My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast

Artist Brian Peterson paints his neighbors experiencing homelessness and uses the money from sold portraits to support their rehabilitation. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we interview Brian about his non-profit that was founded on this process, Faces of Santa Ana. Brian admits approaching strangers isn't easy, but his ability to connect with those experiencing homelessness has led to some remarkably heartwarming stories. In the episode, Brian shares how approaching a screaming man on his block named Matt led to a profound friendship that inspired the first of many portraits, and about how painting one of his subject's drug dealers, Kim, allowed her to financially support her daughter for the first time. This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp, a service that makes it easy to get set up with your own licensed professional therapist. As a listener, you'll get 10% off your first month by visiting our sponsor at BetterHelp.com/listener. Follow Brian Peterson's work on his website, Instagram, and Facebook. Did you know that we're on YouTube? Watch your favorite episode now! Follow us on Instagram to see some of the visuals we talked about in today's episode. We want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com.  Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. Read more about Brian Peterson's work and the projects we discuss: Artist Creates Portraits of the Homeless and Uses Proceeds From Sold Paintings for Their Rehabilitation Interview: Artist Changes the Lives of the Homeless by Painting Their Portraits Best of 2021: Our Favorite Moments From the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast [Podcast]

As we get ready for the new year, we thought we’d take some time to reflect on our favorite moments from this past season. We've been so lucky to have had such an incredible roster of artists come on the show in 2021, so this week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we’re looking back at some of our favorite moments in a special "2021 Holiday Bonus" episode. You’ll hear from our hosts Jessica, Sam, and Sara, as well as our podcast editor Alex, as they share the moments from this past year that inspired them. You’ll hear short clips from some of your favorite guests Including legendary photographer Ami Vitale, quilter Bisa Butler, and Craig Dykers: cofounder of Snøhetta. In addition, you’ll get a sneak peek at what’s coming in next year, hearing from the Antarctic flag designers of True South, as well as how painter Brian Peterson uplifts those experiencing homelessness by painting their portraits and giving them the money earned from sales. This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp, a service that makes it easy to get set up with your own licensed professional therapist. As a listener, you'll get 10% off your first month by visiting our sponsor at BetterHelp.com/listener. Did you know that we're on YouTube? Watch your favorite episode now! Follow us on Instagram to see some of the visuals we talked about in today's episode. We want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com.  Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. My Modern Met Store is offering a special discount for Top Artist listeners. Get a 10% discount on our entire curated selection of creative products when you enter the code TOPARTIST10 at checkout. Read more about some of the projects we discuss: Photographer Ami Vitale on Following your Heart and Documenting Stories of Hope [Podcast] Fiber Artist Bisa Butler on Her Vibrant Quilted Portraits That Share Black Stories [Podcast] Interview: Artist Changes the Lives of the Homeless by Painting their Portraits

Photographer Ami Vitale documents endangered animals and the special bonds they share with their caretakers. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we interview Ami Vitale and get a behind-the-scenes look at how she captured some of her most stunning work. You may have seen one of her more famous images featured on the front cover of National Geographic Magazine following the death of Sudan, the world's last male Northern White Rhino, or her coverage of the rescue operation to save a stranded community of endangered Rothschild Giraffes with a raft. In our chat, Ami Vitale answers your listener questions and delves into how she went from documenting violence in conflict zones to shedding light on stories of hope in wildlife conservation. This episode is sponsored by Canvy, a service that allows you to visualize your artwork in realistic spaces. With multiple plans offered, sign up now and see if Canvy is right for you. This episode is also sponsored by stamps.com, a service that lets you compare rates, print labels, and access exclusive discounts on UPS and USPS services all year long. Head on over to stamps.com and sign up with promo code "POD" which includes a four-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale. Follow Ami Vitale's work on her website, Instagram, and Facebook. Did you know that we're on YouTube? Watch your favorite episode now! Follow us on Instagram to see some of the visuals we talked about in today's episode. We want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com.  Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. My Modern Met Store is offering a special discount for Top Artist listeners. Get a 10% discount on our entire curated selection of creative products when you enter the code TOPARTIST10 at checkout. Read more about Ami Vitale's work and the projects we discuss: 100 of the World's Top Photographers Use Their Art to Help The Environment [Interview] Giraffes Left Stranded by Flooding in Kenya Are Dramatically Rescued by a Special Barge Photographer Wears Panda Suit Disguise to Snap Candid Pictures of Them in Nature 

Architect Craig Dykers is the co-founder of Snøhetta, an international design collective whose transdisciplinary approach and emphasis on diversity have contributed to a deep portfolio of visually remarkable and environmentally thoughtful work. From their redesign of the Knubben harbor bath in Norway resembling that of a topographic map to their pedestrian-focused remodel of Times Square in recent years, Snøhetta has oriented itself as a global leader in contemporary design and architecture innovation. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we interview Craig Dykers of Snøhetta about the firm’s creative design philosophies, touching on the importance of collaboration and combatting climate abuse through their practice. In addition, Craig answers your listener questions, offering up some advice for young architects while reminding fellow designers to keep their circle of friends open and artistic interests broad. This episode is brought to you by Canvy, a service that allows you to visualize your artwork in realistic spaces. With multiple plans offered, sign up now and see if Canvy is right for you. Follow Snøhetta's work on their website, Instagram, and Facebook. Did you know that we're on YouTube? Watch your favorite episode now! Follow us on Instagram to see some of the visuals we talked about in today's episode. We want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com.  Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. My Modern Met Store is offering a special discount for Top Artist listeners. Get a 10% discount on our entire curated selection of creative products when you enter the code TOPARTIST10 at checkout. Read more about Snøhetta's work and the projects we discuss: Historic 1930s Sea Pool Is Getting a Dramatic Redesign Resembling a Topographic Map Snøhetta Designs "Lunar" Landmark for Technological Achievement in Qianhai Bay This Zero-Energy Museum Proposal Will Be One of the First of Its Kind in South Korea

Textile artist Benjamin Shine uses swathes of tulle to fabricate flowing three-dimensional portraits of unnamed figures, often suggesting ideas of energy and impermanence. A true master of his material, Benjamin’s work has been recognized and exhibited globally, with his clients and collaborations including The MET, Vogue, and many others. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we interview Benjamin Shine about his artistic journey, beginning with his initial resistance towards becoming a “starving artist” in fashion design, to how he then discovered and began innovating with tulle: the lightweight fabric with which he has now become so deeply entwined. Plus, Benjamin goes on to answer your listener questions, offering insight into his creative process, other materials that intrigue him, and how he tracks his many artistic ideas with a helpful system of translucent folders. This episode is brought to you by Canvy, a service that allows you to visualize your artwork in realistic spaces. With multiple plans offered, sign up now and see if Canvy is right for you. Follow Benjamin Shine's work on his website, Instagram, and YouTube. Did you know that we're on YouTube? Watch your favorite episode now! Follow us on Instagram to see some of the visuals we talked about in today's episode. We want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com.  Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. My Modern Met Store is offering a special discount for Top Artist listeners. Get a 10% discount on our entire curated selection of creative products when you enter the code TOPARTIST10 at checkout. Read more about Benjamin Shine's work and the projects we discuss: Interview: Artist Makes Faces Emerge from Brilliantly Manipulated Netted Tulle Fabric Artist Transforms Billowy Lengths of Tulle Into Meditative Faces Elegant Figures and Faces of Dancers Emerge from Intricately Folded Sheets of Fabric

Illustrator, author, and ARTivist Nikkolas Smith creates thoughtful images that spark much-needed conversations around issues of social justice. From Michelle Obama to Janet Jackson, his work has been recognized by some of the most well-known names on the planet. You may have seen his heartfelt portrait of George Floyd in the media after Floyd's murder by police in mid-2020, or his illustration of Martin Luther King Jr. in a hoodie to express solidarity shortly after the killing of Trayvon Martin. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we dive into Nikkolas Smith’s creative process and how through his ARTivism, he hopes to make a difference and advocate for the voiceless. The impact theme of season two is strong in this episode as Nikkolas discusses using his art to make the future a brighter place for his son.  This episode is brought to you by Walter Foster Publishing. Enter their Win a Book Deal contest for the chance to work with this premiere art and craft publisher. Follow Nikkolas Smith's work on his website, Instagram, and Facebook. Order your copy of 1619 Project: Born on the Water Did you know that we're on YouTube? Watch your favorite episode now! Follow us on Instagram to see some of the visuals we talked about in today's episode. We want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com.  Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. My Modern Met Store is offering a special discount for Top Artist listeners. Get a 10% discount on our entire curated selection of creative products when you enter the code TOPARTIST10 at checkout. Read more about Nikkolas Smith's work and the projects we discuss: Heartfelt Tributes to Chadwick Boseman Show What 'Black Panther' Means to Black Kids Artists Are Paying Tribute to the Death of George Floyd Through Moving Illustrations Illustrator Uses Art to Give a Voice to the Black Lives Matter Movement [Interview]

Architect Dorte Mandrup designs stunning structures that integrate seamlessly into their environment. Her self-described “irreplaceable places” are exactly that: entirely unique designs that have found their way into some of the most breath-taking places in nature. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we interview Dorte Mandrup about those irreplaceable places, from concept development to final designs. Dorte discusses her role as a leader in the design field, where she’s actively pursuing more gender equality in the male-dominated architecture industry, and goes on to answer your listener questions, sharing where she noticed room for improvement with younger architects. Dorte’s story demonstrates how one can succeed against overwhelming bias, and, ultimately, help create some of the most innovative and thought-provoking architecture on the planet. Follow Dorte's work on her website, Instagram, and Facebook. Did you know that we're on YouTube? Watch your favorite episode now! Follow us on Instagram to see some of the visuals we talked about in today's episode. We want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com.  Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. My Modern Met Store is offering a special discount for Top Artist listeners. Get a 10% discount on our entire curated selection of creative products when you enter the code TOPARTIST10 at checkout. Read more about Dorte's work and the projects we discuss: Whale-Shaped Marine Observatory Will Offer Visitors a Fascinating Look Under the Sea Rocky "Whale" Emerges in the Arctic Circle Blending Architecture and Environment Architects Reveal New Images of "The Whale" Museum in Arctic Circle

Artist Gabriel Dawe creates wondrous work using thread. His incredible site-specific Plexus installations—some in art galleries and others in places like airports—feature a rainbow array of thread spanning architectural elements. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast we interview Gabriel about his installation art, from its conceptual development to the logistical obstacles. We'll also delve into the personal side of making art and Gabriel's personal quest for self-improvement. For anyone who finds themself struggling to find their voice, Gabriel's story demonstrates that while he doesn’t have it all figured out (who does?), he has thoughtfully approached his work in a way that is authentic and continually inspires him—and by extension, others. Follow Gabriel's work on his website, Instagram, and Facebook. Did you know that we're on YouTube? Watch your favorite episode now! Follow us on Instagram to see some of the visuals we talked about in today's episode. We want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com.  Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. My Modern Met Store is offering a special discount for Top Artist listeners. Get a 10% discount on our entire curated selection of creative products when you enter the code TOPARTIST10 at checkout. Read more about Gabriel's work and the projects we discuss: 8 Contemporary Artists Taking String Art to the Next Level First Look: Gabriel Dawe’s Stunning New Thread Art in Italy Gabriel Dawe's Newest Colorful "Plexus" Thread Installation Artist Stretches Delicate Strands of Thread to Produce Awe-Inspiring Rainbows Indoors

Conservation photographer Cristina Mittermeier has dedicated her career to capturing the incredible life in our ocean. In addition to capturing beautiful images, she uses her work to make a real impact. In this episode of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we chat with Cristina about her photography and how every piece of art she creates is tied to a “call to action” focused on protecting our environment. Did you know that we're now on YouTube? Watch Cristina's interview and see images that we discuss during the episode. Follow Cristina's work on her website, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. See more about what she's doing and how you can contribute by following Sea Legacy and Only One. Looking for the perfect gift? Head over to the My Modern Met Store, where we have a carefully curated selection of items by our favorite makers. Top Artist Listeners get a special 10% discount when you enter the code TOPARTIST10 at checkout. Read more about Cristina's work and the projects we discuss: Renowned Wildlife Photographer Wants Your Help Preserving the Marine Life of the Galápagos [Interview] Interview: Scientist Turns Hobby into Career as Award-Winning National Geographic Photographer Amazing Finalists of Ocean Photography Awards Pay Homage to the Stunning Seas National Geographic Celebrates 100 Million Instagram Followers with Photo Contest Want to support the creatives we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. And remember, we want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com. 

Architect Cliff Tan of Dear Modern believes that architecture services should be available to everyone, not just those wealthy enough to afford traditional architecture services. He was inspired to use social media to teach simple lessons on feng shui and design to help people find the best use for their space. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we talk to Cliff about the impact he is making with his platform and his view of architecture and design. Tune in for an episode on architecture, feng shui, and the idea of sharing your work to inspire good design and to help others. See some of the artwork we discuss on the Top Artist Instagram Follow Cliff’s work on his website, TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. This episode was brought to you by WinXDVD, a global leader in multimedia solutions. Click here to enter their WinXDVD Video Converter Giveaway. Want to support the creatives we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. And remember, we want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com. 

Fiber artist Bisa Butler uses the traditional craft of quilting to create incredible portraits of Black stories. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we interview Bisa about the meaning behind her portraits and how she brings lost histories back to life. We think you’ll really enjoy hearing about these unexpected narratives that Bisa represents in colorful textures and bright patterns. See some of the artwork we discuss on the Top Artist Instagram Follow Bisa’s work on her website, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Want to see your work on a billboard? Enter our sponsor Fine Art America's 2021 Billboard Contest by August 31 and you might just see your art on a large scale. Read more about Bisa’s work and the projects we discuss: Quilted Portraits Honor the Stories of Black Men and Women Who Are Forgotten by History Vibrant Quilts Honor Black Men and Women Whose Stories Were Forgotten or Overlooked Colorful Quilts Crafted from African Fabrics Tell Stories of Artist's Ancestral Homeland 5 Contemporary Textile Artists to Celebrate During Women’s History Month Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. And remember, we want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com. 

For decades, photographer Jamel Shabazz has been using his photography to make an impact on his community. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we interview Jamel about his career and his approach to street photography. We learn about photos as “visual medicine” making a difference in New Yorkers' lives and the intimate stories Jamel's work uncovers. See some of the artwork we discuss on the Top Artist Instagram Follow Jamel's work on his website, Instagram, and Facebook. Want to see your work on a billboard? Enter our sponsor Fine Art America's 2021 Billboard Contest by August 31 and you might just see your art on a large scale. You can learn more about Jamel's life and work in Charlie Ahearn's 2013 documentary, Jamel Shabazz Street Photographer, which is available for rent on Amazon. Read more about Jamel's work and the projects we discuss: Authentic Street Photography of 1980s New York Reveals the Rise of Hip-Hop Culture Vintage Photos of Life on the Gritty New York City Subway of the Past Top 12 Street Photographers Who Captured the Grit of New York in the 70s and 80s Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. And remember, we want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com. 

We have officially wrapped up the first season of My Modern Met's Top Artist Podcast! Hosts Jessica Stewart, Sara Barnes, Sonya Harris, and Samantha Pires got together to reflect on our first twenty episodes of the show. We also discuss next season's theme of "Impact" and introduce you to some awesome guests to look forward to.  We can't wait to share all of the new artists we have planned. In the meantime, we'll be releasing new content on our socials and website. Be sure to follow us on our website, Instagram, and Facebook.  Plus, catch up on some episodes you might have missed from last season: Painter Elyse Dodge on Her Colorful Low Poly Landscapes Street Artist Vhils on His Iconic Art Style and Creative Process Artist Alexa Meade on Her Successfull Career and the NFT Art Revolution Media Artist Refik Anadol on His AI-Driven Artwork Redefining Space Photographer Fares Micue on Her Artistic Self-Portraits Exploring Mental Health and Self-Growth

This week on My Modern Met's Top Artist Podcast, we talk with painter Elyse Dodge about how she developed her unique style and much more! Dodge describes her work as the “intersection between art and design.” You can find the result of this beautiful hybrid in her colorful landscapes with abstracted low poly mountains. We love that Dodge’s art style includes both digital and traditional techniques. You can find her beautiful landscape paintings on murals, in private collections, and in many shapes and sizes. Dodge tells us about her lengthy creative process, from using digital tools to breaking down landscapes into colorful polygons, using projections to get it on a canvas, and the therapeutic process of painting. We also get an insightful behind-the-scenes look at what it is like being a full-time artist and a full-time mom. This episode is a great listen for people trying to develop their own styles or those who can appreciate all art forms. See some of the artwork we discuss on the Top Artist Instagram Follow Elyse's work on her website, Instagram, and Facebook. Read more about Elyse's work on My Modern Met: Artist Reimagines Majestic Mountainscapes as Jewel-Toned Polygon Paintings Vibrant Beauty of Mountainscapes as Jewel-Like Geometric Paintings Artist Reimagines Canada’s Mountain Ranges as Vibrant Geometric Landscapes

This week on My Modern Met's Top Artist Podcast, we talk with street artist Alexandre Farto, also known as Vhils. Known for his groundbreaking carving and explosive street art, Vhils has made a name for himself by revealing thoughtful narratives behind city life. His work reimagines the role of graffiti as a method of reckoning with our past and celebrating our shared history. See some of the artwork we discuss on the Top Artist Instagram Follow Vhils' work on his website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Weibo. Read more about Vhils' work and the projects we discuss: Vhils Pays Tribute to Healthcare Workers by Chiseling Portraits Into Hospital Wall Vhils’ Giant Chiseled Street Art Gets Two Simultaneous Gallery Exhibitions in Paris Extraordinary Street Art Collaboration by Pixel Pancho and Vhils Amazingly Detailed Chiseled Cork Sculpture by Vhils New Portraits Chiseled Out of Walls by Vhils Explosive Street Art by Vhils