What happens when joy and grief share the same canvas?

Artist and designer Yinka Ilori joins MINDED to talk about designing emotional spaces, drawing from community, and how colour became his creative language. He shares the personal stories behind his vibrant work—and what it really takes to stay grounded while being seen as a public ambassador for joy.

We also discuss the promise and risks of AI in art, and why emotional connection still matters more than ever.

Topics:

• Purpose in creative practice

• Grief, joy, and emotional design

• AI and the future of public art

• Mentorship, memory, and heritage

• Building a studio that fuels imagination

EP 112 – Richard Malone: On Art, Identity & Saying No to the System
“Creativity belongs to those who think beyond the obvious.”

In this deeply personal conversation, artist and designer Richard Malone reflects on queerness, class, identity, and building a creative life on his own terms.

From rural Ireland to the Royal Academy and The Met, Malone shares how he navigated privilege, resisted conformity, and carved his own space in art, fashion, and sculpture. A fearless voice in contemporary culture, he challenges the commercialization of creativity and invites us to rethink what it means to belong.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro & guest welcome
00:14 – Richard on being an artist first, then designer
01:00 – Art vs. design process
03:00 – Creative process & rejection of references
06:30 – Class dynamics & privilege in the design world
09:00 – “Fashion never knew what to do with me”
12:00 – Embracing a unique voice despite pressure
15:30 – Social & class diversity in fashion
17:00 – Memories of rural Ireland
21:30 – Storytelling, gender, and creative lineage
26:00 – The role of trust in Richard’s work
30:00 – Major moments: MoMA, Met, Royal Academy
36:00 – Institutional support & mentorship
40:00 – His grandmother’s influence & the Eileen Gray project
47:00 – Saying no, finding clarity, and future vision
50:00 – The value of time, space & creative freedom
52:00 – Book, film & guest recommendations

Don’t just consume—engage.
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Photographer Yik Keat (YK) shares how creative discipline, rejection, and staying true to your voice helped him break through Singapore’s creative scene. From walking away from engineering to building a global audience, YK opens up about success, burnout, AI, and the power of showing up—before anyone believes in you.

CREATIVITY BELONGS TO THOSE WHO THINK BEYOND THE OBVIOUSDon’t just consume—engage.

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Step into the world of Achille Salvagni, one of the most celebrated architects and designers, as he shares his vision on design legacy, craftsmanship, and the emotional power of objects. In this episode of the MINDED Podcast, host Yuri Xavier explores Salvagni’s philosophy on beauty, creativity, and the timeless connection between history and modernity.Discover how Salvagni's work in luxury interiors, yacht design, and collectible furniture is shaping the future of high-end design. Learn about the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone, how AI might influence creativity, and why true design is a balance of tradition and innovation.🔹 Topics Covered:✔️ Achille Salvagni’s approach to design legacy and luxury✔️ The emotional connection between objects and history✔️ Perfection vs. imperfection in Italian and Japanese design✔️ AI’s impact on creativity and craftsmanship✔️ The psychology behind collecting art and design piecesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Achille Salvagni’s Design Legacy01:03 – The Power of Objects and Their Emotional Weight02:50 – How History Shapes Modern Design05:34 – Pushing Boundaries: Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone08:42 – Working with High Expectations in Luxury Design10:25 – Beauty in Imperfection: Wabi-Sabi vs. Italian Aesthetics13:25 – The Psychology of Collecting: Love, Power, or Mortality?16:18 – A Space or Object That Changed Salvagni’s Perception of Desire18:57 – Minimalism: Emptiness vs. Presence in Design22:40 – Do Objects and Spaces Have an Aura?26:24 – How Mindset Affects the Way We Perceive Design30:22 – Salvagni’s Personal Experience with Art That Took His Breath Away32:08 – AI and the Future of Creativity and Design37:03 – Growing Up in Rome: Early Influences on Salvagni’s Aesthetic39:21 – Legacy: What Salvagni Hopes to Leave Behind42:01 – Achille Salvagni’s Book, Music, and Guest Recommendations45:26 – Final Thoughts and Closing

How do we push the boundaries of digital art and AI while staying true to creative intuition? In this episode of MINDED Podcast, Maxim Zhestkov, a pioneering digital artist and sculptor, shares his journey of exploring unknown creative territories, breaking traditional molds, and embracing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and game design.

🎙️ Hosted by Yuri Xavier, this conversation dives deep into:

🔹 The evolution of digital art and AI’s role in creativity

🔹 Why breaking away from artistic "boxes" leads to true innovation

🔹 The intersection of gaming, architecture, and storytelling

🔹 Maxim’s philosophy on creativity, inspiration, and experimentation

Zhestkov also reveals his latest projects, including his first-ever game, the influence of surrealism on his work, and why fun and awe are the two essential ingredients for creativity.

00:00 – Introduction by Yuri Xavier

00:27 – Maxim Zhestkov introduces himself and his creative journey

01:59 – The challenge of defining artistic identity and avoiding creative boxes

04:09 – Breaking away from traditional artistic paths and carving a unique route

05:53 – The courage to explore unknown creative territories

08:55 – Early experiences that shaped Maxim’s approach to creativity

10:13 – The role of fun and awe in Maxim’s creative process

12:34 – A childhood realization about the limitations of categorization in art

14:31 – How architecture, digital design, and game development intersect

16:11 – Finding creative flow and enjoying the process

17:23 – Daily routines and habits that fuel creativity

19:51 – Balancing multiple projects and creative directions

22:44 – The influence of gaming and interactive technology on Maxim’s work

23:52 – The impact of virtual experiences on the real world

26:23 – The "Great Filter" concept and its connection to Maxim’s game project

27:17 – The role of AI in creativity and copyright concerns

29:42 – How AI is reshaping the way we perceive originality

31:32 – Defining creativity: Is it a skill, a gift, or something else?

34:27 – How surrealism and subconscious exploration shape artistic expression

37:03 – The role of language in creativity and artistic articulation

37:58 – The best compliment Maxim ever received

40:41 – Advice for young artists entering the digital art world

44:03 – Book recommendations: Black Holes by Brian Cox & Beyond Entrepreneurship by Jim Collins

46:11 – Game recommendation: Journey by Thatgamecompany

47:44 – Dream podcast guests: Chris Cunningham & James Turrell

49:00 – Closing thoughts and where to follow Maxim’s work

🎧 GaHee Park on MINDED Podcast | Art, Identity & Capturing Fleeting Moments

What does it mean to capture a moment in art? In this episode of MINDED Podcast, GaHee Park shares her unique artistic process, from shaping surreal, intimate narratives to exploring identity, human connection, and the power of storytelling in her paintings.

Topics Covered:

⏩ The inspiration behind her painting "Woman on a Beach at Dawn"

⏩ How GaHee Park crafts her art without models or references

⏩ The role of memory, light, and time in her creative process

⏩ How her upbringing in Korea influenced her perspective on life and art

⏩ Moving from New York to Montreal: How environment shapes artistic expression

⏩ The struggle between discipline and creative freedom in an artist’s life

Swiss-born artist Fabian Oefner joins the MINDED Podcast to explore the intersection of art and science, challenging conventional boundaries of creativity. From his disintegrating car series to high-speed photography that captures time in motion, Oefner’s work blends scientific precision with artistic expression.

🔹 Is there a difference between scientific documentation and creative expression?

🔹 How does art help us understand time, perception, and reality?

🔹 Can science itself be a form of artistic creation?

Oefner discusses how visual storytelling makes science more accessible, the role of AI in redefining truth, and why artists and scientists are more alike than we think.

📌 Key Topics Covered:

✔️ The Role of Science in Artistic Creation

✔️ Blurring Boundaries Between Art & Scientific Discovery

✔️ How AI & Digital Media Challenge Our Perception of Reality

✔️ Exploring Time & Motion Through Photography

AI is revolutionizing creativity, and Refik Anadol is at the forefront of this movement. In this episode of MINDED Podcast, the visionary media artist and director explores how artificial intelligence, data, and immersive storytelling are shaping the future of creativity.From his early inspirations in science fiction to working with NASA, Google, and MoMA, Anadol shares his journey of turning invisible data into poetic, human experiences. He discusses why AI is a mirror to humanity, the concept of "generative reality", and how machine learning can push artistic boundaries.Topics Covered:- How AI transforms data into emotional art- The power of generative reality and new storytelling- AI as a mirror of human creativity and ethics- Why open-source AI research is key to the future- His groundbreaking collaborations with NASA, Google, and MoMA- What’s next for AI and immersive experiencesTimestamps:📌 Jump to the best parts of the conversation:⏳ 00:00 – Introduction: Refik Anadol on MINDED Podcast⏳ 00:09 – Turning invisible data into poetry – AI as an artistic tool⏳ 00:35 – Refik’s early inspiration: Blade Runner, sci-fi, and computers⏳ 02:44 – How he discovered that data can be emotional⏳ 04:21 – Could AI-driven digital art have been imagined in 2008?⏳ 05:55 – The link between sci-fi and real-world technology innovation⏳ 07:26 – How AI is changing storytelling and immersive experiences⏳ 09:46 – The birth of the term "generative reality"⏳ 10:52 – AI as a mirror to humanity – does it reveal who we truly are?⏳ 13:23 – Behind the scenes: How Anadol built his AI Atelier⏳ 16:37 – AI in architecture, museums, and urban spaces⏳ 18:07 – How he finds focus in a world of infinite creative possibilities⏳ 20:30 – The importance of clarity and vision in an artist’s career⏳ 25:49 – What makes AI a true creative partner?⏳ 28:07 – Why nature and human culture are key to his inspiration⏳ 31:04 – The next generation of artists and AI – what’s coming next?⏳ 34:09 – What AI teaches us about free will, creativity, and ethics⏳ 37:08 – Refik’s book, movie, and next guest recommendation📌 Subscribe for more deep creative conversations!#RefikAnadol #AIArt #GenerativeArt #MindedPodcast #ArtificialIntelligence #MachineLearning #CreativeTechnology #FutureOfArt #DigitalArt #SciFi #MoMA #NASA #Google #TechInnovation #DataDrivenArt

DE'WAYNE joins the MINDED Podcast to share his journey from Houston to rock stardom, how David Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Arcade Fire shaped his sound, and what it takes to make it in the music industry.

From working at Taco Bell to playing major festivals, DE'WAYNE reveals how insane work ethic, vulnerability, and creativity built his career. He dives into his next album, collaborating with Good Charlotte, Grandson, and Chase Atlantic, and why he believes his new record will be one of the best rock albums of the year.

Topics:

Growing up in Houston and finding his voice in rock music

Influences: How Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Arcade Fire changed his path

Struggles in LA: Sleeping on floors, flipping pizzas, and chasing dreams

How Church Shaped His Stage Presence

Upcoming Album: A mix of retro soul, funk, and classic rock

Advice for Independent Artists: Why hard work is greater than viral moments

Timestamp:

00:00:00 – Introduction: DE’WAYNE on MINDED Podcast
00:00:12 – Checking in on LA Wildfires and Staying Grounded
00:01:47 – Growing Up in Houston: Hurricanes, Family, and Resilience
00:02:28 – Returning Home: The Importance of Family and Soul Food
00:03:12 – The Big Brother Role: Lessons from a Family of Eight
00:04:09 – Chaos and Love: What It’s Like Growing Up in a Big Household
00:05:03 – The Musical Talent in DE'WAYNE’s Family
00:05:23 – Church Choir and the Power of Performance Energy
00:07:12 – Discovering Rock Music at 19: Bowie, Arcade Fire & More
00:09:46 – Moving to LA: The Struggle, Hustle, and Finding His Sound
00:12:49 – From Ramen Noodles to Dreams: The LA Survival Story
00:14:49 – Houston vs. LA: Culture, Community, and Energy Shift
00:17:02 – The Fear of Not Making It: Doubt vs. Determination
00:19:33 – Why Virality Isn't Enough: Hard Work in the Music Industry
00:21:19 – Daily Creative Process: Running, Writing, and Studio Flow
00:23:17 – Being a Searcher: The Quest for Truth and High Art
00:24:22 – Measuring Success: Growth, Songwriting, and Impact
00:26:25 – New Album: The Best Rock Record of the Year?
00:27:14 – Collaboration Lessons: Working with Good Charlotte & More
00:30:51 – Industry Competition vs. Community: Finding Your Tribe
00:31:05 – The Best Compliment DE'WAYNE Has Ever Received
00:34:00 – The Future: 2025, Touring, and Becoming the Next Rock Icon
00:34:47 – DE'WAYNE’s Recommendations

🎧Subscribe to MINDED Podcast for deep dives into music, art, and creative success

Sara Giusto: How Virtual Influencers Like Imma Are Changing Human ConnectionSara Giusto, virtual human producer at Aww Inc., joins the MINDED Podcast to discuss how virtual influencers like Imma are reshaping human connection and digital storytelling. From her artistic roots to creating lifelike digital personalities, Giusto explains why Imma is more than just a CGI creation - she's a symbol of global creativity and connection.In this episode, Sara reveals:📌 Watch the full episode to learn how art, technology, and imagination are intersecting to create the next era of influencers.🔗 Subscribe to the MINDED Podcast for more insights: https://www.mindedpodcast.com/🔗 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindedpodcastFull disclosure :This content features Imma, a CGI virtual influencer, whose appearance and actions are computer-generated but not intended to mislead. We have full authorization from the creators of Imma to include this character in our video.Timestamp:00:00:00 — Introduction: Meet Sara Giusto, Virtual Human Producer 00:01:17 — Discovering Imma: The Art of Creating Virtual Reality 00:02:49 — Surprised or Expected? Why Virtual Influencers Are Thriving 00:04:16 — Overcoming Barriers: Cost, Innovation, and Digital Humans 00:06:54 — Why Imma Feels Real: The Power of Emotional and Visual Cues 00:08:06 — Imma and Tokyo’s Cultural Influence: Fashion, Identity, and Connection 00:10:06 — The Evolution of Imma’s Personality: A Collaborative Team Process 00:13:23 — AI vs. CGI: The Misconceptions Behind Virtual Influencers 00:14:27 — Creating the Future: Imma as an AI-Driven Digital Companion 00:15:35 — Emotional Connection Through AI: The Key to Imma’s Popularity 00:16:30 — The Future of Human-AI Relationships: Companionship and Growth 00:22:10 — Imma as an Agent of Connection: Engagement and Beyond 00:27:01 — Behind the Spotlight: Sara Giusto’s TED Talk Experience 00:34:18 — Artistic Inspirations: Sara Giusto’s Vision Board and Key Influences 00:39:05 — Finding Balance: Disconnecting from Tech to Reconnect with Reality 00:41:01 — Imma’s Recommendations: Favorite Book, Show, and Future MINDED Guest FAQQ: Who is Imma, and why is she significant?A: Imma is a hyperrealistic virtual influencer developed by Aww Inc. She embodies Tokyo’s culture and fashion, bridging digital innovation and human connection.Q: What challenges do virtual human producers face?A: Challenges include labor-intensive CGI work, ensuring AI-driven interactions are authentic, and overcoming public misconceptions about virtual personalities.Q: How will virtual influencers evolve in the future?A: With AI integration, virtual influencers like Imma will become more autonomous, providing personalized content, advice, and real-time interactions.