#30 Gabriel Lipper on Artistic Growth, Creative Freedom & Blending Realism with Abstraction

Written By Liz Ross

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth!

I’m your host Liz Ross, and today we’re diving into an inspiring episode with the wonderful artist Gabriel Lipper.

Gabriel joins me to share his evolution from classical realism to blending abstraction with representation, and his philosophy on creating art that’s both skillful and free. We explore the balance between disciplined practice and creative freedom, the role of community, and the importance of carving out time for art in everyday life. Gabriel also introduces his courses, including Learning to See and the upcoming Figure Workshop, designed to guide artists at every stage of their journey.

Sign up for Gabriel Lipper’s Figure Workshop

This conversation is full of insights for anyone looking to grow as an artist, overcome fear, and embrace a more joyful, authentic approach to making art.

💛 In this episode:

  • How Gabriel navigated his artistic journey from classical training to personal style.

  • Gabriel talks about his 21 a Week Sketch Challenge, great for improving drawing skills.

  • The value of community and connecting directly with fellow artists and buyers.

  • How to create cohesive collections while embracing experimentation.

  • We discuss our thoughts on tools like tracing and digital drawing to support learning.

  • Why you should prioritise art over life’s other demands.

  • Gabriel shares practical advice for aspiring artists at any stage.

Art is a journey, and this episode is a beautiful reminder that growth, joy, and connection flourish when we approach it with curiosity and courage. 🌿

✨ Mini Challenge:

Pick one way to make time for your own creative practice this week. It could be a 15-minute sketch, experimenting with a new technique, or starting a small collection of pieces. Notice how it feels to create without pressure or expectation. Come over to the Facebook group and let us know what you created. https://facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity

⭐️ Question of the week:

What’s one way you’re embracing creative freedom in your art right now?

Come over to my podcast Instagram account and share your thoughts. I can’t wait to hear your stories!

💌 Connect & Support:

🗣️ Mentioned in this episode:

Sign up for Gabriel Lipper’s Figure Workshop; https://www.8paint.art/figure-workshop-sales-page

Keep creating, keep exploring, and above all, keep believing in yourself.

Liz 🌿

Liz Ross
Next

#29 How Local Art Festivals Spark Creativity, Connection & Opportunity: Bury Art Museum’s Festival of Arts