If you're wondering how to sell art during a recession or navigate your art career through economic uncertainty, you're not alone. With rising costs and a slow art market, many artists are feeling the pressure. But the artists who come out on top aren't the ones who wait it out — they're the ones who keep building. Here's what I learnt the hard way, and what I'd tell every artist facing a slow market right now.

Portrait Artist of the Year contestant Anne Smerdon discusses what differentiates professional artists from beginner artists - hint: it’s all about pushing through the ugly stage of the painting!

Award-winning artist Anne Smerdon shares 5 lessons from PAOTY 2025, the first Portrait Artist of the Year Australia competition.