This is How We Create

This episode unpacks a powerful truth about creativity: your path isn't linear, and that's exactly how it should be. Host Martine Severin breaks down how three groundbreaking artists navigated multiple streams of life while building their creative practice.

Elizabeth Catlett: Merged modernist training with accessibility

Charles White: Combined Chicago labor movement work with mastering his craft

Mary Sully: Dakota artist who challenged Western conventions

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Creative Journeys

01:52 Exploring the Lives of Influential Artists

06:11 The Importance of Technical Skills and Commitment

08:09 Conclusion and Call to Action

Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack

This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.

In this episode, photographer and U.S. Army veteran Chris Charles shares his remarkable journey from military service to creative entrepreneurship. His story is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and the unexpected ways our past experiences shape our future success.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

• How military discipline can transform your creative business

• The power of systems and automation in preventing burnout

• Why diversifying income streams is crucial for creative entrepreneurs

• The importance of establishing clear boundaries and rest days

• How to transition from service provider to strategic business owner

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Acuity Scheduling

• Square Payment Systems

• Model Mayhem

• Flickr

00:00 Introduction to Chris Charles' Journey 02:55 From Military to Creative Entrepreneur 06:10 Childhood Influences and Early Artistic Exposure 08:48 Transitioning from Military to Photography 11:45 Experiences as a Paratrooper 14:58 Rediscovering Photography in Iraq 17:53 Building a Creative Career 20:54 The Role of Education in Chris' Career 24:04 Combining Graphic Design and Photography 27:08 Military Precision in Creative Business 28:59 Establishing a Seamless Booking Process 34:29 Navigating Burnout and Work-Life Balance 39:30 The Importance of Delegation and Support 45:00 Rethinking Business Models and Income Streams

Website: Chris Charles

Follow on Instagram: Chris Charles

Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack

This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.

"Trust Your Art in Troubled Times" - When democracy makes you uncertain, should you create or doom-scroll?

Host Martine Severin draws wisdom from Black artists who've turned constitutional tension into enduring work - from Baldwin to Amy Sherald.

Perfect for: Artists, writers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their creative practice while building sustainable success.

#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.

Want to hear an honest conversation about what it really takes to build a creative career while staying true to your roots? Today's guest, Kieron Lewis, shares his remarkable journey from a kid in South London to becoming one of the most sought-after editorial designers in publishing. His story will inspire you to embrace change, trust your instincts, and build success on your own terms.

You'll learn:

• Why listening to your gut (and your mom!) might lead to your true calling

• The REAL breakdown of freelance life: 85% business, 15% creativity

• How becoming a parent transformed Kieron's approach to work and success

• A powerful framework for handling client feedback with confidence

• The unexpected way Kieron uses humor to build stronger professional relationships

During the pandemic, while planning a wedding AND buying a house, Kieron took the leap into freelancing. That same week, he landed two major opportunities: a publication with HarperCollins and a hosting role with Adobe. Sometimes the universe has your back when you trust your instincts!

Think you need to have it all figured out? Kieron's story proves that embracing the unknown – whether in your career or as a new parent – can be surprisingly liberating. It's not about controlling everything; it's about being open to where life takes you.

✍️ The Culture Code by Clotaire Rapaille - Game-changing insights on cross-cultural communication 🎨 Strategic project organization tips that will save your sanity 💪 The confidence to say no to weekend work when family time matters more.

Success isn't about having everything perfectly planned – it's about being brave enough to pivot when something doesn't feel right, and confident enough to bring your authentic self to every opportunity.

In This EpisodeEpisode Timeline

[00:00] - Introduction and show premise

[01:49] - Growing up in Brixton and early creative influences

[04:02] - Educational journey and transition to graphic design

[06:20] - First job experience in advertising

[08:43] - "Still Breathing" book project with HarperCollins

[13:21] - Teaching experience and freelance insights

[20:24] - Advanced freelancing strategies

[25:05] - Tools of the trade and Adobe expertise

[27:29] - Balancing parenthood and creative work

[31:59] - Personal life and creative inspiration

Connect With Kieron

Website: Kieron Lewis

Follow on Instagram: Kieron

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.

In this episode, host Martine Severin shares her proven 10-year framework for creative reflection that treats your artistic journey with the gentleness it deserves.

Through the lens of "creative archaeology," discover how to uncover patterns, celebrate progress, and set meaningful intentions for your creative practice. This episode is part 3 of our three-part series on reflections and gaining clarity.

Quick Links

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Reflection and Goal Setting

01:32 The Gentle Art of Looking Back

02:27 Creative Archaeology: Digging into Your Year

05:14 The Three Crossings: Mapping Your Journey

08:52 Money and Meaning in Creative Practice

11:57 Final Thoughts and Creative Commitments

Perfect for: Artists, writers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their creative practice while building sustainable success.

#CreativeStrategy #ArtistsOfColor #CreativeBusiness #PersonalDevelopment

KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:

Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack

This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.

We sit down with Alex Cabal, a Los Angeles-based illustrator whose vibrant work celebrates cultural identity and diverse representation. From movie posters to YA book covers, Alex shares her journey of finding authentic artistic expression and building a sustainable creative career.

Episode Highlights

Growing up in a strict household and using art as an escape

Transition from movie poster concept artist to independent illustrator

How embracing Filipino heritage transformed her artistic practice

The journey of overcoming colorism and celebrating darker skin tones

Building a successful illustration career without traditional networking

Managing multiple income streams as a creative professional

Chapters

00:00 Finding Artistic Voice

03:06 Journey of Self-Discovery

12:06 Breaking Free from Constraints

20:40 Embracing Cultural Heritage

30:16 The Art of Portrait Illustration

37:27 Navigating Income Streams

Key Insights for Illustrators

Create work that's true to your voice, even if it doesn't fit current trends

Don't underestimate the power of online platforms (Instagram, Pinterest, Behance)

Consider multiple revenue streams: client work, art markets, online shops

Build strong foundational skills in traditional art techniques

Know when to ask for help and build a support system

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:

https://www.alex-cabal.com/

Instagram @acaballz

Support the Show

Website: Martine SeverinFollow 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.

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.

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.

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.

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