Shows
Vulnerability in life and artMorgan WeinmeisterSinger/songwriter (and spin instructor) Morgan Weinmeister and I talked about the kinds of music she likes to write and perform, her focus on lyrics, the nature of vulnerability, and the power of specificity to convey the deeper feelings, as people 'may not connect with the lyric, but they connect with what they know that lyric feels like.' And most importantly, that we should never feel like we need to be boxed into one thing. You can follow Morgan on instagram @morganweinmeister. Also be sure to listen to her music on Spotify, starting with...
2024-12-2228 min
Vulnerability in life and artCaroline CrawfordFrom sharing her experiences of academic mobbing to the ways in which she tries to create vulnerable (rather than safe) spaces for learning, professor of instructional design and technology Caroline Crawford is direct, engaged, and fully committed to the ongoing development and success of her student learners. To learn more about Caroline and her academic work, you can check out her faculty page on the University of Houston at Clear Lake website at uhcl.edu/education/faculty/crawford-caroline
2024-12-0828 min
Vulnerability in life and artCraig HarrisonI had the pleasure of speaking with Craig Harrison - former British Army soldier, author, and Maverick Survival School course leader - not being quite sure how his story fit with the other conversations I've had over the past 3 and a half years. And he was a perfect fit. How he spoke about his life with PTSD, the importance of communicating and connecting with others, and the restorative power of time in nature was brave, gentle, open, and generous. You can check out themavericksurvivalschool.co.uk/ and instagram @cohcraigharrison to learn more about what Craig...
2024-11-2430 min
Vulnerability in life and artJason 'Blackbird' SelmanJason 'Blackbird' Selman is a spoken word artist, poet, and trumpet player. In this conversation, Jason shares his insights into the freedom of poetry, Carribean community and cultures, and what it means to be a good man out in the world. Who am I, where do I come from, what does that mean, can I afford to be vulnerable... We can return to these questions, over and over, throughout our lives and experience how our responses evolve in time. If you're interested in learning more about Jason and his work, you can check out his...
2024-11-1030 min
Vulnerability in life and artAki MatsushitaTwo aspects of this conversation with dramaturg Aki Matsushita stood out to me most. One was learning what the expansive field of dramaturgy is all about. As Aki says, it’s an art practice that doesn’t necessarily show itself to people outside the development process. The practitioners themselves don’t even agree on how to pronounce it. My biggest takeaway was that the dramaturg can help answer the question, 'why this story now?' The other is a tangent I went on somewhere in the middle about cross-cultural communication. I was planning to remove it, bu...
2024-11-0628 min
Vulnerability in life and artWhat's Your Thread?This is an episode about what it means to know your thread, if it's important to know what your thread is, and the relationships between who you are and what you do.
2024-10-2511 min
Vulnerability in life and artDavid GordonThis is my conversation with David Gordon - artist, landscape designer, and owner of Bird Dog Arts Gallery in California's San Joaquin Valley. I probably should have edited out even more of our conversation about growing up in the 80s but David is sharp and insightful; I couldn't help it. Listen for David's insights into vulnerability, both for artists and also for people who buy art, people who then express a lot about themselves through pieces they have chosen to put on display. Learn more about David and his work on instagram @davidgordondrsigns...
2024-10-1330 min
Vulnerability in life and artEpisode 92 Anna Wojcik'Failure is a lesson...I won't take one failure as a complete failure.' That adaptability and openness to learning stood out to me during my conversation with Anna Wojcik, a fitness entrepreneur in continual development, always finding new ways to challenge herself and her clients (including me). She warns against remaining comfortable with what we know, encouraging us instead to break out of the bubble to take risks, fail and succeed, and keep looking for opportunities to learn new things, for both body and mind. In Anna's words, step outside your daily. Be coachable...
2024-09-2028 min
Vulnerability in life and artClaire HankeyClaire Hankey first began making collages as a young child. Today, inspired by her father's brushes and paints, she creates fragile, dreamy pieces, in veils of mixed media. Her work reflects early childhood memories - her family home and garden, her glamorous grandmother Evelyne. Reflections on the past also inspired her podcast series Where the Art Began. A poignant moment for me is when Claire speaks about the importance of how we talk to people - children, young people, adults - about their art. Consider how you may have been affected in the past by...
2024-09-0828 min
Vulnerability in life and artA ReckoningThis is an episode about feedback, reacting, and learning from what we hear from others.
2024-08-1813 min
Vulnerability in life and artAndi StrachanAs you listen to my conversation with gardener Andi Strachan, see if you can look under the covers at what a garden - as art, creation, growth, and development - might mean to you. Where do you see yourself and your work within this ongoing process of dynamic and ongoing setbacks and bursts; natural individual beauties that develop over hours, days, and years; design through light and colour; sharing knowledge; social pressures and wildness versus cultivation; and 'the relentless emergence of life?' This really was a walk through life and art as garden.
2024-08-1028 min
Vulnerability in life and artDuane ToopsThis episode, my conversation with collage artist Duane Toops, got me thinking. I got caught up in multiple dichotomoies - art versus craft, intuition versus analysis, conduit versus creator. And then, as Duane says, there's the quiet space between things, the unseen. Dichotomies set up false choices. What are you noticing? What’s coming up for you, ‘when this piece touches this piece?' You can learn more about Duane and his work here substack.com/@duanetoops and on instagram @duanetoops.
2024-08-1030 min
Vulnerability in life and artRachel McCrumI enjoyed a quickening conversation with poet Rachel McCrum about interpreting the crafts of writing and painting, poetry as a space of ambiguity and uncertainty, and burnout. She shares this beautiful line from Inua Ellams - 'poetry is the cheapest way to be free.' And the podcast she references is The Blindboy Podcast by Limerick-born musician and author David Chambers, also known as Blindboy Boatclub. To learn more about Rachel and her work, you can explore rachelmccrumpoetperformer.wordpress.com online and @kicking.paris on instagram. For sight into another aspect of Rachel's a...
2024-07-1130 min
Vulnerability in life and artNola McConnanNola McConnan is unapologetically herself in the best ways, determined, self-reliant, and charmingly fierce. She has supported herself as an artist throughout her career, with mentorship and support, despite failing grade 13 French, and she turned a rec room into a room of her own. Please take note - when she talks about Sheilah, that is one of her older sisters. And due to timing, I wasn't able to include the amazing account of her family's connection with Emily Carr. Please be sure to check out her website https://merriweatherdesignstudio.com/
2024-06-2528 min
Vulnerability in life and artTribeThis is an admittedly odd little episode about tribes, belonging, support, feedback, inspiration, and propaganda.
2024-06-0913 min
Vulnerability in life and artCorina KennedyIt was fun (and somewhat nerve-wracking) to speak with my drawing teacher Corina Kennedy about making art, being a magpie, taking risks, and the story behind a lovely piece of hers called Work Force/Wind Force. She reminds us of the importance of remembering what it's like to be a beginner and taking the chance to learn something new, allowing our work and ourselves to be seen.
2024-05-2830 min
Vulnerability in life and artStefan LorenzuttiI enjoyed a lovely conversation with Stefan Lorenzutti, poet and co-publisher who runs Bored Wolves with his wife Joanna. He shares stories about becoming a poet, inspired by Frederick the Mouse, sharing his work with friends after hours spent at the copy shop, moving to Poland and feeling isolated and alone until creating the growing community of poets, artists, and artist-poets whose work is now published by Bored Wolves. You can learn more about Stefan and Bored Wolves by checking out boredwolves.com and on instagram @boredwolves
2024-05-2831 min
Vulnerability in life and artMatthieu CheminéeI talked with Matthieu Cheminée about his journey to becoming a silversmith, his travels to New Mexico and West Africa gaining inspiration and insight into metalworking techniques and designs, being an artist versus an artisan, and what it meant for him to stop making work to please other people and instead create exactly what he wanted. Be sure to check out his work at matthieucheminee.com and on instagram @mattieucheminee
2024-04-2928 min
Vulnerability in life and artC S McIntireThere's a theme that runs throughout my conversation with C S McIntire - what it means to be seen and not seen. We talk about his work and life, coming out, balancing the soft with the rough, and deserving to create. Be sure to check out his work at csmcintire.com and on instagram @csmcintire
2024-04-1530 min
Vulnerability in life and artCopycatAs one of the tenth episodes this one is just me, sharing a story about being called a copycat and what it means to me now. The title of the book about hawks is H is for Hawks by Helen Macdonald, and the intervening work by Ludwig Wittgenstein is The Blue and Brown Books. I'd love to hear what you think about copycats and originality, and what your sources of inspiration may be.
2024-03-3110 min
Vulnerability in life and artMelza HarveyMelza Harvey integrates multiple materials with her beloved clay to create provocative and playful pieces (I somehow figured out how to record my voice over her audio through an OG Walkman embedded in one of her sculptures). Melza shares stories about gender fluidity, expressing herself through her work, making brave choices to pursue her passions as a person, artist, and parent, and the roles of determination and fear in her ongoing development. The take home message is to go after what fulfills you. You can learn more about Melza and her work at melzaharvey.com...
2024-03-2829 min
Vulnerability in life and artRiel HahnThe conversation opens with some tears, both in content and tone. Riel shares her experiences as a writer and performer, from growing up with parents in the arts, to touring with a horse and wagon travelling theatre company, to discovering and sharing her most integrated self on stage while learning to manage crippling stage fright. You can see what Riel is up to on instagram @hahahahnsy and @i_see_voices
2024-03-1829 min
Vulnerability in life and artSusan HomaI talked with Susan Homa, wellness multipreneur, about her journey from traditional roles as interior designer and real estate broker to creator of Welmä Studio, a nurturing space for self-care, expression, and discovery. As we move into a new year, consider what you may want to leave behind and what you want to welcome in 2024. And don't feel you have to stay in your lane. Learn more about Susan and Welmä Studio by checking out welmalifestyle.ca and instagram @welmastudio
2024-02-2829 min
Vulnerability in life and artChristopher SicatObserving without intent, to see what's truly there rather than what we think we see The nature and purpose of collaboration, of creating collectively with others Willingness to fail, as a greater opportunity for learning than success Multidisciplinary artist Christopher Sicat goes deep into the nature of art, process and object, artist and subject, and self-expression. At heart, he is a poet and a dancer. Be sure to check out his work on instagram @christophersicat
2024-02-2129 min
Vulnerability in life and artSusan HenselSusan Hensel is an experienced multidisciplinary artist working in media ranging from drawing with graphite to digital embroidery. I very much enjoyed our conversation, as we covered topics including the nature of beauty, the physics of light in triangular polyester thread, and just showing up, even if it's for only five minutes, as part of building a practice of competence and confidence. Check out Susan's work online at susanhenselgallery.com and on ig @susan_hensel_multimedia_artist
2024-02-0531 min
Vulnerability in life and artH of H PlaybookThis is an odd duck of an episode. I intended it to be a review of H of H Playbook by Anne Carson. It turned into a bit of a ramble about Anselm Kiefer, Heracles, the Vulnerability Journal Project, and a walk between darkness and light. I'd love to hear what you think. You can email me at vulnerabilitylifeart@gmail.com Anne Carson is a Canadian classicist, poet, translator, and professor. She has written a wide range of books, including Eros the Bittersweet and Men in the Off Hour. Anselm Kiefer is a...
2024-01-2814 min
Vulnerability in life and artMariette Baptist-FruinIn this conversation, Mariette shares stories about what carried her and her husband Raymond from The Hague to Corrahopple in Ireland, how she opens herself to insights from the beings that surround her, the communities and larger families she connects through walks and conversations, and her reliance on intuition. Learn more about life at Corrahopple through instagram @mariette_baptist
2024-01-1630 min
Vulnerability in life and artGerry BohanI enjoyed a lovely conversation with Gerry Bohan, farmer and author living in County Leitrim, in the northwest of Ireland. I was touched by his first experiences with writing as a child, having his copy book thrown to the floor by impatient teachers. Gerry talks about finding safe spaces to perform one's work, writing for self-expression, and sharing a way of life unique to his family and their connection to the land. To learn more about Gerry's writing, you can check out https://www.leitrimobserver.ie/news/home/1362189/leitrim-writer-bags-top-literary-award-for-short-story-on-local-gaa-club.html
2023-12-2329 min
Vulnerability in life and artAnna AgapovaMy conversation with designer Anna Agapova was impactful for me, and not just for learning about how she designs spaces with such attention to the influences of nature and art to meet the needs of each client. I was impressed by her focused energy, especially as she faces new challenges and opportunities to work in different ways. The Greek root of Agapova is 'agape,' the highest form of love, and you can hear that in her voice as she describes what inspires and drives her. Check out her work at oa-london.com and on in...
2023-12-0326 min
Vulnerability in life and artTelling our storiesTime again for self-reflection... I've been working through the idea of what it means and why it matters to share our stories with each other. I may have talked myself in circles. This is something I need to put more effort into understanding. Any feedback would be very welcome: vulnerabilitylifeart@gmail.com
2023-11-1308 min
Vulnerability in life and artValentineI'm not sure it's possible to embody vulnerability and resilience more than Valentine when we spoke, wrapped in a Red Cross blanket, hours after her home had burned down and just a few weeks before the vernissage for her work Play Bodies. Her passion for painting, curiosity, openness, and capacity for holding space are absolutely inspiring. Check out her work on instagram @vvv.alentin.aaa
2023-11-0230 min
Vulnerability in life and artVincent LarnicolVincent Larnicol shares his experiences of collecting art, beyond the prosaic purchase of pieces. Vincent engages passionately in conversations about art and philosophy, the relationships he cultivates with the artists who create the works, and his role in conserving these sources of beauty in the world.
2023-10-1735 min
Vulnerability in life and artVille KansanenVille is a multidisciplinary artist born in Finland and based in California. He creates and documents installation pieces in natural settings through photographs and videos. His work comes from a place of integrity and reverence you can hear as he speaks. I admire not only the beauty of his pieces, but the intellectual rigour and clear spirit with which they were made. Check out his work, including the book Lumen, at villekansanen.com and on instagram @villekansanen
2023-10-0440 min
Vulnerability in life and artSpencer DennisI enjoyed a lovely conversation with Spencer, a dancer and movement practitioner. He is open, committed, and passionate about performance, connecting with others, and being compassionate with oneself as a professional and human being. Be sure to check out his work @spencerdennis_mvmnt on instagram
2023-09-2134 min
Vulnerability in life and artPhotos in the Mojave DesertThis is my follow-up conversation with Scott Norris after visiting him for a portrait session in the Mojave Desert. The experience brought a true and powerful meaning to feeling comfortable in my skin; it also raised questions about compassion and representations of self I'm not close to answering. As Dogen said, 'The mountains are walking.' I'll continue to walk this path with much gratitude to Scott and the other artists who have shared their art, work, and lives through our conversations and connections over the past few years. Learn more about Scott's work @sdnphoto on...
2023-09-0430 min
Vulnerability in life and artShemShem is a painter working in South London. I enjoyed such a lovely conversation with him about art and life, music and collections, manifesting, taking risks, and not quitting on being happy. Learn more about Shem and his work on instagram @shem_ahl
2023-08-2134 min
Vulnerability in life and artCorey NotaristefanoI enjoyed my conversation with photographer and gallerist Corey Notaristefano very much, I think mostly because he was so gently and easily open about his own vulnerability and the themes he explores through his photographs. Be sure to check out his instagram profiles to learn more about his work - @the__bearded and @c.w.notaristefano - as well as his gallery and studio hueandcry.com.au/
2023-08-0829 min
Vulnerability in life and artEugene AbramsWhen I asked Eugene Abrams - poet, visual artist, and teacher - how it feels when he reads one of his poems aloud, he said: "I love words, and when I'm reading it's like I'm tasting the words. And I'm just enjoying, you know?" What a precious gift, to write, share, and read words used in such beautiful and powerful ways, especially in the service of peace and the human soul. If you can, make time to read, listen to, and write some poetry - and see what it brings you.
2023-07-2533 min
Vulnerability in life and artTorrance YorkI enjoyed a lovely conversation with Torrance York about the evolution of her photography practice as a tool she uses to make sense of her life, living and working with Parkinson's Disease, and her understanding of the nature of vulnerability and the process of artmaking. Be sure to check out her work on instagram @torrance_york and torranceyork.com, and particularly her book Semaphore (www.torranceyork.com/semaphore)
2023-07-1043 min
Vulnerability in life and artSelf-awarenessI'm almost a week late in releasing this podcast, at least according to my self-imposed schedule. But I guess it had to come when I was ready, and a quote sent this morning by a friend was somehow the trigger to pull some pieces together, such as they are. Self-awareness is something I've been working on, both personally and intellectually in some way. I'd really love to hear any feedback you may have. You can email me at vulnerabilitylifeart@gmail.com.
2023-07-0110 min
Vulnerability in life and artMike BoyceI realized after listening to my conversation with writer/performer Mike Boyce that this episode is more concerned with vulnerability in life than in art, but I think that partly reflects the fact that Mike's art is the stories he tells about his life, of doing the hard things and discovering a new sense of who he is. If you're interested in personal storytelling, one of the important issues Mike raises is the question of which stories are truly ours, and which are not ours to tell even if they may be integral to our own understanding...
2023-06-1232 min
Vulnerability in life and artZoe WitteringZoe Wittering explores periods of transitions and moments of vulnerability and uncertainty through her portrait photographs of herself and others. We talked about her (what I consider to be brave) choice to leave a career in corporate law and move into work she finds so personally and professionally fulfilling, even or maybe especially because of the need to relinquish control and trust the creative process. "...a lot of us struggle with control, and with being vulnerable as well, because in a world where there's only black and white there isn't any room for anything else..."
2023-05-2941 min
Vulnerability in life and artPhotos in OahuA mirror and a window, intimacy, safety and connection, acceptance, authenticity, intuition, an invitation, a gaze and open space, risk, love This is the story of my trip to Hawaii for a photography session with Jeremiah Mk Johnson Be sure to learn more about Jeremiah and his work at jeremiahmkjohnson.com and on instagram @jeremiahmkjohnson Photograph (c) Jeremiah Mk Johnson
2023-05-1541 min
Vulnerability in life and artSandra GeaI enjoyed a wonderful conversation with Sandra Gea, a collagist, poet, and facilitator trained in the Soul Collage© method. She shared many insights, and one in particular stands out to me - how she felt when beginning to work as a self-taught artist. In spite of the doubt: "...I was so deeply within me convinced that I can touch someone's heart with my work..." Check out Sandra's work at sandragea.com and on instagram @the.art.of.sandra.gea
2023-05-0136 min
Vulnerability in life and artScott NorrisI enjoyed a wonderful conversation with photographer Scott Norris. I really appreciated what he shared, including insights into our relationship with the environment, self-portraiture, and: "One thing that I can do, as a man, is to not always remain the invisible figure behind the camera, but make myself visible in front of the camera, with my own body" Be sure to check out his profile on instagram @sdnphoto and his website sdnorris.com
2023-04-1740 min
Vulnerability in life and artCarole ScottCarole and I talk about self-publishing, how fiction may be inspired or interpreted by real life, distinguishing literary from contemporary fiction, opportunities for creating works about older women, what it might mean to write about protagonists different than ourselves, and how fiction can help us feel we're not alone Look for Carole Scott's book The Broken Heart Repair Plan and check out @carolemscott on instagram
2023-04-0338 min
Vulnerability in life and artMegan PhillipsAlthough slightly sidetracked by my recent trip to Hawaii, my conversation was mainly focused on writer and performer Megan Phillips' insights into circles of intimacy and layers of vulnerability, which has really helped me in terms of figuring out what to be vulnerable about to whom under what circumstances. And when it comes to resistance, as she explains, "You're exactly where you need to be, and you're further along than you think." Please remind yourself of that anytime you may feel discouraged and tempted to give in. Learn more about Megan at meganphillips.com and o...
2023-03-2043 min
Vulnerability in life and artGiuseppe Di LeoI learned a lot from my conversation with Giuseppe (Joe) Di Leo "Art matters," "art is about recording a felt life," "intimacy is drawing", "art gives me a sensation of worthiness," and what it means when a broken femur is healed These feelings are so important to share, and I am grateful to Joe for expressing them Be sure to check out Joe's work at giuseppedileodrawing.com and on instagram @giuseppe.dileo.64 Art should disturb the comfortable, because "in art, there are no secrets"
2023-03-0746 min
Vulnerability in life and artJoe De Paul...in walks the human being, who is the clown... I learned a lot from Joe about the role of the clown in a performance and also in our society at large. To be able to laugh, be present, and release tension - what gifts Here are several ways to experience what Joe has to offer. Look for him on instagram @joe_de_paul, facebook @joseph.d.paul.71 and online at www.tim-and-joe.com. And definitely watch Placebo on youtube!
2023-02-2043 min
Vulnerability in life and artLeapWell this was a scary episode for me to record, talking out loud about a solo show and the stories I might choose to tell But what a great exercise What stories would you tell about your own experiences and the meanings you might be able to draw from them?
2023-02-0611 min
Vulnerability in life and artJeremiah Mk JohnsonWhat is revealed through a gaze between subject and artist? As a Hawaii-based landscape and portrait photographer, Jeremiah elicits deep longings, fears, and desires by holding us in a space of still presence As he explains, vulnerability is a tool we can use in our relationships that gives permission for others to disarmour themselves, which can then help us come together as community, society, and humanity Check out his work at jeremiahmkjohnson.com and on instagram @jeremiahmkjohnson
2023-01-2345 min
Vulnerability in life and artDan AponteFrom PhD studies in biomechanics to street, wedding, and portrait photography, Dan Aponte learned to trust and hone his skills and judgement in a new field as he went along What is the relationship between vanity and vulnerability? What are our needs for being seen and feeling validated? What are you revealing about yourself and the subjects of your work? Where are you investing the most time and energy? And what is your version of infinity? Share your work Check out Dan's work online at danaponte.ca and on instagram @just_dan_thingz
2023-01-0947 min
Vulnerability in life and artMarie-Claude MolnarI went a little off the beaten track this time In this episode, I speak with paralympic cyclist Marie-Claude Molnar. She shares her insights into what it takes to build confidence, stretch boundaries, and achieve the highest levels of performance in any field, by refusing to settle in the comfort zone and instead taking one step at a time to reach the top of the mountain The only way you can find out if you can do something is to try Check out her accomplishments at mariecmolnar.com and follow her on instagram @m...
2022-12-2631 min
Vulnerability in life and artEmma ResselEmma Ressel is a still life photographer who creates striking images of food and animals, exploring things below the surface we don't often talk about, from life and ripeness to rot and death. We discussed the stories we tell ourselves about the natural world, including our relationships with animals and the interplay between beauty and repulsion. Be sure to check out Emma's work online at emmaressel.com and on instagram @emma.ressel
2022-12-1139 min
Vulnerability in life and artLydia PanasLydia talked with me about vulnerability and letting go, being visual and creating images in our minds, defiance, discomfort and kindergarten As she explains, allowing oneself to be vulnerable is actually more courageous than not looking Be sure to check out her work at lydiapanas.com and on instagram @lydiapanas
2022-11-2944 min
Vulnerability in life and artChristine GuyThere's something interesting about the dichotomy Christine sets up between failure and joy. And how your tolerance for each can depend on the field in which you may be playing at the moment And also, vulnerability as the opposite of control. I can identify with that. I feel like I can manage that in my day job, but am certainly not as comfortable in other domains - including drawing, photography, even this podcast Christine Guy is the founder, creative director, entrepreneurial spirit, and artist behind Pollen Communication Be sure to check out her w...
2022-11-1446 min
Vulnerability in life and artAndrew FedynakAndrew Fedynak is a highly talented and committed fine art documentary photographer, as well as the publisher and designer of Zatara Press We talked about storytelling and workflow, analog and digital photography, wabi sabi, photos not taken, artists and creatives, and the influences of social media Check out www.fedynak.com and www.zatarapress.com to see what Andrew has accomplished. You can also visit @zatarapress on Instagram to learn more
2022-10-3146 min
Vulnerability in life and artCandice NixonCandice Nixon talks about graphic design, glass art, and the natural power of art to heal both the artist and those of us fortunate enough to experience her pieces Be sure to check out her work @meltingpotstudio.ca on Instagram and www.meltingpotstudio.ca And if I ever use the word 'pretty' again in reference to a work of art, please put me out of my misery!
2022-10-1736 min
Vulnerability in life and artMicah PerryIt's not just that Micah Perry describes himself as a passionate, limitless person and artist You can see it in his pieces themselves, whether tattoos, paintings, sculptures, or photographs - there's a strong sense of movement and life in his work that is captivating We talked among other things about the nature of vulnerability, and Micah makes an interesting distinction between feeling vulnerable and being vulnerable
2022-10-0347 min
Vulnerability in life and artRed eyes and what we can't seeAfter several days sick in bed, I thought more about what we see and don't see - and even more importantly, what we're not able to see, trying to tie together some reflections on self-knowledge and vulnerability
2022-09-1911 min
Vulnerability in life and artKristina TroskeI really enjoyed my conversation with Kristina. Among other things, we talked about puppetry, storytelling without words, collaborating with others, and what it means to call herself an artist Be sure to check out her work on instagram @kristinatroske because the experiences she creates through her art are absolutely amazing
2022-09-0638 min
Vulnerability in life and artDebe ArlookDebe Arlook is a photographer, educator, contributing editor, and advisor, and she also offers printing services for fine art photographers I really enjoyed our conversation and the range of topics we covered, from control and flow, to meditation and the viewer's experience, to happy accidents Be sure to check out Debe's work - including her project one, one thousand... - on instagram @debearlook and at debearlookphotography.com
2022-08-2347 min
Vulnerability in life and artArt as TherapyI tried something different... I was reading a great book over the weekend and decided to share some of the authors' ideas in this episode. Let me know what you think: vulnerabilitylifeart@gmail.com The book, Art as Therapy, was written by Alain de Botton and John Armstrong and published in 2013. They explore various functions of art and then suggest organizing museums and galleries to enlighten us about core meaningful themes - such as Love or Nature - rather than the places or periods in which artworks happen to have been created They believe that, fro...
2022-08-0913 min
Vulnerability in life and artYana MannBorn in St Petersburg Russia and living now in Dubai, classically trained mezzo soprano Yana Mann writes, performs, and produces music in collaboration with artists around the world. As she says with a laugh, "All my life is a big risk." But she has never let that stop her from experimenting with different styles of music and creating incredible experiences throughout her career, from performing opera as a young girl in Russia to her world premiere debut at Carnegie Hall earlier this year. Learn more about Yana and her work @yanamann_ on instagram and online a...
2022-07-2638 min
Vulnerability in life and artTJ DaweI enjoyed a lovely conversation with TJ Dawe, theatre writer, performer, and educator. He shares wonderful insights into his work through autobiographical monologues, which are based on his awareness and willingness to share who he is and the stories he tells about himself Be sure to check out more about TJ at tjdawe.ca and on instagram @tj_dawe And definitely watch his show Medicine on youtube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47MoQTDJ3wQ&t=1s&ab_channel=TJDawe As TJ says, and we do well to remember, we're all in th...
2022-07-1235 min
Vulnerability in life and artJoy CouttsJoy Coutts worked in financial services in the UK until she decided to leave that world behind and become a writer, freelance copy editor, and facilitator of a group for women who want to learn what it means to write That's the kind of brave choice her characters make in her first novel, A Missing Mother Among other things, we talked about finding one's voice, creating safe spaces for others, and the value of sharing what we create Be sure to check out her profile on instagram @thejoyfuljotter
2022-06-2731 min
Vulnerability in life and artMinna Re ShinMinna Re Shin is an incredibly talented classical pianist who had her solo début with the Montréal Symphony Orchestra at the age of 10, and she has since won too many awards, fellowships, and grants to count She has taken on a new challenge as the producer of Sonate Tableaux, featuring her interpretations of works by Alain Payette, as well as a performance video exploring the relationships among music, dance, painting, and theatre with artists Catherine Toupin, Natalija Jeremic, and Laurence Castonguay Emery Check out minnareshin.com and @minnareshin on instagram to learn more ab...
2022-06-1331 min
Vulnerability in life and artSara J. WinstonSara is a thoughtful photographer and writer, documenting the process of chronic illness But as she reminds us, the photo is an abstraction of the subject in front of the camera's lens. There are many stories she can tell through her work, and her insights into vulnerability and strength are touching and relevant to all Be sure to check out her work at www.sarajwinston.com or on instagram @sarajwinston
2022-05-3031 min
Vulnerability in life and artNate PerlNate was a wonderfully sweet, gentle, and insightful guest I now know a little more about psychedelics than I did before, but more importantly I enjoyed a warm and open conversation with someone who genuinely cares about people and the stories we tell ourselves and others Be sure to check out his podcasts: Curious Chimps and Psychedelic Archives
2022-05-1637 min
Vulnerability in life and artAuthenticityP.S. When you listen to the personal story I shared, here's a side note. I realized late last night that what I thought I told the woman wasn't quite what I actually said, which was something more like "...I miss it when we don't talk." Talk about the subconscious at work. I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts about what authentic vulnerability means to you. Please let me know! vulnerabilitylifeart@gmail.com
2022-05-0212 min
Vulnerability in life and artMark MurphySeason 2 of Vulnerability in life and art launches with Mark Murphy, talented collage artist, graphic designer, and musician We talked about the benefits of constraints, relationships between image and sound, the excitement of creating massive projections at scale, overcoming fear of failure, and what it may mean to call oneself an artist Check out Mark's work at www.markmurph.co.uk and on instagram @moif_collage
2022-04-1930 min
Vulnerability in life and artKate RuskoThis is the final episode of the first season of Vulnerability in life and art I had a different kind of conversation with Kate Rusko, which revolved around a triplet of related themes - refuge, rest, and resistance Kate has stepped through many fields, from fashion and economics through art and on to astrology and spirituality, and she shares a lovely series of insights from her experiences and reflections Check out her profile on instagram @katerusko
2022-04-0439 min
Vulnerability in life and artEpisode 27 Tara SemenovDuring our conversation, Tara Semenov talked about her evolution from sculptor to gallerist, experiencing the real-life physicality of art, and her plans to open her own gallery I really enjoyed hearing about Tara's experiences and vision for herself in the business side of the art world Be sure to check out her work on instagram @taralyd
2022-03-2228 min
Vulnerability in life and artJean-Christophe CouetMixed media artist Jean-Christophe Couet talks about identity and community in such thoughtful and important ways I learned a lot from my conversation with him Check out his work on instagram @_jeanchristophe as well as the account for the Transmission project @transmission.nyc
2022-03-0830 min
Vulnerability in life and artNadine KhalilI enjoyed a lovely conversation with Nadine Khalil, accomplished independent arts writer and curator based in Dubai Her passionate connection with language and culture shine throughout the interview as she shares her love of film, performance art, and literary work Be sure to check out her work @nadine_a_khalil on instagram
2022-02-2126 min
Vulnerability in life and artChiara WilliamsChiara Williams is a talented artist, curator, and educator based in the UK Her series of still life paintings, titled Push/Pull, reflect a gentle awareness of our need for refuge from everyday challenges as we pursue art for art's sake, whatever that may look like for each of us Check out her work on instagram @chiara_williams and at chiarawilliams.com Image © Chiara Williams
2022-02-0729 min
Vulnerability in life and artUnplannedTo paraphrase John Lennon, this episode is what happened while I was busy making other plans I thought I'd share some thoughts on the challenge of taking the rest we need and how that relates to the benefits of true refuge
2022-01-2510 min
Vulnerability in life and artFrancesca CavalloNew York Times best selling co-author of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls, founder of Undercats Media, and creator of narratives about and for the children who have felt invisible Francesca Cavallo grew up in the south of Italy, without models for the life she dreamed of, and so she created her own. The passion that drives her life and her art are inspiring for anyone with the desire to live in a world different than the one we inhabit today Visit her on instagram @francescatherebel and @undercats or at www.undercats.com
2022-01-1029 min
Vulnerability in life and artAngelika KollinThis was one of those conversations that changed how I think and feel about my life and what I want to do with it Angelika Kollin is a tremendously talented photographer with wonderful insight into what it means to make oneself vulnerable and create from that space Take time today to make something that is meaningful to you Explore Angelika's work online at angelikakollin.com and on instagram @angeliakollin
2021-12-2730 min
Vulnerability in life and artVulnerability journal projectIn this episode, I introduce the next aspect of this exploration into vulnerability: the vulnerability journal project You can listen to the episode to find out what the project is all about, then check out vulnerabilitylifeart.com/journal for more details I would love to send you a blank journal to see what you create on your page and where it goes from there...
2021-12-1310 min
Vulnerability in life and artFrank Strunk IIIFrank Strunk III is a self-taught artist working in Saint Petersburg, Florida. From a background in commerical printing and construction, he made his way to developing his skills as a metal artist who creates evocative and gentle pieces, like the machine which is holding - or being held by - a delicate dancing balloon of parchment. Frank shares how he became an artist- not just a person who makes art, but someone who gained the confidence to call himself an artist. He emphasizes the importance of being authentic, vulnerable, and fully open to the depth...
2021-11-2929 min
Vulnerability in life and artShaun StampShaun Stamp is an exceptional, sensitive artist whose work is at once both conceptual and strongly emotional His pieces span many media, from photography to sculpture and text to installations, addressing themes related to identity, what it means to be human, and making meaningful connections with others Learn more about Shaun and his work by visiting @shaunstamp on instagram and shaunstamp.com
2021-11-1529 min
Vulnerability in life and artSid DanielsSid Daniels has drawn incredible inspiration from art and music dating from the 1930s to the 1950s, creating dramatic, captivating illustrations, murals & paintings that reflect the unique influences on his work Sid shares highlights and lessons from his decades of experience as an artist. And he continues to explore who he is - and is becoming - as he makes and refines his art, every day Visit @siddanielsofficial on instagram or siddaniels.com for more details about his life and art
2021-11-0129 min
Vulnerability in life and artEva BlossomWhere are you on your journey? Are you open to learning from and connecting more deeply with other people, power animals, the natural world that surrounds us...? Eva Blossom talks about the shamanic journey, vulnerability as our truth, and the power of looking into the eyes of another Visit innerblossom.ca to learn more about gaining greater awareness and healing through the practices of shamanism
2021-10-1829 min
Vulnerability in life and artDuncan MeerdingWhat does it mean to be disabled? And how might we be disabling others despite good intentions? Duncan Meerding is a lighting and furniture designer-maker from Tasmania. He's also visually impaired. How does that affect his work? I learned a lot about vulnerability, accessibility, and sustainability from our conversation Be sure to check out Duncan's work on instagram @duncanmeerding or online at duncanmeerding.com.au
2021-10-0428 min
Vulnerability in life and artGary TrenteGary Trente is a gifted artist who shares wonderful insights into the act of making art and what it means to him, whether he is painting, drawing, or working through the process of creating his next piece. Even during those periods in his life when he was doing other things, he never stopped thinking about making art. Check out his profile @garytrente to see some of his beautifully rendered drawings of the buildings and streets of Manhattan.
2021-09-2029 min
Vulnerability in life and artLynda WilliamsLynda Williams is a pioneer in multiple realms Among many accomplishments, she wrote a 10-book series set in Okal Rel, a universe of her own creation She shares her thoughts and experiences of writing, being published, connecting with an audience, and creating works of art in the spirit of #slowculture Learn more about her work at en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lynda_Williams
2021-09-0629 min
Vulnerability in life and artTeddy Syrette/Ozhawa Anung KweTeddy Syrette/Ozhawa Anung Kwe/Yellow Star Woman, who sits in the Wolf Clan, tells compelling stories about their life as a first nation 2Spirit storyteller, actor, artist, and advocate from Sault Ste Marie. The term '2Spirit' (niizh manidoowag) is a cultural identity that speaks to the long indigeneous history of gender diversity and same-sex relationships in different tribes and nations, which has been muddied and lost over centuries of colonial influence and law. I relate to his story about connecting with a gay character on TV; I did the same and the relief...
2021-08-2329 min
Vulnerability in life and artJocelyn LeeMy conversation with Jocelyn Lee, an artist and photographer based in Portland Maine and Brooklyn New York, made me realize how vulnerability and strength truly complement each other. The proof is in her photographs, which marry them in an exquisite way, as landscapes and human forms pass through stages of birth and blossoming, fertility, bounty, fragility, and death. Jocelyn shares how she feels about challenging herself to take new directions in her work, experimenting with a looser, more surreal style, taking photographs and videos in the dark. When it comes to vulnerability, "We a...
2021-08-0929 min
Vulnerability in life and artMy nephew & a butterflyI took this opportunity to reflect on what I've heard from the people I've spoken with so far, what it has meant to me in my personal life, and what the podcast is about.
2021-07-2515 min
Vulnerability in life and artEpisode 9 Nicole TraversAs Nova Scotian artist Nicole Travers explains, her art is "almost like a subtle takeover." We have to be gentle with our selves and spirits. If that bead is not laying quite flat, maybe it's not supposed to. Nicole works mainly with beads, inspired by traditional quillwork, elaborate Mi'kmaq indigenous patterns, and the loom she built with her father before he passed away. She pursues a boldness that takes people aback. She stitches modern designs into fish skins she tans herself with natural dyes, highlighting personal, family, and cultural identities, and creating art intimately linked...
2021-07-1228 min
Vulnerability in life and artErika DoyonErika Doyon, tattoo artist and owner of Studio Artease in Montréal, shares stories about the art of tattooing, mentoring artists, and her remarkable grandmother. Getting tattooed puts people in a vulnerable state. In those moments she plays two roles, both tattoo artist and therapist, creating body art in her own style that delivers on client desires. Her grandmother made a living as a painter from the age of 30. From a start studying illustration and design in school, Erika worked office jobs until jumping headlong into a tattoo apprenticeship. She continues to make abstract oil p...
2021-06-2828 min
Vulnerability in life and artMary Ann BeckerMary Ann Becker shares her experiences and insights into photography on the streets of Paris and we talk about the challenges of expressing ourselves through different media. She describes her experiences at school, enjoying the magic of the kiln (as a sculptor), and then using the camera to capture experiences out in the world, waiting to see what images emerged - maybe 6 good ones out of 36 - while playing invisible pool, not looking when pressing the shutter. It's so important to play, to believe in ourselves, and to trust in how we choose to live...
2021-06-2526 min
Vulnerability in life and artJianli WuJianli Wu is a concept artist who visualizes character ideas for video games and explains how AAA video game development depends on a few highly skilled artists driven by passion. He shares how painting sexy beautiful men changed his life, while working in a straight male industry targeting a straight male audience, in line with market demands. We can never underestimate the importance of being open with ourselves if we want to create our best work. You have to be honest with at least a part of yourself to be able to share work that m...
2021-06-1428 min
Vulnerability in life and artJeanne QuinnJeanne Quinn became a ceramic installation artist and professor in the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Colorado by way of the Art Shack at music camp. She's enraptured by the role clay has played at the heart of every civilization that has ever existed, including the relationship of ceramics with food (with a great story about the unique vessels created in Europe to be able to drink hot chocolate made from cacao imported from South America). Imagine not being able to sleep at night because you're obsessed with cups, because...
2021-05-3128 min
Vulnerability in life and artCasey 'Remrov' VormerCasey 'Remrov' Vormer is a self-taught artist and autism advocate who creates rich photorealistic drawings of animals, people, and landscapes. From patterns and shapes of colours and roadmaps to friendly alien creatures to highly detailed animal portraits (as an animal lover), Casey developed his drawing skills in safe spaces, at times when social interactions were more challenging. Casey talks about what drawing does for him. It helps him feel calm, in the zone. As he explains, when you struggle and things don't turn out as you'd want them to, loosen up and allow life to...
2021-05-2827 min
Vulnerability in life and artNatasha de GrunwaldNatasha de Grunwald is a massage practitioner, teacher, and author with expertise in therapeutic Thai bodywork and breathwork. She began her practice working with women who were HIV-positive, who developed AIDS, whose children were dying. She shares her personal experiences in coming to terms with our desire for external validation balanced against the more urgent need to express our true selves. She also emphasizes the need to understand oneself deeply as a whole person before being able to offer healing to others. That means taking the opportunity to step into the fearful, edgy, stretchy place as one...
2021-05-1729 min
Vulnerability in life and artRobert KabweRobert Kabwe talks about truth, censorship, and his work in animation, graphic and web design, and natural open world video games. As he explains, some of us learned to see our true selves - the truth of who we are - as weakness, which then means sharing who we are requires strength. But ultimately, "Showing your vulnerability is just showing who you are." One of the stories I appreciated was when Robert explained why he created his first video game. Because he wanted to. And when my son had an idea for a video game...
2021-05-1428 min
Vulnerability in life and artAmanda MarchandAmanda Marchand is a creative and experimental photo-based artist I've known for over 40 years. She was gracious to take a chance on being the first guest on this podcast and I'll always be grateful that she invested time and energy in something entirely unknown to help a friend. Her work focuses on the natural environment explored from the perspective of inner narratives - the stories we tell ourselves - which she describes as "the nerves beneath the skin." Amanda shares some of the inspirations and experiences that led to projects such as Night Garden and...
2021-05-0326 min
Vulnerability in life and artWelcome to Vulnerability in life and artThis podcast explores how artists and other creatives take chances and show themselves through their lives and work. It's about discovering who you are and can become through openness, risk, reflection, and conversation. If you feel hesitant, not sure you can uncover and express who you are and want to become, listen to one or two of these conversations and I hope you'll find what you need to take one step, then one more step. One step after the other makes the journey.
2021-04-1505 min