"But to me art is a way of life, and it's the way of the curious, it's the way of the search." - Maba Ba

Curiosity Is the Compass:

Jim sits down with Senegalese-born filmmaker, writer, and entrepreneur Maba Ba for a rich conversation on curiosity as a guiding force in life and art. Maba reflects on his journey from Senegal to New York, from philosophy and film to winemaking, revealing how every creative path he follows is rooted in storytelling and human connection. Together they explore identity, community, and the dangers of confirmation bias, while unpacking why art; and wine; exist to bring people together. Along the way, Maba shares deeply personal insights on self-perception, creative courage, and the importance of choosing the right mirrors. A soulful, thought-provoking episode on living curiously and creating with intention.

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"Art is here after we're gone, but art also documents culture...and art is our culture." - Wednesdae Reim Ifrach

Transformative Artful Healing:

Prepare to be inspired by Wednesdae Reim Ifrach, a visionary licensed art therapist and clinical counselor who is reshaping the landscape of mental health care. With a passion that transcends traditional therapy, Wednesdae is a beacon of hope and healing for the LGBTQ+ community, specializing in gender-affirming care, body positivity, and trauma-informed therapy.

At the heart of their work lies Rainbow Recovery, a sanctuary for those seeking empowerment and self-discovery. Here, Wednesdae co-creates a nurturing environment where expressive art therapy and somatic therapy intertwine, offering a unique tapestry of creative, body-oriented, and trauma-aware healing. They also use art in their own personal therapy as an expression of beauty and healing. Our discussion dives into what it means to be accepted as well as accepting others in their right to exist as they are.

Through their teaching, writing, and activism, Wednesdae Reim Ifrach is not just a therapist but a trailblazer, illuminating the path to a more inclusive and compassionate world. Join us as we delve into their remarkable journey and discover the art of healing.

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"Art enriches our lives. It can transform people in a moment of deep need." - Dawn Farrow

Crafting Experiences

In this enlightening conversation, we delve into the intricacies of succeeding in the entertainment economy, focusing on the vital role of producing successful live events. Guest Dawn Farrow shares her journey from working in marketing for theatre and live events to founding On Sale Group. She recounted her transition from agency work to launching her own marketing and partnerships agency, and how she now operates as a consultant, delivering sales and marketing campaigns for global live experiences.

Dawn emphasized the importance of community-building within the "experience economy," advocating for a dedicated space for collaboration, learning, and support among professionals in marketing, events, and live shows. Her vision for On Sale Live was driven by the complexity of ticket sales and marketing, inspiring her to create a platform for professionals to meet, learn, and collaborate.

Interestingly, Dawn's journey began with a love of dance. She was educated with the early vision of becoming a professional dancer, a passion that undoubtedly shaped her understanding of live performance and the arts. This background in dance has informed her approach to the live events industry, allowing her to connect deeply with the artistic side of the business.

Throughout our conversation, Dawn's passion for the industry was palpable as she discussed her involvement in marketing successful ticketed experiences and her motivation to support professionals behind the scenes. Her influence in the industry is underscored by her track record of selling over 36 million tickets, illustrating the scale and impact of her work. A true artist working on behalf of the arts!

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"Art is the best means we have for exploring our own thoughts and our own nature."

- Richard Moon

From Physics to Fantasy

This episode of the Art Unknown Podcast dives into the eclectic world of Richard H Moon, a man who seamlessly blends the scientific with the fantastical. As a co-founder of MoonHill Productions with his wife, Isabel Hildebrandt, Richard's journey from a degree in physics to the vibrant sets of indie films like "Driving by Braille" and "West Virginia Stories" is nothing short of cinematic. He's a storyteller who refuses to be boxed into a single genre.

In this episode, Richard unveils his latest literary escapade, "To Conquer Death", a novel that whisks readers away to ancient Kemet (Egypt) where mythology meets zombies in a historical fantasy setting. Richard’s passion for tales that dance between reality and imagination shines through.

Outside the realm of scripts and novels, he's is a Southern California native who juggles the roles of family man, musician, and amatuer curling. Tune in for a conversation that promises to be as unpredictable and engaging as Richard's own career, where science meets storytelling and reality blends with the surreal.

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"I think art has an interesting way of tapping the emotions." - Kirk Voclain

Capturing Life's Moments:

In this engaging episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Kirk Voclain, a seasoned photographer from Houma, Louisiana. Kirk's passion for photography ignited with the purchase of a Kodak Instamatic camera from collecting cereal box tops, and by age 15, he was able to purchase his own SLR and shoot his very first wedding.

Kirk's expertise spans a wide range of photography services, including senior portraits, real estate photography, business headshots, and more. His commitment to capturing authentic moments is evident in his work, where he uses lighting not just as a technical skill but as a creative tool to reveal his subjects' true personalities.

Beyond photography, Kirk is also a budding novelist, blending his storytelling skills with his visual art. His books, a spy novel entitled, Double Exposure and the western-ish Boots and Stilettos, showcase his talent for weaving narratives that captivate readers.

In addition to his creative pursuits, Kirk is dedicated to education, teaching other photographers and running a photography forum, Pro4um.com. Join us as we explore Kirk's multifaceted career, his philosophy on authenticity in art, and his contributions to the photography community.

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"I really think if you want to be a balanced human being, you need to be creative." - Stan Lai

A Maestro of Modern Theater

A luminary in the world of theater, Stan Lai has long captivated audiences with his groundbreaking and thought-provoking plays. Renowned for his innovative storytelling, Lai seamlessly blends traditional Chinese elements with contemporary themes, crafting narratives that resonate across cultural boundaries.

Born in the U.S. and raised in both America and Taiwan, Lai received his doctorate from UC Berkeley before launching an award-winning career spanning decades. His contributions to theater have not only enriched the art form but have also inspired countless artists and audiences alike. With over 40 plays to his name, Lai's work continues to be celebrated for its creativity, depth, and universal appeal, solidifying his legacy as a master storyteller.

In his insightful book Creativitry, Lai delves into the essence of the creative process, exploring both method and wisdom. He offers readers a glimpse into the mind of a master playwright, encouraging them to embrace curiosity, challenge conventions, and cultivate a mindset open to inspiration from the world around them. Creativitry is not just a guide for artists, but a profound exploration of how creativity can enrich every aspect of life, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to unlock their creative potential.

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"I think there is something good for our souls to create. We're built to create.

The world changes when artists are doing their best work" - Dennis Welch

From Knowing to Doing: A Songwriter's Journey

In this captivating episode of the Art Unknown Podcast, we delve into the transformative journey of Dennis Welch, a passionate songwriter who has embraced the art of saying "yes" to life's opportunities. Join us as Dennis shares his inspiring story of crafting songs in solitude, drawing wisdom from award-winning friends, and reigniting his musical passion later in life.

Dennis's journey is a testament to faith, creativity, and the power of collaboration. As he opens up about the pivotal moments and influential figures that have shaped his resurgence as a songwriter, you'll be moved by the profound impact of his experiences. From the dining room to the stage, Dennis's story is a reminder that it's never too late to follow your calling.

Tune in to hear Dennis Welch's tales that promise to send shivers down your spine and inspire you to embrace your own creative journey.

images/video: ©dennis welch

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"Art creates love and connection to the human spirit." - Jim Wills

For our 75th episode extravaganza, we're flipping the script and turning the spotlight on the maestro himself, Jim Wills! And who better to commandeer the host's chair than his exceptional wife, Janrace? She's got a knack for asking the questions no one saw coming; it's like a musical mystery tour, but with more cowbell and fewer maps!

As Jim takes us on a rhythmic journey through his musical career, it's less about his dusty old records and more about the fresh beats of the here and now. Discover how reconnecting with his percussive roots didn't just keep the groove alive; it unlocked a whole new jam of happiness and positivity in his life.

75 episodes in, and Jim's learning curve is steeper than a drumroll crescendo! This episode is a symphony of revelations, laughter, and a sprinkle of nostalgia. Buckle up for a conversation that's as unforgettable as a rock star's encore...

Only 25 to go!

images/video: ©jim wills

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"I really feel that creativity is fundamental to our existence." - Cameron Smith

In the realm of boundless creativity, where imagination flows like an unending river, one must harness this torrent of ideas and share it with the world. This is the very essence of our guest on Episode 74, Cameron Smith, whose life has been a testament to the art of storytelling since his formative years. From a tender young age, Cameron was captivated by the act of documenting his life, capturing the essence of his existence and the tapestry of interactions that colored his youth. This relentless pursuit of chronicling life’s moments has culminated in his magnum opus, The Loneliest Boy on Earth; a documentary that delves into the depths of a soul in search of love. It is a narrative that oscillates between the unsettling and the hilariously absurd, yet remains perpetually engaging.

Cameron’s journey into the world of stand-up comedy began at the age of seventeen, where he fearlessly took the stage, armed with a unique brand of humor that defies convention. His comedic style, often tinged with obnoxious absurdity, leaves audiences on the edge of their seats, never quite knowing which direction his wit might take; a hallmark of his brilliance.

Completing this triad of artistic expression is his musical alter ego, Camboi Smif. A white rapper who embodies both the triumphs and tribulations of over two decades of the rap and hip-hop genre. Through his music, Cameron navigates the complex landscape of contemporary culture with a voice that is provocative, vulgar, and at times misogynistic, but always entertaining.

This episode offers a captivating glimpse into the mind of a creative virtuoso, a journey well worth embarking upon. Prepare to be inspired by a narrative that celebrates the power of creativity and the indomitable spirit of a true artist.

images/video: ©cameron smith

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"It just makes life better. It just helps us get through life. That's why art's important." - Siquoyia Blue

The life of an artist is often a delicate dance between creative passion and the practical demands of making a living. It is a journey filled with both inspiration and struggle, where the flame of artistic genius must be carefully nurtured amidst life's challenges. The essence of resilience and perseverance is at the heart of Episode 73, where we delve into the remarkable journey of Siquoyia Blue; an artist's artist.

Siquoyia's creativity knows no bounds, seamlessly weaving through the realms of music, literature, and visual art enhanced by artificial intelligence. In this episode, we explore the trials and triumphs not only of the physical creation of art but also the mental fortitude required to sustain confidence in one's craft. Siquoyia's journey is a testament to the power of stepping beyond conventional artistic boundaries. By embracing the tech industry, she discovered a second passion and found new avenues to expand her creative horizons.

Today, Siquoyia Blue stands as a beacon of artistic excellence, having authored multiple books, composed music, and even designed a unique dating card game. Her story is a celebration of artistry at its finest; a testament to the unyielding spirit of creativity and innovation. This is Siquoyia Blue.

images/video: ©siquoyia blue

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