Today, host Scott “Sourdough” Power addresses a dilemma that many artists face: When is an artwork truly finished? This week’s episode encourages creators to rethink their perceptions of completion and offers three essential steps every artist should take to elevate their work.
First and foremost, Scott emphasizes the critical importance of copyrighting artwork. Protecting your work is paramount in an environment where art theft is all too common. Next, he discusses the necessity of capturing high-resolution images of artwork. A stunning image showcases the piece in its best light and can also serve as a valuable asset in an artist's portfolio or promotion strategy.
The final step Scott explores is cataloging. While it might seem mundane, properly documenting art ensures a lasting legacy and provides clarity for future generations. This episode invites listeners to envision their artistic journey as a series of works and a narrative that deserves preservation.
With a blend of insightful commentary and lighthearted banter, Scott creates a comfortable space for seasoned artists and newcomers to reflect on their creative processes. Whether it’s about safeguarding intellectual property or enjoying a few laughs along the way, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that inspire confidence and joy in every artistic endeavor. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a piece of art, wondering if it’s truly finished, this episode is for you.
Quotes From This Episode
“I want to challenge the artists listening today to this podcast to think differently about when a piece is done, because I think there is a legitimate argument to make that no artwork should be considered done and complete until three things happen.” — Scott “Sourdough” Power
“I hate to break the news to you people, but when we do and we leave our artwork behind and our families have to deal with it, they're not going to know what they're looking at. They're not going to know what you're thinking, what your motivation was, what the story was.” — Scott “Sourdough” Power
“Don't ever consider a piece done until you copyright it. Capture a high-res image of it and catalog it for posterity.” — Scott “Sourdough” Power
Links Mentioned in This Episode
About Scott ‘Sourdough’ Power
Scott “Sourdough” Power is the co-founder and creative director of Crewest Studio, an LA-based arts media organization focused on visual and performing arts. With a diverse career in the creative field since age 18, Scott grew up in a musical Midwestern family, influenced by a rich church background. His early health challenges, including a near-fatal illness, instilled in him a fierce will to live and create. He earned a B.A. in graphic design and arts management from Columbia College Chicago in 1994, later completing the AIGA Executive Business Program at Yale and obtaining professional licensing certification.
Scott has held various roles across publishing, marketing, and the arts, creating brands and curating exhibitions for global companies. An adventurous spirit, he is a member of the Explorers Club and spent time in the Alaskan wilderness, where he earned the nickname “Sourdough.” Recently, he contributed to the launch of a medical NGO in Haiti and served on various boards. In 2023, Scott founded Arterial, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to helping artists share their stories and reach wider audiences.
All images published with permission of the artist(s); featured graphic: David Schwartz.