Episode 60: Conversations with Kristine: The Art World Artwork

After Dark Photography Podcast

The amount of detail modern digital cameras can capture of the night sky is AMAZING. But what exactly goes into creating nightscape images? Listen in as Kristine Richer, artist, mother, educator, and CEO takes you on a journey into the dark with your camera. As a new mom Kristine found herself without a creative outlet, gone were the laid-back weekends of chasing waterfalls and sunsets with her dog and camera. So she did what any totally sane new mom would do and stayed up all night photographing the stars instead of sleeping. Now Kristine has taught over ten thousand students how to photograph the Milky Way and has created a dedicated community of slightly crazy, night-obsessed photographers just like her. In the After Dark Photography podcast Kristine brings together the artistic right brain and technical left brain by exploring creativity, art, and inspiration in photography, as well as the technique, gear, and strategy necessary to elevate your craft and get started in night photography. Step into the dark with her and find a world filled with awe and wonder just waiting for your camera to capture it.

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After Dark Photography Podcast

Episode 60: Conversations with Kristine: The Art World

June 12, 2025 • Kristine Richer • Episode 60

What does it really mean to be an artist today? In this eye-opening solo episode, let’s peel back the curtain on the often-unspoken systems of the art world. From art school degrees and gallery representation to grants, residencies, and direct-to-collector sales, I will offer an honest, reflective, and sometimes humorous look at the evolving ecosystem of how art is created, valued, and sold.

Key Takeaways:

Photography is Art: Claiming your identity as an artist is the first step in seeing your work differently—and valuing it accordingly.
Direct-to-Collector Sales Are the New Frontier: Artists no longer need to rely solely on galleries. Selling directly is now a viable, respected path.
Understanding the Institution: The traditional art world—grants, residencies, commercial galleries, and biennials—still holds sway and comes with specific rules.
Primary vs. Secondary Markets: Explains how art sales move from artist to collector (primary) and from collector to collector (secondary), and why it matters.
Educational Pathways: A BFA may open doors in galleries, but success doesn't require formal education—especially as norms shift.
Know Your “Why”: Are you in this for legacy, impact, income, or all three? Your goals determine which branch of the art world tree you climb.

Conclusion:

This episode is a deep dive into the broader art economy and your potential place within it. Whether you're just starting to monetize your photography or you're questioning your next move, I encourage you to zoom out, explore the full landscape, and most importantly—ask yourself: What do I really want? Because understanding the system helps you play your game, your way.

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