AART

Step into the enchanting world of costume artistry with this biographical podcast interview featuring Christiane Joy, an acclaimed costumier, designer, and creative visionary known for her innovative approach to character, texture, and identity. In this episode, Christiane shares her creative evolution—from her early artistic influences to her rise as a sought-after designer whose work bridges theater, film, performance, and fashion. Listeners will discover how Christiane transforms imagination into material form—crafting garments that move beyond clothing into expressive storytelling. She discusses the power of intuition, the significance of materials, and how collaboration shapes her process. Together, we explore her most notable creative partnerships, the emotional dimension behind her pieces, how costumes help performers access truth, and what fuels her continued curiosity for the craft. Whether you're a costume designer, filmmaker, performer, fashion lover, or simply curious about how visual language shapes narrative, this conversation offers an intimate look into the creative life of a designer committed to authenticity and artistic risk-taking. Christiane shares insights on sourcing inspiration, managing the demands of production, navigating artistic vulnerability, and balancing practical function with conceptual vision. Tune in to hear how Christiane Joy continues to evolve her storytelling practice, connect with audiences through fabric and form, and create worlds where character and costume become inseparable.

Keywords:
Christiane Joy, an acclaimed costumier and costume designer known for her inventive approach to performance design, character design, and textile artistry. Through this artist interview, listeners gain insight into her creative process, costume construction, and storytelling techniques. The conversation spans the worlds of film costume design, theatrical costume design, fashion and performance, and artisan costume, offering a rich look at how costumes shape character and narrative. Perfect for listeners interested in creative storytelling, artist storytelling, and the world of costume and performance art.

BIO
Costumiére Christiane Joy Hultquist first established her name when she collaborated with Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ lead singer, Karen O to design her stage costumes, and she has never looked back. Christiane was born in Marion, Iowa in 1973, the second oldest of six children to Connie and Jim Hultquist. Her parents had their own challenges raising a family while each spending time in the prison system. Her mother became a ‘born again Christian’ and so instilled a religious upbringing to her children. She was creative, teaching them to be resourceful using DIY—a skill Christiane would later adopt in her craft. Connie was also a writer, and her father a singer. Coming from a poor background, Christiane soon learned that she needed to make her own way and, while she excelled at sport in school, she had no academic ambitions. Instead she decided to make her own way and is entirely self taught—aside from one year studying photography, she had no training to become an artist or costume designer. Once she left Iowa and headed east to Chicago, her world began to open up and she spent time in Europe before, at the age of 24, realizing her future was destined to be in New York.  It was there that she worked in retail and made the most of networking, which paid off, and it wasn’t long before she met Karen O, herself a burgeoning artist.  Thus began a partnership that would showcase her work on stage, and give her the name recognition she needed to establish herself in the industry.  Consequently, international success followed.  Christiane’s work has been exhibited in The Victoria & Albert Museum in London, the Mode Museum in Hasselt, Belgium and The Museum of Art and Design in New York City.  She has also held her first solo show at the AVA Gallery in New York.  Christiane’s work has been featured across all major publications, including The New York Times, Time Magazine, Vogue, Vanity Fair, The Guardian, Billboard, Spin and Rolling Stone. Christiane lives in New York with her husband, the actor and artist, Jason Grisell.
 
Some of Christiane’s favorite female artists:
Melissa Godoy Nieto
Alex Murray-Leslie
@ioulex
Mariangela Lopez
Caroline McAuliffe
Janelle Rabbott
Naomi Sarah Clark
Rachel Nelson
Michell Im
Camilla Carper
Cammi Climaco 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @thecalltimepodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

In this episode of AART the Podcast, we sit down with Kathryn Andrews, a leading American conceptual artist known for her provocative installations that blur the lines between sculpture, politics, and pop culture. Andrews’ work challenges viewers to question how images, materials, and cultural symbols shape our understanding of identity, value, and power. Through an engaging and revealing conversation, Kathryn shares her creative journey—from her early inspirations and MFA years to her critically acclaimed exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, David Kordansky Gallery, and the High Line in New York. She discusses the conceptual framework behind her use of Hollywood props, reflective surfaces, and performative elements that invite audiences to confront the art object—and themselves—with fresh eyes. Listeners will gain insight into Kathryn’s artistic process, her views on the relationship between art and consumerism, and how she explores themes of gender, celebrity, and control through her unique visual language. This intimate interview captures not only the depth of her ideas but also the humor, rigor, and play that define her practice. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, collector, student, or curator, this episode offers a rare look into the mind of one of the most compelling contemporary artists working today. 🔗 Tune in to learn how Kathryn Andrews continues to redefine conceptual art in the 21st century — only on AART the Podcast.

🔑 SEO Keywords:
Kathryn Andrews interview, Kathryn Andrews artist, Kathryn Andrews conceptual artist, American conceptual artist, AART the Podcast, contemporary art podcast, conceptual art interview, modern sculpture, installation art, art and pop culture, art and politics, women in contemporary art, art podcast 2025, artist biography podcast, conceptual art discussion, Kathryn Andrews exhibitions, art and consumerism, Los Angeles artist, modern American artists

BIO
American conceptual artist Kathryn Andrews was born in Mobile, Alabama in 1973. The only child of Judy, an entrepreneur, and Lamar, a salesman and erstwhile poet, Kathryn’s early days were transient because her family’s business determined where they lived. Kathryn’s childhood influences in terms of culture, politics and religion would form the backdrop to her emergence as an artist. Her formal art education began with a BFA from Duke University and an MFA from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. She also studied photography at the Rochester Institute of Technology, NY prior to becoming interested in sculpture. She says that initially she did not consider being an artist—working in mixed media came later. Kathryn spent time traveling through Europe and working a range of jobs, including with Bosnian refugees in Slovenia. She then spent five years in Manhattan as a researcher and working for the fine art photographer, Rosalind Solomon. Kathryn then moved to LA in 2000 and began exhibiting her work in 2002. She has exhibited in numerous shows both shared and solo as well as holding performances at institutions including the Broad Art Museum, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI (2017), the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago, (2015), The High Line, New York, (2016), and the Museum Ludwig, Cologne, Germany (2013). Kathryn is the founder of The Judith Center, which seeks to engage women artists, activists and thought leaders in conversation around the topic of gender equality. It will launch in the spring of 2024 with 50 artists featured in 30 museums over the next five years. Meanwhile, Kathryn’s work will be featured in a new exhibition at Kunstmuseum Thun in September 2023, called Not My Circus, Not My Monkeys. Kathryn lives in Los Angeles with her two Bedlington terriers, Coco and Cooper.

Kathryn’s favorite female artists:
Agnes Denes Marisol
Alison Knowles
Barbara T Smith
Barbara Jones-Hogu (d)
Lutz Bacher (d)
Gae Aulenti (d)
Cini Boeri (d)

Kathryn’s Playlist (but not when she’s working)
Bill Frissell
Pauline Oliveros
Leo Kottke
Dizzy Gillespie

Kathryn’s website: https://kathrynandrews.net/
Instagram: @crib_z

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Instagram: @theaartpodcast
Email:[email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

Join us on AART the Podcast for an exclusive biographical interview with Akiko Stehrenberger, a celebrated movie poster illustrator and designer known for her captivating, cinematic artwork that brings films to life. In this episode, Akiko shares her journey from aspiring artist to professional illustrator, offering insights into the creative process behind iconic movie posters and the art of visual storytelling. Discover how Akiko combines traditional illustration techniques with modern design sensibilities, creating artwork that resonates with audiences worldwide. She opens up about her inspirations, challenges in the competitive world of film and design, and tips for aspiring illustrators looking to make their mark in the industry. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, graphic designer, illustrator, or film lover, this episode is packed with inspiration, creative wisdom, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most innovative minds in movie poster design. Don’t miss this deep dive into the intersection of illustration, design, and cinematic storytelling.

Keywords:
Akiko Stehrenberger, movie poster illustrator, film poster designer, illustration podcast, art interview, AART the Podcast, creative process, visual storytelling, cinematic illustration, graphic design inspiration, artist biography.

BIO
Movie poster illustrator and designer Akiko Stehrenberger was born in South Lake Tahoe, California in 1978. A first generation American, she is the second youngest of four children with one sister and two brothers. Akiko’s father, designer Mark Stehrenberger is Swiss German and her mother Aichu Yeh from Taiwan—which, until she was eight years old was under Japanese rule— and they met when they emigrated to Los Angeles in the 60’s. Akiko’s mother spoke both Japanese and Mandarin but fostered more of a Japanese culture. Although she was not a professional artist, she encouraged Akiko to take up drawing and apply for art school; that being the preferred option to her enlisting for the army, which came close to being a reality. And so, in 1997 Akiko began studying illustration and design at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. She also worked a variety of jobs to get through college and after she graduated in order to pursue her career and pay off student loans. New York beckoned and she moved from Southern California to learn the trade of becoming a designer and illustrator. When her mother became ill, Akiko moved back to LA. It was also coincidentally at the time when magazines were moving online that she fell into the movie poster industry, which changed the course of her life. In 2004, she officially began her career as a movie poster artist. It would be the film Funny Games, for which her poster was chosen, that put creative directors and the film industry on notice that here was an artist making her mark. Akiko is now a 23-time CLIO Award winner who was deemed the “Poster Girl” by Interview Magazine. Vanity Fair included her Funny Games and Kiss of the Damned posters in their “Best Movie Posters of All Time” list. Her "Da 5 Bloods" is on view at the Academy Motion Pictures Museum. Akiko’s portfolio includes Portrait of a Lady on Fire, TÁR, Dune, Beef and Everything, Everywhere All at Once, to name just a few. Akiko combines traditional illustration techniques and modern graphic design to create textural elements with fearless experimentation showcasing her crafty intuition and versatility by capturing the essence of a film in a single image. New Life director John Rosman said: “Akiko is simply one of the best poster artists of all time.” Her first book, Akikomatic: The Work of Akiko Stehrenberger, published in 2020 will be updated with more recent posters later this year for its second edition. Akiko lives in Los Angeles with her son Barrington.

Akiko on Instagram: @doyrivative
https://akikomatic.com/

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
@theaartpodcast on Instagram

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

Discover the delicate beauty of botanical art in this inspiring episode of AART the Podcast, featuring celebrated botanical artist Carol Woodin. Known for her meticulous and vibrant plant illustrations, Carol takes us behind the scenes of her creative journey—from her early fascination with nature to her acclaimed works that bridge art and science. In this in-depth interview, Carol shares her insights into botanical illustration techniques, the process of translating plants into detailed artworks, and the balance between accuracy and artistic expression. She also discusses her experiences exhibiting her work, collaborating with botanical institutions, and the role of contemporary botanical art in today’s art world. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, aspiring botanical illustrator, or simply captivated by the natural world, this episode offers a rich exploration of creativity, observation, and the timeless beauty of plants. Tune in for a blend of personal anecdotes, professional tips, and inspiring stories from a leading voice in botanical art.

Keywords:
botanical artist, botanical illustration, Carol Woodin, AART the Podcast, plant art, contemporary botanical art, art interview, nature-inspired art, art techniques, artist journey, fine art, creative process, botanical illustration tips.

Botanical Artist, teacher and exhibition organizer, Carol Woodin was born in 1956 in Salamanca, Upstate New York inside the Allegany Indian Reservation, one of two governed by the Seneca Nation of New York. Her father James was a construction worker and her mother June, a library clerk who also enjoyed oil painting and playing the piano. Carol is the middle of six children with four brothers and one sister. Her childhood was one of making her own fun outdoors and with sketchbook in hand she pursued an early interest for art. At first this would be still life and landscape paintings until an introduction to orchids became a passion and one that developed into a level of expertise she did not plan on. In fact, she never wanted to be a botanical artist; her foundation for illustration started in high school and then at the Williamsport Area Community College (now known as the Pennsylvania College of Technology) as a technical illustrator where she was one woman amongst 50 men. But before she could make art her career, Carol spent time as a draftsman, surveyor’s cartographer, UPS manager and for three years a tractor-trailer driver. In 2016, she married Paul Harwood who is also a painter and gardener. For the past 30 years Carol has focused exclusively on botanical art; as a painter, teacher and exhibition organizer. Most recently her work has been shown at Jonathan Cooper Gallery, London; Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC; Shirley Sherwood Gallery, Kew, UK: UBS Galleries and Newhouse Galleries in New York; Museum de Zwarte Tulp, in the Netherlands; and the Marciana Library, in Venice, Italy. Her work is also in numerous private and corporate collections throughout the Americas and Europe. Carol was recently invited to contribute to the Grootbos Florilegium, a project to document and raise awareness of the Cape Floral Kingdom in South Africa. In 1995 Carol received a Gold Medal from the Royal Horticultural Society for her watercolors of Paphiopedilum orchids, and was the recipient of the 1998 “Bouchier ASBA Award for Excellence” from the American Society of Botanical Artists. In 2013 she received the first Lankester Award for Orchid Art in Cartago, Costa Rica and in 2016, the Orchid Digest Medal of Honor. Carol lives in Catskill, New York where she also cultivates her own flora and fauna.

Carol’s favorite contemporary artists:
Tanya Marcuse (contemporary photographer)
Rosie Sanders (botanical artist)
Jean Emmons (botanical artist)
Asuka Hishiki (botanical artist)
Mieko Ishikawa (botanical artist)
Katie Whipple (oil painter)
Andrea Kowch (oil painter)

Playlist:
Bill Staines- Travelling Shoes Les Paul and his Trio – It’s only a Paper Moon (That Crazy Rhythm) instrumental Lorraine Hunt Lieberson Bach: Contatas BMV 82 and 199 Mike and Ruthy The Farmer (Bright as You Can) Dianne Reeves – Nine

Podcast: In Defense of Plants

Books: Anne Cleeves’ Vera series Mick Herron’s Slow Horses series Ron Chernow’s historical biographies (Hamilton, J.D. Rockefeller, J.P Morgan, Washington, just started Grant) Geraldine Brooks—historical/contemporary novels—People of the Book, Horse, The Secret Chord, Caleb’s Crossing


Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

Dive into the vibrant world of textile artistry with Carmen Mardonez in this inspiring episode of AART the Podcast. Carmen, an acclaimed textile artist, shares her creative journey, exploring how her passion for fabric, color, and texture transforms into stunning works of art. From her early inspirations to the intricate techniques she uses in weaving, embroidery, and mixed-media textiles, Carmen gives listeners an intimate look at the artistry and dedication behind her craft. In this biographical interview, discover how Carmen merges traditional textile methods with contemporary design, creating pieces that tell compelling stories and evoke emotion. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a fellow textile artist, or someone curious about the creative process, this episode offers valuable insights, practical tips, and a glimpse into the life of a modern-day textile artist shaping the future of fiber art.

Keywords: Carmen Mardonez, textile artist, fiber art, contemporary textile design, embroidery, weaving, mixed-media art, AART the Podcast, artist interview, creative journey, biographical podcast, art inspiration

BIO
Textile artist Carmen Mardonez was born in Santiago, Chile in 1988. She is the oldest of nine children with seven sisters and one brother. Her father Joaquim is an engineer and her mother, also Carmen, was a psychologist until raising her family took over. As a child, Carmen was into crafts and soon learned to sew, knit, and embroider. She studied History and Arts at the University of Chile, and earned a master’s degree in Community Psychology, also at the University of Chile. Whilst in school, Carmen volunteered at the local women’s prison and studied art therapy as a way of helping the prisoners. In 2017, she moved with her husband Paulo to Los Angeles where her dreams and aspirations to becoming a textile artist aligned with her passion for social justice. Carmen’s vibrant artwork using vivid colors seeks to radically reimagine intimate spaces of memories, dreams, and discovery. She transforms discarded textile waster such as bed sheets, pillow covers, and pillows through her labor-intensive freestyle embroidery to create provocative fabric sculptures and installations. She says: “I seek to connect with these radically intimate spaces that store memories of exploration, discovery, and suffering.” Carmen has held exhibitions across LA, at the Jackson Dinsdale Art Center, JKR Gallery, Provo, Utah, Stay at Home Gallery, Paris, TN, Oranj Studio Gallery, Portland, OR, and the Friend of a Friend Gallery, Denver, CO. Her work has also been shown in “Building Bridges Art Exchange” and “Craft Contemporary”, and has received the support of several grants, scholarships, and art residencies. Later this summer, Carmen will be relocating to Oxford, England with her husband and their six year old son Juan.

Carmen’s favorite women artists:
Sarah Plamodon
Sarah Detweiler
Amy J. Dyck
Nagu
Ash Woodworth
Bushra Gill
Tara Centybear

What does Carmen do while she’s working with fabric?
“Usually I work in silence or talking with one of my sisters/grandmas/friends by phone. Or watching something on Netflix to keep practice my English.”


Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

Join us on AART the Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Rebecca Youssef, a visionary mixed media artist whose work bridges painting, collage, and experimental techniques. In this episode, Rebecca shares her artistic journey, the stories behind her most captivating pieces, and the creative processes that fuel her unique style. From early inspirations to her current explorations in contemporary mixed media art, Rebecca provides an intimate look at how she transforms materials into expressive, thought-provoking works of art. Whether you’re an art lover, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about the world of contemporary art, this episode offers invaluable insights into the mind of a modern mixed media artist, including tips on overcoming creative blocks, finding your artistic voice, and navigating the art world. Tune in for a conversation full of creativity, passion, and the power of artistic expression.

Keywords:
Rebecca Youssef, mixed media artist, contemporary art, art podcast, creative process, AART the Podcast, painting and collage, artist interview, modern art techniques, art inspiration, biographical artist interview

BIO
Mixed media artist Rebecca Youssef was born in Lebanon, PA in 1973. The daughter of teachers Chic & Linda Hess, she was the middle of three children; she has an older brother and younger sister. Art runs in her family in different mediums; her sister and a cousin are graphic artists, an aunt was a fashion designer, and her paternal grandmother was a hobby painter. At the age of 9, her family moved to Hawaii where Rebecca began to appreciate the connection between nature and nurture. She developed her interest in gardening and arboriculture, which established the foundation for her focus on eco-culture. Her love of trees and nature is reflected in her work as she strives to bring awareness to the importance of sustainable art. She says: “I’ve been an avid gardener since the age of ten. Even then, I recall understanding the importance of growing and nurturing native plants. I was already in awe of California’s lush topography, and knew that a balanced ecosystem was key to survival for all its members.” Rebecca graduated from the University of Arizona in Tucson with a Bachelor in Fine Arts and a Masters in Art Education from Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles. After college she worked as a graphic artist and in fashion before teaching art. She met her husband Ike in LA where they live with their three children; Andrew, Caroline and Margaret. Rebecca returned to art seven years ago and after initially finding it a challenge once she found how her art belonged in her soul and with her eco-friendly values, she settled into what has become her niche; using natural materials and sustainable practices for eco-conscious mixed media art. She says: ‘Beautiful things can be made by working with the planet, not taking from it.” As the saying goes: one man’s trash is another man’s treasure and Rebecca has proved how waste can be transformed into beauty. A cultivator of native California oak trees, her family’s acorn project has seen over 25,000 acorns planted in the Santa Monica Mountains over the past ten years. Rebecca is currently an artist-in-residence at the 18th Street @ The Airport art complex in Santa Monica, CA. 


Rebecca’s favorite female artists: "Jaclyn Gordyan, who uses objects found in nature in her work Laurey Bennett-Levy, who is a printmaker using cyanotype Joan Wulf, who uses smoke and fire to create marks Julie Mehretu, who creates layered, abstracted landscapes Mickalene Thomas, whose collages incorporate glitter, rhinestones and enamel."

Rebecca’s playlist:
"Podcasts: I Like Your Work, Art Problems, The Flying Fruitbowl, Arts To Hearts, Armchair Expert, Pivot Music: Hip Hop only Audiobooks: Everything from fiction to self help. I just started Finding The Mother Tree and am loving it."

Rebecca's website: https://www.rebeccayoussef.com/
Instagram: rebecca.youssef_studio


Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

Join us on AART the Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Kristin Calabrese, acclaimed painter and curator. In this biographical interview, Kristin shares her journey through the world of contemporary art, exploring the inspirations behind her evocative paintings and her experiences curating thought-provoking exhibitions. Discover how Kristin blends creativity, technique, and storytelling in both her own artwork and in her role as a curator, highlighting the transformative power of visual art. Listeners will gain insight into Kristin’s artistic process, her challenges and triumphs in the art world, and her advice for emerging artists. Whether you’re a painter, art enthusiast, collector, or simply curious about the stories behind the canvas, this episode offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a modern artist who is shaping today’s art scene.

Keywords:
Kristin Calabrese, painter, curator, contemporary art, art podcast, artist interview, biographical podcast, painting techniques, art inspiration, creative process, visual storytelling, emerging artists, art exhibitions, AART the Podcast

BIO
Painter and curator Kristin Calabrese was born in 1968 in Mountain View, a suburb of San Jose, CA and spent her childhood moving back and forth between Massachusetts and Arizona. Her father, Bill, was an engineer and her mother, Karen, a housewife. Kristin has a younger brother Greg and they grew up in the 70s in a middle-class white American suburb with an abundance of children in the neighborhood. However, Kristin’s childhood was not easy; her father was an authoritarian and she was bullied by children in school. She says her family environment was very sexist and she vowed to live a very different life to her mother’s. In 1995, Kristin graduated with a Bachelor in Fine Arts from the San Francisco Art Institute and Master of Fine Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1998. She found her way as an artist after exploring a variety of mediums in college, venturing into graphic design and creating websites before eventually concentrating on oils. She says: “My paintings speak plainly, make jokes, and are irreverent. I paint to make my thoughts, feelings, and experience into monuments that mark my small and large, personal existence.” The focus of Kristin’s work includes psychology, humor, politics and formal issues of composition and representation, primarily through painting. Since the mid 90’s, Kristin has held numerous shows in the US and Europe. Solo exhibitions include Gagosian Gallery in Los Angeles, Brennan & Griffin in New York, and Michael Jansen in Cologne. She has also curated many group exhibitions, including at the Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions and Honor Fraser Gallery. Her work is featured in numerous collections, including Saatchi and The Armand Hammer Museum. Together with her husband, artist Joshua Aster, they have a small business for art supplies, such as canvases and framing, and then they spend the evenings painting. Kristin says that she is now in a happy place as an artist and curator at home in Los Angeles. 

Women artists whose work Kristin admires:
Mary Weatherford
Susanna Coffey
Michelle Grabner
Anne Harris
Deb Sokolo
Lucy Bull
Lauren Quin

Kristin’s Playlist
“I don't listen to music in the studio. I listen to podcasts and books on tape. Once I recognize a song, I find it annoying and distracting, so I listen to podcasts and books on tape. I'm pretty interested in history right now, stuff I never learned in school like the 30 Years War, The Reformation, even more current American history, like J. Edgar Hoover and the FBI. I play podcasts all day long, need it to sort of distract myself from being antsy, they help me focus on the painting.
Here are some or my current podcast faves:
American Prestige
Background Briefing
Know Your Enemy
The Majority
Report Chapo
Trap House
The Tom Hartman Show
Left Reckoning
Letters and Politics
AndI've adopted a couple astrology podcasts:
Chani Nicholas Astrology of the Week Ahead
Anne Ortelee weekly weather
Also some comedy podcasts, here's one: Thought Spiral".

Kristin's website: https://kristincalabrese.com/
Instagram: @only_future_thing

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

Join us on AART the Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Erin Spencer, a talented landscape artist whose breathtaking paintings capture the beauty and serenity of nature. In this episode, Erin shares her journey as an artist, from her early inspirations to her signature techniques that bring landscapes to life on canvas. Discover the creative processes behind her work, including her approach to color, composition, and the emotional storytelling that makes her art so compelling. Whether you’re an aspiring painter, an art enthusiast, or simply someone who loves nature-inspired art, this interview is packed with insights into the world of contemporary landscape painting. Erin also discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a career in the arts, offering practical advice for fellow artists and creatives. Tune in to explore Erin Spencer’s artistic vision, learn about her favorite landscapes to paint, and gain a deeper appreciation for the power of art to connect us with the natural world.

Keywords:
Erin Spencer, landscape artist, contemporary landscape painting, painting techniques, nature-inspired art, art podcast, AART the Podcast, artist interview, creative process, art inspiration, emerging artists, art career advice

BIO
Finding poetry in the landscape is how Erin Spencer portrays her work as she connects with nature. Born in Northern California, the second of seven children, Erin moved to Maryland as a toddler. She showed an early interest in writing, dancing and archeology and would later study archeology and history at Brigham Young University in Utah. Her father, Boyd, was a chemistry professor, as well as a pianist and composer, and her mother Janine, a teacher who encouraged all her children to be creative. In her 20’s, Erin spent 18 months in The Netherlands as a church missionary, where she took photographs, which provided her with the inspiration for her early paintings. After returning to the US, Erin married her husband, Peter, and in 2008 the couple moved to Rhode Island where they have raised three children. Faith and family are the most important aspects of Erin’s life — she reads her scriptures daily and spends time each day at the easel. Her inspiration for her landscapes comes from California to New England via Europe and she captures her scenes in plein air or in the studio. “I think what’s so exciting about the art, what I produce but also art that I get to see from others, not just paintings but anything that people create, it’s an exciting thing to see.” Erin also spends time studying art and teaching workshops. Her paintings are included in private collections across the United States and around the world including Canada, Europe, Israel, Australia, and Japan. She says: “My personal process begins with observation and study of the natural world in all its splendid variation. Whether working from life or from sketches back in my studio, my paintings become translations of what I perceive. The beauty of this is that I will always have work to do, poems to create from my personal impressions of the world.”

Erin’s favorite female artists:
Maria Josenhans
Mary Tonkin
Laura Rios
Bethann Moran-Handzlik
Sarah Manolescue
Jennifer Moses

Erin’s playlist:
“It varies. Sometimes it's a podcast (often an art podcast or This American Life). I often listen to music. Currently I'm playing Johnny Flynn, Gregory Alan Isakov, Kishi Bashi, and Dar Williams. It changes, but music is a huge part of my practice.”

https://www.erinspencerart.com/
Instagram: @erinspencerart

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
@theaartpodcast
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

Join us on AART the Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Maria Martinez-Canas, a visionary photo-based artist whose work transforms photography into compelling visual narratives. In this episode, Maria shares her journey as an artist, exploring the intersection of photography, mixed media, and contemporary art, and reveals the creative process behind her evocative, image-driven works. Listeners will discover how Maria merges technical skill with artistic vision to produce pieces that challenge perception and evoke emotion. We dive into her influences, her approach to storytelling through images, and the unique ways she engages with the modern art scene. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer, a visual artist, or an art enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights on artistic development, creative inspiration, and the evolving world of photo-based art. Tune in to learn from Maria’s experiences, gain inspiration for your own artistic journey, and explore the power of photography as fine art. Don’t miss this deep dive into the mind of a contemporary artist redefining visual storytelling.

Keywords for SEO:
Maria Martinez-Canas, photo-based artist, contemporary photography, fine art photography, art podcast, artist interview, creative process, visual storytelling, modern art, photography inspiration, AART the Podcast

BIO
Cuban-born photo-based artist, María Martínez-Cañas, first came to the US at the tender age of three months with her parents, and four years later, in 1964, they relocated to Puerto Rico. Maria recalls her earliest fascination for photography as an eight year old when she started working with a Polaroid Swinger camera that her parents gave her. Her mother also gave her an old Twin-Lens Rolleiflex that she brought out of Cuba, which Maria still has today. It wasn’t long before she asked her parents for a darkroom in the house, and thus began her passion for the process of creating images and processing film. Maria has been called a precocious photographer with an insatiable appetite to explore the art of photography and it wasn’t long before her talent became apparent when she had her first exhibition in 1977 at the age of seventeen. Between 1978 and 1982 she attended the Philadelphia College of Art, where she studied with the likes of Joan Redmond, Ron Walker, Eileen Berger, and Arno Rafael Minkkinen. In 1985, Maria received a Fulbright Hays Grant, which enabled her to travel to Spain to study and where she culled archival sources, such as historical maps and documents, which inspired her to create negatives based on Cuban maps. She returned to the United States in 1986 where she settled in Miami. Two important series from the 1990s—Totems and Quince Sellos Cubanos (Fifteen Cuban Stamps)—epitomize her interest in a photomontage aesthetic and use of imagery drawn from her Caribbean childhood. Maria is the recipient of numerous awards and grants, including a Pollock-Krasner Foundation Photography Fellowship (2016), a National Endowment for the Arts grant (1988) and a Civitella Ranieri Foundation fellowship (2014) in Umbertide, Italy. Her photographs are in many private and public collections, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art; American Art Museum, Smithsonian Institution; the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia; and the Museum of Modern Art and International Center of Photography in New York. She is currently working on a project that involves the work of early 20th century German photographer August Sander. When she is not in her studio, Maria enjoys deep sea diving for which she is a certified diver, and watching her favorite basketball team, the Miami Heat. She says: “I think that visually, when you look at a work of art, be it sculpture, be it painting, be it photograph, whatever it is, you as a person, you’re bringing yourself, who you are, what we call the baggage, you bring your iconography, you bring your identity, you bring your experiences as a person … with your eyes you’re looking at an art work but with your head and with your heart; two very different things, the brain and the heart, but when they are communicating with each other, it’s a very interesting dialogue. You don’t have to know about art, you just have to relate to it.”

Maria’s Favorite Female Artists:
Eva Hesse
Kiki Smith
Barbara Blondeau
Barbara Crane
Louise Bourgeois
Doris Salcedo Gego
Amelia Pelaéz
Zilia Sánchez
Jess T Dugan

Maria’s Playlist:
Si*Sé
Federico Aubele
Mazzy Star
Natasha St-Pier
Silvio Rodriguez
Coldplay
Simply Red
Sarah McLachlan
LisseEe
Gal Costa
Maria Bethania
Norah Jones
Omara Portuondo
Shawn Colvin
Francis Cabrel Mandalay
Luz Casal
Cesaria Evora Bebe
Ednita Nazario

https://mariamartinez-canas.com/
Instagram: @mphotogram

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
@theaartpodcast
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

Dive into the creative world of contemporary art in this episode of AART the Podcast, featuring Emma Gray, a dynamic contemporary artist, art advisor, curator, and gallerist. Emma shares her unique journey through the art world, from her personal artistic practice to advising collectors, curating exhibitions, and running her own gallery. This biographical interview offers an insider’s perspective on the challenges and triumphs of building a multifaceted career in contemporary art. Listeners will discover Emma’s inspirations, creative process, and strategies for navigating the art market, as well as her insights into supporting emerging artists and fostering vibrant artistic communities. Whether you’re an art lover, collector, aspiring artist, or curator, this conversation provides valuable lessons and inspiration for anyone passionate about contemporary art.

Keywords:
Emma Gray, contemporary artist, art advisor, curator, gallerist, art gallery, art collecting, art market insights, emerging artists, contemporary art interview, AART podcast 

Tune in for an engaging, inspiring, and informative discussion that explores the intersection of artistic creation and art world entrepreneurship.

BIO:
British born Emma Gray is a contemporary artist, art advisor, curator and gallerist based in Santa Monica, California. She is passionate about fostering and mentoring female artists by building private collections. A former editor of ArtReview who had studied at University College London as well as portraiture at Heatherley Art School, London, Emma has been what she describes as a secret painter for the past decade. A student of Reiki, and of breath work having studied healing and spirituality in Santa Fe, Emma focuses on energy and spirituality in her practice working from the inside out. Her Los Angeles project space 5 Car Garage, established in 2013, is a haven for the female artists that she promotes. Among the many artists on her roster are Megan Daalder, Rebecca Farr, Jesse Fleming, Kyla Hansen, Jennifer Sullivan and Raychael Stine And now, as an empty nester, Emma is looking forward to the next phase in her life where she can nurture her time as an artist.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]
Emma on Instagram @emmagrayhq
Online: emmagrayhq.com

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Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

Hollowell Studios Production
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved