Successful artists aren’t born…
they’re supported.
Welcome! I’m Bean Gilsdorf.
I coach artists to take action on their goals with clarity and integrity.
I’m a certified coach and an award-winning artist.
I know what it’s like to manage an ambitious studio practice alongside the administrative work of pursuing grants, residencies, awards, and other opportunities. I’ve experienced the elation of success, as well as the disappointment of those “Dear Applicant” rejection letters.
When you discuss your goals and the things that get in your way, you want a coach who can relate to the intricacies of a creative life. You can count on me to be your partner in bringing forward the best, most authentic, and wisest you, because I understand what life as an artist entails.
Artists aren't taught how to deal with the (often debilitating) doubts and worries that accompany our creative and professional practices.
Coaching gives artists a supportive framework to enlarge their confidence, become more courageous, and make the work they're here to make.
My coaching is backed by certifications from:
the Academy for Coaching Excellence
the International Coaching Federation
and informed by:
an MFA in studio art from the California College of the Arts
a Graduate Certificate in Cognitive Science from the University of Colorado
continuing education in trauma-informed coaching and coaching for liberation.
You may know me from:
my work as an arts-advice columnist
From 2012 to 2017, I wrote over 100 installments of the column “HELP DESK,” demystifying art practices and ethical considerations for artists, curators, collectors, writers, and the general public. HELP DESK was published by DailyServing.com (RIP), reposted by KQED.org and the College Art Association, and profiled by Art 21 Magazine.
writing about art and artists
I’ve been publishing reviews, interviews, and essays about art since 2007, for publications such as Artforum, Art in America, and Frieze. I’ve also worked with the Ford Family Foundation and the Andy Warhol Foundation on writing and editing projects for artists and arts nonprofits.
teaching and mentoring
I‘ve taught and mentored at the California College of the Arts, the Pacific Northwest College of Art, and the Fulbright/TopMinds Poland program; as well as independent workshops offered in partnership with the Zacheta National Gallery of Art, 21c Museum Hotels, and others.
serving as a juror/reviewer
I’ve served as a juror/reviewer for organizations such as Fulbright Poland, Headlands Center for the Arts, and the Oregon Arts Commission.
Let’s work together
Coaching
Want to move toward your goals with integrity and confidence? Getting started is easy: Check out the F.A.Q. for more info, and then sign up for a free Intro Chat. Let’s talk about where you want to go next with your practice and career.
Workshops
Ever felt super excited about an idea, but worn out by the energy it takes to begin… Or got stuck in the “messy middle”? Fast Forward is the hands-on workshop that will show you why it happens and how you can achieve success without burnout.