Turning Pain into Purpose: Art as Advocacy with Michael Carini
A reflection from the We Are Artists Podcast with Shannon Shine
Art is more than expression …it’s a platform, a lifeline, and at times, a form of survival.
In a powerful return episode of the We Are Artists Podcast, host Shannon Shine sits down once again with Michael Carini — abstract painter, also known as Acrylic Alchemy, and long-time advocate for creative healing. Through loss, mental health challenges, and industry lessons, Michael has carved a path that shows how deeply art can serve both the artist and the collective.
💔 Grief, Loss, and Creative Purpose
One of the most tender parts of this episode is Michael’s reflection on the loss of a close friend, and how personal grief continues to shape his creative journey. He shares how painting became more than an outlet — it became a way to keep going, to keep feeling, and to transform pain into something that could offer light to others.
“When I create, I’m honoring the people I’ve lost. I’m having conversations I can’t have in words anymore.” — Michael Carini
💸 Working for Free: When Is It Worth It?
Throughout the episode both artists touch on various other important topics that every artist faces such as the question: Should I work for free? Should I put a value to me creativity?
Michael and Shannon dive into the nuance behind this creative dilemma. It’s not always black and white — sometimes working without pay can serve a purpose if it aligns with your long-term vision, builds genuine community, or opens real opportunities. But it’s also about valuing your energy and knowing when to say no.
Key takeaway: If you’re giving, make sure you’re also growing.
📢 The Power of Self-Promotion
In a world where artists are expected to be everything — creator, marketer, manager — self-promotion isn’t optional anymore. Michael shares why artists must become their own strongest advocates, especially when navigating an ever-evolving industry.
Whether through social media, art shows, or just speaking up about your work, sharing your voice matters. Your story matters. And you don’t always need a gallery to validate it.
🖼️ Galleries vs. Going Solo
Another hot topic we unpack is the gallery route vs. independent success.
Michael and Shannon both offer honest insights about the challenges of working with galleries and why more artists are finding success by curating their own path. The key is to find spaces (virtual or physical) that respect and reflect your work.
“Where you place your art matters. Energy matters. The space you share it in should support your intention.”
🧠 Art, Mental Health, and Expression
Art is a language — and for many, it’s a language that can say what words cannot.
Michael shares how painting became a tool for mental health, especially in moments of darkness. By expressing instead of suppressing, he not only healed parts of himself — he created spaces for others to begin healing too. If you haven’t yet you may be interested in joining the creative group on Facebook: A Safe Space For Artists.
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
Whether you're navigating loss, looking to use your art as a platform, or figuring out how to survive (and thrive) as an artist in today’s world — this episode is full of heart, grit, and grounded inspiration.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify or your favorite podcast app:
👉 https://open.spotify.com/episode/445CPIH7lLdx1Qyv96kSjD?si=cfa1eab94c7e4c62
📲 Follow Michael Carini: @acrylicalchemy | cariniarts.com
🌐 Hosted by Shannon Shine:shannonshineart.com | @shannonshine.official