Creating Artist-Centered Opportunities with Jennifer Steck (230)

After a 32-year career in law enforcement, Jennifer Steck “retired” and turned her attention to painting.

As she navigated the art world and looked for ways to get her work in front of more people, she started noticing what was missing: a truly artist-centered online platform that respected both the work and the working artist. When she couldn’t find it, she built it.

Jennifer Steck acrylic painting
©Jennifer A Steck, Nine. Acrylic on canvas, 30 x 40 inches.
Jennifer is the founder of Artburst Studios, an online gallery that’s part pop-up show, part connection hub, and 100% community-minded. Since launching, and as of this recording, she’s helped more than 80 artists sell over $174,000 of art in just a handful of short shows—each lasting under 72 hours. But the story behind Artburst is much more than stats. It’s about leadership. Generosity. Clear expectations. And creating opportunities that truly serve artists. In this episode of The Art Biz, Jennifer shares:
  • How she evaluates artists for inclusion in Artburst shows, along with the red flags she watches for.
  • Why mutual support is essential for success.
  • The fears that keep artists from marketing their work and how easy it is to get stuck in overthinking instead of taking action.
Her advice is thoughtful, clear, and grounded in real experience. Jennifer’s story will spark ideas—and maybe a little courage—to take your next step.

Listen

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Jennifer Steck Artburst
An example of an Artburst Show page

Jennifer Steck Quotes

“We believe that artists should be paid what they’re worth.”

“It’s not about uploading your artwork and walking away. It’s about entering into the community.”

“You’re the best person to sell your art, and if you’re waiting for other people to do it without your input, it’s just not going to be successful.”

“The majority of the world is kind and wants to support people—but there are trolls out there. And that fear of judgment holds so many of us back.”

“Nobody knows what the algorithms are doing. You just have to pick one thing, work on it, and let the rest go.”

“We’ve been open for business for only 22 days in three and a half years—and have sold over $174,000 worth of art.”

“We all have unique voices. You’re out there creating work that someone needs to see—and it would be a shame if they never found it because of fear.”

“If we can take what we’ve learned and help a thousand artists instead of eighty—that’s what we’re here for.”

Jennifer not only leads Artburst Studio but also loves being an artist. Photo by Darci Amundson.

Mentioned

Artist Jennifer Yoswa

Artist Rebecca Berman

The Boutique at Artburst Studios has launched since this recording.

About Jennifer Steck and Artburst Studios

Artburst Studios combines Jennifer Steck’s love of creating art and supporting artists with her background in public service, leadership, and small business.

After a career in law enforcement, Jennifer dove into the art world. From online auctions and studio interviews to juried shows and boutique partnerships, she’s found various ways to elevate artists and bring art into people’s lives.

As the Captain of the Artburst ship, Jennifer is thrilled to be steering this creative journey—and honored to lead such an amazing team.

Follow Artburst Studios on Instagram: @artburst.studios

Photo by Darci Amundson.

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