Off the Easel

Off the Easel

By Skye Becker-Yamakawa & Catherine MooreEducationArtsVisual Arts
Download on the App Store

Off the Easel episodes

  • Episode 141: Straight to the Moon with Shannon Taylor

    Send us Fan Mail

    All the way from Oakland, California, Shannon Taylor joins the ladies of Off the Easel! 

    Catherine Moore and Skye Becker-Yamakawa have a wonderful time interviewing one of the hardest-working artists around. Shannon is the Director of Restoration at Fairyland in Oakland, California, and also serves as the Assistant Chair and a professor at the California College of the Arts in San Francisco. 

    In addition to her administrative and teaching roles, Shannon maintains her own art practice, with multiple solo and group exhibitions lined up throughout the year. Tune in this week as Shannon shares insights into her artistic process, creative journey, daily routine, and so much more. 

    Be inspired by the incredible Shannon Taylor!


    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    56 min
  • Episode 140: Mastering Focus: How Artists Can Stay On Track

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this episode, Catherine Moore and Skye Becker-Yamakawa dive into the importance of focus in the creative process. We'll discuss practical tips and techniques to help artists stay engaged with their work, minimize distractions, and boost productivity. 

    From setting clear goals and creating a conducive workspace to using mindfulness practices, we’ll explore various strategies to help you find and maintain your creative flow. 

    Whether you're battling procrastination or just looking to enhance your concentration, this episode is packed with insights to help you master the art of focus.


    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    34 min
  • Episode 139: Revenge of the Circus Animals with Andrea Bergen

    Send us Fan Mail

    Join Catherine Moore and Skye Becker-Yamakawa for a captivating interview with the fun and fabulous Andrea Bergen on this episode of Off the Easel Podcast. Andrea, a Bay Area native, brings her unique artistic perspective from her studio in the Mission neighborhood of San Francisco, California.

    As a talented collage artist, Andrea creates elaborate pieces of art using layered colored paper, glue, and gel medium. Her vibrant, color-rich artwork narrates a fantastical world where wild animals eat human food and engage in playful, beastly antics. Andrea describes her art as exploring the "intersection of humanity and animals," offering a whimsical yet thought-provoking commentary on our relationship with the animal kingdom.

    Tune in to Off the Easel Podcast to be inspired and entertained by Andrea Bergen's creative journey, artistic insights, and the enchanting world she brings to life through her collages.



    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    41 min
  • Episode 138: The Healing Power of Art: Exploring Art as Therapy

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this transformative episode of Off the Easel Podcast, Catherine Moore and Skye Becker-Yamakawa explore the profound impact of art as a therapeutic tool. Art therapy is a growing field that harnesses the creative process to promote mental and emotional well-being. Join us as we delve into the various ways art can heal, connect, and inspire individuals from all walks of life.

    Whether you’re an artist, a mental health professional, or someone looking for new ways to enhance your well-being, this episode offers valuable insights into the healing potential of art. Discover how creativity can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and growth.

    Join us on Off the Easel Podcast as we uncover the therapeutic wonders of art and how it can help you lead a more fulfilling and balanced life.



    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    20 min
  • Episode 137: Curiosity Cabinets with Casey Gray

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this inspiring episode of Off the Easel Podcast, Catherine Moore and Skye Becker-Yamakawa sit down with renowned San Francisco-based artist Casey Gray. 

    Casey rarely uses paint brushes, and relies primarily on spray cans and frisket film.  Casey shares valuable tips for working with masking tape, and places to discover photo references.  Casey shares the meaning behind his stunning still lives and discusses different themes from different years of his art career.  

    Tune in to Off the Easel Podcast to hear directly from Casey Gray about his artistic journey, his unique style, and the stories behind his captivating works.



    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    44 min
  • Episode 136: Crafting Your Path: Thriving in an Art Career Without Formal Education

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this enlightening episode of Off the Easel Podcast, we explore the diverse avenues available to those who aspire to build a successful art career without the traditional route of formal art education. 

    This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice discussing everything from foundational skills, where to learn art history and criticism, concept development, practical business skills and so much more.  Get ready to be inspired and happy creating.

    Some of the books recommended in this episode are: "Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain" by Betty Edwards, "Color: A Workshop for Artists and Designers" by David Hornung, "Art and Fear" by David Bayles and Ted Orland, “The Purple Cow”, and “The Practice” by Seth Godin.

    Online Platforms to further develop your skills: Skillshare, Coursera, and Udemy, and YouTube for free tutorials.



    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    35 min
  • Episode 135: Enter the Whimsical Universe of Ador

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this compelling episode, Skye Becker-Yamakawa and Catherine Moore dive into the whimsical creative universe of Ador, a prolific French artist whose talents span murals, fine art, filmmaking, and publishing. 

    From his murals around the world to his fine art paintings,  Ador shares his journey through various mediums and the passion he feels when creating his art.  We explore his fine art career for the last 20 years and his unique approach to storytelling through film and books in the Ador Universe. 

    Join us as we uncover the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped Ador's expansive artistic career.



    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    25 min
  • Episode 134: The Power of Networking for Artists

    Send us Fan Mail

    Join Skye Becker-Yamakawa and Catherine Moore in this episode as we explore the intricacies of artist networking and its profound impact on creative careers. From building meaningful connections to leveraging digital platforms and attending industry events, we uncover strategies that empower artists to expand their reach, collaborate effectively, and thrive in the competitive art world. 

    Whether you're just starting or looking to deepen your connections, this episode offers practical insights and inspirational stories that illuminate the path to successful artistic networking.



    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    26 min
  • Episode 133: Crochet Community with Caitlin McCormack

    Send us Fan Mail

    Today, we are privileged to delve into the world of Caitlin McCormack and her unique fine art approach to crochet.

    Caitlin McCormack shares her artistic journey, from early influences to her decision to focus on crochet and sculpture. She discusses her background in fine arts and how she found her niche in creating surreal and evocative sculptures that challenge perception.

    Listeners are introduced to Caitlin's distinctive style, characterized by organic forms and intricate details. She explains her fascination with exploring themes of nature, grief, and honoring your elders through her art, creating pieces that evoke both wonder and introspection.



    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    53 min
  • Episode 132: Art Investment Insights: Strategies for Collectors and Creators

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this episode, Skye Becker-Yamakawa and Catherine Moore dive into the world of art investment, offering valuable tips and guidance for both seasoned collectors and emerging artists. 

    We explore the factors to consider when investing in artwork, from market trends and artist reputation to the importance of research and due diligence. 

    Whether you're looking to expand your collection or enhance the value of your own creations, join us as we uncover the secrets to making informed and lucrative decisions in the dynamic landscape of art investment.



    Check out Skye's and Catherine's work at:

    Skye Becker-Yamakawa

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/skyesartshop/
    • Web:  http://www.skyesart.com/

    Catherine Moore

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas/
    • Web: http://teaandcanvas.com/

    Polka Dot Raven

    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/polkadotraven/
    28 min

About Off the Easel

From the publisher's feed

Calling all Creatives! Let’s go off the easel and talk about the ins and outs of the art world and how to survive life as a working artist. 

Join Skye Becker-Yamakawa and Catherine…