In this episode of How Does the Art World Work?, hosts Matt Nasser, Claudia Bass, and Bartholomew Bland are joined by artist and therapist Irena Kenny, who has been blending the worlds of art and therapy for nearly 20 years.

Irena takes us on a journey through her early artistic training in Czechoslovakia and contrasts it with the U.S., shedding light on the differences in art education. She shares her personal experiences on how art became an emotional escape during difficult times and discusses how art therapy can help externalize emotions and create a sense of relief.

The conversation dives deep into the importance of craftsmanship in art, the challenges faced by artists today, and the role of art in modern education. Irena also opens up about her own internal struggles with accepting herself as an artist and how her work as a therapist adds a unique dimension to her artistic process.

Whether you're an artist, a therapist, or simply curious about how art can heal, this episode offers a compelling discussion about the intersections of art, therapy, and the creative process.