Powertex Podcast

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In this episode of the Powertex Studio Podcast, Michele is joined by Karen McCarthy, whose infectious enthusiasm for creativity took her on an extraordinary journey through the Pathway programme.

Karen has been creative all her life, but the Pathway challenged her to step well beyond her comfort zone and discover just how much she was capable of.

We hear the fascinating story behind The Face of the Universe, her ambitious illuminated headpiece inspired by our planet, the solar system and Karen's deeply held feelings about the way we treat the world around us.

Then there's her extraordinary signature piece: Journey Through Time – a huge sculptural tree exploring the ways humans have measured time throughout history. From the stars, moon and changing seasons to ancient water clocks, sundials and the development of mechanical timekeeping, Karen researched, designed and created a piece packed with stories and discoveries.

But behind these two ambitious sculptures is another story – Karen's own.

She talks about finding her creative ‘safe place’ again, wanting the freedom to explore as an individual, the friendships formed within the Pathway community and the moment she realised that pushing herself beyond what she thought she could do had completely changed her confidence.

And perhaps Karen sums it up best herself: “You need to do this for you.”

A joyful conversation about curiosity, friendship, creativity and discovering what you're capable of when you're brave enough to try.

View Karens headpiece, The Face Of The Universe HERE

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk

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Rediscovering the Joy of Creating | Linda's Pathway Story

What happens when you give yourself the time and permission to explore your creativity again?

In this episode of the Powertex Studio Podcast, Michele is joined by Linda to talk about her experience of the Pathway programme and the creative journey that unfolded along the way.

Linda shares the stories and inspiration behind her projects, the challenges that pushed her beyond the familiar, and how experimenting with different ideas and techniques helped to reignite her love of creating with Powertex.

They talk about learning to trust the process, allowing ideas to develop rather than knowing exactly where you're heading from the start, and the value of being part of a group where everyone can take the same starting point and create something completely individual.

It's a lovely conversation about exploration, inspiration and rediscovering the excitement of simply wanting to create.

Linda's completed Pathway work will be revealed in full as part of the upcoming Pathway Online Exhibition.

You can view Linda's headpiece brochure HERE

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk

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How much can one moment from childhood shape the way we see ourselves?

In this episode of the Powertex Studio Podcast, Michele sits down with Rosi Nunn to explore a deeply personal creative journey spanning more than four decades.

After receiving a disappointing art grade at school for thinking outside the box, Rosi spent years believing she wasn't an artist. It wasn't until she joined the Pathway programme that she finally challenged that belief and began to reclaim her creative identity.

Together, they discuss the lasting impact of childhood experiences, the courage to create despite self-doubt, and the powerful story behind Rosi's signature sculpture, Still She Rises—a moving piece that transforms painful words from the past into a celebration of resilience, healing and hope.

This is a heartfelt conversation about creativity, confidence and the extraordinary power of art to help us rewrite our own story.

In this episode:

• Why one school experience shaped Rosi's confidence for over 40 years.
• The journey from calling herself a crafter to embracing the title of artist.
• The inspiration behind her powerful signature sculpture, Still She Rises.
• How creativity can become a path to healing, resilience and self-belief.

Explore Rosi's HERE

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk

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Every artist starts somewhere, and sometimes the biggest transformation isn't in the artwork we create, but in the confidence we discover along the way.

In this episode, Michele is joined by Jo Smith of Floral Steam, who shares her experience of taking part in the Pathway programme. Together, they explore how stepping outside your comfort zone, embracing experimentation and connecting with a supportive creative community can unlock possibilities you never imagined.

Jo reflects on the inspiration behind her work, the challenges she overcame and how the programme helped her trust her own ideas rather than simply following techniques.

This is a conversation about creativity, courage and giving yourself permission to grow.

Whether you're an experienced artist or someone wondering if they're 'creative enough', Jo's story is a reminder that every creative journey begins with a single step.

In this episode:

• How Jo found the confidence to explore her own creative voice.
• Why community can make all the difference.
• The inspiration behind her Pathway artwork.
• What happens when you stop aiming for perfection and start enjoying the process.

Joanne Smith is a level four Certified Powertex Tutor who runs a huge variety of workshops in her beautiful studio and at a variety of locations throughout Scotland and North West England. Visit her website or follow Jo on Facebook to find out more or contact her directly, she is very welcoming and supportive believing creativity is for everyone. 

View Jo's headpiece Martha, HERE

View Jo's signature piece, The Space Between, HERE

Visit Jo's website - https://floralsteam.co.uk

Follow Jo on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FloralsteamPowertexLockerbie

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk

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What happens when you start seeing beauty where everyone else sees scrap?

In this episode of the Powertex Studio Podcast: Pathway Conversations, Michele sits down with artist Claire to explore the inspiration behind her striking sculpture, The Duality of Life.

From rusty metal washed up on the beach to unfinished projects waiting patiently for the right moment, Claire shares how everyday objects become meaningful works of art. Together, they discuss symbolism, creativity, self-doubt and the unexpected lessons that come from learning alongside other artists.

This is a conversation about more than sculpture. It's about finding hope after difficult times, trusting your creative instincts, and discovering that growth often comes when you stop comparing yourself to everyone else.

Whether you're an artist, a maker, or simply someone who loves hearing the stories behind creative work, this episode is full of inspiration.

In this episode:
• Finding inspiration in unexpected places
• The story behind The Duality of Life
• Why unfinished projects sometimes need time
• Overcoming comparison and creative self-doubt
• The power of learning in a supportive community

To see Claire's artwork visit these links;

Duality of Life - HERE

Phoenix - HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow the podcast and leave a review, it really helps others discover the series.

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk

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In this episode of the Powertex Pathway Podcast, I sit down with Sandy to explore the remarkable story behind one of the most meaningful sculptures created during the first Powertex Pathway programme.

Originally from Africa, Sandy shares how a lifetime of memories, a deep love of wildlife and a passion for conservation inspired her signature exhibition piece. From transforming an old cable drum into an African landscape to creating majestic vultures that highlight the plight of these often misunderstood birds, every element of her artwork tells a story. You can find out more about the Vultrure charity Vulpro here: https://www.vulpro.com/

We talk about finding confidence through creativity, overcoming self-doubt, solving unexpected challenges and why there's "no such word as can't" when it comes to making art.

This is a conversation about far more than sculpture. It's about memory, purpose, resilience and using creativity to share the things that matter most.

Whether you're an artist, a nature lover or simply someone who enjoys hearing the stories behind extraordinary creative journeys, I hope Sandy's story inspires you as much as it inspired me.

See Sandy's headpiece, The Gatherer, HERE

View Sandys vulture sculpture HERE

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk

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 Welcome to the very first episode of the Powertex Pathway Podcast.

Before we meet the incredible artists who took part in the first Powertex Pathway programme, I'd like to share the story behind it.

In this episode, I explain how an idea that spent years in my notebook became a six-month creative journey, bringing together artists from different backgrounds to build confidence, develop new skills and ultimately create their own original exhibition pieces for display at the NEC.

I'll share why I created the Pathway, what makes it different, and why it has never really been about creating sculptures – it's always been about creating confidence.

Over the coming weeks, you'll hear honest conversations with the artists themselves as they reveal the inspiration behind their work, the challenges they overcame and the stories that shaped their extraordinary creations.

Next week, you'll meet Sandy, whose beautiful sculpture celebrates the landscapes and wildlife of Africa while shining a light on the plight of its endangered vultures.

Whether you're a Powertex enthusiast, a creative soul, or simply someone who loves hearing the stories behind remarkable artwork, I'm delighted you're here.

Thank you for listening, and welcome to the journey. 

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk

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Episode Summary:

In this episode, we explore the joy, challenges, and mysteries of colour in mixed media and Powertex art. Colour is more than just a visual choice—it’s an emotional and creative journey. Whether you struggle with colour confidence or want to deepen your knowledge, this episode introduces the Secret Colour Club, a new subscription designed to inspire and educate artists about pigments, techniques, and colour history. Discover how understanding colour can transform your work and take your creativity to the next level.

Three Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. How to Build Colour Confidence – Learn why colour choices can feel overwhelming and how understanding colour history and combinations can boost your confidence.
2. The Magic of Pigments & Finishes – Discover the importance of different pigment types (matte, metallic, iridescent) and how they impact your mixed media projects.
3. Techniques for Wow-Factor Results – Explore classic Powertex colour combinations and application methods to create stunning, professional-looking finishes in your art.

✨ Join the Secret Colour Club for exclusive pigments, colour lessons, and creative inspiration! HERE: https://www.powertex.co.uk/236-scc

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk

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Inside Text Towers: A New Creative Hub for Artists! 

Join me inside the studio as I share some exciting news—the launch of our Powertex UK Creative Hub! Located in the stunning old county court building in Redditch Town Centre (aka "Text Towers"), this new space is more than just a headquarters. It’s a home for creatives, a place to connect, experiment, and grow together.

In this episode, I talk about:
✨ The journey to finding the perfect space
✨ How this hub is designed to support artists at every stage
✨ Workshops, artist residencies, and studio opportunities
✨ Why this is more than just a local hub—it’s a UK-wide creative movement!

I’d love to hear your thoughts! What would your dream creative space look like? Would you like to teach or attend workshops here? Let’s make 2025 the year of creative expansion!

Join the conversation & find out more on Powertex Unleashed (Thursdays at 11 AM in the Powertex Studio Facebook group).

Listen now and let’s build something amazing together!

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk

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Ever felt frustrated with your own creations? In today’s episode, we dive into that all-too-common struggle of disliking our own work. Whether you're painting, sculpting or crafting, the key takeaway is simple—you haven’t finished yet! We’ll break down why this happens, how to push past the self-doubt and the importance of layering, practice and perseverance in any creative process.

Three things you’ll learn in this episode:
🎨 Why your work doesn’t look "right" yet—and how to fix it
🔍 The hidden layers and steps behind every “finished” masterpiece
💡 How to push past hesitation and truly complete your piece

Join me for a creative pep talk that will change how you see your own work!

Join the Powertex Community on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/POWERTEXSTUDIO

Visit the official Powertex website here: https://www.powertex.co.uk