In this episode, Victoria speaks with James McCrae, an author, poet, and teacher who explores the intersection of creativity and mindfulness. They discuss James's journey as a creative, the importance of community in nurturing artistic expression, and the philosophy behind his initiative, Sunflower Club. The conversation delves into overcoming creative blocks, the healing power of creativity, and the release of vulnerability in sharing one's art. James also shares insights from his latest book, 'The Art of You,' which emphasizes the balance between the spiritual and practical aspects of creativity.

Here’s what we discuss:

1. The challenge societal expectations can pose for artists, and how to overcome them
2. How to find time for art with a busy schedule and navigating creative blocks
3. How Engaging with new experiences can refill creative inspiration
4. Meditation and mindfulness practices to enhance creativity

About James -

James McCrae is a poet and teacher at the intersection of creativity and mindfulness.

As the founder of Sunflower Club, a global creative community, he helps writers, artists and entrepreneurs embody their authentic voice and higher purpose. He is a regular speaker and workshop facilitator at events and retreats around the world. A former Madison Avenue brand strategist, James has helped numerous companies define their message and mission. James lives in Austin TX, where he hosts regular open mic nights.

Website: jamesmccrae.com

IG: @wordsarevibrations

Visit our website: visionaryartcollective.com

Follow us on Instagram: @visionaryartcollective + @newvisionarymag

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Victoria shares grounded advice on studio visits, offering guidance on how to prepare your space, what kinds of work to show, how to navigate dialogue and silence, and why presence and generosity matter more than perfection. The episode also touches on easing into the year with grace and viewing studio visits as opportunities for connection, feedback, and long-term relationship building.

To learn more about Victoria's 1:1 Mentorship Program, visit:
visionaryartcollective.com/mentorship

To register for Victoria's upcoming webinar at Salmagundi, visit:
https://salmagundi.org/2026-from-studio-to-gallery/

To learn more about The Visionary Community, visit:
visionaryartcollective.com/visionary-community-enroll

Victoria J. Fry is a New York City–based painter, educator, curator, and founder of Visionary Art Collective, New Visionary Magazine, and Warnes Contemporary. She has supported thousands of artists through exhibitions, publications, and mentorship.

Instagram: @visionaryartcollective + @newvisionarymag
Newsletter: visionaryartcollective.com/newsletter

Victoria shares what’s coming up at Visionary Art Collective, New Visionary Magazine, and Warnes Contemporary. She discusses reviewing applications for her 1:1 Mentorship Program beginning in March, announces a February webinar with the Salmagundi Club on what curators and gallery directors look for, and shares updates on Femina, the gallery’s first all-women group exhibition of 2026. Victoria also notes that enrollment is open for The Visionary Community, that Warnes Contemporary will return to the Affordable Art Fair this March, and notes the shift of New Visionary Magazine to a biannual publication schedule, reflecting a more intentional and sustainable approach to growth.

To learn more about Victoria's 1:1 Mentorship Program, visit:
visionaryartcollective.com/mentorship

To register for Victoria's upcoming webinar at Salmagundi, visit:
https://salmagundi.org/2026-from-studio-to-gallery/

To learn more about The Visionary Community, visit:
visionaryartcollective.com/visionary-community-enroll

Victoria J. Fry is a New York City–based painter, educator, curator, and founder of Visionary Art Collective, New Visionary Magazine, and Warnes Contemporary. She has supported hundreds of artists through exhibitions, publications, and mentorship.

Instagram: @visionaryartcollective + @newvisionarymag
Newsletter: visionaryartcollective.com/newsletter