The Open Sketchbook Podcast
How do artists develop their style, stay inspired, and make a living? The Open Sketchbook Podcast brings you real conversations with artists, educators, and industry professionals to uncover the creative process, strategies for artistic growth, and the realities of an art career. Whether you're a student, and emerging artist, instructor, painter, illustrator, draftsman, or designer you'll get insights on technique, mindset, and the challenges of being an artist so that you can refine your skills, build confidence, and stay motivated. Hosted by Evan Kitson, an experienced artist and educator, this podcast explores the how and why behind making art. Hear from authors, artists, curators, and other creatives so that you can learn from their successes, struggles, and unique perspectives. Expect deep dives into traditional and contemporary techniques, candid artist interviews, and thought-provoking discussions so that you gain the knowledge and inspiration to grow in your own creative practice. If you're looking for art podcasts about creativity, materials and technique, and professional growth, The Open Sketchbook Podcast is for you. Join a growing community of artists and creatives- subscribe now and start listening today!
The Open Sketchbook Podcast
Episode 8: Sarah Annesley
Welcome to a special three-part series where host Evan Kitson sits down with three remarkable teaching assistants from the New York Academy of Art. In this episode, Evan talks with artist, printmaker, and educator Sarah Annesley, who has spent the last seven years transitioning from student to studio leader.
Together, they explore:
Affordable framing and archival storage strategies for artists on a budget
The logistics of mounting, protecting, and transporting artwork
Sarah’s process-driven approach to drawing, color pencil work, and reverse-engineering outcomes
The emotional and professional transition from student to teaching assistant to instructor
Career paths in art-adjacent roles like art handling, framing, and production
How teaching transforms your own practice, mindset, and clarity
When and how to invest in your presentation and framing
The importance of building a resilient creative process and recognizing growth- even when it doesn’t feel like it
Practical Tips Include:
Why you should never let your artwork touch the glass in a frame
How to prep for group shows without breaking the bank
Budgeting for your first exhibition and how to future-proof your framing choices
Join the Conversation:
Have you ever had an unforgettable experience with a teaching assistant?
What challenges have you faced with presentation and framing?
Is drawing your primary visual language too?
Subscribe, share, and leave a review- it helps support the show and spread the word.
Want to watch our conversation? We're on YouTube!
Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/ZfOPiR74I10
Our YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/@theopensketchbook
The Open Sketchbook
https://theopensketchbook.com
https://www.instagram.com/the.open.sketchbook/
The Virtual Studio - Join for Exclusive Podcast Content and More!
https://learn.theopensketchbook.com/bundles/virtual-studio
Our Weekly Newsletter, The Drawing Board:
https://theopensketchbook.kit.com/posts
GUEST: Sarah Annesley
https://www.instagram.com/yelsennas/
Sarah's Recommendations:
Studio Ghibli Films:
- Princess Mononoke
- Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
HOST: Evan Kitson
https://evankitson.com
https://www.instagram.com/evan_kitson/
The New York Academy of Art
https://nyaa.edu/
https://www.academyeverywhere.com/collections?q=kitson