Sounds From the Studio

By RuggedAngel Productions

Contemporary Craft, located in Pittsburgh, PA, fosters the use of traditional craft materials such as ceramic, fiber, glass, metal, and wood to make art. Our community honors the history and heritage ... more

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FAQs about Sounds From the Studio:

How many episodes does Sounds From the Studio have?

The podcast currently has 25 episodes available.

Sounds From the Studio episodes:

June 21, 2025 S3 E5 Ties That Bind: Dr. Gretchen Givens Generett's Passion for Contemporary Craft
In this exciting season finale of Sounds From the Studio, hostSydney Leslie introduces the new host, Dr. Gretchen Givens Generett, a distinguished dean and art patron. Gretchen shares her journey from a lifelong academic to a passionate advocate for Contemporary Craft, discussing her deep-rooted love for art and community.
As she takes the reins for the next six episodes, Gretchen willdelve into the stories of individuals impacted by Contemporary Craft's exhibitions, workshops, and store. She reflects on her experiences as a collector and her desire to highlight people's emotional connections with art.
Join us as we embark on this new chapter, exploring the richtapestry of stories that define Contemporary Craft, and celebrating the artists and community members who contribute to its legacy.
Follow Contemporary Craft on Instagram
Visit the Contemporary Craft Website
Spotify Playlist: Sounds From the Studio
...more
28min
January 08, 2025 S3 E4 From Metal to Manuscript: Cathy Raphael's Artistic Evolution
In this engaging episode of Sounds from the Studio, join hostSydney Leslie as she welcomes Cathy Raphael, a remarkable jeweler, writer, and social activist. Cathy offers a unique perspective shaped by her upbringing in a family deeply rooted in the arts.
As the daughter of Contemporary Craftfounder Betty Raphael, Cathy shares her journey from a metalsmithing student at Syracuse University to her involvement in founding the Women and GirlsFoundation of Southwest Pennsylvania.
Listeners will be inspired by Cathy's candid insights on finding one's creative voice and the importance of community and connection. Discover her passion for crafting meaningful art and her belief in the transformativepower of creativity to foster a more empathetic and humane world.
Follow Contemporary Craft on Instagram
Visit the Contemporary Craft Website
Explore Cathy's Work
...more
24min
December 05, 2024 S3 E3 Vibrations of Vision: Michelle Gamm Clifton's Artistic Exploration
Welcome to an inspiring episode of Sounds from the Studio, where host Sydney Leslie sits down with the multifaceted artist, Michelle Clifton. Known for her innovative soft sculpture creations and her pioneering
work in sound healing, Michelle shares her journey from a young artist in Chicago to a renowned figure in the art and film industries.
Discover the story behind her iconic sneaker bed, a piece that has traveled the world and even caught the attention of Swedish tennis legend Bjorn Borg. Michelle also reflects on her experiences as a documentary film
producer, sharing insights from her extensive career alongside her husband at the Hudson River Film and Video Company.
Listeners will be captivated by Michelle's transition into the world of sound healing, where she uses the power of sound to bring relaxation and healing to veterans, autistic adults, and many others. Learn about the profound effects of sound healing and its ability to transform lives through the soothing vibrations of singing bowls.

Follow Contemporary Craft on Instagram
Visit the Contemporary Craft Website
Explore Michelle's Healing Work
Discover the Hudson River Film and Video Company
...more
45min
October 04, 2024 S3 E2 The Tapestry of Time: Kate Lydon's Craft Exhibition Legacy
In this captivating episode of Sounds From the Studio, host Sydney Leslie delves into the rich tapestry of Contemporary Craft's 50-year legacy. Sydney engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kate Lydon, the former
Director of Exhibitions, who reflects on her remarkable 35-year journey with the organization. Together, they explore the evolution of Contemporary Craft, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a beacon of innovation and tradition.
Discover the intricacies of crafting an exhibition archive
and the challenges and triumphs of curating a permanent collection that bridges past and present.
Listeners will be transported through time as Kate recounts memorable exhibitions, including collaborations with iconic artists like Faith Ringgold, Lenore Tanya, and Nick Cave. She offers insights into the shifting landscape of craft, from the DIY movement to the contemporary blend of mixed media artistry.
Join us for an episode that celebrates the vibrant history of Contemporary Craft and honors the visionary artists who have shaped its path.
Follow Contemporary Craft on Instagram
Visit the Contemporary Craft Website
Spotify Playlist: Sounds From the Studio
...more
34min
September 05, 2024 S3 E1 Crafting Connections: Janet McCall's Legacy at Contemporary Craft
We kick off season 3 of Sounds from the Studio, with an exploration of Contemporary Craft's 50-year history. Host Sydney Leslie sits down with Janet McCall, former executive director of Contemporary Craft, to delve into the organization's rich past and its evolution within the
Pittsburgh arts community.
Janet shares her journey from an English and art history graduate to becoming a pivotal figure in the arts scene. From volunteering at the Carnegie Museum to leading Contemporary Craft through significant growth, Janet's story is one of passion and perseverance.
Discover the challenges and triumphs of integrating craft into the fine arts realm and the impact of educational programs like the museum school partnership.
Join us for an insightful conversation that not only
celebrates the past but also looks forward to the future of Contemporary Craft.
...more
38min
August 08, 2024 S2 E5 Unlocking the Past: Sydney Leslie's Archival Journey
Next season, we’re diving deep into the newly
formed archive at Contemporary Craft, revealing the treasures and stories that have shaped our organization since its inception. Join us as we introduce our
new host for Season 3, Sydney Leslie, Archives and Creative Projects Manager, who will guide us through the rich history and exciting future of Contemporary
Craft.
In this episode, Rachel and Kahmeela pass the mic to Sydney, who shares her journey from Virginia to Pittsburgh, her educational background in art history and museum studies, and how she fell in love with the world of
craft. Discover how Sydney has been meticulously organizing and preserving our extensive collection of exhibition catalogs, postcards, and other historical
materials, and learn about some of the most intriguing finds she has uncovered, including a quirky soft sculpture shoe bed by artist Michelle Clifton.
Join us on this fascinating journey through time as we explore the history of Contemporary Craft and how it informs our future.
Follow Contemporary Craft on Instagram
Visit the Contemporary Craft Website
Spotify Playlist: Sounds From the Studio
...more
33min
June 07, 2024 S2 E4 The Art of Goodbye: Navigating Grief with Carrie McCann
In this unique episode of Sounds From the Studio, we break the mold by focusing on the profound themes of grief, mourning, and the celebration of life, as explored in Contemporary Craft's current exhibition, "Hereafter."
Join hosts Rachel and Kahmeela as they sit down with
Carrie McCann, an educator, death and grief companion, community herbalist, and wellness consultant, to delve into the intricate practices of navigating life's most significant transitions.
Listen in as Carrie shares her journey into death work, the roles and rituals of a death doula, and the importance of creating meaningful, personalized end-of-life experiences. This episode is a poignant and enlightening conversation that encourages us to slow down, embrace our emotions, and find beauty and joy even in the most challenging moments of life.
Carrie McCann on Instagram
Carrie McCann's Website
Spotify Playlist: Sounds From the Studio
Contemporary Craft Website

...more
44min
May 03, 2024 S2 E3 The Fabric of Storytelling: Alisha Wormsley's Artistic Journey
Meet Alisha Wormsley, a visionary artist whose work transcends time and space. In this episode, we explore Alisha's journey from sewing and quilting during the pandemic to her prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship. Delve into the rich tapestry of her art, which weaves together ancestral storytelling, film, and the powerful symbolism found in African American quilts. Alisha's reflections on anti-blackness in cinema, matriarchal
technologies, and the intersection of craft with advanced technologies offer a profound understanding of her creative process.
Alisha shares insights into motherhood's impact on her work and the art world's structures. Her candid discussion on the legacy she wishes to leave, or rather not leave, is a refreshing take on the artist's relationship with their work and the world.
This episode is an invitation to contemplate the
power of asking questions, the importance of caring, and the possibilities that arise when we dare to dream and create spaces for all voices.
Alisha Wormsley Instagram
Alisha Wormsley Website
Spotify Playlist: Sounds From the Studio
Alisha Wormsley on The RuggedAngel Cast

...more
48min
April 04, 2024 S2 E2 The Art of Local X Change: Crafting Public Spaces with Sharon and Sean
Embark on a creative odyssey with Sean Derry and Sharon Massey, the dynamic duo behind Local X Change, as they transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. In this episode, we dive into their innovative approach to art
and education, blending design, technology, and digital fabrication. From a captivating mini truck turned mobile radio station for rural teens to human-powered vending machines showcasing student designs, their projects are
as impactful as they are whimsical. This pair's commitment to mentorship and community engagement resonates in every endeavor, including their upcoming
Studio Stream project. Listen in as they discuss the intersection of public art and personal practice, and how they're sculpting the next generation of artists
and makers. Join us for a conversation that's as much about crafting meaningful experiences as it is about the art itself.

Local Exchange Instagram
Sean Derry Instagram
Sharon Massey Instagram
Spotify Playlist: Sounds From the Studio
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29min
March 07, 2024 S2 E1 Gestures of Oneness with Brie Ruais
Step into the world of Brie Ruais as she deftly molds her
personal narrative into the physicality of clay. In this episode we delve into Brie's exhibition "Oneness," where her large-scale, emotive sculptures speak volumes of her intimate
connection with the medium. From the weighty imprints of her own body to the profound influences of family dynamics and celestial bodies, Brie's work transcends the tactile to touch upon the universal human experience. Her candid
conversation with hosts Rachel and Kahmeela unveils the raw emotion and thoughtful process behind each piece.
Contemporary Craft Website
Brie Ruais Instagram
Spotify Playlist: Sounds From the Studio
...more
39min

FAQs about Sounds From the Studio:

How many episodes does Sounds From the Studio have?

The podcast currently has 25 episodes available.