Not Real Art

Right now, over 400 artists are preparing to unveil their avant-garde installations at Burning Man 2024. Staged annually at Black Rock City in the Nevada desert, the festival is a huge undertaking and massive success, thanks in no small part to Katie Hazard, the festival’s longtime associate director of art management. In today’s podcast episode, host and NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power sits down with Katie to discuss her decade-long career managing the art at Burning Man—quite possibly the coolest job in the world.

For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/burning-man-katie-hazard

When Steve Grody first noticed spray-painted murals popping up around Los Angeles in the ’80s, he swooned over their daring colors and stylized calligraphy. Since then, he’s dedicated himself to understanding and cataloging the evolving graffiti scene in LA. His book, Graffiti L.A.: Steet Styles and Art (2007), is a comprehensive visual history of LA street art and an in-depth exploration of artists' styles and techniques. In today’s podcast episode, host and NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power sits down with Steve Grody to discuss the author’s role as a documentarian and cultural storyteller.

For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/steve-grody

Whether you’re a painter, potter, or candlestick maker, efficient packing is crucial for a successful business trip. In today’s podcast episode, frequent traveler and NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power shares his packing tips for fuss-free business travel. 

From choosing the right luggage to packing light, this episode has everything artists need to transform their mindsets toward business travel. Whether packing for a quick overnight trip or a week-long conference, artists and creative entrepreneurs will learn practical strategies that turn chaos into confidence. Before your next trip, tune in for a punchy conversation on the fine art of packing for business travel.

For more information, please visit https://notrealart.com/packing-for-business-travel

Whiskey is more than just a drink; in fact, the word “whiskey” derives from the Gaelic phrase uisge beatha, meaning “water of life.” In today’s podcast episode, NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power sits down with Jared Himstedt and Gabe RiCharde of Balcones Distilling to discuss the duo’s philosophy on crafting fine whiskey in Waco, Texas.

Key Points From This Episode:

• What “Balcones” means and how it’s relevant to Texas and Balcones Distilling
• Challenges that come with high standards and keeping a business local
• How Jared and Gabe use raw ingredients as tools for artistic expression
• Where Balcones falls on the spectrum between tradition, rebellion, and innovation
• The significance of Texas to Balcones Distilling and the American Single Malt Movement
• Product development at Balcones and their sometimes surprising sources of inspiration
• Why artists shouldn’t rely on critical acclaim, external validation, or market feedback
• Insight into Gabe’s journey from geologist to spirits manager at Balcones
• Jared’s deeply personal path from ceramicist and social worker to whiskey distiller
• Why Balcones works with artists to support the visual arts

For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/balcones-distilling

Not everyone would leave behind a cushy career on Wall Street to pursue their creative pipe dreams. Then again, not everyone is Diarra Bousso. Today, the Senegal-born, Silicon Valley-based entrepreneur joins us to discuss her remarkable journey from financial trader to founder of DIARRABLU, a sustainable, size-inclusive fashion and lifestyle brand. Using algorithmic design and crowdsourcing to reduce waste, DIARRABLU fuses technology with traditional craftsmanship to promote ethical consumption within the fashion industry.

For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/diarra-bousso

It's the height of summer in North America, making it the perfect time for a getaway. If you're planning a trip, consider this episode your friendly travel guide! Scott “Sourdough” Power recently embarked on an inspiring journey to Asheville, North Carolina, which we at Not Real Art proudly call the Capital of American Craft. Whether you're an artist, an art lover, or simply a curious explorer, you'll be captivated by the pristine natural beauty and the impressive array of contemporary American art and craft in this region. In today's episode, we offer a sneak peek into what makes this part of the country so unique. You'll learn what to expect when you visit, gain insight into the history of craft-making in the area, and find out who to contact to learn more about the artists and artisans that make it so special. For more information, you can also tune into the Artsville USA Podcast to celebrate the vibrant contemporary arts and crafts scene from Asheville and beyond!

Key Points From This Episode:

• The valuable partnerships that made the Artsville USA Podcast possible.
• Natural and manmade beauty you can expect in Asheville, North Carolina.
• Insight into the history and provenance of art and craft-making in the area.
• Why we suggest you visit Asheville (and who we recommend to show you around!)
• Challenges that the region is facing and how your support can help.

For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/asheville-capital-of-american-craft

Submissions for the 2024 NOT REAL ART grant have come to a close, marking the end of a rigorous and methodical selection process by our esteemed panel of judges. With six $2,000 grants at stake and over 1,200 incredible applicants to choose from, the journey has been long and challenging, but the wait is finally over. Today is the day that we announce our 2024 grant recipients! Tune in as we reveal the six amazing artists who will receive not only a tidy financial reward but also substantial PR and marketing support to propel their careers forward. For further details, check out the NOT REAL ART blog where we'll publish the results. A sincere thank you to all the artists who shared their exceptional work with us!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Why methodically evaluating each applicant is a job we take very seriously.
• The four criteria that we score each application on. 
• A special shout-out for our panel of esteemed judges.
• What grant recipients receive, including financial and promotional support.
• Without further ado: introducing our six 2024 Not Real Art Grant recipients!

For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/2024-not-real-art-grant-recipients

While struggling to watch a concert by one of his favorite metal bands online, Samuel Douek realized there was a gap that needed to be filled. Thus, Thunderflix was born, the world's first on-demand video streaming service dedicated exclusively to heavy metal music and its ardent fans. Samuel built his career as the founder and director of the Hola Mexico Film Festival and a former film distributor. In this episode, he joins us to tell the story of Thunderflix, a place where metalheads like himself can access new releases, live performances, documentaries, behind-the-scenes footage, and official content from their favorite artists. You’ll learn what goes into launching a streaming platform and curating digital content directed at a subculture of highly passionate fans. We also discuss the challenges of licensing, how the platform helps viewers discover new bands, and so much more! Regardless of whether you’re a metalhead or not, you’ll see that Thunderflix is a testament to the dedication of one enthusiast's unwavering vision for a "Netflix for metal.” This episode promises insights and inspiration for music enthusiasts, art lovers, and entrepreneurs alike, so be sure to tune in today!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Insight into the Hola Mexican Film Festival, which is in its 16th year.
• When Samuel first discovered heavy metal and fell in love with the art form.
• The ardent passion that heavy metal fans have for the bands they love.
• Where the idea for Thunderflix came from and how it satisfied Samuel’s needs as a fan.
• How he went about negotiating licensing and copyrights with record labels.
• Challenges of curating and organizing the content available on Thunderflix.
• What goes into building a streaming platform and populating it with data.
• Different ways Samuel and his team marketed Thunderflix to their target audience.
• The future of Thunderflix, which includes producing their own films and concerts.
• How the platform helps metalheads discover new and incredible bands.
• Why Samuel believes that work is work, even when you love what you do.
• A look at some of the many ever-evolving sub-genres of metal.

For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/samuel-douek-thunderflix

Wally Feresten, iconic cue card writer for shows like SNL and Late Night with Seth Meyers, Explores his craft's artistry and his journey during the pandemic. He shares how he adapted to the challenges, starting his successful business, Cue Cards by Wally, and the joy of bringing personalized cue cards into people's lives globally. Wally also reflects on his relationships with hosts and performers, stressing the importance of rapport and discussing the unforeseen inventiveness brought about by navigating COVID-19 restrictions. The conversation rounds out with insights into the supportive and creative environment of his work and the significant but often overlooked role of cue cards in live television production.

https://notrealart.com/snl-cue-cards-wally-feresten

00:00 Wally is a lovable, funny, cue card writer.

07:33 Discussion of various dimensions of sign painting.

12:44 Discussing tradition, design, and obsession in conversation.

21:25 Building trust and relationships for successful collaboration.

24:03 Building trust with SNL hosts every week.

29:50 Grateful for long-lasting job on TV show.

36:33 SNL returns with COVID restrictions, logistical challenges.

39:24 Wife entrepreneur rejects personalized cue card idea.

46:41 Christopher Walken hosts SNL, asks for card.

51:39 Sharpies, Power pilot pens, and old markers.

57:18 Meeting artists and celebrities can be challenging.

01:00:42 Talent, hard work, and kindness matter most.

01:05:13 Endorsement for custom cue cards by Wally.

Introduction to Wally Feresten

- Introduction of Wally Feresten as a guest on the Not Real Art Podcast.

- Explanation of Wally's role as a cue card writer for notable TV shows like SNL and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

- Mention of Wally's personal life, including his family and recreational activities.

Cue Cards and Artistry

- Discussion on the artistic aspect of writing cue cards.

- Comparisons made between Wally's work and famous sign painters.

- Reflection on the history and evolution of cue cards in the entertainment industry.

Business Ventures and Adaptations During COVID-19

- Exploration of Wally's business "Cue Cards by Wally" providing personalized cue cards.

- How the pandemic influenced Wally to start the business.

- Transition to remote work and adaptation of the business model during COVID-19.

Operational Details and Employee Management

- Insight into Wally’s operational and billing practices for shows.

- Discussion of employee status transitioning from independent contractors to full-time staff with benefits.

- Wally’s approach to maintaining a good work environment, highlighting the importance of being nice.

Impact of Cue Cards in the Industry

- Highlights of famous cue card writers and their contributions.

- The preference of cue cards over prompters by traditional hosts.

- Story about Wally's mishap during a live show and handling different personalities.

Creative Side Projects and Personal Stories

- Wally’s involvement in creating cards for various personal events and celebrations.

- Mention of his sons’ careers and personal projects.

- Story about Wally’s interaction and relationship with fans and other industry figures.

Reflections and Philosophy

- Wally’s reflections on the stability and changes in the entertainment industry due to strikes and other disruptions.

- His philosophy on work ethic and the advice of being nice as pivotal to success.

- Scott and Wally’s shared experiences and appreciations for behind-the-scenes work.

Conclusion and Further Engagements

- Summary of the episode’s discussion points.

- Promotional mention of Wally's forthcoming book.

- Encouragement for listeners to visit Wally’s business website and explore his offerings.

- Closing remarks thanking Wally for his contributions and a nod to the viewers to stay creative.

Meet Wally, a seasoned television professional whose career spans various high-profile productions. Wally's primary responsibilities are with two iconic shows, "Saturday Night Live" and "Late Night with Seth Meyers," both of which are conveniently located on the same floor, allowing him to seamlessly manage his duties. In his role, he adeptly coordinates and supervises the integration of these shows' elements, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Apart from his core commitments, Wally also oversees a small, efficient team dedicated to "The Tonight Show." He describes this team as being on "automatic pilot," attesting to their competence and his trust in their abilities to handle responsibilities with minimal intervention. This allows Wally the freedom to engage with diverse projects beyond his day-to-day tasks.

Adding variety to his career are the special assignments that take him around the country. Over the summer, Wally found himself in Miami for a shoot, and he also traveled to Toronto to work on a commercial featuring none other than Ryan Reynolds. These projects serve as exciting deviations from his routine, infusing his regular schedule with fresh experiences and challenges in the dynamic world of television production. Through it all, Wally remains enthusiastic and passionate, continually embracing the "spice" these opportunities bring to his professional life.

• https://cuecardsbywally.com/

Are the creative and performing arts experiencing a 21st-century renaissance? NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power thinks so. “What's left when you've lost faith in your church, in your company, in your government?” he ponders in this week’s podcast episode. “What's left when you feel like all the fundamentals have lost their integrity and you've lost trust in the cornerstones of our societies? Well, I would speculate that art and artists are left.”

In today’s episode, Scott delves into the rebirth of creative culture in contemporary America. Spurred by waning trust in corporations, capitalism, and religious institutions, this renewed appreciation for creative expression signals a cultural sea change in our society. Is this a quest for authenticity in an increasingly commodified world? Are we yearning for connection in an age of digital isolation? Where do we find truth and beauty in the modern world?

“If you're looking for [integrity, honesty, purity, truth, empathy, compassion, and intelligence], what better place to look than the visual and performing arts?” asks Scott, adding, “Go look at art,” Scott says. “Go meet some artists because you're going to be inspired, and you're going to find positive energy that will give you faith, hope, and trust in our country, in our communities, and in ourselves.”

Tune in today as we explore these questions, shed light on the cultural shifts unfolding before our eyes, and celebrate the resilience of creativity and the enduring power of artistic expression in shaping our collective consciousness.

Key Points From This Episode:

• Brands that have ignited a passion for creativity and design.
• Reasons that we’ve lost faith in institutions, corporations, and capitalism at large.
• Different ways that our governments and communities have eroded in recent years.
• How art fills the void that’s left when all the fundamentals have lost their integrity.
• Why looking at great art and meeting great artists is so inspiring.

For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/arts-renaissance