Makings & Musings Podcast

My podcast guest for this episode of the Makings & Musings Podcast is Ella from where are the girlbands. Ella is a wonderful artist and Illustrator and she is involved in so many amazing creative projects. We spoke about inclusion in the music industry, painting, poetry and art school, sketchbooking and mental health! ★ The reference photo is of the wonderful  @minervadaisy3769  who gave us permission to draw her for the podcast. https://instagram.com/minervadaisy The reference photo is by Sibz https://instagram.com/sibz.studio ♥︎ You can find out more about Ella and Where are the Girlbands in these places: Where are the Girlbands instagram - @wherearethegirlbands Where are the Girlbands email - wherearethegirlbands@gmail.com Ella's personal instagram - @ellafradge The safe spaces podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/2YUVbATozeIs34uOH4rD9n?si=422377aa4e174102 ✸ Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:15 Our reference photo 00:04:05 Art school, fine art degree 00:07:10 about where are the Girlbands 00:14:03 pressure on success in the art world 00:15:24 Playing instruments 00:17:47 having 50 ideas at once 00:22:18 Plans for the future 00:30:39 the art of writing letters 00:36:58 about safe spaces 00:44:02 Being at home, quiet time 00:48:50 approach to illustration 00:54:43 art is therapeutic 00:57:23 sketchbooking

Hi my lovely creatives, In this audio-visual podcast I am painting with the wonderful illustrator Joy from Let's paint with Joy. We talk about Joy's journey from starting to paint to becoming a pattern designer to teaching art classes and off course we also talk about art materials, finding reference pictures and making colouring books.  Joy creates beautiful vibrant and colourful paintings with lots of florals and for that reason we decided to paint florals together!   I love how Joy used lots of different materials in one artwork and I really want to start using my oil crayons more often now I have seen how she combines these with colour pencil and watercolours.  I am sure you want to know much more about Joy:  Let's Paint with Joy: https://letspaintwithjoy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joycharde/ Other Links: https://www.hijoyting.com/links3 The music I used is from Bensounds.com and the reference pictures are from Unsplash.  Thank you for watching/listening,  Irene  The Makings & Musings podcast is created by myself, Irene Ruby.  I am an illustrator and I teach art classes and courses and I host a vibrant creative community where my creatives join monthly live sessions, drawing challenges, inspiration pieces and where we create together in a safe and supportive environment.  My website is www.makingsandmusings.com     You can find me on Instagram @makingsandmusings 

In this seasons Finale I speak with Mike from the Escape Bars in London.  The Escape bar in Stratford was the first place where I hosted my art classes with Makings and Musings and talking to Mike about how it all started was a lot of fun! Starting a bar is a dream for many of us and Mike has been able to make this a reality. Mike gives us some rare insights into the work behind the scenes of running a bar.  There are lots of exciting and inclusive events going on in the Escape Bars in Stratford and Shepherd's Bush. Make sure to follow the bars on Instagram and facebook to hear about the latest gigs, quizzes, boardgames and art exhibitions.  https://www.escapebars.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/EscapeBarsUK https://www.instagram.com/escapebarsuk/ If you want to leave a voice message for Mike or for myself or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode. This is episode 10 of Mindfulness and Creativity the podcast by Makings and Musings. In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators how they started. They will share tips on staying mindful, on how to find your creative flow and how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! My name is Irene Ruby and I am an illustrator from Holland, living in London. I am also the founder of Makings and Musings. With Makings and Musings I teach mindful art classes and my mission is to help people find their creative flow. To learn more go to www.makingsandmusings.com

In today's episode I speak with Linh from Peonies & Co.  Linh is a photographer who specialises in Wedding, maternity and branding shoots.  You can get in touch with Linh and view her portfolio here:  https://www.instagram.com/peonies_co/ http://www.peoniesco.photography/ If you want to see some of Linh's illustrations, you can find those here: https://www.instagram.com/wanderess.souls/  If you want to leave a voice message for Linh or for myself or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode. This is episode 9 of Mindfulness and Creativity the podcast by Makings and Musings. In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators how they started. They will share tips on staying mindful, on how to find your creative flow and how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! My name is Irene Ruby and I am an illustrator from Holland, living in London. I am also the founder of Makings and Musings. With Makings and Musings I teach mindful art classes and my mission is to help people find their creative flow. To learn more go to www.makingsandmusings.com

In Today's episode I speak with Poras from Baked With Light.  Poras is a lawyer, a jewellery maker and a photographer. He combines his crafts all together and runs Jewellery Smithing, ethical gold workshops and photography workshops in Dubai.  you can find Poras on:  https://www.bakedwithlight.com/ https://www.instagram.com/baked_with_light/ we spoke about the origin and ethics of gold and one of the articles Poras mention was this one: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/magazine/2009/01/gold/ If you want to leave a voice message for Poras or for myself or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode. This is episode 8 of Mindfulness and Creativity the podcast by Makings and Musings. In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators how they started. They will share tips on staying mindful, on how to find your creative flow and how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! My name is Irene Ruby and I am an illustrator from Holland, living in London. I am also the founder of Makings and Musings. With Makings and Musings I teach mindful art classes and my mission is to help people find their creative flow. To learn more go to www.makingsandmusings.com

In this episode of mindfulness and Creativity I speak with Bea, the founder of Soley and the Bear. Bea recently started her own illustration business and she tells us about the reasons behind starting her company, what her creative process looks like and she shared her views on running a sustainable business.  You can find Soley and the Bear on Instagram www.instagram.com/soleyandthebear  and Bea’s work is for sale on Etsy www.etsy.com/uk/shop/soleyandthebear and in various shops around Hackney in London. If you want to leave a voice message for Bea or for myself or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode. This is episode 1 of Mindfulness and Creativity the podcast by Makings and Musings. In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators how they started. They will share tips on staying mindful, on how to find your creative flow and how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! My name is Irene Ruby and I am an illustrator from Holland, living in London. I am also the founder of Makings and Musings. With Makings and Musings I teach mindful art classes and my mission is to help people find their creative flow. To learn more go to www.makingsandmusings.com

In Todays Podcast I am speaking with the wonderful Karen Timson. The nose behind the perfume brand Karen Timson Fine Fragrance.  Karen has always had an exceptional sense of smell and in this podcast episode she shares with us what led her to start her own perfume business, what different scents mean to her and how being in the present can be connected to certain fragrances.  Karen's latest signature scents, ENVIDE and HERA  have been released this week.  If you would like to know more about Karen Timson Fine Fragrance, this is Karen's website:   https://www.karentimson.co.uk/ You can also find her on social media: https://www.instagram.com/ktfinefragrance1/ https://twitter.com/KTFineFragrance https://www.facebook.com/KarenTimsonFineFragrance If you want to leave a voice message for Karen or for myself or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode. This is episode 6 of Mindfulness and Creativity the podcast by Makings and Musings. In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators how they started. They will share tips on staying mindful, on how to find your creative flow and how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! My name is Irene Ruby and I am an illustrator from Holland, living in London. I am also the founder of Makings and Musings. With Makings and Musings I teach mindful art classes and my mission is to help people find their creative flow. To learn more go to www.makingsandmusings.com

In this podcast  episode I spoke with Sally Talal.  Sally is a wonderful artist who creates beautiful abstract art pieces, teaches painting classes and who through her community and volunteering work makes meaningful and creative connections with the people around her.  I am very excited to share this week's podcast with you. I personally felt super inspired to paint, meditate and get creative after our conversation and I am sure you will too!   You can see the paintings that Sally currently has for sale on Etsy https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/SallysArtAtelier Make sure you follow Sally on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sallysartatelier/  and on Pinterest https://www.pinterest.co.uk/SallyTalal4rtist/?autologin=true Her art class on whyology you can find here https://www.whyology.net/product-page/DoWePaintWhatWeDreamOrWhatWeSee If you want to leave a voice message for myself or for Sally or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode.  This is episode 5 of Mindfulness and Creativity the podcast by Makings and Musings. In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators how they started. They will share tips on staying mindful, on how to find your creative flow and how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! My name is Irene Ruby and I am an illustrator from Holland, living in London. I am also the founder of Makings and Musings. With Makings and Musings I teach mindful art classes and my mission is to help people find their creative flow. To learn more go to www.makingsandmusings.com

In today's Episode of Mindfulness & Creativity with Makings & Musings I speak with Klaudia from Frigginwell.  Frigginwell changes the way we start and finish our days by offering shower sets that come with a mindful ritual to follow. Each of these mindful shower sets is handmade and produced completely in the UK. Klaudia tells us all about why she chooses quality and ethics over quick profit and why this is so important to her.   I really admire the way Klaudia runs her business and I am excited to share our conversation with you!   You can find out more here: https://www.frigginwell.com/ and make sure you follow frigginwell's journey on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/frigginwell If you want to leave a voice message for Klaudia or for myself or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode. This is episode 5 of Mindfulness and Creativity the podcast by Makings and Musings. In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators how they started. They will share tips on staying mindful, on how to find your creative flow and how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! My name is Irene Ruby and I am an illustrator from Holland, living in London. I am also the founder of Makings and Musings. With Makings and Musings I teach mindful art classes and my mission is to help people find their creative flow. To learn more go to www.makingsandmusings.com

In this Episode I spoke to the wonderful Beeta Taylor-Sadeghi.   Beeta is an artist in Modern calligraphy & lettering. She teaches workshops, makes bespoke commission pieces and you can buy her artwork, prints and sympathy cards in her etsy shop.  Beeta's website is https://www.beetataylorsadeghi.com/  and you can find her on Instagram @@beetataylorsadeghi We spoke about creative flow, combining a corporate career with a creative one and about the art of letter writing. https://www.beetataylorsadeghi.com/ https://www.instagram.com/beetataylorsadeghi/ https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/UpbeetCreative If you want to leave a voice message for Beeta or for myself or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode. If you want to leave a voice message for Beeta or for myself or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode. This is episode 3 of Mindfulness and Creativity the podcast by Makings and Musings. In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators how they started. They will share tips on staying mindful, on how to find your creative flow and how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! My name is Irene Ruby and I am an illustrator from Holland, living in London. I am also the founder of Makings and Musings. With Makings and Musings I teach mindful art classes and my mission is to help people find their creative flow. To learn more go to www.makingsandmusings.com

In this episode I had a warm and open conversation with Kirsten from PresentHeart about Non Violent Communication, Creativity, community and building connections. Kirsten runs NVC sessions and workshops with her business PresentHeart. https://presentheart.nl/ Her website is currently in Dutch and more English information will follow soon.  If you are interested in joining an NVC session with Kirsten or if you want to reach out to Kirsten about anything else we discussed in the podcast, please use the contact form on her website https://presentheart.nl/contact/. Currently most of her workshops are donation based and they can run in Dutch or in English. If you want to leave a voice message for Kirsten or for myself or if you want to comment on something you have heard in the episode, you van leave a voice message here https://anchor.fm/makings-and-musings. I may play it in the next episode. Kirsten kindly provided extra sources for those of you who want to learn more about the topics we spoke about.  Websites First of all the website NVC Academy: https://nvctraining.com/. They offer free NVC training via email and the website has lots of receourses too. These include video's of Marshall Rosenberg, the founder of NVC.  Voor social change, Organisation change en non-violent communication Kirsten recommends Miki Kashtan. Her blog is: www.thefearlessheart.org Books: Say what you mean, A mindful approach to Nonviolent Communication van Oren Jay Sofer. Nonviolent Communication a Language of Life, van Rosenberg Words that work in business van Ike Lasater Mediate your life van Ike Lasater Being genuine: Stop being nice, start being real van Thomas d'Ansembourg Say what you mean, a Mindful approach to Nonviolent Communication van Oren Jay Sofer. Podcasts:   The psychology podcast, interview with Oren Jay Sofer. https://scottbarrykaufman.com/podcast/a-mindful-approach-to-nonviolent-communication-with-oren-jay-sofer/ Youtube: Cup of Empathy (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2AK8ipP18I0alKXZXJgzbQ) - Short and clear explanation of NVC and tools on how to implement it.  Yvette Erasmus, PsyD. Clear and to the point explanations of NVC, Also longer pieces that are more in debt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERA9tYflvXs&list=PL38X7Xi1nflm1q7QDyqAYKJL56vBDm8Ga Video social liberation series van Miki Kashtan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mErG7mSzwkc

The Cleverest Way to Save Big on My Sketchbook Course! 🎨📖In this episode, I share a brilliant way for you to get the biggest discount ever on my Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days course! By combining the waitlist discount and my creative community membership, you can save £62—which means you get two months of my community for free while taking the course. It’s a win-win!Join the email waitlist for £25 off: www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbookBecome a community member for an extra 20% (£37) savings: www.makingsandmusings.com/communityFollow me for more creative inspiration:🌿 Instagram: @makingsandmusings🎨 Facebook: Makings and Musings📺 YouTube: Makings and Musings

Sketchbook Series – How to Develop Your Own Sketchbook StyleFinding your own artistic style can feel overwhelming, but here’s the secret—it happens naturally over time! In this episode, I’ll talk about what "style" really means, why you don’t need to force it, and how your sketchbook is the perfect place to explore and experiment. I’ll also share examples of famous artists whose styles evolved and why it’s completely okay for your own style to change too.✨ Takeaway: Your style isn’t something you choose overnight—it’s something that grows with you. The best way to find it? Keep creating!🎨 Challenge: Flip through your old sketchbooks and notice what you’re naturally drawn to. Then, try something new today and see how it feels!📌 Let’s connect! Find me here:🌍 Website: www.makingsandmusings.com📷 Instagram: @makingsandmusings📘 Facebook: Makings and Musings📺 YouTube: Makings and MusingsYou can now join the waitlist to my new course, Fill your first sketchbook in 30 days here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook

Sketchbook Series – The Difference Between a Sketchbook and a Finished ArtworkDo you ever feel like every page in your sketchbook needs to be "good"? In this episode, I’m exploring the important difference between a sketchbook and a finished artwork. Your sketchbook isn’t meant to be perfect—it's a space for play, practice, and exploration. I’ll share how great artists have used their sketchbooks, why process matters more than product, and how to let go of perfectionism so you can truly enjoy your creative journey.✨ Takeaway: Your sketchbook is for YOU. Give yourself permission to experiment, make mistakes, and embrace the joy of creating without pressure.🎨 Challenge: Today, take 5-10 minutes to fill a sketchbook page without worrying about the outcome. Just play!📌 Let’s connect! Find me here:🌍 Website: www.makingsandmusings.com📷 Instagram: @makingsandmusings📘 Facebook: Makings and Musings📺 YouTube: Makings and MusingsYou can sign up to my new course here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook

In this episode of our Sketchbook Series, I delve into the profound mental health benefits of maintaining a sketchbook. Drawing from personal experiences and observations, I share how the simple act of sketching has been a therapeutic outlet for me, aiding in processing emotions and reducing stress.You can find my Sketchbook Course here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook While I'm not a healthcare professional, numerous studies support the positive impact of creative activities on mental well-being. Here are five insightful studies highlighting these benefits:Art Therapy's Role in Mental Health: This study discusses how art therapy can improve concentration, boost self-esteem, and reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels.Link: https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/physician-health/art-mental-health-well-being-benefits-practicing-art-frankCreative Arts Therapies and Mental Health: Research indicates that engaging in creative arts therapies can enhance focus, assist with processing emotions, and improve overall mental health.Link: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/the-intersection-of-art-and-health-how-art-can-help-promote-well-beingThe Arts' Contribution to Mental Well-being: This article explores how participating in the arts enables individuals to manage various mental health conditions and psychological distress.Link: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/blogs/how-arts-can-help-improve-your-mental-healthArt Therapy's Effectiveness in Treating Trauma: A systematic review found that art therapy can be effective in treating traumatized adults, aiding in processing traumatic experiences and reducing related symptoms.Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553778Creative Arts Enhancing Mental Health: An analysis of multiple studies found that art-based interventions significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, particularly in pregnant and postpartum women.Link: https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/creative-arts-enhancing-mental-healthFollow me for more creative inspiration:Instagram: @makingsandmusingsFacebook: Makings and MusingsWebsite: makingsandmusings.com

In this episode, I share practical ways to find inspiration in the world around you. Whether it’s nature, everyday objects, or simple moments, creativity starts with observation. Tune in for tips on cultivating curiosity, turning small details into art, and mindful challenges to spark your imagination.Follow me for more creative inspiration:Instagram: @makingsandmusingsFacebook: Makings and MusingsWebsite: makingsandmusings.comFind the sketchbook course waitlist here:https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook

In this episode of the Sketchbook Series, Irene Ruby explores the different types of sketchbooks available and helps you choose the right one for your creative journey. From watercolour sketchbooks to mixed-media options, she shares her personal recommendations and tips on what to look for when picking the perfect sketchbook. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this episode will guide you in finding the ideal sketchbook for your needs.Check out my Course: fill your first sketchbook in 30 days:https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbookFollow Irene and Makings and Musings on social media for more inspiration and updates: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusings YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingsandmusings Website: http://www.makingsandmusings.com/

In this episode, I explore how legendary artists like Leonardo da Vinci, J.M.W. Turner, and Frida Kahlo used their sketchbooks as tools for creativity, experimentation, and self-expression. We dive into their methods, inspirations, and what their sketchbooks reveal about their artistic journeys.Want to see these sketchbooks yourself? Here are links to some incredible resources:Leonardo da Vinci's Codex Arundel (British Library): https://www.bl.uk/collection-items/leonardo-da-vincis-codex-arundelLeonardo da Vinci's Codex Atlanticus (Biblioteca Ambrosiana): https://www.ambrosiana.it/en/codex-atlanticus/J.M.W. Turner's Sketchbooks (Tate Collection): https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/turner-sketchbooksExcerpts from Frida Kahlo's Journals (Frida Kahlo Museum): https://www.fridakahlo.org/frida-kahlo-journals.jspFeeling inspired? My new course, Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days, is now open for sign-ups! The course is designed to help you start sketching with confidence and turn it into a daily habit. It opens on the 1st March and is packed with daily prompts, video lessons, and live sessions. Learn more and join here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/fill-your-first-sketchbook-in-30-daysLet me know your thoughts! Connect with me on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusingsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusingsWebsite: http://www.makingsandmusings.comHappy sketching, and enjoy the episode!

Struggling to find time for your creativity? In this episode of the Makings and Musings podcast, I share practical tips on how to make art part of your daily life—even if you only have 10 minutes a day. Learn why those small moments of creativity can make a big difference and how to build an art habit that sticks.Plus, hear all about my upcoming course, Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days, designed to help you kickstart your creative journey with daily prompts, videos, and live sessions. The course opens for sign-ups on 1st March—don’t miss it!🎨 Learn more about the course here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook🌐 Explore my website: makingsandmusings.com📸 Follow me on Instagram: @makingsandmusings👍 Join me on Facebook: Makings and MusingsLet’s make time for creativity, one sketch at a time!

🎨 Podcast Episode: Adding Colour to Your Sketches 🎨In this episode of the Sketchbook Series, I share tips and techniques for adding colour to your sketches. From choosing the right tools to experimenting with vibrant hues, this episode is perfect for anyone wanting to bring their sketches to life.Whether you're just starting out or looking to rediscover your creative spark, this episode will help you embrace colour with confidence.✨ Want to dive deeper into your sketchbook journey? My course Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days starts on 17th March! Learn more and sign up here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook 📲 Connect with me: Website:⁠www.makingsandmusings.com⁠ Instagram: @makingsandmusings Facebook: Makings and Musings YouTube: Makings and Musings