Welcome to Beyond the Canvas, the podcast where we peel back the layers of creativity and explore the vibrant minds behind the art. We're fascinated by artists and their stories, and we're excited to share that fascination with you. Join us as we chat with artists who inspire us, both near and far. We'll delve into their creative journeys, unique perspectives, and the hidden depths of their work. It's more than just a glimpse at their art; it's a deep dive into the heart of what makes them tick.

The Artist

I am so pleased to introduce you to the artist who really taught me how to feel and love abstract art, Beth Yoe Fiddler. Beth, a 1972 graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a degree in art education, is an abstract painter working primarily in acrylics with the addition of various mixed media. Since April of 2022, she has maintained a studio in the Indiana Theatre Building in order to focus on both creating and publicly sharing her work. She is represented by Fox Clark Gallery. She is so rad it makes my teeth hurt. Thank you, Beth!

the most honest thing | fine art by Jon Cooper is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

These readings are from the original 1923 (first and now public domain) edition of “The Art Spirit” by Robert Henri, and can be accessed from Google Books for free.

the most honest thing | fine art by Jon Cooper is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Cafe ambient music by freesound_community, titled voices in cafe.

Welcome to Beyond the Canvas, the podcast where we peel back the layers of creativity and explore the vibrant minds behind the art. We're fascinated by artists and their stories, and we're excited to share that fascination with you. Join us as we chat with artists who inspire us, both near and far. We'll delve into their creative journeys, unique perspectives, and the hidden depths of their work. It's more than just a glimpse at their art; it's a deep dive into the heart of what makes them tick.

I'm very excited to share my conversation with Chloe, but I want to give you a heads-up about the audio quality. Due to recording over phones and my “developing” editing skills, you might notice some annoying audio artifacts. Chloe, I sincerely apologize to you for any audio issues that might distract from your wonderful insights. I truly believe the content is exceptionally valuable and worth experiencing. I appreciate everyone’s patience and hope you enjoy the discussion.

The Artist

Chloe Gendron, formerly a learning specialist, but always an artist, turned her hobby into a passion and then into a full time job. Leveraging her expertise in learning methodologies, she meticulously structured her artistic development. This strategic approach facilitated a rapid advancement in her abilities, propelling her from novice status to the level of proficiency evident in her current work. Now, she uses these same strategies to help others master the unique medium of pen and ink.

* Longstride Illustration

* Chloe's amazing blog

* Chloe on YouTube

* Instagram account

* Chloe's Skillshare page

Thank you, so much, Chloe!

the most honest thing | fine art by Jon Cooper is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

These readings are from the original 1923 (first and now public domain) edition of “The Art Spirit” by Robert Henri, and can be accessed from Google Books for free.

the most honest thing | fine art by Jon Cooper is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Cafe ambient music by freesound_community, titled Cafe. Other background music by Jon Cooper, titled Le Café Sous un Ciel Gris.

Welcome to Beyond the Canvas, the podcast where we peel back the layers of creativity and explore the vibrant minds behind the art. We're fascinated by artists and their stories, and we're excited to share that fascination with you. Join us as we chat with artists who inspire us, both near and far. We'll delve into their creative journeys, unique perspectives, and the hidden depths of their work. It's more than just a glimpse at their art; it's a deep dive into the heart of what makes them tick.

The Artist

I was stoked to talk with one of the coolest people I’ve ever met: Davey Beyer! This was a real fun interview to do: give it a listen! I promise by the end you’ll love Davey and his art as much as I do.

* David Beyer Art on Instagram

* Davey Bayer at the Fox Clark Gallery

* Davey's store on Redbubble

Please make sure to check out Exotic Eats at SAMA Bedford (March 29, 2025):

Explore bold and bizarre flavors from Smithmyer’s Superette, including bison meatballs, elk quesadillas, venison sliders, and wild boar bratwurst, with vegetarian options available. Bedford-area restaurants will compete for “Best Dish” and “Most Exotic Dish” titles. Guests will also enjoy a meal featuring succulent roasted garlic chicken paired with a fresh side salad.

A cash bar hosted by Composition Art and Wine will complement the culinary experience. Enjoy global music by the The Bedford Symphony and captivating performances featuring life-size exotic animal puppets, created by Davey Beyer. Bid on unique silent auction items and explore the “Artists of the 21st Century” student exhibition.

the most honest thing | fine art by Jon Cooper is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Welcome to Beyond the Canvas, the podcast where we peel back the layers of creativity and explore the vibrant minds behind the art. We're fascinated by artists and their stories, and we're excited to share that fascination with you. Join us as we chat with artists who inspire us, both near and far. We'll delve into their creative journeys, unique perspectives, and the hidden depths of their work. It's more than just a glimpse at their art; it's a deep dive into the heart of what makes them tick.

In this episode of Beyond the Canvas, I interview three future art educators and outstanding artists!

Welcome to Beyond the Canvas, the podcast where we peel back the layers of creativity and explore the vibrant minds behind the art. We're fascinated by artists and their stories, and we're excited to share that fascination with you. Join us as we chat with artists who inspire us, both near and far. We'll delve into their creative journeys, unique perspectives, and the hidden depths of their work. It's more than just a glimpse at their art; it's a deep dive into the heart of what makes them tick.

In this episode of Beyond the Canvas, I interview landscape artist and educator Beth Wheeler!

This is an easy question for me to answer. As the subtitle says - as the name of my Substack says! - I want to be an artist because art is the most honest thing I can do. The more difficult part is explaining what, exactly, I mean by art being the most honest thing I can do.

Welcome to Beyond the Canvas, the podcast where we peel back the layers of creativity and explore the vibrant minds behind the art. We're fascinated by artists and their stories, and we're excited to share that fascination with you. Join us as we chat with artists who inspire us, both near and far. We'll delve into their creative journeys, unique perspectives, and the hidden depths of their work. It's more than just a glimpse at their art; it's a deep dive into the heart of what makes them tick.

This week, I was stoked to interview an artist who has been a personal inspiration and mentor for several years: Breanna Klamm Whitlock. Breanna is both an accomplished photographer and painter.

My dream is to make a living as an artist. With the amazing support of my wife and four kids (along with two indifferent cats), I'm diving into the world of watercolors and oils, determined to learn the craft and business of art. But I need your help to make it happen. Your support will give me the time and resources I need to hone my skills, build connections, and ultimately share my art with the world. Please join me on this journey – let's create something awesome together!