Not Real Art

Submissions for the 2024 NOT REAL ART grant have come to a close, marking the end of a rigorous and methodical selection process by our esteemed panel of judges. With six $2,000 grants at stake and over 1,200 incredible applicants to choose from, the journey has been long and challenging, but the wait is finally over. Today is the day that we announce our 2024 grant recipients! Tune in as we reveal the six amazing artists who will receive not only a tidy financial reward but also substantial PR and marketing support to propel their careers forward. For further details, check out the NOT REAL ART blog where we'll publish the results. A sincere thank you to all the artists who shared their exceptional work with us!Key Points From This Episode:Why methodically evaluating each applicant is a job we take very seriously.The four criteria that we score each application on. A special shout-out for our panel of esteemed judges.What grant recipients receive, including financial and promotional support.Without further ado: introducing our six 2024 Not Real Art Grant recipients!For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/2024-not-real-art-grant-recipients

While struggling to watch a concert by one of his favorite metal bands online, Samuel Douek realized there was a gap that needed to be filled. Thus, Thunderflix was born, the world's first on-demand video streaming service dedicated exclusively to heavy metal music and its ardent fans. Samuel built his career as the founder and director of the Hola Mexico Film Festival and a former film distributor. In this episode, he joins us to tell the story of Thunderflix, a place where metalheads like himself can access new releases, live performances, documentaries, behind-the-scenes footage, and official content from their favorite artists. You’ll learn what goes into launching a streaming platform and curating digital content directed at a subculture of highly passionate fans. We also discuss the challenges of licensing, how the platform helps viewers discover new bands, and so much more! Regardless of whether you’re a metalhead or not, you’ll see that Thunderflix is a testament to the dedication of one enthusiast's unwavering vision for a "Netflix for metal.” This episode promises insights and inspiration for music enthusiasts, art lovers, and entrepreneurs alike, so be sure to tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Insight into the Hola Mexican Film Festival, which is in its 16th year.When Samuel first discovered heavy metal and fell in love with the art form.The ardent passion that heavy metal fans have for the bands they love.Where the idea for Thunderflix came from and how it satisfied Samuel’s needs as a fan.How he went about negotiating licensing and copyrights with record labels.Challenges of curating and organizing the content available on Thunderflix.What goes into building a streaming platform and populating it with data.Different ways Samuel and his team marketed Thunderflix to their target audience.The future of Thunderflix, which includes producing their own films and concerts.How the platform helps metalheads discover new and incredible bands.Why Samuel believes that work is work, even when you love what you do.A look at some of the many ever-evolving sub-genres of metal.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/samuel-douek-thunderflix

Wally Feresten, iconic cue card writer for shows like SNL and Late Night with Seth Meyers, Explores his craft's artistry and his journey during the pandemic. He shares how he adapted to the challenges, starting his successful business, Cue Cards by Wally, and the joy of bringing personalized cue cards into people's lives globally. Wally also reflects on his relationships with hosts and performers, stressing the importance of rapport and discussing the unforeseen inventiveness brought about by navigating COVID-19 restrictions. The conversation rounds out with insights into the supportive and creative environment of his work and the significant but often overlooked role of cue cards in live television production.https://notrealart.com/snl-cue-cards-wally-ferestenEpisode Contents00:00 Wally is a lovable, funny, cue card writer.07:33 Discussion of various dimensions of sign painting.12:44 Discussing tradition, design, and obsession in conversation.21:25 Building trust and relationships for successful collaboration.24:03 Building trust with SNL hosts every week.29:50 Grateful for long-lasting job on TV show.36:33 SNL returns with COVID restrictions, logistical challenges.39:24 Wife entrepreneur rejects personalized cue card idea.46:41 Christopher Walken hosts SNL, asks for card.51:39 Sharpies, Power pilot pens, and old markers.57:18 Meeting artists and celebrities can be challenging.01:00:42 Talent, hard work, and kindness matter most.01:05:13 Endorsement for custom cue cards by Wally.Topics DiscussedIntroduction to Wally Feresten- Introduction of Wally Feresten as a guest on the Not Real Art Podcast.- Explanation of Wally's role as a cue card writer for notable TV shows like SNL and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.- Mention of Wally's personal life, including his family and recreational activities.Cue Cards and Artistry- Discussion on the artistic aspect of writing cue cards.- Comparisons made between Wally's work and famous sign painters.- Reflection on the history and evolution of cue cards in the entertainment industry.Business Ventures and Adaptations During COVID-19- Exploration of Wally's business "Cue Cards by Wally" providing personalized cue cards.- How the pandemic influenced Wally to start the business.- Transition to remote work and adaptation of the business model during COVID-19.Operational Details and Employee Management- Insight into Wally’s operational and billing practices for shows.- Discussion of employee status transitioning from independent contractors to full-time staff with benefits.- Wally’s approach to maintaining a good work environment, highlighting the importance of being nice.Impact of Cue Cards in the Industry- Highlights of famous cue card writers and their contributions.- The preference of cue cards over prompters by traditional hosts.- Story about Wally's mishap during a live show and handling different personalities.Creative Side Projects and Personal Stories- Wally’s involvement in creating cards for various personal events and celebrations.- Mention of his sons’ careers and personal projects.- Story about Wally’s interaction and relationship with fans and other industry figures.Reflections and Philosophy- Wally’s reflections on the stability and changes in the entertainment industry due to strikes and other disruptions.- His philosophy on work ethic and the advice of being nice as pivotal to success.- Scott and Wally’s shared experiences and appreciations...

Are the creative and performing arts experiencing a 21st-century renaissance? NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power thinks so. “What's left when you've lost faith in your church, in your company, in your government?” he ponders in this week’s podcast episode. “What's left when you feel like all the fundamentals have lost their integrity and you've lost trust in the cornerstones of our societies? Well, I would speculate that art and artists are left.”In today’s episode, Scott delves into the rebirth of creative culture in contemporary America. Spurred by waning trust in corporations, capitalism, and religious institutions, this renewed appreciation for creative expression signals a cultural sea change in our society. Is this a quest for authenticity in an increasingly commodified world? Are we yearning for connection in an age of digital isolation? Where do we find truth and beauty in the modern world?“If you're looking for [integrity, honesty, purity, truth, empathy, compassion, and intelligence], what better place to look than the visual and performing arts?” asks Scott, adding, “Go look at art,” Scott says. “Go meet some artists because you're going to be inspired, and you're going to find positive energy that will give you faith, hope, and trust in our country, in our communities, and in ourselves.”Tune in today as we explore these questions, shed light on the cultural shifts unfolding before our eyes, and celebrate the resilience of creativity and the enduring power of artistic expression in shaping our collective consciousness. Key Points From This Episode:Brands that have ignited a passion for creativity and design.Reasons that we’ve lost faith in institutions, corporations, and capitalism at large.Different ways that our governments and communities have eroded in recent years.How art fills the void that’s left when all the fundamentals have lost their integrity.Why looking at great art and meeting great artists is so inspiring.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/arts-renaissance

Instantly recognizable and beaming with positivity, Michelle Hoogveld’s colorful, kaleidoscopic murals demonstrate the power of love, connection, and color. Her graphic, geometric compositions weave an intricate tapestry of joy and passion, the relationships we form with each other, and the one thing that connects us all: love.“I chose February 14 as my first day as a professional artist because I wanted to choose love,” Michelle says. “I wanted that to be my day of choosing the thing that brought me the most joy and passion. At that time, I had no idea that my art would be about love and connection, so it's a symbol and a meaningful date because it's not only just about love romantically for the world, but it became a catalyst for this career change and my goal as an artist moving forward.”In today’s podcast episode, host and NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power sits down with Michelle to discuss the Canadian artist’s practice and creative process. A former athlete, Michelle shares the valuable lessons she picked up playing soccer and how it helped her in the studio. “[Being an athlete] taught me determination, [motivation], and hard work ethic,” she says. “You put in the time. That very much translates to running your own business and being an artist. You have to put in the time, you have to dream big, and you have to have goals of excellence.”Michelle and Scott also chat about the motivating effects of self-care, why her practice remains mostly a “one-man show,” and the importance of “just showing up.” Tune into today’s episode with Michelle Hoogveld for a conversation about color, connection, and creating a brighter world.Key Points From This Episode:Some of the colorful, eye-catching murals Michelle has done in LA.The massive studio she recently found that can accommodate her large-scale work.Insight into her creative process and why she mostly remains a “one-man show.”What Michelle learned about putting in the time and dreaming big from being an athlete.Why she chose February 14th as the first day of her career as a professional artist.Influential people in her life and how the painter Andrew Salgado has inspired her.How seeing others chase their dreams gives you permission to try.Advice for young artists who are trying to find their voice in the art world.Reasons that love, connection, and color are at the core of Michelle’s work.A look at her daily schedule and routine and the power of just showing up.How self-care informs motivation and even inspiration for Michelle.What the future holds for today’s guest and where you can view her work.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/michelle-hoogveld

Despite its short lifespan, Black Mountain College (BMC) left a lasting legacy as an influential pioneering arts institution that challenged traditional academic structures and fostered a unique community of creative thinkers. Founded in 1933 just 20 minutes outside of Asheville, NC, the college emphasized holistic learning and the study of art as central tenets of its educational philosophy. While BMC closed in 1957 due to funding issues, many of its faculty and students were or would become influential in the arts, including Josef and Anni Albers, Elaine and Willem de Kooning, John Cage, Ray Johnson, Robert Motherwell, Robert Rauschenberg, and Cy Twombly. In today’s special crossover episode from our friends at ArtsvilleUSA, we welcome Kate Averett Anderson, a writer, curator, staff historian, project coordinator, and board member at the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center (BMCM+AC). The museum works to preserve the legacy of educational and artistic innovation of BMC through exhibitions, conservation, educational events, and public programs. “It's not about having a gallery space where you walk in and you go, ‘Here is the history of Black Mountain College from beginning to end,” says Kate. “You can come in and have hands-on experiences with different exhibitions that tell a lot of different stories.”In this episode, you’ll discover the fascinating connections between BMC and the iconic Bauhaus movement, relive the vibrant atmosphere of the college's legendary parties, and uncover the pivotal role of the BMCM+AC in keeping BMC's spirit alive. From exploring historical parallels to celebrating the creative freedom that BMC championed, this episode offers valuable insight into the birthplace of the American avant-garde. “[Black Mountain College] was a haven for a lot of people,” says Kate. “It was a place where a lot of people had the freedom and ability to explore different elements of their identity.” Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to Kate, her career journey, and her role at BMCM+AC.The origin story of BMC (which starts with a scandal, like all good stories do).Insight into founder John A. Rice’s educational philosophy on hands-on learning.Nazis, the final days of the Bauhaus, and how Josef and Anni Albers found BMC.Influential figures that attended BMC and the relationships that developed between them.The legendary parties that were thrown at BMC; such as Jean Verda’s Greek party.An overview of the communal, democratic, non-hierarchical structure at BMC.How a young Robert Rauschenberg was profoundly influenced by his time at BMC.Some of the many famous student revolts at BMC; including one known as The Split.Cultural and political shifts that impacted the college in the late 1950s.The important role that BMCM+AC plays in keeping the BMC legacy alive.How the BMCM+AC differentiates itself from the typical stagnant museum institution.Different stories that BMCM+AC hopes to tell about BMC, not just its history.Looking to the future in the ReVIEWING Black Mountain College conference.Reflecting on the history of identity intersection and racial integration at BMC.A closing anecdote about Harriet Sohmers Zwerling and sexual liberation at BMC.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/black-mountain-college

In a world full of digital noise, street art can tell vital stories, rejuvenate urban spaces, and bring communities closer together. For over 10 years, creative agency Beautify Earth has collaborated with artists and brands to connect communities through murals, street art, and strategic marketing. Today’s guest, Beautify Earth CEO Moral Masuoka, joins host and NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power to discuss her organization’s commitment to positive social and environmental change through public art. “People are starting to think about the spaces that they live in, especially when it comes to community and how we’re relating with the people around us, getting out of our own houses, and trying to be engaged in the places that we live,” says Moral, who combines her love of contemporary art with social policy and urban design to create community engagement. “Street art does an amazing job of that. People can be connected by a piece of artwork in their community. It’s something that you can talk about and [identify with]. It can also become a representation of the stories and the people who live there.” In today’s episode, Scott and Moral discuss public art as a vehicle for placemaking, balancing professionalism with creativity and spontaneity, and the importance of cultivating creative habits daily. The two also explore  the complex relationship between street art and gentrification: “[Street art can either be] a tool of people trying to gentrify neighborhoods or it can be a powerful tool to represent the people that are there, amplify voices, and show the people in the community that need to be prioritized, not displaced,” says Moral. To find out more about Beautify Earth and its mission to elevate street art and advocate for its practitioners, listen to our conversation with CEO Moral Masuoka on the player above. Key Points From This Episode:The origin story of Beautify Earth and how it utilizes art as a tool for positive social change.How the perception of street art has progressed and how it can connect communities.Street art as a vehicle to amplify community voices versus as a tool for gentrification.Different roles that art can play and why situational awareness is key.Opportunities for connection within the network of artists that partner with Beautify.Ways that Beautify caters to the constantly evolving needs of artists.Common career challenges that Beautify works with artists to overcome.How Beautify educates clients (and artists) about the economic impact of art.Lessons that Moral has learned as Beautify has grown into a creative agency.Balancing professionalism versus spontaneity in street art.Insight into Moral's career journey, her love for art, and how it led her to Beautify.Why Moral believes it’s important for everyone to cultivate a daily creative practice.Reasons that drawing should be considered as crucial a skill as writing or math.Moral’s parting thoughts about the unique value of art as a communication tool.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/moral-masuoka-beautify-earth

“First, do no harm.” Written nearly 2,500 years ago in Greece, the Hippocratic Oath and its principles hold a sacred place in the hearts and minds of doctors to this day. Traditionally sworn by graduating medical-school students, the Oath remains the gold standard for ethical practices in Western Medicine. While codes of ethical conduct are commonplace throughout medicine and science, the art world is sorely lacking a similar system to hold industry professionals accountable for their actions. What would it look like if artists had their own version of this solemn pledge? “I think that artists need to swear an oath as well,” says NOT REAL ART founder and podcast host Scott “Sourdough” Power in today’s episode. “An oath of ethical behaviors, an oath to a certain level of performance that's based on a mutually agreed upon set of ethics and values so that artists, art buyers, and arts professionals [are] confident and comfortable that people are behaving well and not behaving badly.”Picture a code of conduct tailored for artists, patrons, and creative professionals alike, a compass to help navigate the complexities of artistic endeavor. In these uncertain times, we at NOT REAL ART believe the need for an effective creative code is more pressing than ever. In today’s episode, Scott delves into what this oath might entail and how it could benefit artists in the long run: “If [artists] could create a culture that's rooted in a mutual set of ethics and values that we all agreed to and we had our own pledge, our own oath that we swore to that everybody knew what it was and held us accountable, we would behave better, and we would do better.”Want to be part of a more ethical art world? Tune in to today’s episode, then submit your own version of the artist’s ethical code for a chance to be featured on NOT REAL ART.Key Points From This Episode:What the Hippocratic Oath is and what it means for physiciansReasons that the art world needs its own Hippocratic OathHow a mutually agreed upon set of ethics and values could benefit artistsListener challenge: submit your Hippocratic Oath for artists!Why an artist’s reputation is so important at the end of the dayFor more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/hippocratic-oath

Editor’s note: Today’s special episode comes to us from our friends at Laugh Gallery, who operate under the Crewest Studio network of podcasts alongside NOT REAL ART.Despite what your parents told you, comedy is an art. Comedy writing is difficult, and crafting laughs is no easy feat, especially when the stakes are so high. “Funny” varies from person to person, and there’s no hell deeper than the punishing silence after a failed joke. Welcome to Laugh Gallery, a podcast that celebrates—and elevates—the art of comedy and the comedy of art. In this introductory episode, NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power and Laugh Gallery host Katie Love take you behind the curtain for an inside scoop on the what, why, and how of the podcast. “Laugh Gallery is an honorary, beautiful way to celebrate the art of comedy and the comedy of art,” says Katie, a Los Angeles-based writer and comic. “The wonderful thing about being in L.A. in the comedy scene is you can literally take yourself to school. There’s a lot of comedy classes out there. But if you really want to learn comedy, buy yourself some tickets because you're going to see the best comics come through Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and they're often working on their stuff here in cafes, coffee houses, bars, and weird little shows.”Scott and Katie discuss the origins behind Laugh Gallery, the importance of stage time and money for comedians, and the similarities between visual artists and comedians. As Scott says in this episode, “Comics and visual artists have so much in common, in that they are struggling to break out and to be appreciated.” Listen to this special crossover episode on the player above, then subscribe to the Laugh Gallery podcast for side-splitting comedy with a dash of wisdom. Key Points From This Episode:What Laugh Gallery is, where the idea came from, and why we’re doing it.Similarities and shared struggles between the art world and the comedy scene.Stage time and money: the two most important things for comics.Insight into Comedy 420, four comics doing 20 minutes of standup.Our vision for the Laugh Gallery Podcast and where you can see Comedy 420.Some of the amazing comics you’ll get to laugh with on Laugh Gallery!For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/laugh-gallery-podcast

As you may or may not know by now, we share some compelling creative conversations from the NOT REAL ART archives a couple of times a month. In today’s very special replay, we're throwing it all the way back with a truly historic episode: the very first one! As you’ll discover, it isn’t quite as polished as the podcast you’ve come to know and love. In fact, it’s a little bit of a mess, but you can’t deny that it’s raw and authentic! Listening in, you’ll hear NOT REAL ART Founder Scott “Sourdough” Power and the one and only Man One chopping it up and solving all the world's problems as they find their feet in the podcasting world and put the show you’re listening to today in motion. Stay tuned to enjoy this blast from the past!Key Points From This Episode:The raw, authentic roots of the NOT REAL ART Podcast.Why we started a podcast when the last thing anybody needed was another podcast!Where the title, NOT REAL ART, came from.Insight into the culture of graffiti from Man One’s perspective.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/numero-uno

Former software engineer John Houck is a multidisciplinary artist whose work examines human perception and memory. From subtly folded and rephotographed pieces of paper to paintings of psychological landscapes overlaid with personal objects, John explores how shadows can act as signatures of both the condition and the limits of our experience, playfully navigating the intersection between reality, memory, illusion, and imagination.In today’s podcast episode, host and NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power sits down with John Houck to discuss the artist’s thought-provoking practice, which marries visual art with his background in technology. “I love thinking through code as a tool to work creatively and playfully,” he says. “Then I [also] get to be in my studio. It's the best of both worlds for me.” In our conversation, we also investigate John’s fascination with psychoanalysis and find out why he believes that therapy is more effective than grad school for artists who want to get in touch with themselves and their artwork. “Being in therapy did more for me than grad school ever did,” he says. “It was way more effective and helpful in terms of getting in touch with who I am [and] the art I want to make.”Listeners will also learn time-management techniques for better focus and why truly great artists are constantly “emerging” as opposed to becoming firmly established, as the art world would have us believe. As John comments during our conversation, being alone in the studio is vital, but “at some point, you have to go out into the world and emerge.”Key Points From This Episode:How Inversion Art makes John’s practice easier (and introduced him to Not Real Art).What it means to him to be a creative technologist and how it influences his work.The language of programming, how it relates to art, and how John navigates both worlds.Fascinating ways that art-making “amplifies” his humanity.The evolution of John's iterative artworks and the mediums he uses to create them.Insight into his transition from photography to painting and how he “found his voice.”The inspiration behind his current exhibition, Perfect Temperature Lava in New York.Why hope, joy, and play are more important than they might seem.Work-life balance for artists and how self-care keeps John focused.How the Pomodoro time-management technique can benefit artists.John’s emergent vision for himself and his practice in 2024 and beyond.The power of therapy, putting yourself out there, and other advice for aspiring artists.Reflections on what it means to be a truly great artist.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/john-houck

Performing for a live audience in a new, unpredictable setting requires tremendous concentration. The stage is bigger than your studio, someone sneezes or coughs, a cell phone rings, and your costume is way itchier than your practice sweats. How do you stay focused when your performance space is full of distractions and irrelevant stimuli? Enter the dress rehearsal. “A dress rehearsal will give you information that you just can't get otherwise,” says host and NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power, who discusses the benefits of rehearsing a dry run in today’s podcast episode. “[Making] the effort to go through the motions and do the dress rehearsal is going to be hugely powerful for you in terms of giving you confidence, empowering you, and giving you agency.”Dress rehearsals aren’t just beneficial to those in the performing arts. Anyone can benefit from a confidence boost before a nerve-racking event. “If you find yourself in a situation where you're nervous, you've got a big meeting, you've got a big interview, you've got a big presentation, and you want to alleviate or mitigate some of those nerves, some of that anxiety, do a dress rehearsal,” says Scott, who tells listeners about a successful dress rehearsal of his own in this episode. Scott doles out practical advice for making the most of your rehearsal, so whether you’ve got a big presentation, interview, or performance coming up, this episode is here to help.Key Points From This Episode:A story that illustrates the everyday power of dress rehearsals.Sourdough’s key takeaway from his example of a dress rehearsal.How he changed his mind after a meeting (and why you should always take the meeting!)Why he believes it was the dress rehearsal that ultimately led to his success.Practical applications for dress rehearsals in your personal and professional life.The confidence-boosting power of taking the time to “go through the motions.”Information you can gain from a dress rehearsal that you can’t get otherwise.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/dress-rehearsal

Editor’s note: Today’s special episode comes to us from our friends at The Conduit, who operate under the Crewest Studio network of podcasts alongside NOT REAL ART. In the ‘90s, rock was rock, hip-hop was hip-hop, and never the twain did meet. Then, at the turn of the century, a 73-minute, genre-bending bomb exploded onto the music scene, shattering notions about the limits of creativity and collaboration. Uneasy Listening, Vol. I, a joint record from like-minded DJs P and Z-Trip, broke genre conventions by mixing rock ‘n’ roll mainstays like Rush and Pat Benatar with dance and hip-hop cuts from Madonna, Redman, and The Pharcyde.Welcome to The Conduit, a podcast featuring candid conversations with professional musicians who give listeners the unvarnished truth about being an artist in the music industry. In today’s episode, L.A.-based DJ, producer, and musician Dan Ubick (aka Constantine “Connie” Price) sits down with Zach Sciacca (better known as DJ Z-Trip) to discuss the musician’s pioneering work as a key player in the mash-ups movement.“It wasn’t like I set out to become a DJ,” says Z-Trip, whose Uneasy Listening arrived on the scene in 2001, just as samples, remixes, and mashups were gaining credibility as a valid form of self-expression. “It was very much about me having this music and wanting to share it,” he continues. “Once I realized that I could put it together and I could expose people to the things that I liked, the DJ thing came into play.” Widely known as both the godfather of mashups and “America’s Best DJ,” an award he received in 2009 from the DJ Times, Z-Trip is also renowned for his technical abilities and production skills. Over the years, he’s collaborated with innovative artists like Nas, Beck, Public Enemy, and DJ Shadow, remixing songs from artists as varied as Bob Marley and the Butthole Surfers. In his interview, Z-Trip shares the brightest pearls of wisdom he’s pocketed along the way: “One thing I learned through the arc of my whole career is take chances,” he says. “Be risky, try to push boundaries. Don’t always play it safe. There’s a time to play it safe, there’s a time to lock in.”Z-Trip also touches on his favorite genre-bending tracks (see Afrika Bambaataa’s “Planet Rock”), why creative consistency trumps big milestones, and how to find like-minded artists traveling a similar career path. His advice to aspiring DJs? “Every gig, go into it like it’s your first [and last],” he says, adding, “put your heart and fucking soul into it because you never know who’s watching.” Key Points From This Episode:How the contrasting worlds of New York and Arizona influenced Zach’s taste in music.The diverse collection of 12-inch singles that led him to become a DJ.Why ‘Rock the Bells’ by LL Cool J epitomizes Zach’s genre-bending style.Zach’s belief in pushing boundaries rather than chasing money or trends.The unique sense of discovery that attracted him to hip-hop.Talent over appearance: the freaks, geeks, and outcasts that were also drawn to the genre.Insight into Zach's process of producing his own music; which started with pause tapes.The story of the ‘Rockstar’ track on Return of the DJ that caught the attention of...

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this episode ran in March 2021 and has been updated with a new introduction. Historically, street art has been used as a powerful tool for community engagement thanks to its ability to transcend physical and social boundaries. In today’s special podcast episode, guest host and muralist Erin Yoshi sits down with public arts luminary Judy Baca to discuss the painter’s pioneering social work in the urban environment of L.A., the former “mural capital of the world.”“Long before the predominance of graffiti art on the street, there were writings on the street," says Judy. “There was no control over who could paint where, and it was in that climate—1972—that I stepped out onto the street.” Soon after, In 1974, Judy founded the City of Los Angeles’ first mural program, which produced over 400 murals, employed thousands of local participants, and eventually evolved into the Social and Public Art Resource Center (SPARC), where she continues to serve as artistic director. “The work I was doing needed to be institutionalized in educational systems,” she says. “There was so much work to be done around the kind of training that we needed to get another generation of artists into the world, to [give] another generation of young people the stepping stones to advance, and [without] having to start at the very beginning, as I did. So it became increasingly important to me to do the teaching, to see SPARC thrive and continue.”Judy attributes SPARC’s success to their unique participatory model, which allows community members to contribute their ideas and talents to local murals. “I was interested in a participatory methodology that not only included the ideas of the people but included them in the process of the making,” says Judy, who observes a vast cultural distinction between murals in different L.A. neighborhoods. “Whose memories are saved?” she muses. “Whose stories are told? Whose history is taught? That became a quest that has been my life's work: the land’s memory, whose stories are told and remembered, and how we come up with the real story of America.”Key Points From This Episode:Insight into Judy’s start as a muralist in LA, the former “mural capital of the world.”How permitting and bureaucratic control have hindered the creative process of public art.Ways that SPARC sought to change the face of LA by representing the people in it.The genesis of SPARC and what Judy’s cross-cultural vision for it entailed.Judy’s unifying ambition to excavate unknown stories that led to The Great Wall of LA.What she learned about dynamic imagery from the late great David Alfaro Siqueiros.Steps for creating a participatory community-based project like The Great Wall.Relationships built during the creation of The Great Wall that are still intact today.The drive to institutionalize her work that led Judy to become a professor at UCLA.Why she decided early on that she wouldn’t try to “make it” in the world of fine art.Unpacking the hierarchy of the arts that deems community art “low brow.”Reasons that The Great Wall is so critical at a time of heightened awareness of injustice.How SPARC has become a modern marvel with an inspiring heritage.The future of women’s leadership that Judy’s Matriarchal Mural addresses.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/judy-baca

Birds of a feather flock together… right? As human beings, we are naturally drawn to people who look and think like us, but limiting our friendships to a homogenized group of people reduces our ability to see the world in all of its richness and complexity. Our own lives become smaller and less rewarding as a result. “If we're only talking to the people that we like and that agree with us, that's going to be a problem for a healthy functioning democracy,” says host and NOT REAL ART publisher Scott “Sourdough” Power. In today’s podcast episode, Scott discusses the 10 friends we should surround ourselves with for richer, fuller, and more enlightened lives. “We all need friends who help us see the world differently. We all need friends who help us see the world more fully, more richly, more colorfully, more accurately, more realistically.”From Democrats and polymaths to techno-geeks and Jesus freaks, Scott shares his thoughts on the 10 friends who will broaden your horizons: “Everybody needs at least one friend who's an artist because artists see the world in a very different way. They are empathetic seers that are able to see things we can't see.” He continues: “It’s a mosaic out there. It’s a beautiful spectrum of realities and truths out there. If we only talk to our tribe and we Balkanize and segregate into our echo chambers of biased opinions and prejudices, if we only are friends with people who see the world like us, we're destined to not be able to empathize or have compassion or respect for other people. We end up making the 'other’ the enemy. We end up reducing our ability to see the world in its fullness and its richness. Your life is going to be less than if you limit your friends to a very narrow homogenized group or sample of people, but if you can work towards having a diverse, eclectic group of friends, your life will be richer and more fulfilling.”Tune into today’s episode to find out why your circle of friends should reflect the diversity of our world.Key Points From This Episode:The importance of having a diverse group of friends.How our mobile phones have isolated us from those around us.Reasons that we should respect one another, despite our differences.Benefits of having friends that support different political parties.Ways that scientists can help us view the world differently.Why we need both engineers and artists in our lives.Friends who can help us take better care of our bodies and spirits.Potentially selfish motivations for having at least one tech-savvy friend!Why our friendship groups should reflect the beautiful, diverse world we live in.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/ten-friends

“Making artwork probably saved my life,” says mixed-media artist Amanda Maccagnan. “[It] helped me figure out who I am, where I was going, and what I was doing—and it continues to do.”Navigating the boundary between traditional techniques and contemporary influences, Amanda is rapidly making a name for herself as a rising star in the art world. Working primarily with stained glass, Amanda combines multiple mediums to create unexpected, radical pieces that satirize cultural expectations through exaggeration. Her bold, tongue-in-cheek works frame the artist as a rebel who’s comfortable with making her own rules whenever necessary. On today’s podcast episode, host and NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power sits down with Amanda to discuss the glass artist’s belief in the spiritual nature of her practice. “My spiritual practice is one of open acceptance,” she says. “As a human, I just want to be receptive to whatever the universe has for me at this point. I believe in vibrational resonance and the powers of symbols and belief, as well as practical and intuitive magic. I feel like that's where my spirituality comes in with my work—it feels like it's more about an energetic realization that creating artwork and being able to manifest thoughts into something tangible and real is alchemy.”  Amanda shares her thoughts on using art as therapy, incorporating magic mushrooms into her creative process, and preserving archaic art forms, like glasswork, through apprenticeship. As you’ll discover, Amanda’s success story hinges on the artist’s resilience, reinvention, flexibility, and creative audacity: “There is no such thing as talent,” she quips. “Just try hard and believe in yourself. It's just putting yourself into what you do. That's the talent.” Tune into today’s podcast episode with Amanda Maccagnan for plenty of charm and just the right amount of attitude.Key Points From This Episode:Amanda’s creative upbringing and what drew her to stained glass.Art as therapy: how making art helped her figure out who she is.Amanda’s love for John Waters and her inclusion in the Pope of Trash exhibition.The important role of apprenticeship in preserving traditional mediums like stained glass.Why Amanda says she took to glasswork like she’d been doing it her whole life.The alchemy of art: how artists can manifest their thoughts into something tangible.The role of psychedelics and spirituality in Amanda’s practice.Insight into her process and some of the exciting projects that she is working on currently.What John Waters had to say about the stained glass portraits Amanda created of him.Her journey into the novel world of augmented reality (AR) painting.The mental toll that the current state of the world takes for many young people today.Final thoughts on the nature of talent (and why Amanda believes there’s no such thing).For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/amanda-maccagnan

You might already know this, but here at Crewest Studio, we produce several different podcasts. One of these podcasts is Artsville, which celebrates American contemporary art and craft from Asheville, North Carolina, and beyond. If you’re looking to discover world-class artisans, artists, craftspeople, and makers, Artsville has it all: from painting and pottery to weaving, woodworking, glass blowing, and more! Today, you’ll hear from contemporary mixed-media abstract artist, Kenn Kotara, as we share an interview from the Artsville archives. Based in Asheville, Kenn’s practice is shaped by his lifelong fascination with architecture, philosophy, and literature, and he masterfully expresses himself across canvas, paper, mylar, polaroids, site-specific installations, and even Braille. In this episode, we explore Kenn’s transition from representational to abstract work and the impact that Asheville has had on him as an artist. Tuning in, you’ll find out what working with Braille taught Kenn about being present and mindful, why he believes in the power of art to bridge divides in a world where so many seek to widen them, and how he has devoted his career to looking at the world differently by embracing a myriad of inspirations. We also touch on the paramount importance of education, how artists can practice the art of listening, and so much more. For a fascinating conversation with a side of inspiration and a fresh perspective on life (and art), don’t miss this episode of Artsville with Kenn Kotara!Key Points From This Episode:Kenn’s upbringing, his French Cajun heritage and the Polish origins of his name, Kotara.The story of what brought Kenn to Asheville more than 25 years ago.What he loves about living and working in the nurturing environment of Asheville.The evolution of his work and the impact Asheville had on his practice as a painter.Understanding the influence of architecture, graphic design, and technology on his work.How Kenn cultivates discipline as an artist and navigates what he calls the chaos of creation.Kenn’s work with Braille and the perspective it gave him on empathy and perfection.The relationships he has built within the visually impaired community as a result.What wearing a blindfold to emulate blindness taught him about being present in the moment.Insight into the process of writing Braille and the tools and methodologies that he uses.One of the major literary influences on Kenn’s work: Henry David Thoreau’s Walden.Reflecting on the significance of his Braille work for those who aren’t visually impaired.The power of art to bridge gaps rather than create them, like so many politicians seek to do.How Kenn’s site-specific installations encourage conversation and facilitate education.Listening as an art form: how Kenn came to be so articulate about his artwork.Why Kenn is so devoted to his work in education, even as he formally retires from teaching.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/kenn-kotara

As part of our mission to reinvigorate the NOT REAL ART Podcast schedule in 2024, we’re not only introducing you to new artists every month but we’re also revisiting the archives to bring you creative conversations that you might have missed! In this episode, you’ll have the opportunity to reconnect with Teddy Margas, a charismatic actor, writer, comedian, and performer who shared an uplifting message about embracing the power of creativity back in Episode 170. As we say in Hollyweird, Teddy is a “working actor” who has his fingers in many pies and continues to grow and branch out, always taking on new challenges and art forms to stay inspired. Tune in as we discuss Teddy's upbringing, moments from his childhood that left an impression on him, how he welcomes his trauma into his comedy performances, and why connecting with an audience is such a powerful thing. We also touch on some of his incredible character work, particularly his fascination with the ‘Karen' stereotype, and his insightful advice for approaching auditions. As you’ll discover, Teddy is a shining example of creative talent and dedication, who believes that allowing space for the magic of play and creativity can bring so much joy and fulfillment into our lives. If you missed this conversation the first time around, here’s your chance to soak up the wit and wisdom of the one and only Teddy Margas!Key Points From This Episode:Insight into Teddy's upbringing, birth in North Carolina, and formative years in Philadelphia.  Benefits of growing up in a cultural melting pot like Philly.His two-part move to LA and what it was like to leave a small pond for a big city.Free your mind and the rest will follow: how he learned to marry all of his creative talents.Teddy's belief in the importance of nurturing the artistic impulses of young children. The bravery it takes to get up on stage and why he thinks everyone should try it!Thoughts on the connection between comedy and trauma.When Teddy found his voice and learned to truly connect with an audience.How Teddy describes his work and skillsets depending on the context.What goes into the development of Teddy's characters and his fascination with Karens.From studying acting in Philly to scene study in LA: important lessons from Teddy's journey.The art of auditioning: key elements of successful auditioning techniques. How Teddy has used silence in his routine to great effect. Surprising roles and places that Teddy has found himself in thanks to his love for creating.Why he encourages everyone listening to do something creative today.Hurdles he faces at this point in his career (and why we should all face challenges head-on).For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/teddy-margas

Happy holidays, listeners! Welcome to our penultimate podcast episode of 2023. In our year-end round-up, NOT REAL ART Publisher Scott “Sourdough” Power sits down with Editor in Chief Morgan Laurens to reflect on the past year and offer an exclusive sneak peek into our exciting 2024 programming.From launching First Friday Exhibitions to hosting REMOTE, Badir McCleary’s video series on public art, available exclusively through NOT REAL ART, 2023 was jam-packed with fresh, innovative ways to support working artists. “[REMOTE] is part travel show,” says Scott, commenting on the series’ broad appeal. “[Badir takes] you to these fantastic works of public art and explores the city in the process.” The first five episodes of REMOTE, covering cities as diverse as Philadelphia and San Antonio, are available to watch here. Tuning in, listeners will hear about our favorite Q+Art interviews from the past year, the most memorable exhibitions from our First Friday series, and our ongoing collaboration with sister brand Artsville, which celebrates contemporary American arts and crafts. Scott and Morgan also discuss the expanded programming for 2024, including a fresh take on our podcast, the 2024 grant cycle, and novel ways to engage with and nurture our community of artists. “We’ve done a good job of amassing and coalescing and organizing thousands of artists who are now in our ecosystem and community,” says Scott, reflecting on NOT REAL ART’s new membership program (join here!). “We’re going to spend a lot of time in 2024 intentionally nurturing and engaging our community in a way we haven’t in the past.”Above all, we want to thank our friends, partners, collaborators, and guests for another year of incredible artwork, interviews, exhibitions, kind notes, and all-around badassery. Your generosity, creativity, and boundless curiosity inspire us to the stars and back. Wishing you a happy holiday season and a sublime new year from your friends at NOT REAL ART. Key Points From This Episode:First Friday exhibitions from 2023 that stand out in Morgan’s memory.How Morgan works closely with artists to hone in on the story behind their work.Ways that she has fine-tuned her art writing process over the years.Some of Morgan’s favorite artist interviews from the Q + Art series.The ‘Remote’ video series with Badir McCleary, which explores the world of public art.Exciting ways that we will refresh the NOT REAL ART podcast schedule in 2024.Perks and benefits that will accompany our new membership portal.Acknowledgment and appreciation for all of our incredible pals and partners!A preview of what might be the world’s first hip-hop holiday song, ‘Christmas in L.A.’For more information, please visit...

While much of the country prepares for a frosty festive season, the holidays look a little different in Los Angeles. Imagine palm trees decked out with baubles and twinkling lights, sunny skies, and 70 degree temperatures. With Christmas just around the corner, our parent company, Crewest Studio, wanted to spread the holiday cheer, put some positive vibes into the world, and celebrate the City of Angels’ legendary hip-hop roots. Produced as a “special gift” to the City of Los Angeles, “Christmas in L.A.” is a free, downloadable song that taps into the city’s hip-hop culture with special guest performances. Featuring L.A.-based emcees Aceyalone, 2Mex, Medusa, and Myka 9 alongside Raul Pacheco and Asdru Sierra of Grammy award-winning Latin rock band Ozomatli, “Christmas in L.A.” pays homage to the City of Angels' magical—and unique—holiday season.On today’s podcast episode, host Scott “Sourdough” Power and Crewest Studio co-founder Man One sit down with the song’s producer, multi-instrumentalist Dan Ubick, to discuss how “Christmas in L.A.” came together in just a few short weeks. “I was so honored to get to work with some new people and try and rise to the challenge of creating a Christmas song that wasn’t corny, [that was] fresh and fun,” says Dan. “[We wanted] to show off the multicultural-ness of growing up in L.A.”Listeners will also hear from some of the brilliant musical minds behind “Christmas in L.A.,” including Aceyalone, 2Mex, Myka 9, Medusa, Raul Pacheco from Ozomatli, Mixmaster Wolf, and Monalisa. Join us as they share their memories of celebrating warm Christmases in California and reflect on the unforgettable legacy of hip-hop in L.A. “From the minute we thought of doing the [“Christmas in L.A.”] project, we knew we wanted it to be 100 percent pure L.A.,” says Scott. “It had to be real; it had to be authentic. To be able to get this line-up, this roster of L.A. emcees, is such a huge honor. It elevates this project in such a special way. Everybody brings their unique flavor to what is really a Christmas story.”“Christmas in L.A.” is available to download on Crewest Studio or for streaming on Spotify or Apple Music. An exclusive artist autograph signing takes place at DesignerCon in Anaheim, CA, on Dec. 15, 2023. Limited edition prints and other merchandise featuring artwork from L.A. graffiti artist Man One will also be available.Listen or download the track here.Key Points From This Episode:Dan Ubick’s perspective on producing this bumper holiday tune in just a few weeks.Insight into the dope artwork that Man One created for the track.What Aceyalone’s Christmas traditions look like and why he’s so proud of this song.2Mex’s growing appreciation for Christmas and his gratitude...