Creativity Has No Rules: Julie Verhoeven on Embracing Discomfort and Doubt as an Artist

Join artist, designer, and educator Julie Verhoeven in this episode as she shares her creative journey. From hating school and struggling to get into art college, to working with notorious fashion designers John Galliano and Martine Sitbon, Julie has forged her own unique path. She opens up about the imposter syndrome she faced early on, how being different fuels her creativity, and why she didn’t consider herself an “artist” until later in her career. Listen in for her honest take on being an artist and creative as well as tips and advice for emerging creatives looking to chart their own course. KEY TAKEAWAYS Not getting into art college lit a fire in Julie to pursue fashion design. She developed a strong mindset and willpower which then propelled her successful career. Julie has always felt like an outsider and struggled with shyness but has learned to channel those feelings into her creative expression and individualism. Deep connections are more important to Julie than large social circles, often forming a creative partnership with just one other person. Julie thrives under fast-paced environments with intense schedules and tight deadlines that force decisive action. Though she resisted the "artist" label for a long time, Julie now embraces making work just to please herself without fear of judgement. She gathers inspiration from her vibrant neighbourhood, reality TV, music, and other multisensory sources. Julie urges creatives to fill time so doubts can't creep in, commit fully to their work, and push past discomfort towards change. BEST MOMENTS "It was like a revelation. It was just the best thing ever...I felt absolute freedom when I got there." "I find it unattractive, the thought of being an artist...this sort of self-centred, all about me." "I try and create work [knowing] that nobody really cares, nobody's really looking." "I don't allow space in my brain for doubt or fear." "There are no rules” PODCAST HOST BIO Meet Ceri Hand, the driving force behind countless creative success stories. A creative coach, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, she's committed to empowering creatives to realise their dreams and make a meaningful impact through her creative coaching, mentoring and training company. With three decades in the arts under her belt, Ceri has ridden the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Now, she's here to help you achieve your goals, your way. **** Find out how we can support you to become extraordinary here: https://linktr.ee/cerihand JOIN OUR UPCOMING COURSE: Become A Master Mentor November 17th, 18th, and 24th 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (BST) Unlock your full potential as a creative mentor with our 3-day online course. In this transformative programme lead by Ceri Hand and Lina Asrarguis, you'll develop results-oriented systems, master effective onboarding, craft an irresistible value proposition, confidently set your price points and budget for profit. Plus, enjoy interactive demos, comprehensive worksheets, and access to a vibrant online creative community. Don't miss out on this chance to elevate your mentoring skills. Apply now! https://www.cerihand.com/become-a-master-mentor