart is our unique blend of artistic expertise and business acumen. As both a visual artist and an entrepreneur, I understand the challenges artists face firsthand and offer practical advice grounded in real-world experience. My engaging art blog serves as a hub of inspiration and knowledge, offering valuable insights into the intersection of art and business.

I am most proud of the community I’ve built at Savvy Palette—a supportive network of artists who inspire and uplift one another on their creative journeys. I’m passionate about fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment, where artists can thrive both creatively and professionally.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that Savvy Palette is more than just a brand—it’s a movement dedicated to empowering artists to turn their passion into profit. Whether you’re a budding artist looking to hone your craft or an established creative seeking to take your career to the next level, Savvy Palette is here to support you every step of the way.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my brand. I’m excited to continue this journey together, empowering artists to unleash their full creative potential.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I believe that society can take several crucial steps to best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem. First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize and value the significance of art in enriching our lives, fostering cultural identity, and driving innovation.

This recognition should start with education, integrating arts and creative expression into school curriculums while promoting cultural awareness from a young age.

By providing accessible resources and opportunities is paramount.

This includes ensuring access to affordable studio spaces, equipment, mentorship programs, and funding opportunities, which are crucial for artists to develop their skills and pursue their creative endeavors.

Society should actively promote diversity and inclusion within the arts, ensuring that artists from all backgrounds and perspectives have equal opportunities for recognition and success.

Embracing diversity enriches the creative landscape, fosters empathy, and promotes social cohesion.

Artists should be able to earn a sustainable income from their work, requiring fair compensation, transparent payment practices, and policies that protect their rights and intellectual property.

Cultivating creative spaces and communities is also essential, providing environments where artists can collaborate, network, and showcase their work, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging creative exchange.

Celebrating and amplifying artist voices through platforms such as exhibitions, festivals, and online galleries is crucial for showcasing artistic excellence and promoting cultural diversity.

Investing in arts education and outreach programs nurtures the next generation of artists while fostering an appreciation for creativity among the broader population.

Society should embrace risk-taking and experimentation in the arts, recognizing that innovation often arises from pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas.

By implementing these measures, society can create an environment where artists, creatives, and the broader creative ecosystem can thrive, enriching our communities and inspiring positive change.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One story from my journey that truly illustrates my resilience is my experience working as a cab driver in Denver, CO, amidst the challenges of pursuing my artistic dreams.

Before founding Savvy Palette in 2017, my creative journey was far from easy, filled with disappointments and struggles. Despite the turbulence, my unwavering passion and advocacy for the arts kept me going, even when the waters seemed insurmountable.

During those years prior to 2017, I took on various odd jobs to support myself, but none were quite as interesting or as unpredictable as driving a cab.

The stories I could share from my days behind the wheel are nothing short of wild and vividly illustrate the resilience required to navigate such an unconventional path while striving to pursue my artistic aspirations.

In addition to the challenges of odd jobs, I encountered significant setbacks and betrayals within the art business realm. I’ve been scammed and taken advantage of by individuals I once trusted and considered friends.

These experiences, though disheartening, taught me invaluable lessons about discernment and resilience in the face of adversity. In the world of business, one quickly learns who stands by them through thick and thin, and who merely seeks to exploit their hard work and efforts.

I faced personal struggles with mental health for many years, unaware of the profound impact it had on my life and creative journey.

This played a significant role in some of the negative situations I encountered over the years.

It’s a journey I’ve since embarked on to educate and support fellow artists who may also be grappling with mental health challenges.

I’m deeply committed to raising awareness about the importance of addressing mental health issues within the creative community, as untreated mental health struggles can have dire consequences if overlooked or dismissed.

Through it all, my resilience has been tested time and again.

Yet, with each setback, I’ve emerged stronger and more determined to pursue my artistic vision while advocating for the well-being of fellow creatives. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience, perseverance, and the transformative impact of unwavering passion in the face of adversity.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.savvypalette.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/savvypalette
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/art.savvypalette
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/savvypalette
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/savvypalette

Image Credits
Matthew R. Paden