This is How We Create

By Martine Severin

The This is How We Create podcast digs deeper into the creative life of contemporary artists of color. Discover what feeds their creativity and how they found (or are finding) their artistic voi... more

· Arts

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FAQs about This is How We Create:

How many episodes does This is How We Create have?

The podcast currently has 105 episodes available.

This is How We Create episodes:

January 09, 2025 104. Building Bridges to Your Future Creative Self (Part 2 of 3) - Martine Severin
Latest Episode: Building Bridges to Your Future Creative Self (Part 2 of 3) Transform your creative practice through this theatrical three-act exploration.
Using insights from "Wicked" and conversations with seasoned artists, learn to identify and bridge the gaps holding you back. This episode offers gentle yet practical guidance for your creative journey.

Chapters
00:00 New Beginnings: Podcast Updates and Series Introduction
03:05 Act One: The Mirror Moment
10:55 Act Three: Minding the Gap
FREE RESOURCE: Download our companion workbook to guide your transformation.
Perfect for: Artists, writers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their creative practice while building sustainable success.
New episodes drop every Wednesday and Thursday. Follow now to join our creative community!
#CreativeStrategy #ArtistsOfColor #CreativeBusiness #PersonalDevelopment

KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:
Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.

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17min
January 08, 2025 103. How to Build Wealth as an Artist - James Hoston
How do you make a living as an artist while building long-term financial security?
Today we're talking with James Hoston, a painter and educator who's taken an unconventional approach to the traditionally unpredictable world of fine art.
After working in Jeff Koons' studio and teaching at prestigious institutions, Hoston is charting a path to become his own artistic benefactor through a surprising combination of methods.
His story challenges the 'starving artist' stereotype and offers practical insights into sustaining a creative career for the long haul.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Creative Life of Artists of Color
02:09 Navigating the Art World: Insights from Jim Hoston
08:08 Diversifying Income Streams as an Artist
11:06 Becoming Your Own Benefactor: Financial Strategies for Artists
20:47 The Journey of an Artist: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Voice
30:03 The Philosophy of Art: Influences and Inspirations
32:59 Artistic Philosophy and Mantras
36:19 Color Theory and Palette Choices
40:05 The Evolution of Painting Techniques
42:02 Experiences in Paris and Art Appreciation
45:21 Building Wealth and Financial Freedom
49:03 Life Lessons from Farm Life
52:18 Quality Over Quantity in Art
56:02 Ambition and the Artist's Journey
01:00:53 Monetizing Art and Future Aspirations

Learn more about Jim Hoston: Website
Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.

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1h 6min
January 01, 2025 102. How to Find Purpose in Your New Year’s Planning - Martine Severin
In this episode of 'This Is How We Create', Martine Severin reflects on the creative lives of contemporary artists of color, emphasizing the importance of planning and self-reflection as the new year approaches. She shares personal anecdotes about her journey, the significance of understanding one's purpose, and the need for deep self-exploration to bridge the gap between who you are and who you aspire to be. The conversation encourages you to think beyond mere resolutions and focus on the stories you choose to live.
This post originally appeared in our Newsletter Creative Matters under the title: The Why Within: A Story of Post-its, Purpose, and the Paths We Choose
Raw truth about survival, ambition, and why your 2024 goals are worth revisiting.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Creative Life
02:55 End of Year Reflections and Planning
06:10 The Importance of Purpose and Goals
12:06 Deep Self-Reflection and Personal Growth
18:00 Living with Intention and Clarity
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:
Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode has been produced and edited by Martine Severin.

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20min
December 25, 2024 101. ICYMI: How to Challenge Stereotypes Through Art - Candice Tavares
In cased you missed it, we're replaying our most popular episode of 2024 with Candace Tavares.
Candace joins us to talk about how can you unleash your creativity and defy limitations.
Candice embraces the rich textures of wood to create powerful works that celebrate Black beauty and shatter negative stereotypes. Her art is a warm embrace, reminding viewers of their inherent value and strength.
Tune in for a dose of inspiration! ✨
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG.⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/⁠⁠
Follow Martine on Instagram: ⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/⁠⁠
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Candice’s work: ⁠https://www.noellerx.com/⁠
See Candice’s work on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/noellerx
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32min
December 18, 2024100. How to Built a Thriving Creative Practice Across Cultures - Andrea Pippins
Welcome to our 100th Episode! Cue the confetti! Thank you for being part of our community.
In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Andrea Pippins—illustrator, author, and creative powerhouse—as she shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery, growth, and artistic transformation. Andrea opens up about the defining moments that shaped her career and creative voice from her early influences to her bold decision to move to Sweden.
Through candid reflections and actionable advice, Andrea explores the challenges and rewards of building a freelance business abroad, navigating cultural differences, and staying connected in a virtual world. Whether you're a seasoned creative or just starting out, Andrea’s will story inspire you to embrace curiosity, prioritize your goals, and create with intention.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN:
How curiosity fuels creativity and opens doors to unexpected opportunities.

Why networking and mentorship are key to professional and personal growth.

The importance of adapting to cultural differences when building connections in a new country.

Tips for staying productive and setting meaningful goals in your creative practice.

How Andrea balances freelancing with motherhood while living abroad.

The value of keeping a physical idea book to track and organize your projects.

Insights into financial transparency, including how Andrea shares her income breakdown.

Why travel and cultural immersion are essential for expanding artistic perspectives.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Creative Journey
04:57 Andrea Pippins: A Life in Art
19:06 Cultural Transition and Community Building
30:38 From Corporate to Freelance: A Transformative Leap
44:06 Navigating Income and Financial Transparency
48:16 Advice for Aspiring Artists

Get to know Andrea Pippins: https://www.andreapippins.com/aboutFollow Andrea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapippins/
Get to know Martine Severin
Website: https://martineseverin.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Follow This Is How We Create: https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Book Mentioned: Building a Second Brain by Tiago Forte
Income pie: Lola Akinmade https://www.instagram.com/lolaakinmade/?hl=en

This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
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51min
December 11, 2024 99. How to Trust Your Creative Evolution: Holly McWhorter on Moving Between Art Forms
99. How to Trust Your Creative Evolution: Holly McWhorter on Moving Between Art Forms
In this conversation, Holly McWhorter shares her journey as an artist, writer, and entrepreneur, discussing her childhood influences, her experiences living between Copenhagen and Brooklyn, and her transition from running a skincare business to rediscovering her passion for painting during the pandemic. She reflects on her creative process, the importance of color theory, and offers advice to her younger self about focusing on her passions without spreading herself too thin.
GET TO KNOW HOLLY:
Website: https://hollymcwhorterart.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollymcwhorterart
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:Website: martineseverin.comInstagram: @martine.severinFollow This Is How We Create: thisishowwecreate_Subscribe to our Newsletter: Martine's Substack
CREDITS:This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.

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38min
December 04, 202498. How to Create a Creative Business with Purpose and Intent: Lessons from Ceramicist Sherrod Faulks
On today's episode, we sit down with Sherrod Faulks, founder of Deep Black Ceramics. From tech screens to pottery wheels, Faulks shares his remarkable transition from UX design to establishing his ceramics brand. We explore how authenticity shapes his creative process, from custom glaze formulation to collection development.
Faulks discusses finding creative courage through his partner's support and how his background in user experience informs his artistic vision. Through our conversation, he reveals how each ceramic piece becomes part of a larger narrative, creating distinct eras within his work.
Join us for an intimate look at reinvention, artistic integrity, and the transformative power of following your passion.
Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
Key Takeaways:
Authenticity is the secret to standing out in a crowded creative landscape.

Centering oneself is crucial for producing your best, most meaningful work.

Building a cohesive brand identity and infusing personal emotions into your creations can leave a lasting impact.

Embrace your unique vision and don’t be afraid to be bold and take creative risks.

Conceptualizing collections and eras can be powerful for creative projects.

Create work that brings joy and pleasure to yourself and others.

Understand the deeper "why" behind your creations to align with your values.

Custom design and formulate glazes to produce unique, beautiful pieces.

Discover your passion and create meaningful work that reflects who you are.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Sherrod Faulks and His Journey

04:45 The Influence of Cooking on Sherrod's Life

10:20 The Evolution of Slice and Tort

13:11 The Birth of Deep Black

16:59 The Connection Between Clay and Self-Discovery

21:45 Creating a Centered Environment for Creativity

25:01 The Art of Collections in Clay

32:37 Finding Authenticity and Inspiration

39:14 Designing with Purpose and Emotion

45:51 Future Endeavors and Creative Visibility

52:47 - Conclusion and Sherrod's Parting Thoughts
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:Discover more of Sherrod Faulk’s work: deepblack.shopShop Deep Black: https://deepblack.shop/
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:Website: martineseverin.comInstagram: @martine.severinFollow This Is How We Create: thisishowwecreate_Subscribe to our Newsletter: Martine's Substack

CREDITS:This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
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50min
November 27, 202497. How to Turn Photography from Side Hustle to Success Story - Ayanah George
If you’ve ever considered dipping your toes into a creative field, tune in to hear the journey of Ayanah George, a digital and film photographer who masterfully bridges the worlds of engineering and photography.
From mastering double exposure techniques to embracing the beautiful imperfections of film photography, she shares intimate insights into her creative evolution. Ayanah discusses how she built a thriving side business while staying true to her artistic voice.
This episode offers a glimpse into how technical precision and artistic vision can merge to create something extraordinary while highlighting the transformative power of self-belief in pursuing creative passions.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
How Ayanah transitioned from engineering to photography while juggling her day job.

The inspiration she draws from Kehinde Wiley’s powerful depictions of people of color.

Techniques for experimenting with double exposure and the minimal editing required for film photography.

The evolution of her photography style and how she captures intentional and elevated portraits.

The importance of self-confidence and exposure to art in fueling creative growth.

Ayanah’s approach to travel photography, selling prints, and exploring new opportunities for assignments.

The value of community, collaboration, and continuous learning in the creative field.
Episode Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ayanna George's Creative Journey

01:53 Early Influences and Exposure to Photography

04:12 Building a Photography Career While Balancing Engineering

08:27 Developing a Personal Style in Portraiture

11:48 Travel Photography: Capturing the Essence of Places

17:11 Transitioning from Weddings to Portraits

19:05 Inspiration from Kehinde Wiley and Double Exposure Techniques

23:48 Evolving Style and Intentionality in Photography

27:09 Confidence and Creative Growth

28:35 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

Stay Connected with Our Guest: 🔗 Follow Ayanah George on Instagram: @ayanahgeorge
Keep Up With Martine:
Website:martineseverin.comInstagram: @martine.severin
Follow This Is How We Create: @thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Credits:This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
...more
31min
November 20, 202496. How to Build a Creative Career Rooted in Passion and Authenticity – Kelly Marshall
In this episode of This Is How We Create, we sit down with the talented photographer Kelly Marshall to explore the journey of turning passion into purpose.
Throughout our conversation, Kelly emphasizes the power of building strong networks and lifting up other creatives, especially within the Black community. She reveals practical strategies for balancing personal projects with commercial work, managing client expectations, and creating multiple income streams.
But it’s not all about business—Kelly opens up about the importance of prioritizing self-care, taking risks, and believing in yourself to navigate the highs and lows of a creative career.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:
Why cultivating a strong network is crucial for creatives, particularly artists of color.

How can you bring your personal passions into your commercial work for a fulfilling career

Strategies for setting boundaries, managing client expectations, and maintaining your well-being.

The value of supporting fellow creatives and how referrals can open new doors.

Why taking risks and betting on yourself can lead to unexpected opportunities.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Kelly Marshall's Creative Journey

02:50 Growing Up Mixed-Race in Philadelphia

06:07 The Impact of Racial Identity on Art

09:04 Exploring 'Birthing of a Nation' Project

11:57 The Evolution of Kelly's Photography Career

14:53 Navigating the Commercial Photography Landscape

18:12 Building a Supportive Network in New York

21:06 Finding Your Unique Style in Photography

24:04 Balancing Client Expectations and Creative Vision

27:04 Financial Insights and Revenue Streams

29:56 Advice for Young Creatives

32:46 Final Thoughts and Reflections

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:Discover more of Kelly Marshall’s work :sans.mursExplore Kelly’s portfolio: https://www.kellymarshallphoto.com/

KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:Website: martineseverin.comInstagram: @martine.severinFollow This Is How We Create: thisishowwecreate_Subscribe to our Newsletter: Martine's Substack
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Kelly's documentary BIRTH

CREDITS:This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
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45min
November 12, 202495. How Art Will Save You: A Conversation with Intuitive Painter, Rashna Hackett
In this soul-stirring episode, Sheffield-based artist Rashna Hackett shares her extraordinary journey from a 35-year career in psychiatric nursing to discovering her calling as an artist at age 50.
Born in Tanzania with memories of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Indian Ocean, Rashna reveals how art became her sanctuary during a period of workplace bullying and depression.
Through her uniquely intuitive approach to large-scale abstract paintings and her joyfully chaotic studio practice, she explores themes of mixed-race identity, cultural heritage, and creative liberation. A testament to the healing power of art and the fact that it's never too late to discover your passion.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:
How childhood experiences shape an artist’s unique style and voice.

The beauty of intuitive painting and the unexpected discoveries it can spark.

Strategies for marketing your art and leveraging social media for visibility.

The power of embracing chaos and accidents in the studio for creative breakthroughs.

Why art is more than just a craft—it's a journey of self-discovery and joy.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rashna Hackett
00:54 Childhood Influences and Early Memories
04:15 The Journey to Painting
10:03 Artistic Process and Intuition
14:59 Exploring Identity Through Art
19:49 Marketing and Selling Art
24:11 Future Projects and Exciting Ventures

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:
Get to know Rashna Hackett: rashnahackettExplore Rashna’s portfolio: https://www.artbyrashna.com/about

KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:
Website: martineseverin.com
Instagram: @martine.severin
Follow This Is How We Create: thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to our Newsletter: Martine's Substack

CREDITS: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
...more
28min

FAQs about This is How We Create:

How many episodes does This is How We Create have?

The podcast currently has 105 episodes available.