Creating art to someone else’s brief is an art form in itself. It’s about channelling your creativity within boundaries, interpreting ideas that aren’t your own, and finding a way to bring someone else’s vision to life while still infusing it with your unique touch. For many artists, it’s both a rewarding and challenging experience, requiring a blend of technical skills and adaptability. This delicate balance lies at the heart of what it means to be a commercial artist.

Matt Johnson, aka Fuzzy Concept, is not only an extraordinary artist but also one of my best friends, Matt has spent over 15 years crafting a diverse career as a commercial artist and illustrator. From private commissions, workshops and events. But what makes Matt’s journey so interesting is how he’s carved a unique niche: using art as a tool to connect and inspire. Through his collaborations with schools, colleges and pupil referral units, Matt uses art and creativity in education, empowering students to explore self-expression, build confidence, and discover the joy of creating. He’s also the latest guest on the Creative Nowhere Land Podcast.

We've all felt the weight of mental health struggles, at some point or another. I know I have. It might not even be big stuff but sometimes life can be just a little overwhelming. Not everyone has people in their life that they can turn to in these times of stress so, they might consider turning to a professional. This is where the latest guest on The Creative Nowhere Land Podcast might be able to help. Someone who has been one of the biggest inspirations in my life, my sister, Becky Weir.

When you think of ballet, you might picture the graceful poise of a principal dancer on stage, the perfect execution of every leap and pirouette. But, what you maybe don’t think about is the journey that dancer has been on to even get to that stage. The story of hours of dedication, resilience, grit, and a relentless pursuit of perfection, even though it may not even exist.

Sometimes, you meet people and, after spending a little time with them, you realise that they’re devoted to their craft. They live it, they breathe it, and they will keep doing it no matter what! Their passion is woven into everything they do. But it’s not just what they do—it’s who they are! Whether celebrated or unnoticed, they carry on with the same intensity and drive to always be doing their ‘thing’. Artist Mark Wilkinson is one of those people and he agreed to tell us more about his journey on The Creative Nowhere Land Podcast.

As artists, many of us have heard the same story over and over again: to be "serious" about our craft, we need to suffer for it. The narrative of the “starving artist” has been romanticized for generations, leaving countless creatives feeling like they have to choose between their passion and making a living. But what if we could have both?

I love being able to shine a light on some of the people that I’m closest to, and this truly special human has been making my photographic work look good for years now! Gabrielle Hunt, an internationally acclaimed makeup artist and a former Makeup Artist of the Year winner and, more importantly, my mate! Gaby agreed to come on the Creative Nowhere Land Podcast and give us an insight into her creative world.

Dean Gordon is an award-winning creative and entrepreneur. Dean is a remarkable, creative mind and one of the most driven, disciplined, and determined individuals. He is constantly working towards building and achieving his goals and has inspired me for the last 20+ years since we first met at university.