Tanner Steed on Persistence, Master Copies, and Building an Art Career

Denver-based oil painter Tanner Steed, who built a full-time career through self-directed classical training and mentorship with Daniel Sprick, shares his journey on the FASO Podcast. Steed emphasizes daily practice, master copies, and starting paintings over to strengthen composition. He advises artists to paint what they love rather than chasing trends, and to build community through family collectors, plein air groups, and multiple income streams (galleries, direct sales, teaching, educational content). Steed's persistence paid off when Sprick finally invited him to his figure sketching group, leading to mentorship and friendship. Current projects include a 100 Flowers Sale, a group show at Saks Galleries in Cherry Creek, an Art Renewal Center piece at Sotheby's, workshops in Rome through Rome Art Residencies, and a 2027 Danube River cruise workshop. Steed believes making it as an artist is 'easy' if you put in the work and truly believe it's possible.