Manage episode 521538740 series 3552177
Mark Trinham has spent 30 years building a thriving full-time art practice without formal business training—creating large-scale public artworks, running a successful collaboration company, and maintaining creative independence.
In this conversation, Mark reveals how he moved from illustration and graphic design into public art and sculpture, developed a sustainable business model that keeps him booked 18 months ahead, and learned when to say no after decades of saying yes to everything.
You'll discover how Mark positions accumulated expertise in environmental connection and place-based storytelling as premium capability, why collaboration amplifies rather than dilutes artistic voice, and how he's now creating space for fine art practice after 30 years of commissioned work.
This isn't intended to be a motivational interview about following your passion—the intent is to provide you with the practical insight into what it takes to build recognised expertise, navigate pricing without business training, and sustaining creative work across several decades. And, to actually do that and succeed as an artist.
Resources Mentioned, all in Australia
Organizations & Networks:
- Regional Arts Victoria
- Surf Coast Arts - Torquay
Venues & Creative Spaces:
- Ashmore Arts, Torquay
- Cowrie Market, Torquay
Projects & Artworks:
- Torquay Mosaic Sundial (1995) - Mark's first public art project
- Diamantina Shire Land Art, near Betoota
- Wildlife Collector Cards Project (2009-2014) - 135 A3-sized realistic paintings of local wildlife for Landcare
Publications:
- Bush Tails, The Quest - written by Ali Cork, illustrated by Mark Trinham
Music:
- Moonah (band) recently released fifth CD "Ghost Country" (EP).
- Lucy and The Night Sky - Nine-piece band that Mark and his Moonah bandmates backed as supporting musicians.
- Nightjar Independent Arts Festival - Arts market with food vendors and live music
Contact & Portfolio:
- Instagram: @marktrinham - Mark's primary platform for current work updates and posts
- Facebook:
- Website: marktrinham.com.au (currently under development/updating
Note: Mark also mentioned owning property in Norther
Connect with Nigel Rawlins
website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/
Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs
Please support the podcast
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/new
Stay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletter
As a subscriber, you'll get:
- Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests
- Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts
- Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients
- Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business
- And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox!
- Don't miss out on these invaluable resources
- Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur
80 episodes