37: Two Hats, One Vision with Sharon Harvey

Artist, Gallery Owner, Creative Force
This week, I'm joined by Sharon Harvey: a painter, gallery owner, and passionate creative, to explore what it really takes to run a commercial gallery while maintaining an active artistic practice.
Sharon shares her winding journey from a successful corporate career into the art world, what led her to study fine art in her 40s, and how a chance conversation changed everything. Now the founder of Sanctuary Gallery in Gloucestershire, she offers a unique dual perspective on gallery-artist relationships, creative confidence, and the realities of selling art today.
We discuss:
- The courage it takes to pivot careers and pursue art later in life - How becoming a gallery owner reshaped Sharon's view of working with galleries - The practicalities and pressures of running a gallery solo - The power of relationships in both making and selling art - Why artists need to approach galleries like partners—not just platforms - And the art of holding your nerve when things don't sell
Sharon talks about Daphne Vaughn daphnevaughan.com who inspired her to apply for the foundation course, and Mercedes Smith Director of Fine Art Communications fineartcommunications.co.uk/people
This episode is packed with honest reflections, useful insights, and quiet encouragement for anyone trying to build a creative career on their own terms.
Find Sharon and the Sanctuary Gallery Instagram: @sharon_harvey_art Gallery: sanctuarygallery.com