Show Up or Shut Up with Wendy Solganik

In this episode of the 'Show Up or Shut Up' podcast, host Wendy Solganik interviews artist, and Executive Producer of Willa Workshops, Evan Haley. Wendy really wanted to bring Evan onto the podcast to highlight an emerging opportunity for book artists within Fodder School: the opportunity to create truly unique artist books from lessons in Fodder School that aren’t specifically designed with a book as the end product in mind!They discuss Evan's unique journey from studying pre-med sciences at Princeton University to becoming a mixed media artist, and delve into the creative processes and challenges that define his art-making experiences. Wendy shares her insights on the evolution of Fodder School and the potential for members to adapt projects to suit their personal creative goals, emphasizing the importance of pushing artistic boundaries and overcoming fears. The episode also introduces a secret project focusing on learning the Procreate app, highlighting the significance of digital technology in modern art creation.(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Guest(01:27) Wendy's Artistic Journey and Podcast Overview(02:48) Meet Evan Haley: Background and Early Life(04:12) Evan's College Experience and Shift to Art(10:05) Evan's Artistic Development and College Projects(18:56) Fodder School Projects and Creative Problem Solving(22:32) Exploring Creative Potential and Bookmaking(28:04) Fodder School Community and Off the Beaten Path(28:41) Exploring New Projects in Fodder School(29:24) Pushing Artistic Boundaries(33:16) Overcoming Fear in Art Creation(36:07) Taking Up Space with Your Art(40:09) Letting Go of Unloved Art(47:13) The Secret Project: Procreate Course(52:27) The Challenges of Learning New Tools(56:41) Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode of the Show Up or Shut Up podcast, Wendy interviews artist Jane Chipp, who is returning to Fodder School 5 as a teacher. They delve into Jane's artistic journey, from her early fascination with handmade crafts influenced by her family's Baltic heritage to her evolution into a mixed media artist specializing in collage, assemblage art, journaling, and textiles. Jane shares pivotal moments, including her participation in a three-year textile art program, her transformative experience with a found collection of personal artifacts, and her prolific work during the COVID-19 lockdown. Together, they discuss the benefits and challenges of teaching art online, the joy of crafting with found photos, and the intricate, layered techniques that define Jane's unique artistic style. Jane also offers a sneak peek into her upcoming lessons inspired by vintage lace for Fodder School 5.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:21 Meet Jane Chipp: Artist and Teacher04:03 Jane's Early Life and Creative Beginnings05:07 Family Influence and Childhood Creativity08:59 Career Path and Creative Pursuits15:35 Discovering Textile Art and Mixed Media33:46 The Turning Point: Honoring a Stranger's Life47:54 Struggles with Large-Scale Art48:38 Exciting New Project in Fodder School50:09 The Importance of Artistic Community52:07 Impact of COVID-19 on Artistic Journey52:23 The 100-Day Project and Instagram Journey53:42 Writing and Publishing a Book01:00:46 Meeting Lori Canner and the Collage Community01:03:51 The Role of Instagram in Artistic Growth01:09:35 Teaching and Creating Online Courses01:13:04 Artistic Preferences and Techniques01:15:56 Signature Colors and Artistic Style01:29:55 Upcoming Fodder School Project01:31:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the "Show Up or Shut Up" podcast, host Wendy Solganik interviews Columbus, Ohio-based mixed media artist Susan Rossiter. Susan shares her journey from growing up in Pennsylvania, studying fine art, and moving across the country, to establishing herself as a prolific artist with a disciplined practice. The conversation delves into Susan’s inspirations—particularly the colors, shapes, and patterns of the 1950s-1970s, her love for experimental materials, and her evolution from traditional art school techniques to vibrant, mid-century-inspired mixed media works. Susan discusses balancing a full-time day job with her art career, her involvement with Studios on High Gallery, and her role as an educator for GOLDEN Paints.The episode is filled with insights on creative discipline, the realities of being a working artist, and the importance of making art that brings personal joy rather than simply following trends or market demands(00:00) Introduction to the Show Up or Shut Up Podcast(02:36) Meet Susan Rossiter: Mixed Media Artist(03:39) Susan's Artistic Journey and Inspirations(05:11) Early Art Experiences and Education(08:49) College Years and Artistic Development(17:07) Post-College Adventures and Artistic Growth(22:12) Life in Minneapolis and Transition to Ohio(25:32) Balancing Art and Life in Ohio(30:58) Exploring Mixed Media and Collage Fodder(40:49) Personal Life and Studio Setup(47:18) Editing Video in Bed(47:52) Exploring Columbus and Beyond(49:00) Joining the Art Co-op(52:21) Balancing Art and Fitness(53:08) Golden Artist Educator Program(56:15) Fodder School and Artistic Inspiration(59:06) The Influence of Mid-Century Design(01:07:51) Artistic Freedom and Day Jobs(01:20:25) Quilting and Other Artistic Pursuits(01:33:43) Future Plans and Manifesting Dreams(01:36:23) Conclusion and Gratitude

In this episode of the Show Up or Shut Up Podcast, host Wendy Solganik interviews mixed media artist Roxanne Evans Stout. Wendy announces that Roxanne will be joining Fodder School 5 as a first-time instructor. The conversation delves into Roxanne's artistic journey which began in her childhood in Santa Monica and evolved through various stages, including her experiences growing up in different places due to her father's Air Force career, her education in the sciences at Humboldt State, and her eventual shift to a more free-form, mixed media art style. Roxanne talks about her teaching career, her close relationship with her mother who was also an artist, and how her mother’s passing intensified her commitment to art. The episode also explores Roxanne’s teaching experiences in locations like Santa Fe and her upcoming workshop in Italy. Wendy and Roxanne discuss the unique elements of Roxanne's art, including her use of neutral colors, texture, and inspiration from nature. Roxanne shares her excitement for the new projects in Fodder School 5 and drops hints about her plans for the artistic journey ahead.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest02:37 Roxanne's Early Life and Artistic Beginnings04:04 Life in Santa Monica and Artistic Influences07:48 College Years and Meeting Her Husband13:23 Life in Northern California and Early Art Career20:43 Teaching Career and Artistic Evolution22:46 Developing a Unique Artistic Style25:35 The Influence of Blogging and Artist Books29:15 Collections and Inspirations35:27 The Story Behind the Work Table36:38 Challenges of Building a Custom Table37:49 Creating an Inspiring Studio Space39:35 The Evolution of My Art Journey40:15 Teaching and Workshops43:13 Artist Residencies and Their Impact46:38 Upcoming Workshops and Inspirations52:58 Exploring My Color Palette58:31 Influence of My Mother's Art01:06:03 Conclusion and Future Plans

In this episode of the Show Up or Shut Up podcast, host Wendy Solganik interviews contemporary mixed media artist Wendy Shragg. Wendy shares her artistic journey from Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, discussing her vibrant fine art collage work, color theory, and experiences in design. She recalls childhood influences, including her family's creative environment and early artistic endeavors. Wendy also talks about her diverse careers ranging from makeup artistry to travel consulting, and how she ultimately embraced her passion for art. The conversation delves into her love for gel printing, collage, and her innovative mixed media projects that combine personal and meaningful elements into fine art. Wendy also shares her experience with digital art on Procreate and her participation in Fodder School 5, where she will be teaching a comprehensive project on creating large-scale fine art pieces. Listeners can expect a deep dive into Wendy’s creative process, her views on social media's role in the art world, and her future projects.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest02:34 Wendy Shragg's Artistic Journey Begins03:21 Childhood Influences and Early Art Experiences09:16 High School and College Art Education21:09 Post-College Career and Creative Ventures42:19 Crafting Beginnings and Jewelry Making42:44 Transition to Interior Decorative Painting43:21 Becoming an Aesthetician44:33 Exploring Intuitive Painting45:29 Creating Imaginary Creatures49:07 Pursuing Art Full-Time53:01 Navigating the Art World and Social Media56:58 Joining Art Co-ops and Community01:00:36 Teaching and Gel Printing01:20:18 Digital Art and Procreate01:25:42 Conclusion and Future Plans

In this episode, Wendy Solganik interviews Cheiron Brandon, a mixed media artist specializing in greeting cards. Cheiron shares her journey from discovering a local stamp store to becoming a prolific maker with a deep expertise in Tim Holtz's distress line. The discussion covers her evolving art style, teaching workshops, and participating in design teams. She also talks about her recent personal transitions and how she integrates her creative life into her new surroundings. The episode delves into the intricacies of using various mixed media products and offers insights into the world of card making and mixed media art.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest02:20 Meet Cheiron Brandon: A Journey from New Jersey03:40 Cheiron's Artistic Beginnings and Inspirations08:17 Discovering Rubber Stamping and Card Making16:08 From Hobby to Passion: Teaching and Creating18:41 Exploring Mixed Media and Tim Holtz Products22:24 The Evolution of Sharon's Art Style28:44 Collaborations and Design Teams37:30 Teaching and Online Classes39:09 Joining Fodder School and Continuous Learning39:39 Learning from Different Artists40:56 Balancing Art and Life Changes41:47 Becoming a Fodder School Teacher42:49 Exploring Alcohol Inks43:09 The Evolution of Alcohol Inks45:19 Crafting with Alcohol Inks50:48 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge55:11 Relocating and Creating a New Routine59:16 Crafting Community and Retreats01:07:24 The Joy of Card Making01:08:27 Looking Forward: Future Projects

In this episode of the Show Up or Shut Up podcast, host Wendy Solganik speaks with mixed media artist Dori Patrick. Together, they explore Dori's creative life, which includes owning a make-and-take art studio in Marion, Iowa, and moving on to focus on her personal artistic endeavors. Dory shares her childhood experiences growing up in Iowa, her artistic influences, and the pivotal moments that shaped her career, such as her inspirational trip to Oaxaca, Mexico. They delve into Dori's approach to making art, her distinctive colorful style, and how she navigates highs and lows as an artist. Dori offers insight into her business model, her process for creating and selling art, and her teaching experiences, including her role in Fodder School. The episode concludes with a discussion about Dori's upcoming lessons in Fodder School 5, where she will teach her unique 'split heads' project.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:39 Meet Dori Patrick: Background and Personal Life01:41 Wendy's Artistic Journey and Podcast Overview03:42 Dori's Early Life and Family Background09:48 Dori's Creative Upbringing and Early Influences15:05 Dori's Artistic Career and Personal Challenges31:42 Transition to Professional Artistry36:42 The Dreaming Bear: Dori's Store and Workshop51:41 The Birth of a Creative Space54:06 Transforming the Storefront55:55 The Decision to Close58:47 Life After the Store01:02:03 Embracing Artistic Freedom01:17:55 The Split Heads Project01:26:22 The Joy of Creating01:32:49 Current Projects and Future Plans01:38:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In Season Five, Episode 3 of the Show Up or Shut Up podcast, host Wendy Solganik interviews artist Arlyna Blanchard. Arlyna, who resides in Singapore and runs her own design firm, will be joining Fodder School 5 as a teacher for the first time. The episode explores Arlyna's artistic journey, from her early influences in the Philippines to her expansive career in graphic design in Taiwan and now in Shanghai. They discuss her experiences with urban sketching, digital scrapbooking, and the challenges of teaching online art courses. Arlyna shares personal anecdotes about balancing a demanding career while raising twins, and how her art practice evolved post-divorce. The episode offers insight into her creative process and her love for vibrant colors, particularly neon pink. This inspiring conversation highlights Arlyna's dedication to continuous learning and artistic expression.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:21 Meet Arlyna Blanchard: Artist and Teacher00:48 Wendy and Arlyna's Artistic Connection01:55 Podcast Overview and Host Introduction03:23 Arlyna's Background and Journey05:43 Growing Up in the Philippines07:23 Cultural and Linguistic Influences13:22 Artistic Beginnings and Influences21:29 Education and Career Path22:52 Life in Taiwan and Move to Shanghai33:47 Family Life and Artistic Exploration36:11 Scrapbooking and Early Art Journaling42:07 Struggles with Art Journaling43:17 Finding Personal Style in Art45:34 Balancing Art and Life46:47 The Impact of Divorce on Creativity48:40 Work-Life Balance and Art54:09 Embracing Favorite Colors01:02:19 The Joy of Learning and Teaching01:10:25 Exploring Urban Sketching and Illustration01:19:23 The Therapeutic Power of Art01:21:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Show Up or Shut Up podcast, host Wendy Solganik continues Season Five with an inspiring interview with mixed media artist Kathy Nichols. Announced as a new instructor for Fodder School 5, Cathy shares her artistic journey from her early days in Huntington, New York, to becoming a prolific mixed media artist known for her vibrant floral and nature-inspired works. The discussion delves into Cathy's transition from various day jobs to full-time artistry, the impact of her grandmother on her color palette, and the importance of bravery and intuition in her career. Wendy and Cathy explore Cathy's experiences with cooperative galleries, her online presence, and her future teaching retreats in France. This episode offers a heartfelt and in-depth look into Cathy’s evolving artistry and life challenges, providing valuable insights for all mixed media art enthusiasts.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:54 Meet Cathy Nichols: A Journey of Bravery01:18 Exploring Mixed Media Art02:44 Cathy's Artistic Beginnings04:25 High School Art Adventures12:45 College Decisions and Career Path24:34 Discovering Acrylics and Moving to Venice36:40 Joining the 10 Women Gallery46:04 Life in New York and Starting a New Co-op49:19 Discovering the Firefly Artists Gallery49:39 Balancing Art and Family Life50:55 Transition to Full-Time Artist51:34 Licensing Deal and Artistic Evolution57:40 Moving to Asheville and New Beginnings01:00:27 Developing a Unique Artistic Style01:10:33 The Influence of Quilting and Textiles01:15:59 The Power of Color in Art01:30:23 Teaching and Retreats01:35:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of the 'Show Up or Shut Up' podcast, Wendy Solganik interviews mixed media artist Kate McCurrach. Kate, who has been an inspiring participant and leader in previous Fodder School years, will now join as a teacher for Fodder School 5. Wendy and Kate delve into Kate's harrowing life story, which includes a pioneering family history, a battle with multiple chronic illnesses including lupus, and a radical career shift from science to art. Kate shares her experiences of crafting scientific-themed creations, running a successful Etsy shop, and participating in high-end craft shows. She talks about her creative process, the therapeutic role of art in her life, and her journey into art journaling. This episode is a deep dive into the resilience and creativity of an artist who finds joy and solace in making, against all odds.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:37 Meet Kate McCurrach: Artist and Fodder School Teacher03:09 Kate's Background and Early Life04:17 Growing Up in British Columbia05:12 Family History and Heritage15:30 Crafting and Creativity in Kate's Family19:20 Kate's Artistic Journey in School28:33 University Life and Science Studies35:17 Health Challenges and Life Changes41:58 Starting a Craft Business on Etsy49:45 Starting a Button Business50:55 Expanding the Product Line51:34 Personal Life and Health Challenges54:05 Craft Shows and Market Experiences57:07 Living with Chronic Illness01:05:30 Pregnancy and Motherhood01:20:55 Rediscovering Art and Joining Fodder School01:26:39 Reflections and Future Plans

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!