Conversations in Visual Studies

Hosts: Sam Price, Sheanne Su, Natasha Zilcosky

In this casually academic episode, hosts Sam, Sheanne, and Natasha explore the influence that theory, research, and self-reflection have in their personal practices as artists and students. Throughout the episode, they tie practice-led research and research-led practice to their topics and experiences. The conversation begins with Natasha, who explains the importance of theory and research in artistic practice, particularly the power that research has to open doors and give works depth and meaning. They share their personal experiences of how they are able to gain insights on their identity and embody their heritage through their sewing. Sheanne delves into the topic of how the study of visual art can enhance one’s ability to communicate complex ideas, touching on abstract thinking, the use of symbolism, and the connections it has with literacy. The group comments on their personal chosen mediums and how the choice of the medium itself carries meaning in their pieces. Sam engages with the question, “What is the significance of self-reflexivity in the practice of visual art?” by connecting to how it has been a valuable tool as research throughout artistic processes. She shares the set stages in which she uses self-reflection in her own art-making and how the activity allows her to process her experiences as well as document knowledge that can be used to propel the next project she works on. The students also share their methods of reflection and how they use the research in their artmaking. The discussion prompts listeners to consider the often overlooked and underappreciated part of the art-making process: research, as well as how they can mindfully integrate its aspects in their works to create depth.

Hosts: Blake Batke, Dani Madrid, Samira Zreick

In this podcast, aptly titled The Art of Experience and the Experience of Art, hosts Blake, Dani, and Samira explore the question “How does personal experience and cultural background affect one’s ability to communicate complex ideas?” We share personal anecdotes about finding artistic things in unexpected places, and perhaps how museums, though a common vehicle for displaying art, may not always be the place for finding art that speaks to you. We discuss communicating complex themes related to mental health through different kinds of imagery, with a focus on animal imagery. As well as exploring indigenous identities and the restrictiveness of gender norms. We also comment on how our language has changed since becoming art students and being immersed in the art world, which brings up some interesting ideas pertaining to the practical side of art as well as attitudes towards artistic “failure.” We explore the connections we have with artists, be it familial or through an admiration we have for their work. Though this podcast was scripted initially, and it takes us a little while to truly warm up, the conversations we were able to have once we became more comfortable and heard what each other had to say, were valuable, vulnerable and very honest.

Hosts: Iuri Geber, Chandradeep Majumder, Bernard Imarah, Isaac Steckly 

In this episode, hosts Bernard, Isaac, Iuri and Chandradeep, dive into a very intriguing discussion on a few questions about various aspects of art culture with lived experiences. The first segment of the podcast talks about storytelling and reflexivity in visual art, which was dealt by Chandradeep and Bernard dealt by touching upon some of their personal ideas .Then, the significance of diverse perspectives in visual arts aims to understand its depth better, as led by Isaac. Lastly, Iuri, being an artist himself, talks about the significance of balancing art theory with personal expression in the art practice, touching upon some personal university experiences. The hosts draw the audience to think about some of the argumentative conversations in visual culture, shining light on how we can actively broaden the horizon of visual culture and how “there is no right or wrong way to make art."

Through Our Eyes: The Intersection of Art, Memory, and Culture

Hosts: Gurpreet Singh, Ekamjot Dhillon, Avneet Kaur, Jashanpreet Singh, Kusampreet Kaur 

In the podcast Through Our Eyes: The Intersection of Art, Memory, and Culture, the hosts have an exciting and personal chat about how art relates to our own lives and cultures. Set in the peaceful atmosphere of forest paths, they talk about how visual art reflects our feelings, memories, and who we are. Each host shares their own stories and thoughts inspired by famous artworks like Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms, and Faith Ringgold’s story quilts. These stories reveal how our backgrounds and emotions influence how we see art, creating special and meaningful connections.

The podcast also looks at how our cultural backgrounds affect how we interpret art, mentioning artists like Bharti Kher, Diego Rivera, and Kara Walker. The hosts discuss how cultural symbols and traditions help us understand art while also pointing out common themes that everyone can relate to. They expand the conversation to show how art encourages us to think deeply, question societal norms, and build empathy, allowing us to view the world—and ourselves—in a fresh way.

With engaging storytelling, expert insights, and moments of genuine emotion, the podcast not only highlights the beauty and impact of art but also inspires listeners to think about their own experiences. Through Our Eyes takes its audience on a thought-provoking adventure into the connections between art, memory, and culture, inviting everyone to discover meaning and connection in the creative expressions around us.