The book, the programme, the coaching, the kick up the backside I wish I’d had when I was trying to figure out how to turn my art into more than just a passion project.
When I started, I had no clue how to price my work, market myself, or even believe that art could be a real job. I learned the hard way—through trial and error, wasted money, and plenty of frustration—but in just five short years, I went from self-taught painter to full-time professional artist. And if I can do it … so can you!
Sound familiar?
If any of that hits home, DBASA® is for you.
It started as a bestselling book (yep, #1 on Amazon!) but has grown into a full-on movement—signature programme, DIY courses, 121 coaching, and the DBASA® MentorMind. A whole system designed to help you actually make money from your art, in whatever way works for you—selling paintings, prints, products, commissions, workshops, licensing, or something totally unique to your practice.
And the best part? 99% of the artists I coach—my weans—have no formal training. They've each carved their own path, proving that YES—art is a real job. But don’t just take my word for it—head over to the SUCCESS STORIES page and see for yourself how real artists are making real money with DBASA® coaching.
This is creative coaching for artists, by an artist who’s been there, done that, and built a thriving art business from scratch.
So if you’re ready to stop faffing, start selling, and finally make art pay - welcome to Don’t Be a Starving Artist®. Let’s get to work.
If you’re wondering where to start with DBASA® — don’t worry. You can jump in at any level, no matter where you are in your art journey or how much time you have to invest. Whether you’re just getting started, looking for a DIY approach, or ready for an immersive, high-touch coaching experience, DBASA® has something to meet you where you’re at.
If you're just beginning, Don’t Be a Starving Artist® is the perfect place to kick things off.
The book will help you understand the mindset shift needed to start building your art business, and get you thinking about how to make money doing what you love, no matter your current stage.
If you're looking to get started right now and need something more hands-on, I’ve created a range of short, accessible online courses. These mini modules cover everything from selling and building collections to mastering your mindset and marketing your work.
You can pick and choose what fits your needs and interests and create your own DBASA® programme, tailored specifically to where you're at. It's an affordable, flexible way to start making progress immediately!
If you’re ready to dive deep into building a sustainable art business, the DBASA® MentorMind is where we make it happen. This is a small-group coaching programme with 121 access, designed to help you create personalised action plans, stay accountable, and get the guidance you need to reach your dreams.
The length of the programme can vary between 4-9 months, depending on the group’s focus for the year. Each cohort is curated to achieve specific outcomes — whether it’s helping emerging artists prepare for their first big exhibition, or guiding seasoned artists in building a full-time, sustainable business.
If this sounds like what you’ve been looking for, I’d love for you to join the waitlist! The MentorMind is by application only, but don’t worry — you’ll be the first to know when the next cohort opens, and I can’t wait to hear about your goals and dreams. Add your name to the list to find out what this year holds!
I didn’t start out as an artist, but it didn’t take long for me to realise I wasn’t meant to follow a traditional path. After a career in graphic design and juggling 13 different jobs (yep, you read that right!), I embraced my entrepreneurial spirit, launched my own design business in 2004. But I’d always known deep down that I wanted to be a painter. In 2010, after 20 years away from a brush, I picked it up again. Fast forward to 2016, and I took the leap to become a full-time professional artist.
Since then, my art business has taken me places I never dreamed of. I’ve had the honour of meeting the King through my work at Dumfries House, travelled to LA to learn from some incredible coaches, and published my bestselling book, Don’t Be a Starving Artist®. I've stood on stage at Old Trafford speaking to 250 people, exhibited my work across Scotland, and most importantly, I’ve had the privilege of teaching and inspiring amazing people to embrace their own creative journeys.
What I love most is that my journey is far from over. Every year, my business grows and evolves, keeping things fresh, exciting, and full of new opportunities. I wake up every day eager to see what’s next.
My mission in life to show other artists that with the right mindset and tools, you can turn your passion into a sustainable business and prove to the world that art IS a real job and you CAN make money doing what you love!
Click below to find out more about GP Art and my online Art Academy, where you’ll find a whole raft of practical art courses and of course our monthly online art club, GPs Creative Coorie.
