EP 24 - Lessons from a Creative Life | Kate Murdoch | Australian Artist and Writer

Let’s Talk Passion & Purpose with Nicole Thomas
Episode 24 – “Lessons from a Creative Life” with Kate Murdoch

Episode Snapshot
Australian artist-turned-novelist Kate Murdoch joins Nicole to unpack what a lifetime of creativity really looks like—spanning gallery walls, award-winning historical fiction, international residencies, and the daily rituals that keep her inspired. Together, they explore the power of early mentors, the discipline behind “play,” and why beauty and refuge still matter in a hyper-digital world.Guest at a Glance

Name Kate Murdoch
Based in Melbourne, Australia
Creative Hats Fine-art painter
• Historical-fiction author
Notable Books Stone Circle (2017) – Chaucer Awards “First in Category”
• The Orange Grove (2019) – Chaucer Awards Finalist
Current Focus 1970s-set Positano novel (3rd draft)
 • Abstract “shield” paintings inspired by tropical flora
Fresh Milestones 2024 writing residency at Château d’Orquevaux (France)
• Upcoming painting residency in Skopelos, Greece

Conversation Highlights
Segment Talking Points & Gems

1. Origins of a Calling • Drawing stories on her bedroom floor at 8 yo • First art-school prize judged by a university dean • The gentle mentorship of primary-school teacher Irina Sibley
2. Dual Passions, One Path • Switching from oils to acrylics to “paint faster” • Manuscript #1 that never saw daylight—and why she’s grateful • How historical-fiction research starts six months before draft one
3. The Role of Community • Founding a writers’ critique group after a short course • Autonomy (HarperCollins) and building feedback resilience • Residencies as “beautiful isolation + like-minded fuel”
4. Discipline & Daily Practice • 500-word minimum, candles, and strong tea • Meditating or exercising almost daily to escape “digital-age steroids” • Tricks for introverts facing launches & live interviews
5. Themes That Keep Returning • Extreme ideologies & fractured discourse • Nature as refuge—“painting is inward; writing goes outward”
6. Navigating Industry Shifts • Paper shortages, shrinking attention spans, and AI anxiety • Traditional vs. self-publishing realities (AUS vs. US)
7. Advice Corner • “Read, read … then read some more” for aspiring historical-fiction writers • Build creative “allies” and protect hermit time • Public-speaking fear? Toastmasters, prep, breathe, and treat it like coffee with a friend

Memorable Quotes

• “Creativity is a meditation—exercise the muscle every day.” – Kate’s biological father.
• “Writing pushes me out into the world; painting pulls me back into refuge.” – Kate Murdoch.
• “Beauty isn’t superficial; it lets people exhale in a troubled world.” – Kate Murdoch.

Practical Takeaways

1. Create Ritual Triggers – A consistent sensory cue (such as tea, a candle, or a playlist) trains your brain to enter “work mode” on demand.
2. Alternate Mediums to Stay Fresh – Switching between fast acrylic studies and slower oil canvases can reset creative energy.
3. Small Wins Matter – Publishing short stories or entering art prizes sustains momentum when bigger projects stall.
4. Guard the Calendar – Schedule solitude and community; both are non-negotiable fuel sources for long-game creativity.
5. Feedback ≠ Failure – Seek critiques early; cultivate “hardy skin” so your best work makes it to shelves and walls.

Resources & Links

• Kate’s Art Portfolio: KateMurdoch.com
• Author Site & Blog: KateMurdochAuthor.com
• Instagram (Art): @katemurdochart
• Instagram (Writing): @katemurdoch2

Connect with Nicole Thomas

• Instagram: @theNicoleT