Austin Art Talk

"For us, as artists, the pandemic certainly economically was hard for many people but I think we are probably better equipped because can we invent something that has not been done before. If somebody is used to having a routine and a certain structure and not used to inventing their life it’s harder when something like this hits. For us it’s like OK, it’s this, let's see what we can do with it. Let’s learn something new and create something different." The podcast guest this week has had such an interesting and diverse life. Artist Valerie Chaussonnet now works full time as an artist and teacher but previously spent a big part of her life as an anthropologist, studying Russian, and raising her two sons. Now her two primary mediums are watercolor and sculptures made from raw pieces of welded steel. A lifetime of influences in the realm of art and many diverse cultures all culminates now in the stories she tells with her colorful paintings and spirited sculptures. I love the joy Valerie brings to life and I’m inspired by her adventurous, playful, and rich way of life. Please enjoy this very fun interview! https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/-y8f6-qv.jpg Photo by Scott David Gordon Current & Upcoming Found February 26 - March 27, 2021 Georgetown Art Center (https://georgetownartcentertx.org/calendar/found/) "Found presents recent artworks by three area artists. Each artist relies on random discovery and found materials as a starting point. Chaussonnet recuts recovered industrial scrap steel, then forges and welds stylized busts, landscapes, and abstract sculptures. Rolfe is an assemblage artist whose narrative relief sculptures and shadow boxes are composed primarily of reclaimed vintage household furnishings. Webb faithfully uses acrylics to portray abandoned trash piles left at the curb for bulk collection." This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

Lauren Hunt is one of the rare artists who works with glass, and she has been at it for over 10 years. After college she worked for 7 of those years at the Corning Museum of Glass in New York with the Hot Glass Show, on land and traveling all over the world on cruise ships doing live and educational demonstrations. Eventually she made it to Austin where she has continued her practice making functional, whimsical, and sometimes purely artistic works of beauty out of molten glass. Lauren is a hoot and we had such a fun conversation. I’ve always wanted to learn more about glass blowing and what it’s all about and Lauren did not disappoint. Check out the shop on her website laurenhuntglass.com and see if there isn’t something there that strikes your fancy. Support local artists and fill your house with beautiful handmade objects by people you know. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/yJ9llSN0.jpg https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/WKKf6iaV.jpg https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/ckCpHlCB.jpg https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/umObhxIO.jpg Photos by Scott David Gordon This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

"I think that we are all striving towards the same goals. People are making artwork, galleries are showing artwork, and we all want to be seen. We all want to be making a positive impact somewhere. How do we move forward? I think collaboration is key ” What does it take to open an art gallery and frame shop in Austin during a pandemic? A lot. For Kevin Ivester, owner of Ivester Contemporary and Eastside Picture Framing, these businesses are the culmination of a long-term dream and years of working in all aspects of the art world including, galleries, auction houses, restoration, conservation, handling, framing, and appraisal. Now with the potential of both endeavors and his well-rounded years of experience, Kevin wants to help artists further their careers, sell their work, and raise the profile of Austin as a town where you can buy great art and from any of the numerous talented people that call it home. We talk about what it took for him to get to this point and his intentions going forward. He’s genuinely interested in adding value and helping to further the awareness and understanding of visual art and the artists he represents. What a great mission and now he has the means to see it through. Ivester Contemporary (http://ivestercontemporary.com/) 916 Springdale Rd Bldg 2, Suite 107 Austin, TX 78702 (737) 209-0379 Make An Appointment! (http://ivestercontemporary.com/make-an-appointment) About The Gallery Ivester Contemporary is an Austin-based contemporary fine art gallery committed to connecting people with leading local and regional artists and ideas. Rotating exhibitions are focused on creating a context for contemplation, deepening appreciation for the visual arts, and facilitating a dialog between the artist and their viewers. Ivester Contemporary is located within the Canopy Creative Complex in East Austin, a central hub for artists, gallerists, and other creative types. East Side Picture Framing (https://eastsidepictureframing.com/) 916 Springdale Rd, Bldg 4, Suite 105 Austin Texas 78702 (512) 520 8031 Open Monday - Friday 11am-4pm and by appointment https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/wir-lEAy.jpg Photo by Scott David Gordon This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

Elizabeth Hendley is an art therapist at Dell Children’s Medical Center and a part of what is called the Expressive Therapies team. We spoke back in March of 2018 and went in depth to explore her origin story, how she became a therapist, and some of her experiences working with children that illustrate how powerful art therapy can be. If you have not heard that episode I highly recommend checking it out. It is my second most listened to interview at just over 1300 downloads. In this update we talk about how the pandemic has affected her job at the hospital and she shares some new stories of the types of work she is doing now. Again I am so impressed with her and what she does and I’m so glad to know someone like her is doing what she does. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/fw4uxH5a.jpg Elizabeth facilitating a game together with the music therapist. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/8mK7z_oj.jpg This collaborative self-care staff project is mentioned in the interview. Elizabeth mentions donations of art supplies in the interview. Here is the list and contact info if you want to donate anything. Josie Day Jday@ascension.org 512-324-0146 Small/medium canvases (or canvas boards) Watercolor paper Watercolor brushes Acrylic brushes (stiffer) Tube watercolors Paper plates Small plastic cups Stamp pads Model magic (small pkgs., white or color) Scrapbook embellishments (flowers, stickers, gems, washi tape, etc.) The banner image consists of on the left a 6”x6” square for a large Covid-19 collaboration facilitated by ArtAustin. Kevin Ivester at Davis Gallery asked Elizabeht and many others to contribute. It’s supposed to be a light blue color palette, to honor healthcare workers. The image on the right is a Covid stamp-carving. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast) This post could contain affiliate links for your convenience. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

"What’s the thing that people turn to when you are in the middle of this confusing and terrifying time, and whats the thing that brings relief? It’s Art. It’s music, it’s seeing films, it’s watching TV shows, it’s looking at visual art. These are the things that can bring us out of all of these feelings that can be really overwhelming, and can bring us into the current moment. Which is really where a lot of peace lies. I think the arts are essential, especially during this time.” Elizabeth McQueen is a singer-songwriter and the host of NPR’s This Song (https://www.npr.org/podcasts/467077597/this-song) podcast. Growing up in a family of visual artists, she eventually found her own creative practice and voice in the pursuit of performing and creating music. For over eight years she was the lead singer for Asleep At The Wheel until she retired in 2014 to focus more on her kids and eventually start her radio career. For the last six years she has had the chance to interview some of the best musicians in the world and hear their stories. A few of the subjects we cover in our conversation are the importance of art right now, her aggressive positivity, her sisters artwork, the origins of This Song (https://www.npr.org/podcasts/467077597/this-song), and some great lessons she has gleaned from various artists about their own creative practices. We finish with the question she puts to every guest on her show. Can you share a story of a song that has transformed your life? What a powerful and moving answer she gives! I was so happy to finally interview Elizabeth after knowing her for so many years. She is a super talented musician, interviewer, and very positive force in the world. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/P0Ki4IbZ.jpg Elizabeth playing at a JBG potluck in 2014 This Song From KUT 90.5 (https://www.npr.org/podcasts/467077597/this-song) Musician, composer and radio host Elizabeth McQueen wants to hear about transformational songs. In conversations and interviews with fellow musicians and artists, McQueen talks with them about life-changing songs, inspiration, creativity and so much more. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/zE0xdKFD.jpg This is the transformational song Elizabeth shares her story about at the end of the interview, the version sung by Nina Simone. See link below. I Got It Bad (And That Ain't Good) My baby never treats me sweet and gentle the way he should; I got it bad and that ain't good! My poor heart is sentimental not made of wood I got it bad and that ain't good! But when the weekend's over and monday rolls aroun' I end up like i start out just cryin' my heart out He don't love me like i love him nobody could I got it bad and that ain't good! Like alonely weeping willow lost in the wood I got it bad and that ain't good! And the things i tell my pillow no woman should I got it bad and that ain't good! Tho folks with good intentions tell me to save my tears I'm glad i'm mad about him i can't live without him Lord above me make him love me the way he should I got it bad and that ain't good! The banner image behind the title was taken as a part of Scott's Panorama 365 series, of Elizabeth and her family next to the Four Seasons around 2011. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

"Anytime I am stuck in life, I will usually do a project on it. Trying to understand, and just to try and move through it. It really helps me move through something. All of my work is basically things I am trying to figure out and move through in my own life" This interview is with Suzanne Koett (https://www.suzannekoett.com/), who’s ongoing photo project captured on film, PANDEMIC, is a series of portraits of quarantined families and individuals in the places they reside. I could relate to so many of the ways that Suzanne thinks about and lives her life and what impressed me most is her very intentional dedication to self growth through her art creation. Be sure to visit her website, to see all of her various series, and the obvious, and not so obvious path she has been on for the last decade. Please enjoy this conversation with the very talented and thoughtful Suzanne Koett. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/pVVsVWa7.jpg About text courtesy of Suzanne's website Suzanne Koett (https://www.suzannekoett.com/) is an artist, contemporary photographer, and art educator from Austin, TX. Her work centers around the human condition and the shared collective experience. Through her art she aims to demystify life experiences and shows what it means to be alive and to bravely exist. Suzanne holds a BFA in Studio Art (concentration photography) from San Francisco State University. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/d8vColdf.jpg Metaphysical Libertarianism - from the The Study of Aloneness series. LInks to some of the specific subjects we discussed: PANDEMIC series on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/suzannekoett/) Suzanne's blog post from Jan 2020 (https://www.suzannekoett.com/blog/2020/1/1/going-into-2020) Suzanne's series The Study of Aloneness (https://www.suzannekoett.com/#/thestudyofaloneness/) Suzanne's series dedicated to her father after his passing (https://www.suzannekoett.com/#/nacht/) What is Reparenting and How to Begin (https://yourholisticpsychologist.com/what-is-reparenting-and-how-to-begin/) Suzanne's series To Record Only Water for Ten Days (https://www.suzannekoett.com/#/torecordwater/) Suzanne's morning affirmations: "What great thing is going to happen today?" "I am here for you when things go really well. I am here to help celebrate you. And I am here for you if things don't go well" https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/RDQhHmsi.jpg Track 6: Remain, Digital collage & Vandyke brown print on archival watercolor paper, 8"x"8, 2019 from the series To Record Only Water for Ten Days https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/KYgH9xIp.jpg Image from PANDEMIC series. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Ways to support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

“Don’t lose your authenticity. Keep honing your skills to become a better artist. Don’t just copy what someone else is doing, go beyond it. Find what really speaks to you in your soul as an artist and start doing that.” After I started reading An Artful Life by John P Weiss (https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1546996907/sdg07d-20), I just knew that I had to try to interview him. The stories are inspirational and have been helpful to me during this time of stress and the unknown. Our conversation was everything I hoped it would be. John's thoughtfulness and life experiences put him in a position to be able to share the kind of perspectives and wisdom that are sorely needed in the world today. Hope you enjoy the interview and be sure to check out his artwork, cartoons, book, and other writings online. All of the artists and books that are mentioned are listed at the end of the show notes along with links to John's work. Enjoy! https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/Ty2N3ogf.png About text courtesty of John's website John P. Weiss is a former police chief and editorial cartoonist who retired early to become a full-time artist and writer. John studied landscape painting extensively with American painter Scott L. Christensen. Using a limited palette and strong abstract designs in his representational work, John captures quiet scenes of land and nature. Wisdom from a 26-year law enforcement career and lifetime of reading informs John's poignant short stories and insightful articles. John writes about life lessons, personal growth, and the creative arts. John's written work appears in: The Guardian, NBC News, Becoming Minimalist, Thrive Global, Goins Writer, Elephant Journal, and more. Read John's full biography here (https://johnpweiss.com/blog/74379/about-john-p-weiss). Over 38K followers enjoy John's weekly articles, which he illustrates with his whimsical, fine-lined cartoons. Click here and subscribe (https://johnpweiss.com/email-newsletter) to get on John's email list. You'll receive the latest creative work. No spam, always free, privacy respected. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/bsiU_y03.jpeg https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/UooMBq4R.png https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/1Sr_i982.png This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Click on this affiliate link or the ones below before making purchases on Amazon. An easy way to support! (https://www.amazon.com/b?_encoding=UTF8&tag=sdg07d-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=f8514f703149bd58ce3f0ef2cfb1a234&camp=1789&creative=9325&node=1)

For over 15 years the Fusebox Festival has been delivering an amazing array of curated performances and artists from all over the world and bringing them right here to Austin. Since the festival will not be able to go on as planned as a live event, the organizers had to pivot the whole event online into what they are calling the virtual edition. Join me for a conversation with Executive & Artistic Director Ron Berry and Associate Artistic Director & Curator Anna Gallagher-Ross to talk about how that played out and what we can look forward to experiencing this year. www.fuseboxfestival.com Instagram @fuseboxfestival (https://www.instagram.com/fuseboxfestival/) Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd5l0WJrBaeEJpZl8M_HDxQ) Below text courtesy of the Fusebox website The Festival In light of the COVID-19 crisis, it is not possible to hold Fusebox Festival as we originally planned. Our Festival isn't canceled, it's re-imagined as a virtual space where our community, both local and global, can come together to experience the work of Fusebox artists and participate in an exciting array of virtual events and activities. Fusebox Festival 2020: Virtual Edition is a weekend-long broadcast taking place April 24-26. Think public access TV meets international block party meets live performance! We see this as a platform to explore what it means to gather together and celebrate adventurous art, online. This Virtual Edition will feature: Live-streamed performances Conversations Artist Studio Visits Interactive Activities Happy Hours Cooking Shows Exhibitions and much more! Please mark your calendars for April 24 – 26, follow us on social media, and we will be in touch soon with our artist lineup and schedule. Thanks to you, our Fusebox Family, we are able to bring our artists and community together in a much needed time for celebration. We appreciate your support! This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

Becca Borrelli (https://borrel.li/) is an illustrator, teacher, story teller, and part of The Lemon House (https://www.lemonhouseatx.com/) where she has her art studio, which will also be hosting an upcoming Process Over Product Art Series. (https://borrel.li/blogs/news) Becca also just launched her own podcast Secret Sauce (https://borrel.li/pages/secret-sauce-podcast), and I highly recommend you check it out. We talk about her journey as an artist, teacher, and small business owner, and talk a lot about how sensitivity can be reframed into a strength instead of a weakness. The following text is courtesy of Becca's websites Becca Borrelli is an admirer of doodling, and art teaching. Since graduating with a MA in Art Education from The University of Texas, she has been working as an art teacher at The Contemporary Art School in Austin, and establishing an illustration business. She is inspired by the invisible connections between all things, and her work aims to be a playful, bright, and hopeful interpretation of the world's whimsical and magical sides. She has fallen in love with her hometown in Austin, TX where she spends free time exploring the town with her husband and their super-pups Layla and Rose. Becca's new podcast "Secret Sauce" Welcome to Secret Sauce (https://borrel.li/pages/secret-sauce-podcast), a podcast about the secret ingredients in life and work, hosted by Becca Borrelli. Secret Sauce explores artistry as a helpful framework for inspiring meaning and understanding in our everyday lives. (https://borrel.li/pages/secret-sauce-podcast) The Lemon House The Lemon House (https://borrel.li/pages/secret-sauce-podcast) is a working studio for three Austin based artists: Katherine of Bliss Kid Yoga (https://blisskidyoga.org/), Allie of Stampworthy Goods (https://stampworthygoods.com/), and Rebecca of Rebecca Borrelli Illustrations. We are of the mind that just because you are a solo entrepreneur does not mean that you can’t have the same community of co-workers you would in an office. We work along side each other in our studio, but also open our studio for open house shopping events, potlucks for makers, and other community events. 1713 E 12th Street Austin, TX 78702 Instagram: @lemonhouseatx (https://www.instagram.com/lemonhouseatx/) This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

"I think art for me has always been about giving someone an image that they can get absorbed into, and that takes them to a place that is sort of hyper-real. You know it’s not reality but you also can’t quite pin down what it is or where it came from. I see that in the tintype process as well. It’s quite arresting as a modern person to be photographed in a tintype because it puts you in this other world where you know it’s you and you know it’s modern photograph. But you’ve never seen anything like it and it breaks you out of that pattern of being so well versed at looking at imagery." Adrian Whipp is a passionate and driven photographer who has chosen to pursue more rare, challenging, and unconventional ways of making images. He is probably best known for his family heirloom level of portrait making in the form of tintypes that he captures in his custom mobile photo studio at the back of the French restaurant Justine's Brasserie here in Austin. When not doing that he is full on pursuing the creation of his own version of stereo photography, manifest soon in something called The Daydream Society (https://thedaydreamsociety.com/stereos). What I see is an inherent fascination and generosity in what he creates and shares that is really intriguing and inspiring. I encourage you to tune in and keep and eye on what he is up to. If you make it over to have your tintype made, which I highly recommend, make sure to let Adrain know you heard the podcast. And definitely check out the beautiful work on his website, adrianwhipp.com (https://www.adrianwhipp.com/), and be sure to specifically check out the daydream society and sign up to get email updates. Please enjoy this wonderful conversation with Mr. Adrian Whipp. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/rF6M6yor.jpg Lumiere Tintype portrait Lumiere Tintype Photography (https://lumieretintype.com/) Studio located behind Justine's Brasserie (https://www.justines1937.com/) 4710 East 5th St, Austin, TX, 78702 Hours - Thursday - Sunday, 6pm until 11pm https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/e5onDlYE.jpg Lumiere Tintype portrait Some of the subjects we discuss: Photography Cathedral of light Fixing images Preserving time Slowing down Finding photography Discovering tintype Portrait studios Ease of digital Losing analog Quick turnaround Lumiere tintype Family tradition Justine’s clients 15,000 so far Out in the world It’s not about me Portrait photogs My domain It’s an experience Stereo photography Mostly forgotten The Aleph 3D images Making glass slides Looking at things Breaking the pattern Cave paintings Translating experience The art world Banksy shred Miami banana Co-creation Generosity The cookie Look at this John Coffer Mexico trip/travel Daydream society Making slides Where to find him https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/We6MBj52.jpg https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/nvPHRqRT.jpg Stereos - The Daydream Society Adrian's bio couitesy of his website. Adrian is a photographic artist based in Austin, Texas. Born in the UK, Adrian received his Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communication before moving to the US in 2007 to pursue photography. In 2013 Adrian founded Lumiere Tintype, the world's only traveling tintype portrait studio. Lumiere serves as an attempt to make honest, timeless portraiture that helps people to reconnect with the lost alchemy of a handmade photograph. In the past six years Adrian has shot over eleven thousand tintype portraits, images that he hopes will be cherished for generations to come. Outside of Lumiere, Adrian’s photographic work plays with the idea that our notions of photography are beginning to detach from the rules of perspective. As digital technologies continue to reshape our understanding of what a photograph can be, we are discovering immersive new ways to become transfixed by the power of an image. For example, in Adrian’s cathedral of light, we see that a photograph can be elusive and ephemeral - impossible to capture or ‘fix’. It can exist only as a luminous play of light and color across ground glass - we meditate upon the image in the same way that we watch time pass. A photograph can also exist without a single, fixed viewpoint. Inspired by Chinese scroll paintings, Adrian built the Aleph - a projected photographic landscape that can never be viewed in it’s entirety, only in sections. Each viewer charts a different course as they explore the image plane, leading to very different interpretations and memories of the same work. Adrian’s latest endeavor - the daydream society, explores the aperspectival realm of stereo photography - a technique that uses the viewer’s own visual cortex to blend two fixed perspectives into one fully dimensional image. These fascinating, three dimensional (four if you include the duration of exposure!) images can only exist in the imagination of the person viewing them - in the material world they are merely two flat photographs, sitting alongside each other on a two dimensional plane. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/3dm7brc4.jpeg Photo of Adrian by Jonathan Canlas This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

"I think it’s ok to be in a space of feeling lost at points in your life. That’s actually a great place to be." Two years on from our first interview, Episode 18 (https://www.austinarttalk.com/18), which I highly recommend listening to before you proceed with this one, I recently had the privilege of a tour of the new home and art studio of Roi James (https://roijames.com/). It was great to have the chance to further the dialogue and talk more about Roi’s successful career, where he finds himself now, and where he might be headed. And just like in our first conversation there is no lack of vulnerably on Roi’s part, as he shares his thoughts about being in an in-between place, recuperating and settling into the rhythms of his new space, finding inspiration, and contemplating the necessity to take his whole life and artwork to the next level. We also notably discuss the likely reasons for his success, pricing artwork, portraiture, art market challenges, and we go a little more in depth about loving more deeply and how that manifests in his life. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/mKfm-Hy_.jpg Portrait of Roi on the roof of is new home. Photo by Scott David Gordon Bio courtesy of Roi's website The Story Of My Work I was 28 when I realized I wanted to become a painter. Until then and to this day, I had never studied art nor had any formal training. I’d always had the “gift” and recall my kindergarten teacher showing my mother my drawings and expressing how advanced they were for my age. But art was not a realistic occupation as I’d been indoctrinated into the “tragic artist” mythology, that to become one was to lead a sad and ultimately unfortunate life. So quite by accident, at 28, I attended a life drawing class and within the first 30 seconds of the first drawing, in the most supernatural way, I was was transformed. It would be another seven years before I had my first gallery show. Between then I poured over books of the techniques of the old masters and immersed myself in tens of thousands of images, slowly developing a rich visual vocabulary. I became enamored with the painters Titian, Vermeer, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, among others and with the romantic landscapes of Claude Lorrain, J.M.W. Turner, and Caspar David Friedrich. It was the majestic beauty and drama in these artist’s paintings and the long tradition of disciplined study and technique that attracted and inspired me. It would become the holy grail of what I would hope to find in my own work. And so my early paintings were infused with the dramatic play of light on human bodies and landscapes. I achieved a degree of success with this early work which in 1998, allowed me to quit my full-time job as a graphic designer at Dell Computer and focus entirely on painting. Though I continued to work in the traditional style of layered glazing in oils, I was already feeling a pull away from convention and a desire to explore painting’s greater possibilities. Where it had been a hunger for tradition and discipline that established my foundation, I was now compelled by a meditative thoughtfulness in being present and a desire to release myself into the uncertain world of abstract and conceptual painting. This began a ten year transition away from one style and method and into the new. However, my interest in form and beauty never wavered. Even the method of applying layered glazes continued to instruct my new work, though from a very unique and self invented process. My new paintings are spontaneous and abandoned Meditations, appearing as quiet spaces or joyful dances on the canvas. My Constructs are architectural explorations of color and surface, simultaneously both painting and sculptural relief. Fundamentally, despite their dissimilar surfaces and the contrast to my earlier romantic period, this new work remains true to my commitment to beauty and form. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/-V7sJDZe.jpg Architectura 01.14.20, 2020 Oil on Panel 30 x 30 in Current/Recent Exhibitions Spectrum New Work by Roi James JANUARY 18th - FEBRUARY 22nd, 2020 Davis Gallery (https://www.davisgalleryaustin.com/) 837 West 12th Street Austin, TX 78701 512-477-4929 Davis Gallery is proud to announce Spectrum, Roi James' first solo exhibit in Austin in nearly a decade. In this new collection, James presents works ranging from brilliant, undulating polychrome constructs, to delicate oil paintings contemplating the expanses of the open sea. Over the course of his career, James has boldly shifted his artistic vision, reinventing himself many times over and enjoying consistent success along the way. His mastery of several mediums and styles has attracted national attention and local fame. Spectrum, represents his latest triumphs, and delivers a complete series of diverse, significant work. This exhibit will be on view from January 18th through February 22nd, 2020. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/bKQpRDOh.jpg I Am Forever -framed, oil on canvas 35.25 x 27.25 in. Not for Sale Some of the subjects we discuss: The last two years Getting used to new space Arriving and landing Confronting voices Parasite movie Not one or the other Talent from the start Marketable work Driven to learn and grow Getting help Selling work Leaving a gallery Changing landscape Connecting in new ways Democratizing art New collectors How to price work Current prices Spectrum at Davis Portraiture Self portraits Fonda San Miguel Working in new space Feeling lost Feeling empowered Unsure about interview Thinking about cancer Loving more deeply Creating moments To the next level Getting rid of things Different choices The gift of song Violon D"ingres https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/EMMgl6Zo.jpg Roi looking at the view from his new studio. Photo by Scott David Gordon https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/INa_DBQA.jpg Roi looking at the view from his new studio. Photo by Scott David Gordon Contact Roi https://roijames.com/ (https://roijames.com/) rjstudio@roijames.com This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

“You don’t just believe in yourself, You behave in a way that you can believe in yourself, trust yourself. You have to show up. You have to show up everyday in the studio. You have to put in your time to make this unreal thing real.” Naomi Schlinke is an visual artist who after many years as a professional dancer, decided to shift her energy primarily to painting. But dance and movement still inform the spirit of her work and the way it is created. As Naomi says in the interview, she provokes the conditions where her work comes to life through many specific choices, but also leaves much up to chance and strives to push the elements of each piece until the whole is activated by the limitations of the extent of the chosen frame. Her most recent body of work, Being Mobile, expresses the movement and iconic form of entities and symbols that seem familiar but also mysterious, elusive, and timeless. Naomi was just a joy to speak with and we laughed quite a bit. I love talking with artists who are so thoughtful about their work and who have such an interesting life journey and experiences to share. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/5E6Rt3am.jpg Big Blue 2019 60” x 48” ink on mulberry paper collage mounted to panel Bio courtesy of Naomi's website In the 1970’s and early 80’s, Schlinke danced with the Margaret Jenkins Dance Company and the Joe Goode Performance Group, both based in San Francisco. At that time, the San Francisco art and dance scene were strongly influenced by new concepts flowing from artists such as Merce Cunningham, John Cage, and Robert Rauschenberg, many of whom emerged from the hot house for avant-garde work at Black Mountain College, North Carolina. Much of Schlinke's approach to painting is founded on the experiences that she absorbed as a dancer in those decades. Before moving to San Francisco, she received a B.A. and M.A. in dance from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Currently a resident of Austin, she grew up in Dallas, Texas. Since relocating to Austin, Texas from San Francisco in 1994, Schlinke has exhibited her work at numerous venues including the Robert McClain Gallery in Houston, The Dallas Contemporary and the MAC, Women & Their Work, Texas State University in San Marcos, D Berman Gallery in Austin, D. M. Allison Gallery in Houston, the Dougherty Art Center in Austin, and Northern-Southern Gallery also in Austin. Before returning to Texas, she exhibited with the Braunstein-Quay Gallery in San Francisco. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/HM9xi2tb.jpg Coil Up 2019 48” x 36” ink on mulberry paper collage mounted to panel NAOMI SCHLINKE and JAMES TURNER Steps on Steppes now showing at NORTHERN-SOUTHERN GALLERY (https://northern-southern.com/2019/steps-on-steppes/) 1900-b East 12th Street near Chicon / Austin, TX 78702 Phillip Niemeyer, curator Show Run: January 11 - February 15, 2020 Gallery hours Saturdays Only: Jan 18, Jan 25, Feb 1, Feb 8, Feb 15 3:00pm - 6:30 pm or for appointment, contact: the gallery: hello@northern-southern.com or the artist: naomi@naomischlinke.com Some of the subjects we discuss: Resonating work Creating an environment REM-Gensler Daydreaming Immersion Studio visits Describing new work Religious art Abstraction/movement Beginnings of dance Studying dance Touring and performing Writing and painting European art tour San Fran in the 70’s Dance experiences Mind of another time Foundational influences Slowing down Engaging with materials Print with Coronado Starting to use ink Quoting myself Ink and mulberry paper Creating a life Loft in SF/showing work Move to Austin Adventurous spaces Collectors/prices Chance/choice Making paintings Aesthetically rewarding Arranging the pieces Name and titles Northern-Southern Thanks This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

"You know what, all that matters is that you find a way, however you have to do it, to just keep making your shit. Whatever that is. Just don’t stop. Any creative person. It’s so easy not to. Just find a way. Just don’t stop. You have to give yourself that opportunity. It’s a lot easier now than ever. So by whatever means you have please take advantage of it and go make your stuff, because you’re not getting younger." Rohitash Rao makes cool stuff. Funny stuff. And a lot of it. Lucky for us he recently moved to Austin to take a teaching job as an assistant professor at the Stan Richards School of Advertising. Since childhood Ro has been a prolific creator, drawing and painting on anything he can get his hands on. Studying at Art Center in LA gave him a chance to try all different types of art creation and also learn how to pitch ideas and tell stories. Over the years he has worked as an award winning art director, illustrator, animator, has made a documentary, short films, music videos, stop motion, has co-written seven children's books, has exhibited his art numerous times, and is about to release an album of songs that he will be performing live with his band. Through his art creation he explores his personal experiences and also shares his often humorous commentary on the state of the world, with the belief that comedy and art are therapeutic and can lessen the weight of life. Keep smiling and make your shit. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/h-WXoGCF.jpg OF COURSE I'M HAPPY Spray paint and acrylic on found wood 38 x 48 inches Bio courtesy of Rohitash Rohitash Rao’s art is a reflection of our culture. His work reflects our over-consuming society, often made on the very things that we throw away. His work is a conceptual (and often funny) take on the way we live. As a friend put it, “Ro's art puts our society up against a funhouse mirror into which the dog of irony continually dives at its own reflection.” Rohitash Rao is an award-winning art director, animator and director. He has co-created and illustrated 7 children’s books published by Harper Collins, made an animated TV pilot for 20th Century Fox and has had 12 solo shows as a fine-artist. He currently works as an assistant professor at the Stan Richards School of Advertising at the University of Texas in Austin. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/_MKWqYcc.JPG YOUR PROBLEMS ARE NOT CONVENIENT Spray paint and acrylic with cut out eyes from magazines on found fast food cup Roughly 4 x 6 inches Upcoming group exhibition I Picked You A Flower (https://www.facebook.com/events/996217374078148/) Opening Reception Feb 7th, 7-10pm February 8th - March 14th Vault Stone Shop 4361 S. Congress Ave, Suite 103 Austin, TX 78745 https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/9-0h-MFF.png FLOWERS WILTING IN GLASS BOWL Acrylic on wood 24 x 24 inches Some of the subjects we discuss: Confidence The 100th painting Very specific/organized Calculated spontaneity Just steeping stones Found objects Being intentional Marlboro box story Art for beer Canopy studio Rancho Cucamonga Interesting upbringing Being American Hobby and Jobby Art as career? Chemistry class Art Center everything Building a portfolio Art director job Move to NYC/filmmaking Directing/storytelling Documentary/spec reel Switch to animation Battle of the Album Covers Poison music video Curious Pictures Move to L.A. Book deals/Studio Commitments Starting to teach Advertising at UT American culture & creativity Working with students 6th & Lamar assignment Talking trash on trash Humor and laughing Early influences More serious work Ro Hit Records I drive and I eat Videos for songs Why stop motion The books Social media Make your shit This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

"I have a huge interest in empathy and compassion and humanizing people. That’s been a big part of my work and my life." Annalise Gratovich is a Texas printmaker who uses a lot of different tools and a supportive community to create small to sometimes very large prints. She can often be found carving carefully and meditatively out of wood, scribing into metal, or hand dying paper, the goal being to breathe life into the various beings, objects, and plants that inhabit the totemic and endearing world she has created. A world inspired by her family heritage and a desire to engender empathy and wonder. Everything is revealed when the paper is pulled from the intricately crafted and inked matrix. All of the hard work culminates in a print that will live on the walls of art lovers and collectors who appreciate the care and compassion that comes through in her work. She also travels to many other print shops as a guest artist and lecturer, is on the board of directors for Print Austin, and works the Blanton Museum of Art. Annalise Gratovich – Through the Dusk, a Light Recspec Gallery (https://recspec-gallery.com/) 4825 Weidemar Lane #700, Austin, Texas 78745 (map) (Facebook Event) (https://www.facebook.com/events/861446307640715/?active_tab=discussion) Opening Reception Saturday, January 25th – 5-9pm On view through March 7th and for PrintAustin Works on paper about the places for which the heart yearns by printmaker and artist Annalise Gratovich. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/M-tsJ8L_.JPG https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/fLXgE9lm.jpg About text courtesy of Annalise's website Annalise creates her finely crafted prints by hand from start to finish, carving wood, etching metal, dyeing paper, and using manual printing presses to create multiple originals. Each piece is printed on the finest archival papers using oil based inks and hand dyed papers she produces in her studio. Annalise operates as a self publisher out of Austin, Texas and travels frequently across the country as a visiting artist and speaker and to publish prints with highly esteemed print shops. Annalise begins each of her pieces with a drawing and a love for technical and artistic experimentation. She meticulously carves wood blocks with hand tools or carefully scribes into wax on the surface of a copper plate that is then dipped into an acid bath. Once these matrices are complete, sometimes after months of carving or a dozen dips in the acid bath, she begins her color development. Starting from color swatches she dips and tests in her studio, she dyes in bulk sheets of thin yet strong mulberry paper in a wide variety of colors and patterns. These sheets of dyed paper are then carefully cut out and applied to the wet ink on each woodcut or etching during the printing process, at which time the ink, papers, and pressure all combine to create the prints you see here. Annalise Gratovich was awarded the title of Creative Ambassador of Visual Arts in 2019 by the City of Austin and exhibits extensively nationally and internationally, most recently in Buggenhagen, Germany, New York, NY, Dawson City, Youkon, San Antonio, TX and Austin, TX. She was most recently a guest artist and lecturer at Egress Press, Edinboro University, Pennsylvania, and a guest artist and juror at New Leaf Editions in Vancouver, B.C. Her most recent publications were produced by Mixed Grit in Denver, Colorado, at Egress Press in Pennsylvania, Evil Prints in St. Louis, Missouri, and Cannonball Press, Brooklyn, New York. She has work in numerous private and public collections, the most recent acquisition going to the Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division. She is a member of the Board of Directors of PrintAustin, a month-long, city-wide printmaking event for which she has helped organize exhibitions and special events, curate the PrintAustin Invitational, and has participated in artist and curator talks, and panel discussions. Annalise’s ongoing and largest series to date, Carrying Things From Home, is comprised of eight 3x5.5 foot hand-dyed chine collé woodcuts. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/f4zzPFmP.jpg Annalise at the 2018 PrintAustin Expo PRINTAUSTIN (https://printaustin.org/) January 15th - February 15th, 2020 PrintAustin’s mission to the Austin art community and galleries is to share our enthusiasm for printmaking by helping galleries curate, exhibit, and promote works on paper and to engage a wider audience through in-house artist talks, signings, panels, printmaking demonstrations, and print-focused art happenings. With several professional print shops, nationally recognized university printmaking programs, internationally acclaimed print collections, and a thriving printmaking community, Austin is a hub for printmaking in Texas. The PrintAustin team is working with organizations and individuals throughout the Austin visual arts community to showcase fine art prints during this annual event, January 15-February 15. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

"There is nothing wrong with failing. Failing is a learning moment. If you failed and you took the time to reflect and learn why you failed, and what you can do to change that course, and who can help you with that, most importantly, then you haven’t failed. You’ve just learned something." Oen Hammonds is a Design Principal at IBM here in Austin where his job focuses on employee experience design. As early as High School he found himself designing for others, and after an eight year stint in the U.S. Army, he picked up where he left off and studied design in college. The jobs he has had since have all challenged him and have added to his skill set in different ways. He talks a lot about his path to the success he has found today and how important it is for a designers to have humility in their work. We delve into the subject of Design Thinking and all the ways that framework can be adapted to peoples careers and everyday life. Oen has also been sharing his knowledge as a teacher for the last fifteen years and is married to accomplished artist and teacher Hollis Hammonds. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/nSdUvcB-.jpg About text courtesy of Oen's website Designer | Advocate | Educator Knowledgeable Design Principal with solid grasp of development, implementation and optimization of communication and leadership skills. Goal-driven Graphic Designer successful at applying technical skills to create work that informs and engages customers. Clear communicator and collaborative team player with an eye for detail and skill in customer relations. Ready to bring 20+ years' experience to dynamic position in fast-paced environment. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/b9zOLRVt.jpg Some of the subjects we discuss: Designer Advocate Teacher Student diversity Art vs Design Humility/Ego Mad Men Meeting needs Telling a story Buyer loyalty High school Mac Classic Getting paid? Joined the Army College/NKU Design style Early influences Benchmark From large to small Move to Austin Y&R experience Agency vs In-house Move to IBM 4 different roles Design Thinking Team activities Empathy map Useful in life Being reactive Constructive meetings EDT development Open source/badges It’s a Framework The Loop Observe Reflect, Create Solving a problem Loosely held Courage/slow down Oen’s career course Failure/goals Mentorship Using EDT in life Year end review More time for fun Personal work https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/XpGVa4YG.jpg This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

“My passion is around art because I know how wonderful it is to create. There are lots of fabulous programs for people to have food and shelter. Very Important. Very Important. But we as human beings need to have our souls fed. That’s what I see happening with Art From The Streets.” Heloise Gold - Founder and Board Member At Large "We have about 35-40 artists that are actually there at a booth, that you can communicate and talk with and get to know and hear stories. I think when you take things back home that’s the best part of the art, the story that you have about the person or what it was about or what it meant to them.” Kelly Worden talking about the 27th Annual Show and Sale For the last 27 years Art From The Streets has helped artists who are currently or have previously been homeless to have the supplies and a safe space and window of time to just create. The work is then sold and the artists receive 95% of the proceeds. This interview consists of the voices of four different people involved with the organization. First Executive Director Kelly Worden speaks to the overall scope and mission, responds to quotes from four artists, talks about how this work has changed her life, and hopes for the future. Next, one of the original founders Heloise Gold talks about how it all started and it’s impact on her and others. Having been a weekly volunteer for the last 8 years, Katrina shares details about the open studio sessions, things that she has learned working with a homeless population, and about creating hope and success. Lastly we hear from Hugh, a formerly homeless artist who shares his story and how AFTS has helped him. Please visit their website to see how you can help this very important organization! Art From The Streets 27th Annual Show and Sale December 7th & 8th 11am-5pm Austin Convention Center 500 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, Texas 78701 Ballroom A Text courtesy of the AFTS Facebook event page The mission of Art From The Streets is to provide a safe and encouraging environment where the positive spirit of homeless and at-risk people is nurtured through artistic expression, offering them a pathway to self-determination as a source of pride, achievement, social connection, and income through the creation and sale of their work. AFTS is celebrating its 27th year! YEAHH!! We provide a 4 times a week Open Studio for the artists to come and create throughout the year which culminates in this AMAZING show! There will be thousands of pieces of artwork for sale for you to choose from for all budgets! Many of the artists themselves will be attending to chat with you about their artwork and inspiration. Come and invite your friends, colleagues and family to support this program but most importantly the artists!! Suggested $5 Donation at the Door to support AFTS! Austin Convention Center Ballroom A Entrance on Cesar Chavez/Red River - Fairmont Hotel Entrance Be reminded 95% of artwork sales goes DIRECTLY to the artists. Some of the subjects we discuss: Kelly Worden-Executive Director Description of AFTS Annual art sale How to help Artists quotes Life changing Heloise Gold-Founder/Board Member At Large The beginnings Making art with us First show Open studio classes Getting organized Divisiveness Feeding your soul Success story Preconceptions Finding a space The work is good Meeting the artists Katrina Meredith-Volunteer Volunteering Trinity center open studio Artists have jobs Assumptions Interacting Veterans Transformation Blanton visit More interaction Finding joy Support themselves Creating hope/success Hugh Miles-Artist Coming to Texas Art talent as a boy Sharing knowledge Positive state of mind Looking forward We are not labels Love/action/truth They can relate Resentments Always had art Enough is enough All I have is today Not looking down Don’t fit in/judgement How AFTS helps This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

“As any conceptual artist you feel like you are a reflection of the people around you. It’s not like you do what people want. It’s more like you try to just feel, what is the concerns or what is the highlights of your society. And how to connect people. And how to connect with people. And that’s what I love making through art.” Rehab El Sadek is a conceptual artist who’s work often has the aesthetic of objects discovered in the course of an archeological dig. And even though the work may have been just created, the mystery of it’s provenance and age allow the viewers imagination to expand and explore all of the rich and intriguing possibilities. Rehab’s work gets inspiration from all of the different places that she travels and from the people that she meets and what she can discover and learn from them. Her work evolves through time as she converses with those who view her exhibitions. There in those dialogues she finds the next steps of growth and reaction. Her newest exhibition, Transient, explores how we can better learn to understand each other and what it is to belong and where you call home. What a delightfully sincere and thoughtful conversation this is. Please enjoy and be sure to check out Rehab’s work online and in person if possible. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/7wKj2ZeL.jpg The Memory Palace exhibtion at Big Medium, June 2019 https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/92mEf3m4.jpg The Memory Palace exhibtion at Big Medium, June 2019 https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/UQ3GUjQ6.jpg The Memory Palace exhibtion at Big Medium, June 2019 Statement & Bio courtesy of Rehab's website Statement I value the opportunities art provides me to connect with people on an emotional and intellectual level. Meditation on interior space, immersion into unique overlooked outdoor places, and examination of alarming social and political trends taking place in the world inform the artistic inquiries of my practice. Bio Austin-based/Egyptian-born Rehab El Sadek is a conceptual artist whose career has spanned over 25 years. Meditation on space and immersion into overlooked places inform the artistic inquiries of her practice. She has initiated workshops and creative social practice interventions on issues ranging from women’s rights in Sinai to the challenges facing disadvantaged children in Nairobi. El Sadek has participated in group and solo shows at Lumen Travo Gallery (Amsterdam), Borusan Art Gallery (Istanbul), Ashkal Alwan (Beirut), the L.A. Freewaves Festival at MOCA Geffen Contemporary (Los Angeles), La Photographie Africaine (Bamako), and The Women's Museum (Dallas). In 1999, she was chosen by Jannis Kounellis for his Pavilion at Biennale Dei Giovanni Artisti (Rome). In 2009, she was part of “Rebelle: Art and Feminism 1969 - 2009” at Museum voor Moderne Kunst (Arnhem). Her awards and residences include the UNESCO-supported Artists’ Bursaries at Gasworks Artists Studios (London) and the Thami Mnyele Residency Award (Amsterdam). She is also the recipient of an Installation Prize at the Sharjah Biennale (Emirates). In 2017, El Sadek was named the City of Austin’s first Artist-in-Residence, exploring environmental and social issues embedded in the city’s Watershed Protection Department. Her current, deeply personal work draws inspiration from ancient and classical architecture, modern architectural theory and explores broad themes of immigration, belonging, communication, and language. El Sadek holds a degree in art from the University of Alexandria (Egypt). Current and upcomming https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/zN6ZhjrD.jpg Thin City, 2019, Mixed media on paper, 28 x 37in Rehab El Sadek: Transient Prizer Arts & Letters 2023 E Cesar Chavez St (512) 575-3559 Through January 4th, 2020 With Transient, artist Rehab El Sadek continues her exploration into issues related to immigration, belonging, communication and language. Utilizing sound installation, photography and the written word, El Sadek meditates on residential spaces and our relationship to them and to each other. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/16iCJKCe.jpeg Transient at Prizer Arts & Letters Some of the subjects we discuss: Artist statement Inspiration Positive change Support for the arts Fathers influence Archeology Human culture Aged objects Feedback from viewer Life as a child Always by the window Art school/painting Beautiful time of life Working in fashion 1st Cairo exhibition Book sculptures Traveling from Egypt London-Empty Shapes Moving to the US Self preservation Being an immigrant Moving to Austin Artist in residence Watershed protection The Memory Palace Architectural projections Building the pyramid Transient exhibition Different voices Community involvement Making connections Prizer/EAST This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

"It’s always scary to stop doing something. But if you don’t stop doing something, you can't do something new. Every time I’ve stopped doing something other opportunities came, or I had time to try something new." Keith Kreeger loves clay. For the past 25 years he has dedicated himself to forming and shaping various types and colors of that material, into beautiful bowls, vases, plates, and many other objects that are intended to be used and enjoyed. After college he set up his first potters studio in Cape Cod, where he grew and honed his artistic and business skills. Then a move to Austin shifted the aesthetic of his work to more simple forms with subtle lines. The look and profile of his business has also evolved over the years as he has strived to stay in tune with his core values and maintain a balance between work, family, what feels right, and what makes sense. His customers are people who care about where the things in their life come from and how they are made. Objects matter. Keith and I talk a lot about his business but also delve into his history in ceramics and his philosophies about his art, his customers, and how he figured out where he is headed. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/UKdPFt78.jpg Photo by Chad Wadsworth Text courtesy of Keith's website. Meet Keith Besides being the proud owner of 32” paella pan, Keith is an artist, designer and maker. Hailing from the East Coast, Keith got to Austin as quickly as possibly with this wife and three children. Previously he had a studio and contemporary craft gallery on Cape Cod for 12 years. Keith’s aesthetic comes from the singular idea that “objects matter,” and his work reflects that simple phrase, exemplifying clean, polished and modern design. A past-president of the board of Big Medium, the arts nonprofit that produces the East Austin Studio Tour, West Austin Studio Tour and the Texas Biennial, Keith currently sits on the board of the Austin Food and Wine Alliance, the advisory board of Austin Bat Cave and is an active supporter and advocate for the Andy Roddick Foundation. When he’s not behind the wheel, he can be found making strong espresso, epic playlists, hosting as many rad events in town as possible and driving his kids to their soccer games. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/dRWhGyTi.jpg Keith's Austin showroom Normal hours - Wednesday-Friday, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm 916 Springdale Rd Bldg 3-104, Austin, TX 78702 EAST AUSTIN STUDIO TOUR November 16–17 & 23–24, 2019 12pm-6pm Some of the subjects we discuss: Canopy Labels Making the shift Instagram Standing out What drives him Being a potter Traditional path True fans/new people Working with chefs Selling wholesale Something new Art of the pot Convention life Supportive partners Anniversary Sharing the work Social media Fun opportunities Connections Hand of the maker 1000 years old In the moment Capacity Something lasting What we are making Defining for yourself Largest order Re-evaluating College in NY In love with ceramics Success/failure Toshiko Takaezu Working with a legend Do it now Cape Cod Studio Collectors/tradition Reduction firing Change of aesthetic What is porcelain Move to Austin Getting established Cobra stuidos/EAST Functional objects Dinnerware Made to order Using molds Expectations Size of studio Making decisions Starting/finishing This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

“My goal has always been to make a painting breathe with realism, but when you get up to it you can really see the brush quality. That is what I’ve always been drawn to when I look at work. That has been my obsession since I was very young.” Karen Offutt is a figurative realist painter and one of the founders of Austin’s own Atelier Dojo, a professional arts academy offering classes, workshops with visiting artists, open studio sessions, and a new intensive study program starting next year. After growing up with a love of drawing and art, it took Karen quite a lot of searching to find the instruction and community she desired. After many years of serious study which eventually led to teaching others painting, she has made a respected name for herself in the realism community and also through the growth and reputation of the school she started with fellow painters, Jennifer Balkan and Denise Fulton. We talk about her practice, about the school, and what she has learned in all of her different roles including motherhood, and how her work continues to evolve. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/wNhv3tuT.jpg Wallflower ‐ Oil ‐ Panel ‐ 24 x 20 Bio courtesy of Karen's website. Karen Offutt was born and raised in Dallas, Texas by a creative family who encouraged her to explore her artistic talent from an early age. Her father was an artist and her mother is a designer and owner of a needlepoint company. Throughout her formative years, Karen excelled in art classes and participated in several art exhibits. As a young adult she sought a more serious outlet for her talent. Not finding the ultimate education for the type of realism she sought, Karen found art related jobs to keep her motivated. Learning to paint with oils was her goal and found that opportunity Austin Fine Arts Classes where she learned a more classical approach. From there, she attended workshops from nationally re-nowned artists and from there began to find her own path in her creative journey. From her studio in Austin, Karen approaches her paintings with an atmospheric sensitivity combining shape, tone line, and color. The inspiration of her preferred subject matter comes ultimately from the figure. "I have always loved painting people whether in natural surroundings or in a more staged setting." “As and artist, I am very aware of my environment which invites me to be a constant observer. I see potential in everything and my emotional reaction guides me to the specific inspiration. There are different aspects to my painting, for example technical skill, creative freedom and emotional truth. My goal is to create work that guides all these elements in a direction that moves me." https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/97tZ0bxX.jpg Offspring ‐ Oil ‐ Panel ‐ 30 x 20 Atelier Dojo (https://www.atelierdojo.com/) 916 Springdale Road Building 2, Suite 106B Austin, TX 78702 (512) 220-1058 info@atelierdojo.com Some of the subjects we discuss: When we met Type of painting Less is more Abstraction How you feel Many layers This moved me That’s really me Model Meeghan Wallflower painting It doesn’t end Capturing a moment Liking your old work Striving to improve Evolving the work Drawing growing up The right brain Modern art influence Austin Fine Art Classes Jennifer Balkan Painting community Idea for Atelier Dojo Motherhood Taking a break Personal aspects/People Painting sons Working with models Building a composition It’s all a blur at first Teaching painting Encouraging students You have to want it Guiding students Fear and pressure Piecing together skills Realism vs. Modern Connecting to now Having the skill Recognition Favorite things Selling work The business side Austin/Atelier Dojo Foundational skills Dojo Academy Classic structure How to get started Expanded world EAST events This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)

"The nature of the business is relationship building. With clients, with artists, with framers and installers. The people that make up this whole ecosystem we call the art world. Even people who come and pack the work and ship it, even they need to understand. Building up trust with all of these people I think is important. So in building relationships you have to be true to who you are as a person. I think it is something we re-learn even on a personal level, is just being true to who you are and knowing who you are. And I think you will be more successful if you have a good handle on what that is." Susannah Morgan’s passion for art began with inspiration from her grandparents, and has followed her through college, working at a gallery in NYC, running a gallery in Austin, and art consulting for corporate clients on sometimes very large projects. A year ago with all of that experience and knowledge under her belt, she ventured out on her own to work directly with collectors and artists in a broader and more personal way. I think most any artist who listens to this conversation with get something out it. Susannah really knows her stuff and is not afraid to share. We go into great detail about what she offers as an adviser and some of the tips you can take and run with. I really enjoyed speaking with her and hope that some of you will be inspired by this conversation to seek out her help or someone like her. To get organized, to get a proffesional perspective on your work and the industry, and to hopefully find the success and freedom that most of us desire in our careers as artists. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/pe5ZV7xc.jpg Headshot photography by Jonathan Morgan Photography Text courtesy of Susannah's website SKM Art Advising is a vital resource and partner for collectors, designers, and artists. Relationships are central to our mission, and our clients’ vision is our primary focus. We work closely with collectors across the United States to build meaningful art collections, interior designers to put the finishing touch on their gorgeous projects, and artists to understand the business of art. By working with SKMAA, our clients gain access to our positive industry relationships, and benefit from our extensive industry experience. Founder Susannah Morgan has built a career in New York and Austin both in the residential and commercial sectors as an art consultant and gallery director. Susannah founded SKM Art Advising with the goal of connecting collectors and designers with meaningful artwork. She is active in the community, building strong relationships throughout Austin, Texas, and the United States with artists, gallery owners, and collectors. In her free time, Susannah enjoys gardening, hiking, traveling, and spending time with her dog Maddy. She also volunteers her time with the Girls Advocacy League, a division of the Girls Empowerment Network in Austin. SKM Art Advising (https://www.skmartadvising.com/) susannah@skmartadvising.com (mailto:susannah@skmartadvising.com) 512-299-3062 Austin, Texas Current and upcomming 2019 Exhibition Series (https://www.skmartadvising.com/exhibitionseries) The Spaces Between New works by Larry Goode Opening Reception - Tuesday November 5 from 5:30- 8:00 Exhibition - October 30- January 6 Paris in a Bite 3801 N Capital of TX Hwy, Suite D-180 Austin, TX 78746 SKM Art Advising is proud to be mounting a series of curated exhibitions at The Gallery at Paris in a Bite in the Westlake neighborhood of Austin, Texas. Our intention with this series is to create a space of dialogue and to showcase work that we believe in. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/IIqtMrY9.jpg Larry Goode - Aiiric 48” x 48” Oil stick, oil on wood panel Coffee Chat: Susannah Morgan (https://www.bigmedium.org/events/coffee-chat-susannah-morgan) Thursday, November 7, 2019 9:00 AM 10:00 AM Big Medium 916 Springdale Rd, Bldg 2 #101 Austin, TX 78702 Join us for our November Coffee Chat with Susannah Morgan, an art consultant and artist advisor. Susannah will share insights into collector behavior and best practices for artists learned through her experience in the field. https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/4/41335247-836c-4f4a-8a8b-aeca55f3227a/0GZ8KfTc.jpg Rebecca Jewell - Multicolored Songbirds, Hand-printed and coloured goose, turkey, dove, and pheasant feathers with hand-printed tissue on archival mountboard, 33x35” SKM Art Advising is the exclusive broker for Rebecca Jewell’s work in Texas. We talk about this piece in the interview. Some of the subjects we discuss: SKM art advising Collectors Artist advising The conduit Love of art Biographies Grandparents Publishing Co. College at UT Move to NYC Volunteering at Met Insurance job Rebecca Hossack Intentional practice Working at the gallery Move back to TX Starting over Davis Gallery Skills learned Relationships Art + Artisans Corporate clients Learning the business Artists approach Out on her own Business coach Working w/collectors Questions/Research Presenting options Within reach Rebecca Jewel Collection management Getting organized Pricing work Gallery prices Knowing value Artist statements Customization Contacts/Goals Accountability Like a therapist I need help What is your job Referrals/Resources Girls Advocacy League The Austin market Artists she likes Paris in a Bite Work at a restaurant CS Coffee chat This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Intro music generously provided by Stan Killian (http://stankillian.com/main/) Support this podcast. (http://www.austinarttalk.com/supportpodcast)