“I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart.” -Vincent van Gogh Welcome to another inspiring episode of Turmeric & Tequila with your host, Kristen Olson! Today, we are excited to welcome Amanda Corrales, founder and executive director of Avante Garde, an organization passionately committed to supporting emerging artists in Colorado. In this episode, Amanda shares her journey through the complexities of arts funding, tax challenges, and maintaining financial stability as an artist. She dives deep into how Avante Garde is revolutionizing support systems for artists by facilitating access to funding, educational resources, and robust community networks. Amanda discusses the sharp disconnect between public funding and the artists it aims to support, emphasizing the need for a sustainable ecosystem for artists to not only survive but thrive. From personal anecdotes of her struggles and successes to broader societal implications, the conversation also explores the importance of mindset, authenticity, and the universal language of art in fostering inclusion and diversity. Tune in as we uncover the realities of the art world, discuss innovative solutions to age-old problems, and get inspired by the power of community and resilience. Don't forget to subscribe to Turmeric & Tequila, where we challenge your thinking and encourage you to live your most authentic life. Join us! Amanda Corrales, the Founder and Executive Director of Avante Garde, is a visionary leader dedicated to supporting Colorado's emerging artists. With a deep understanding of the challenges artists face in achieving financial stability and creative fulfillment, she established Avante Garde to combat economic insecurity and mental health pressures in the artistic community. Under her leadership, the organization focuses on dismantling financial barriers and fostering a thriving artistic ecosystem. Her efforts are crucial in enriching Colorado's cultural landscape, contributing significantly to the state's $2.6 billion arts and culture sector. Amanda's commitment to expanding the organization's reach includes forming strategic partnerships and engaging with local businesses, thereby making art more accessible and enhancing the community's cultural vibrancy. Avante Garde (AG) is a Colorado non-profit organization established in 2021. Our operation in the Denver Metro area aims to help Colorado's emerging artists achieve financial stability and creative fulfillment to overcome the pressing challenges of economic insecurity and mental health pressures. www.avantegarde.org Instagram: @avantegardeorg   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com