Show Up or Shut Up with Wendy Solganik

In this episode of the Show Up or Shut Up podcast, host Wendy interviews iconic Australian mixed media artist Laura Horn. They discuss Laura's journey in the art world, the impact of her online courses, and the challenges of balancing art creation with the demands of running an art business. Laura talks about the transition from art to business tasks, managing stress, and the importance of embracing different life phases. Wendy shares her struggles with space for creating art and the guilt associated with balancing family and work responsibilities. The conversation reveals insights into the evolving roles and expectations of women artists and business owners, touching upon the importance of intuition, adaptability, and self-care.00:14 Meet Laura Horn: Mixed Media Icon01:07 Wendy's Artistic Journey and Inspirations03:11 The Impact of Laura's Work08:58 Balancing Art and Business33:13 Navigating Social Media as an Artist50:13 Struggles with Artistic Self-Criticism51:09 Phases of Intensity and Stress in Business52:11 The Hidden Stress of Running a Tech Business56:34 Balancing Gratitude and Frustration with Technology59:10 The Intersection of Art and Business Metrics01:05:13 Creating a Harmonious Art and Business Life01:08:26 The Journey to Finding a Dedicated Art Space01:20:58 The Challenges of Balancing Family and Work01:25:58 The Importance of Seeking Help and Self-Care01:28:31 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode of the 'Show Up or Shut Up' podcast, Wendy Solganik interviews Carrie Smith, an artist and new instructor in Fodder School 4. Carrie reflects on her 12-year teaching career, her evolution into a collage artist inspired by her daughter, and her global travels that deeply influence her art. The discussion covers Carrie's experiences with adult ADHD, its late diagnosis, and its impact on her life and family's dynamics. They explore her journey of teaching world culture art classes to children, and the significant role that Fodder School played in her artistic development. The episode emphasizes the blend of creative freedom and structured guidance, highlighting Carrie's excitement about joining as a Fodder School teacher. This heartfelt conversation showcases the inspiring interplay of art and teaching. 00:37 Carrie's Background and Artistic Journey 04:30 Carrie's Childhood and Family Life 06:52 Growing Up Near the Mexican Border 13:48 College Years and Early Career 16:26 The Life-Changing World Trip 25:53 Teaching Around the World Art Classes 34:06 Homeschooling and Creative Education 52:10 ADHD Diagnosis and Personal Insights 54:08 A Lifetime of Business Ideas 55:01 The Importance of Focus 56:07 ADHD as a Superpower 57:01 Family Dynamics with ADHD 58:05 Challenges in Education 01:02:14 Understanding ADHD 01:13:15 The Journey into Art 01:21:10 Joining Fodder School 01:24:07 The Value of Fodder School 01:36:24 Teaching and Learning 01:41:01 Conclusion and Gratitude

In this episode of the 'Show Up or Shut Up' podcast, host Wendy engages with artist Stephanie Lee in an enlightening discussion about her life, creative process, and personal evolution. Growing up in Southern Oregon, Stephanie speaks about balancing her artistic passion with life on a mini farm, and her unique use of Plaster of Paris. They explore deep themes such as dealing with jealousy, the rewards and struggles of being an artist, and discovering one's true purpose. The conversation also examines the impact of Instagram on artists, emphasizing personal fulfillment and setting goals beyond social media metrics. Stephanie's transition as a jewelry artist, challenges with idea ownership, and contributions to the art world reveal the continuous evolution inherent in an artist's journey. Stephanie's candid storytelling offers valuable insights into both her artistic and personal path. 04:10 Life in Southern Oregon 06:17 Family and Moving Stories 13:45 Early Artistic Influences 18:36 Discovering the Art Community 22:32 Teaching and Artistic Growth 27:23 The Role of Plaster of Paris 42:09 Embracing Newcomers' Success 43:45 Coping with Others' Success 46:18 Jealousy and Self-Reflection 48:51 Navigating Social Expectations 51:44 Understanding Personal Struggles 56:47 The Role of Art in Personal Growth 01:03:42 Instagram and Artistic Authenticity 01:07:18 The Reality of Social Media Algorithms 01:12:41 Balancing Art and Social Media 01:24:14 Deciding What Matters Most 01:24:40 Balancing Art and Social Media 01:26:02 Navigating Personal and Artistic Boundaries 01:27:52 The Impact of Social Media on Creativity 01:29:50 Finding Peace in Creative Practices 01:32:07 The Joy of Gardening and Art 01:43:33 Embracing Imperfection in Jewelry Making 01:52:22 Reflecting on Creative Journeys 02:02:23 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

In Season 4, Episode 7 of the Show Up or Shut Up Podcast, host Wendy Solganik sits down with mixed media artist and former teacher Tracey Wozniak. They explore Tracey's extensive background in art, her role as a homeschooling mother, and her re-engagement with Fodder School as an instructor. The discussion covers Tracey’s creative evolution towards mixed media and textile art, her dynamics with social media, home renovation projects, and the intersection of her personal and professional life. Wendy and Tracey also share their insights on blending art with business, managing creative shifts, and the importance of community support in the digital art world. The episode provides valuable perspectives on balancing artistic pursuits with family duties and the continuous journey of personal and professional growth. 03:08 Tracey's Instagram Journey 05:23 Life in Florida and Home Renovation 14:07 Tracey's Artistic Beginnings 31:34 Homeschooling and Family Life 39:43 Discovering Instagram and Building Community 54:49 Exploring the World of Color 55:27 Navigating the Shift to Video 56:02 The Fragile Thread of Community 56:27 The Evolution of Instagram 57:29 The Role of Video in Art 01:13:03 Creative Shifts and Personal Growth 01:22:02 The Challenges of Running an Art Business 01:31:42 The Importance of Staying Connected 01:32:09 Home Renovation and Creative Projects 01:40:48 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

In this episode of the Show Up or Shut Up podcast, host Wendy Solganik engages in a deep conversation with artist Amanda Trought, who is joining Fodder School 4 as an instructor. Amanda shares her diverse art journey, encompassing mixed media projects and large sculptural works displayed at Queen's Park Gallery in Barbados. She delves into the therapeutic and emotional aspects of art, recounting her personal experiences and the nurturing of creativity in daily life. The discussion also touches on her ventures in poetry, children's book writing and illustration, and her family life, including her husband's screenplay writing career. Amanda talks about her creative routine and balancing art production with content sharing across various platforms like YouTube and podcasts. This insightful exchange highlights the intersection of art, healing, and self-expression, revealing the profound impact of creativity on well-being and self-discovery. 00:08 Meet Amanda Trought 10:23 Amanda's Artistic Journey 27:52 Discovering Mixed Media 30:06 Art and Health 36:23 Finding Creative Voice 52:42 The Responsibility of Sharing Your Art 54:55 Emotional Intelligence and Creativity Coaching 55:59 The Venn Diagram of Artists 57:52 Art as a Healing Practice 01:01:30 Creating Art for Yourself and Others 01:04:13 Exploring and Experimenting in Art 01:20:27 The Impact of Art on Well-being 01:26:00 Amanda's Creative Routine 01:34:10 Prolific Content Creation 01:37:14 Final Thoughts and Inspirations

In this episode of the 'Show Up or Shut Up' podcast, host Wendy Solganik interviews artist Sally Hirst. They discuss Sally's upcoming role as an instructor in Fodder School 4, and explore her unique artistic journey. Sally shares insights into her life, from her chaotic childhood and self-education in London’s museums, to her late arrival at Cambridge University and her prolific career as an art teacher and artist. The conversation delves into her innovative techniques using modeling clay in printmaking, her teaching experiences, and the challenges of balancing art creation with marketing. Sally also reflects on her various living experiences, including renovating a 300-year-old house in Spain. The episode wraps up with an exciting preview of Sally's projects for Fodder School, highlighting her expertise in creating collage papers and artistic coasters. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:08 Meet Sally Hirst: A New Instructor at Fodder School 01:03 Wendy's Artistic Journey and Podcast Mission 02:27 Interview with Sally Hirst Begins 04:19 Sally's Early Life and Artistic Beginnings 07:42 Navigating School and Self-Education 11:07 Teenage Years and Early Adulthood 14:50 Balancing Art, Family, and Career 18:02 Teaching and Continuing Artistic Pursuits 22:19 The Business of Being an Artist 29:29 The Vulnerability of Seeking Gallery Representation 30:14 The Evolution of Art Marketing 30:49 Exciting Projects in Fodder School 32:03 Innovative Collage Techniques 33:04 The Significance of Found Objects 36:59 A Nomadic Life and Artistic Inspiration 38:55 Spanish Adventures and Renovations 43:56 Navigating Brexit and Relocation 48:01 Current Studio Setup and Teaching 54:04 Balancing Art Creation and Teaching 55:46 Upcoming Shows and Online Presence 56:50 Conclusion and Gratitude

In Season 4, Episode 4 of the 'Show Up or Shut Up' podcast, host Wendy Solganik speaks with artist Rebecca Chapman about her dynamic career in art and art education. Rebecca shares her evolution from a love for collage and her participation in Fodder School to incorporating photography, inspired by her father, into her mixed media work. The conversation highlights her journey from studying and teaching art in the UK to balancing motherhood with her artistic ventures. Rebecca also discusses her creative process, the role of art journals, innovative strategies for managing her art business, and the joys and challenges of maintaining her creativity amidst family life. The episode offers insights into her printing techniques, upcoming projects, and the inspiration she draws from her allotment garden. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:07 Meet Rebecca Chapman 02:32 Rebecca's Background and Early Life 06:58 University and Early Career 10:05 Transition to Teaching and Living Abroad 21:36 Balancing Art and Motherhood 27:44 Developing a Unique Artistic Style 40:05 Creating Art in Limited Space 41:48 Exploring the Garden Shed 42:38 Balancing Art and Family Life 43:13 Creating Art in the Kitchen 44:07 Involving Kids in Art 45:51 Dream Studio Space 48:28 Managing Art Business 53:16 Seasonal Art Releases 57:10 Inspiration from Gardens and Flowers 01:06:00 Photography in Art 01:11:01 Fodder School Experience 01:17:49 Future Plans and Courses 01:24:19 Summer Plans and Family Time

This episode features Jack Ravi, a Mixed Media Artist and Co-author of the book Artful Memories, who shares his personal journey from Northern Italy to living in Scotland and embracing a life of creativity. Jack reminisces about studying the history of art at the University of Milan, transitioning to London for work, and finally moving to Scotland where they found peace and a deeper connection to art amidst the pandemic. The discussion delves into the challenges and realizations about pursuing art, the contrasting dynamics between being a mathematician and a creative, and the pivotal moment during the lockdown that reignited Jack's passion for collage art using vintage photographs and postcards. Through their story, Jack articulates the meaningfulness of connecting with one's ancestry through art and the evolving concept of artistry that includes embracing marketing as a creative endeavor. The episode further explores the impact of sharing one's creativity on platforms like Instagram, the tangible connection with history through vintage photos, and the deeper philosophical contemplation of life's brevity and memory. 01:26 The Journey of Jack: From Italy to Scotland03:08 Embracing Creativity and Overcoming Insecurities09:51 Transitioning to London and Finding a Path in Art11:53 Exploring Mixed Media Art and Its Challenges22:14 The Power of Vintage Photos in Art30:00 Connecting with Ancestral Memories Through Art34:46 The Impact of Art on Viewers and Personal Reflections

Karen Elaine is a mixed media artist, author, and teacher with a passion for paper crafts and origami. Her passion is inspiring creativity in others. She has been a working artist and instructor for over 30 years, including doing 35 episodes of the Carol Duvall Show in the 1990s! Karen has a wealth of knowledge about art supplies because she has been working in the art supply industry for over 30 years in a wide variety of capacities. Karen is currently the owner of Kumomi Studio, a creative consulting and design company. She is a long-time artist for Yasutomo, a brand ambassador in the art materials industry, and a teacher in Fodder School 2. You can find Karen on Instagram @karenelainestudios and on her website, https://karenelaine.com

Join Wendy and artist Sarah Gardner as they discuss Sarah's new course on Willa Workshops: Love Your {Imperfect} Art Journal. Sarah is a mixed media artist and art journaler who recently had her book, "Share Your Joy: Mixed Media Sharable Art," published. Sarah has been creating mixed media art for almost two decades and she has so much wisdom to share with all of us!

Susanne Randers from @mitkrearum on Instagram ("mitkrearum" means "my creative space" in Danish is a flower power soul and mixed media paper lover - always inspired by nature. Susanne rediscovered her creativity in 2013, created 365 mood boards in 2014, made a flower doodle a day in 2015 and ever since she has hosted in person workshops in Denmark (and four in The Netherlands) creating hand bound art journals that she calls “mood books”. Susanne lives in Denmark.

As a mixed media artist and teacher, Chris believes in fostering an authentic spirit of inquiry and exploration to develop rich creative experiences. Chris paints, photographs, assembles, stitches and dyes her way through exploratory processes that weave their stories into her life's journey. Art and life work co-constructively to guide and ground her path. Chris is honored to share these explorations with you. It is her soul's purpose to help light you from within in finding your own woven path of Life through Art. Chris lives in Canada. You can find Chris on Instagram @christinekarpiak.

Shay Michelle Kent is a mixed media artist and teacher living in Tampa, Florida. She loves to teach art workshops that help people use creativity for self-exploration and find freedom while making art. Shay's students say it feels like a spa for their creative souls. She invites you to come to class with her, where you can let go, explore, and have some fun with art. Shay lives in Florida. You can find Shay on Instagram @shaymichellestudios.

Yetunde Rodriguez is a Nigerian-American Printmaker, Abstract, and Multi-media Artist. Her work celebrates her love of color, pattern, texture and detail. These aspects of Yetunde's work pay homage to her Nigerian culture and heritage, while being firmly planted in the privilege of her American life. Yetunde is constantly motivated by the thought of ‘what if.’ She does not limit herself to any particular media, methods, or set of materials. Yetunde believes all can coexist to create beautifully. She is a pattern and color enthusiast. Yetunde delights in finding connections in the unexpected, in between spaces, and believes that her work should inspire joy. Yetunde is based in Dayton, Ohio. You can find Yetunde on Instagram @yaytoonday.

Raised in the diverse beauty of South Africa; moving from South Africa to Berlin Germany, to the UK, and now to the USA; Di Venter has always found her feet - and met her tribe -  in her new space through art and creating.  Never one to take the rules as unbreakable, Di likes to learn them, and then challenge them.  She loves playing with fabric in her art, and adding art to her sewing. Di suspects she will be taking classes her entire life, there’s always more to learn.

Kecia Deveney is a published mixed media artist, instructor, and world traveler, living at the Jersey Shore. As a mixed media artist, her eclectic style can be seen in fabric and textiles, jewelry design, sculpture-work, and painting. Creating is pivotal to Kecia and becomes, for her, art therapy. Her imagination comes to life and allows her temporary reprieve from her role as a full-time caregiver. Her work is about ingenuity and playfulness. Kecia travels across the world so she may inspire others to find their own artistic spirits. You can find Kecia on Instagram @keciadeveney.

Alison Bomber chose the name Words and Pictures for her blog and then later for Instagram because those are the two worlds she inhabits.  She is a freelance creative working with both words and pictures. Alison's first creative career was as a text and voice coach in the theatre, specializing in Shakespeare.  She is fascinated by the power of words, and how our voices shape our connection to the world.  And she is passionate to the point of obsession about sharing the profound excitement of speaking Shakespeare.  Alison started out as an actor and singer more than thirty years ago, and then shifted to become a text and voice coach.  She worked full time for the Royal Shakespeare Company for nearly ten years, and is proud to be an Associate Artist of the RSC.  Since going freelance, Alison continues to work with them regularly as well as with theatre companies around the world, including Theatre for a New Audience in New York and Song of the Goat Theatre in Poland. When Alison left the RSC more than a decade ago, a whole new creative form of expression opened up for her in mixed media, crafting and painting.   Alison now works (alongside theatre projects) as a freelance artist and designer, in watercolour and mixed media, collage and assemblage, and she is extremely proud and honoured to design stamps for PaperArtsy.  Her first stamp sets were words (of course!) - collections of quotes, gathered by theme.  Alison's newer stamp plates combine her own botanical sketches with theatrical, historical and personal ephemera, and advice from Culpeper’s herbal on the medicinal uses of the plants.    The Pictures part of Alison is still very much about storytelling, about connection, and about communicating emotions and ideas.  And she loves to combine words and imagery in her work.  As she has continued to explore new skills and techniques, nature has become a more and more important part of her visual storytelling, as well as a vital part of her everyday life.  Spending time in the natural world is a constant source of inspiration. Another link between the two creative paths, Words and Pictures, is Alison's passion for sharing the expertise she has developed in these two strands, teaching both one-to-one and in workshops and classes, both in person and online. You can find Alison on Instagram at @w0rdsandp1ctures and @b0hem1anh0me

Barb Smucker is a mixed media artist who enjoys layering collage papers and paint to create surprising results.  Adding lines, textures, shapes and colors onto a page or canvas allows her to experiment and find enjoyment in the discovery. When you look at her work, she hopes you see the play, the search, and a sense of harmony and spontaneity that she is always after in whatever she makes. Barb is inspired by the beauty found in many of the home arts, including quilting, stoneware pottery and all the gorgeous patterns found in linens and textiles. She is also inspired by nature. Barb has a window in her home studio that looks out toward trees and a stream.  The lines and organic material inspire her daily. Barb has been working at her art making and art practice for many years. Always looking for a way to combine her interest in art and psychology, she has discovered that the practice of art making itself is a wonderful and helpful thing to share.  Barb teaches classes locally out of her studio, with art centers, retreat centers and in galleries.  Whether she is teaching the principles of art, art journaling, collage, card making, abstract art or painting papers, Barb's goal is always the same. She wants to help people discover joy in the process of art making and notice that they have so much to share.

Jennifer Wilkin Penick's introduction to collage was in early childhood, when her mother cut up magazine pages and invited her to make "mosaics" from them, using paste and a small tin brush. Living for decades in Italy as an adult gave her weekly access to the vintage paper vendors of Rome's legendary flea market. She studied studio art and art history and these two interests converge in Jennifer's sometimes whimsical mixed media and collage works that frequently reference her relationship to (and nostalgia for) the artistic heritage of her adoptive country. In addition to being a practicing artist, she teaches art to children and adults and has been a Visual-Artist-in-Residence with MedStar Georgetown University Hospital's Arts & Humanities Program since 2018.

Suzanne is a multi-passionate artist who lives in Eastern Iowa with her husband. She has two adult children (who happen to be twins). Professionally, she has been a multi-talented wizard (aka school secretary), longarm machine quilter, stay-at-home mom, bank technology manager, computer network installer, t-shirt seller, and library page. (She shelved returned library books in high school. Favorite job ever.) Currently, she and her three cats publish Strawberry Moon Magazine, an independent magazine for art journalers. Note: Brush Magazine, mentioned in this episode, was created by Tanyalee Kahler.