The Artist Stoop

Artist: Shannon Soldner 

Shannon Soldner, an oil painter, discusses her work on figurative art and the narratives we construct for ourselves. She explores the interplay between truth and fiction, reality and perception, and the concept of individuals as unreliable narrators in their own lives. Shannon's dedication to her craft is reflected in her evocative artworks, which challenge conventional narratives and offer viewers a fresh lens to explore human existence. The conversation delves into the themes of art, storytelling, and human behavior, exploring the use of the female figure in art, the concept of storytelling through visual art, and the interaction between the artist, the viewer, and the artwork. It also touches on the artist's personal journey and the influence of experiences on artistic expression.

Website:

https://www.shannonsoldner.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonsoldner/

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Chapters

00:00 Exploring the Multifaceted Nature of Human Existence Through Art

05:58 Unreliable Narrators: The Interplay Between Truth and Fiction

13:19 Evocative Art: Delving into the Narratives We Construct

31:19 The Artist-Viewer-Artwork Interaction: A Dynamic Relationship

33:30 Personal Experiences and Artistic Expression: A Journey of Influence

In this episode of The Artist Stoop, host Jillian Zepeda interviews artist Joshua West. They discuss Joshua's artistic journey, his use of surrealism in his work, and the merging of past, present, and future in his paintings. Joshua explains how his background in psychology influences his art and how he aims to create paintings that capture intense moments and spark conversation. They also delve into the meaning behind one of Joshua's paintings, titled 'Just a Man in a World of Gods,' which explores the idea of being part of something larger than oneself. In this conversation, Joshua West and Jillian Zepeda discuss the power of art to connect people and evoke emotions. They explore the idea that art can have multiple interpretations and how artists can create touchpoints with their audience. They also delve into the role of art in bringing about change and the importance of empathy in understanding different perspectives. Joshua shares his approach to subject matter in his paintings, which range from portraits to landscapes, and the personal stories behind some of his works. Overall, the conversation highlights the universal nature of art and its ability to inspire and provoke thought.

Website:

https://joshua-west.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshwestart/

Paintings We Discussed

Just A Man in the World of God 

I-30 Prophet

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Artist: May West

In this episode of The Artist Stoop, host Jillian Zepeda interviews UK artist May Watson. May is known for her bright and cheerful paintings, often featuring chairs and people. She started her art career full-time in 2020 and has found success in selling her funny paintings. May's latest series is a collection of 16 chair paintings, each with a different color palette. She also incorporates comedy writing into her work, creating phrases and words that add humor and playfulness to her paintings. During the conversation, May discusses her experience as an artist during lockdown and how she turned to art as a full-time profession. She talks about her journey with oil painting and how she overcame her initial fear of the medium. May also shares her inspiration behind her table series and how it led to commissions. The conversation touches on the use of color in May's work and her intuitive approach to selecting color palettes. May also discusses how her work ended up in the art collections of Robbie Williams and Rita Ora. The conversation concludes with a discussion about upcoming shows and May's studio space.

Website: https://maywatsonart.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maywatsonart/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to May Watson, a UK artist

03:12 May Watson's Experience at Art Fairs

06:29 Incorporating Comedy Writing into May Watson's Art

09:00 The Creative Process and Learning Curve

12:06 Using People as Subject Matter in May Watson's Paintings

14:29 The Playfulness of May Watson's 'Funnies' Series

22:56 May Watson's Journey as a Self-Taught Artist

26:19 The Table Series and Commissions

28:30 Exploring Different Directions

30:18 Intuitive Color Selection

33:48 Recognition from Robbie Williams and Rita Ora

36:05 Showcasing Artwork at Fairs

40:43 The Chaotic Beauty of an Artist's Studio

Corey Godfrey is an artist based in Dallas, Texas, known for her work in 2D, 3D, and immersive installations. Her art explores themes of female sexuality and introspection. Corey's journey into fiber art began with a dream about creating a yarn portrait, which she brought to life during her time at UNT. She uses yarn as a medium to challenge traditional notions of femininity and to bring a softness to typically hard subjects. Corey's work is deeply connected to the history of women and their association with craft and fiber arts. Corey Godfrey, a fiber artist, discusses her love for yarn and her collection of historical yarn from the 80s. She talks about her fascination with creating 80s-style vests and the vast amount of yarn she has collected over the years. Corey also shares her desire to visit Germany, where she was born, and her love for the culture and history of Spain. She discusses her artistic process, working in series, and her interest in non-traditional shapes. Corey also talks about her use of AI in her artwork and the importance of embracing technology in the art world.

Website: https://coreygodfreyart.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coreygodfreyart/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coreyagodfrey

Email: [email protected]

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cori Godfrey and her Art

03:17 Cori's Journey into Fiber Art

08:29 Challenging Traditional Notions of Femininity

23:23 Inspiration from Dreams and Daydreams

26:51 Cori's Vibrant Home and Love for Art

33:33 Exploring Germany and the Culture of Spain

39:31 Working in Series and Non-Traditional Shapes

47:41 Embracing Technology in Art

Jade Denberg Show Notes

Jade Denberg, also known as Jade-isms, is a captivating artist who blends abstraction and landscapes inspired by her Nova Scotia childhood. Her art reflects transformation, playfulness, and freedom, inviting viewers to embrace tranquility and connectivity in a chaotic world. Jade and Jillian Zepeda

discuss their different artistic styles and the emotional depth of their work. They explore the concept of art as a way of life and the importance of being passionate about one's work. Jade-isms' paintings serve as contemporary meditations, creating visual expressions of modern meditations that invite viewers to connect with their own inner world. Jade also shares the inspiration behind her pseudonym and the significance of her work as channels of aspiration. The conversation touches on the challenges and joys of motherhood and how it has influenced their artistic creations. Jade Denberg discusses her approach to creating art collections, one-off commissions, seasonal artwork, and murals. She emphasizes the importance of creating a series of work that relates to each other in a collection and the custom nature of commissions, which involve collaborating with clients to create personalized pieces. Jade also shares her experience with painting murals and the challenges of working with different surfaces and elements. The conversation then shifts to the topic of graffiti and the ethics surrounding it, with Jade sharing her experience of having her mural tagged and the subsequent backlash she received on social media. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the power of murals in engaging the public and the potential for collaboration between painters and graffiti artists.

Website: https://www.jadeisms.com/

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jade.isms

Paintings we discussed

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jade Denberg and her Artistic Style

11:30 Jade-isms: Contemporary Meditations

30:42 Seasonal Artwork and Murals

39:23 The Power of Commissions

46:30 Graffiti and the Mural Experience

58:39 The Impact of Murals

Robin Pedrero Show Notes

Robin Marie Pedrero is an award-winning artist known for her skillful use of color and texture. She creates unique works of art that explore both the visible and invisible, inspired by her travels and experiences. Robin's studio is located at the Mill House in McKinney, Texas. She paints the spirit and energy of life in rhythmic layers of color, capturing the essence of her experiences. Robin's artistic journey has evolved over time, from impressionistic portraits to whimsical nature art, and finally to abstracts. In this conversation, Robin Pedrero discusses her journey as an abstract painter and the inspiration behind her artwork. She shares how her abstracts come from a place of realism and how she creates balance with color, tone, and texture. Robin also talks about the uniqueness of abstract art and the stories behind some of her pieces. She mentions her involvement with HGTV and Magnolia Network, as well as upcoming shows and exhibitions she will be a part of.

Website: https://www.robinmariapedrero.com/

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinpedrero

Studio: The Mill House, McKinney Texas

Upcoming Shows

BRIDGETTE MAYER GALLERY BENEFIT

Tue, Jun 11, 20249:30 AM Sat, Aug 3, 202410:30 AM

My work has been selected. I am creating a large 24x24 painting for this event. The Bridgette Mayer Gallery is poised to host its 9th annual Benefit Exhibition in support of HelpUsAdopt.org and the Dina Wind Art Foundation. From June 11 to August 3, 2024, the gallery at 709 Walnut Street in Philadelphia will transform into a beacon of hope and generosity, showcasing artworks that transcend the ordinary.

MILLHOUSE STUDIO SALE

• Saturday, August 10, 2024
• 1:00 PM 6:00 PM

POSTCARD ART EXHIBIT

• Sat, Sep 21, 20246:30 AM Thu, Oct 10, 20247:30 AM

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Robin Marie Pedrero

06:39 Exploring the Artistic Process

25:30 From Impressionistic Portraits to Abstracts

31:49 Art as a Sacred Space

46:52 The Twitter Art Exhibit and Supporting Artists

Zac Chambers Show Notes

Zac Chambers, a creative force with a passion for travel and cultural exploration, shares his fascinating stories and insights on the Artist Stoop podcast. Raised in a bustling household of eight children, Zac's chaotic upbringing shaped his love for adventure. He has traveled to 49 states and 28 countries, drawing inspiration from Mexican culture, Japanese textiles, and classical jazz. Zac's unique blend of creativity is evident in his art, music, and fashion. His artwork reflects a simplicity and softness, with a neutral palette and imagery inspired by Mexican folklore. Zac's connection to his wife's Mexican heritage has deepened his appreciation for the culture and traditions, which he aims to share through his art. Despite his predominantly European ancestry, Zac values the diversity of cultures in the United States and hopes to pass down traditions to future generations. Zac discusses his creative upbringing and how it influenced his artistic journey. He shares how his mother's sewing and furniture refurbishing skills sparked his interest in craftsmanship. Zac and his brothers started a menswear blog, which led to opportunities in photography and content creation. He also talks about his foray into painting during the pandemic and the therapeutic nature of art. Zac emphasizes the importance of creating art that tells a story and resonates with others. He discusses the challenges of selling art and the balance between creating aesthetic art and narrative-driven art.

Website: https://www.zacchambers.com/

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chamberszac/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Zach Chambers

06:46 Exploring Mexico City and Finding Inspiration

29:11 The Influence of a Creative Upbringing

38:13 The Therapeutic Nature of Art

52:43 The Challenges of Selling Art

Sara Bost Fisher Show Notes

Sarah Bost Fisher, a mixed media artist, discusses her mission to infuse the world with color and joy. She creates art for every aspect of life, from wrapping paper to wallpaper, fabric, ceramics, and even chocolates. Sarah finds inspiration for her color palettes from traveling, food, and everyday objects. She collaborates with different companies, such as a chocolatier and a ceramic company, to bring her art to new mediums. Sarah also talks about her collection inspired by desserts and her favorite types of cakes. In this conversation, Sara Bost Fisher discusses her unique approach to painting and her love for desserts. She shares her experience painting on various surfaces, including Whole Foods bags, murals, and ceramic planters. Sara also talks about the inspiration behind her collections and the importance of diversifying her artwork. She emphasizes the need to follow inspiration when it strikes and the value of trying new things. Sara provides information about where to find her work and mentions upcoming shows and collaborations.

Website: https://sarabostfisherart.com/

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarabostfisherart

Collabs:

Ruby Clay Company

Paintings We Discussed

Cake/Pie Series

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sarah Boastfisher

08:09 Collaborating with Different Companies

25:48 Exploring the Art of Painting on Various Surfaces

35:13 Following Inspiration and Taking Action

48:38 Where to Find Sara Bost Fisher's Work

Artist: Kezleigh

In this conversation, artist Kezleigh discusses her unique process of creating art using UV lasers and acrylic glass. She explains that her work is all digital, done on her iPad using software programs like Procreate and Adobe. Kezleigh draws inspiration from feelings, memories, dreams, and meditation, and aims to capture these experiences in her artwork. She describes her color palette as vast and flowing, allowing herself to use whatever colors feel right for each piece. Kezleigh also mentions her interest in shadow work, delving into the deeper and sometimes uncomfortable aspects of her past. In this conversation, Kezleigh and Jillian discuss the process of creating digital art using UV inks and lasers. They explore the challenges of balancing positive and darker themes in their work and the importance of being honest and authentic. Kezleigh shares her experience of working on collections and the benefits of planning her artwork. They also discuss the printing process and the materials used in Kezleigh's pieces. Kezleigh talks about the inspiration behind her titles and the personal meaning behind her artwork. They also touch on the growth and transformation that comes with entering your 30s as an artist. Kezleigh shares her excitement about participating in the Artist Project and her plans for future exhibitions.

Website: https://www.kezleigh.com/

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kezleigh_Art

Paintings We Discussed

Me

Things Comes in Threes

You’ll Mix Up Every Detail of Every Story

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kesley and her unique art process

04:47 Explaining UV lasers and acrylic glass

12:37 Drawing inspiration from feelings, memories, and dreams

23:16 Delving into shadow work in art

24:30 Balancing Themes: Authenticity and Honesty in Artwork

27:32 Planning Artwork: The Benefits of Working on Collections

29:21 The Printing Process: Quick and Efficient

32:47 Titles: Adding Depth and Meaning to Artwork

36:37 Growth and Transformation: Entering Your 30s as an Artist

43:14 Art Fairs and Exhibitions: Connecting with Viewers

Artist: Josiane Fortin

In this episode, Josiane Fortin, a self-taught visual artist from Canada, shares her journey into the world of art. She discusses her love for pour painting and the freedom it brings from the demands of motherhood. Josiane also talks about her experience taking a webinar course on art business and the unique activities that helped her view her art differently. She emphasizes the importance of finding value in art and the joy it brings to others. Josiane also explores her process of creating different shapes and color palettes, as well as her focus on creating artwork inspired by feminism. She shares her plans for upcoming exhibitions and the thriving art scene in Quebec.

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josianefortinartist/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@josiane_fortin

Gallery Representation: https://www.artsauxparcs.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:03 Taking a Webinar Course

03:28 The Value of Art

06:23 The Process of Pour Painting

08:54 Creating Different Shapes

11:27 Painting in Collections

15:47 Choosing Color Palettes

26:02 Exhibiting Artwork

28:16 The Art Scene in Quebec

32:32 Where to Find and Buy Josiane's Art