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 Guest

02:37 Roxanne's Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

04:04 Life in Santa Monica and Artistic Influences

07:48 College Years and Meeting Her Husband

13:23 Life in Northern California and Early Art Career

20:43 Teaching Career and Artistic Evolution

22:46 Developing a Unique Artistic Style

25:35 The Influence of Blogging and Artist Books

29:15 Collections and Inspirations

35:27 The Story Behind the Work Table

36:38 Challenges of Building a Custom Table

37:49 Creating an Inspiring Studio Space

39:35 The Evolution of My Art Journey

40:15 Teaching and Workshops

43:13 Artist Residencies and Their Impact

46:38 Upcoming Workshops and Inspirations

52:58 Exploring My Color Palette

58:31 Influence of My Mother's Art

01:06:03 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 Guest

02:34 Wendy Shragg's Artistic Journey Begins

03:21 Childhood Influences and Early Art Experiences

09:16 High School and College Art Education

21:09 Post-College Career and Creative Ventures

42:19 Crafting Beginnings and Jewelry Making

42:44 Transition to Interior Decorative Painting

43:21 Becoming an Aesthetician

44:33 Exploring Intuitive Painting

45:29 Creating Imaginary Creatures

49:07 Pursuing Art Full-Time

53:01 Navigating the Art World and Social Media

56:58 Joining Art Co-ops and Community

01:00:36 Teaching and Gel Printing

01:20:18 Digital Art and Procreate

01:25:42 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 Guest

02:20 Meet Cheiron Brandon: A Journey from New Jersey

03:40 Cheiron's Artistic Beginnings and Inspirations

08:17 Discovering Rubber Stamping and Card Making

16:08 From Hobby to Passion: Teaching and Creating

18:41 Exploring Mixed Media and Tim Holtz Products

22:24 The Evolution of Sharon's Art Style

28:44 Collaborations and Design Teams

37:30 Teaching and Online Classes

39:09 Joining Fodder School and Continuous Learning

39:39 Learning from Different Artists

40:56 Balancing Art and Life Changes

41:47 Becoming a Fodder School Teacher

42:49 Exploring Alcohol Inks

43:09 The Evolution of Alcohol Inks

45:19 Crafting with Alcohol Inks

50:48 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge

55:11 Relocating and Creating a New Routine

59:16 Crafting Community and Retreats

01:07:24 The Joy of Card Making

01:08:27 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 Guest

00:39 Meet Dori Patrick: Background and Personal Life

01:41 Wendy's Artistic Journey and Podcast Overview

03:42 Dori's Early Life and Family Background

09:48 Dori's Creative Upbringing and Early Influences

15:05 Dori's Artistic Career and Personal Challenges

31:42 Transition to Professional Artistry

36:42 The Dreaming Bear: Dori's Store and Workshop

51:41 The Birth of a Creative Space

54:06 Transforming the Storefront

55:55 The Decision to Close

58:47 Life After the Store

01:02:03 Embracing Artistic Freedom

01:17:55 The Split Heads Project

01:26:22 The Joy of Creating

01:32:49 Current Projects and Future Plans

01:38:13 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 Guest

00:21 Meet Arlyna Blanchard: Artist and Teacher

00:48 Wendy and Arlyna's Artistic Connection

01:55 Podcast Overview and Host Introduction

03:23 Arlyna's Background and Journey

05:43 Growing Up in the Philippines

07:23 Cultural and Linguistic Influences

13:22 Artistic Beginnings and Influences

21:29 Education and Career Path

22:52 Life in Taiwan and Move to Shanghai

33:47 Family Life and Artistic Exploration

36:11 Scrapbooking and Early Art Journaling

42:07 Struggles with Art Journaling

43:17 Finding Personal Style in Art

45:34 Balancing Art and Life

46:47 The Impact of Divorce on Creativity

48:40 Work-Life Balance and Art

54:09 Embracing Favorite Colors

01:02:19 The Joy of Learning and Teaching

01:10:25 Exploring Urban Sketching and Illustration

01:19:23 The Therapeutic Power of Art

01:21:09 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 Guest

00:54 Meet Cathy Nichols: A Journey of Bravery

01:18 Exploring Mixed Media Art

02:44 Cathy's Artistic Beginnings

04:25 High School Art Adventures

12:45 College Decisions and Career Path

24:34 Discovering Acrylics and Moving to Venice

36:40 Joining the 10 Women Gallery

46:04 Life in New York and Starting a New Co-op

49:19 Discovering the Firefly Artists Gallery

49:39 Balancing Art and Family Life

50:55 Transition to Full-Time Artist

51:34 Licensing Deal and Artistic Evolution

57:40 Moving to Asheville and New Beginnings

01:00:27 Developing a Unique Artistic Style

01:10:33 The Influence of Quilting and Textiles

01:15:59 The Power of Color in Art

01:30:23 Teaching and Retreats

01:35:45 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 Guest

01:37 Meet Kate McCurrach: Artist and Fodder School Teacher

03:09 Kate's Background and Early Life

04:17 Growing Up in British Columbia

05:12 Family History and Heritage

15:30 Crafting and Creativity in Kate's Family

19:20 Kate's Artistic Journey in School

28:33 University Life and Science Studies

35:17 Health Challenges and Life Changes

41:58 Starting a Craft Business on Etsy

49:45 Starting a Button Business

50:55 Expanding the Product Line

51:34 Personal Life and Health Challenges

54:05 Craft Shows and Market Experiences

57:07 Living with Chronic Illness

01:05:30 Pregnancy and Motherhood

01:20:55 Rediscovering Art and Joining Fodder School

01:26:39 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 Icon
01:07 Wendy's Artistic Journey and Inspirations
03:11 The Impact of Laura's Work
08:58 Balancing Art and Business
33:13 Navigating Social Media as an Artist
50:13 Struggles with Artistic Self-Criticism
51:09 Phases of Intensity and Stress in Business
52:11 The Hidden Stress of Running a Tech Business
56:34 Balancing Gratitude and Frustration with Technology
59:10 The Intersection of Art and Business Metrics
01:05:13 Creating a Harmonious Art and Business Life
01:08:26 The Journey to Finding a Dedicated Art Space
01:20:58 The Challenges of Balancing Family and Work
01:25:58 The Importance of Seeking Help and Self-Care
01:28:31 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 Scotland
03:08 Embracing Creativity and Overcoming Insecurities
09:51 Transitioning to London and Finding a Path in Art
11:53 Exploring Mixed Media Art and Its Challenges
22:14 The Power of Vintage Photos in Art
30:00 Connecting with Ancestral Memories Through Art
34:46 The Impact of Art on Viewers and Personal Reflections

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!

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.