On this week's Arts to Hearts Podcast, we sit down with Philemona Williamson, a painter whose work has explored adolescence, gender, and identity for decades. Her paintings carry layers of symbolism and narrative that have developed over a long career of making art that matters to her. In this conversation, Philemona talks about how motherhood, her child's transition, and her experiences with miscarriage have all found their way into her paintings. She discusses what it means to be open about these experiences in her work and why that vulnerability has made what she creates feel more real and necessary. Through her story, we see how the things we live through directly shape what we make. Philemona shows us that staying true to yourself, even when life gets complicated or painful, can lead to work that resonates because it comes from a place of truth. This interview offers a look at how an artist doesn't separate her life from her canvas, and how the hardest moments can become the most important ones to paint. Philemona Williamson shares thoughtful perspectives on how life and art feed into each other, and why authenticity matters more than perfection. Listen to the full episode to hear her full story.

On this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, host Charuka Arora, founder of the Arts to Hearts Project, talks with Sara Glupker, a Michigan-based fine artist whose work is inspired by nature, florals, colour, and the Midwestern landscape. Sara shares her experience of creating and running art workshops, including moments when turnout was low and plans didn't work out the way she expected. She speaks honestly about how she kept going by staying focused on the work rather than on numbers or quick results. The conversation also explores how artists can shape workshops using everyday life experiences, interests beyond art, and practical skills. Sara explains how bringing these elements together can help workshops feel more inviting and meaningful for both the artist and the audience. This episode is a thoughtful and honest conversation about hosting art workshops, staying consistent, and building creative spaces where people can come together to make art.

In this episode of the Arts To Hearts Podcast, Ocki Magill, founder of Blue Shop Cottage in London, talks about her journey from advertising and fashion to building a gallery that supports emerging artists. She shares practical advice on presenting your work, building community, and staying adaptable in a changing art world. Ocki explains how small steps, genuine connections, and a clear online presence can help artists move forward in their careers. This conversation is filled with helpful insights for anyone trying to find their place in the art world.

In this episode, Kim Hamburg talks with Charuka about how she found her way into making collages later in life. She shares how her kitchen became her studio, how she learned to let go of guilt, and how starting fresh in her fifties opened up a whole new chapter. Kim talks about learning technology, stepping into social media, raising kids, and giving herself the freedom to try something new. Their conversation is warm, honest, and encouraging for anyone who wants to begin again, no matter their age or background.

In this solo Thanksgiving episode, Charuka talks about gratitude, the lessons this year brought, and her wish to stop shrinking when life asks for more courage. She opens up about loss, change, and the people who helped her through it. A gentle and real conversation to close out the year.

On this week's Arts to Hearts Podcast, young curator Natasha opens up about her journey in the ever-changing world of contemporary art curation. She talks about how the role of curators has evolved from traditional methods to more collaborative partnerships with artists. Natasha compares the art scenes in America and Paris and highlights how online galleries are changing the game for art access. She stresses the importance of forming real connections and crafting inclusive art experiences that speak to a wide range of people. Come along as we explore the challenges she encounters and her dreams for a more accessible and culturally vibrant art world.

This episode follows Katie Rodgers as she talks about what it means to take risks by being real in her work. After years in fashion, she chose to step away and start again in New Mexico. Katie shares how change tested her, what she learned about letting go, and why staying true to what feels right is worth the risk.

In this episode, Charuka sits down with Beulah Van Rensburg, co-founder of a quiet and inspiring artist residency in the French countryside. They talk about carving out time to create while juggling life's responsibilities, why artists often feel guilty stepping away, and how being around other creatives can rebuild confidence. Beulah shares her journey from exhibiting around the world to building a space where artists can breathe, work, and feel supported. If you've been dreaming of taking time for your work or wondering when it's the "right moment" to do something for yourself, this conversation will feel like a gentle nudge to say yes.

In this episode of Arts to Hearts, Charuka talks with Delia LaJeunesse about helping people find art that suits their space and values, how social media affects artists, and why collecting can be more meaningful and approachable than most people think.

In this episode of the Arts to Hearts Project, host Charuka speaks with artist and community builder Diana Weymar about how her Tiny Pricks Project turned simple stitching into a global act of expression. They talk about making art in uncertain times, how creativity and activism can meet, and why slowing down to make something by hand still matters in a world that moves too fast. Diana opens up about protest, grief, and the small daily choices that turn fabric and thread into a record of our times.