In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, Carrie and Toni are joined by Melissa Johnson. Together, they dig into the frustrating yet all-too-familiar challenge of executing the vision you’ve imagined in your head. It’s a topic every creative can relate to … that gnawing feeling when what you produce doesn’t match the image in your mind.

Carrie, Melissa, and Toni explore the patience, practice, and self-compassion needed to close that gap while sharing strategies to help you navigate the journey. From learning to step back and create space between you and your work to the power of asking “What if?” as a creative tool, this episode is packed with actionable insights for those moments when the struggle is most definitely real.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• Why being patient with yourself is the ultimate creative act.
• How stepping away from your work can lead to unexpected clarity.
• The role of practice in sharpening your craft and bridging the vision gap.
• Why asking “What if?” can open doors to creative breakthroughs.

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or an aspiring designer, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and maybe just a little less cranky about the creative process.

Melissa Johnson…

Melissa Johnson is a Midwest-based surface designer, watercolor artist and creative educator who brings vintage aesthetics to life with a modern perspective. Her designs capture the rhythms of nature, bringing timeless charm and contemporary style to life.

 Melissa has developed a career that blends her passion for creating with a commitment to teaching. She helps others embrace creativity and navigate their journeys through thoughtful education and personalized coaching.

Instagram: @m.johnsondesign

Website: https://melissajohnsondesign.co/

Two Cranky Creatives …

Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico are joined by Xhico of Studio Xhico. Together, they tackle a crucial yet often overlooked issue in the surface design industry: cultural appropriation. They delve into the fine line between inspiration and appropriation, exploring what it means to find your authentic creative voice while respecting cultural boundaries.

They also share practical advice on responsibly using cultural references in your work and offer insight into the importance of awareness and sensitivity in today’s global art landscape. If you’ve ever wondered how to ensure your designs are original, respectful, and rooted in your personal voice, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• The difference between cultural appropriation and cultural inspiration.
• How to discover and nurture your own unique artistic voice.
• Tips for responsibly incorporating cultural elements into your work.
• Why cultural sensitivity is essential for ethical creativity

Notable Mentions

The Otomi People

Xhico…I’m a traveling artist, designer, photographer, and creative entrepreneur with my studio in sunny California. With over thirty-five years of experience building brands, visualizing ideas, and design-thinking, my attention is now focused on surface pattern design and online education. You can catch some of my design classes on SkillShare. When I’m not designing or creative coaching, I'm hosting my annual design retreat in Oaxaca, Mexico. You'll often find me in remote locations in the cloud forests of Chiapas or on the hillsides of volcanoes in Guatemala. I work with indigenous artisans to bring attention to their work through fair-trade collaborations.

Website: https://studio-xhico.com/ Instagram: @ studio.xhico

Two Cranky Creatives …Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico are joined by Julia Barry of UpRoot Design Studio. Together, they dive deep into the societal devaluation of art. From the paintings on your walls to the designs on your favorite coffee mug, art is everywhere—so why is it so often dismissed as “non-essential”?

They examine the barriers to collecting art, how classist norms influence accessibility, and challenge the arbitrary systems deciding which art is “good.” Most importantly, they explore how valuing each other as artists can transform these outdated narratives.

Join them for a thought-provoking conversation that’s sure to get you fired up about the importance of art in everyday life—and why it deserves more respect, recognition, and resources.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• Why art is all around us and yet undervalued.
• The classist restrictions on collecting and enjoying art.
• Who decides what makes art “good” and why it’s all arbitrary.
• The power of artists valuing and uplifting each other.

Whether you’re a working artist or someone who simply loves creativity, this episode is your reminder to take art seriously—because it’s shaping the world around you every single day.

Notable Mentions

Eddie Gangland Fabio Napoliani Blinded by the Light Maverick Sabre

Julia’s Playlist

All Is Well Now by Gillian Spencer TrioRather Be feat. Jess Glynne Loud Pipes by RatatatMalka Moma Si Se Bogu Moli

Julia Barry…Julia Barry is an artist working toward a healthier planet. She owns UpRoot Design Studio, where she teaches classes on green living, runs the Sustainable Superhero Society for green living enthusiasts, and designs and sells sustainable home, garden & wellness goods to make green living easier and more fun. She uses bold colors and a whimsical illustration style to communicate delight and wonder about humans and our Earth, and motivate everyday people to participate in joyful sustainable habits. As an artist and organizer, she has created community art projects such as "Habitat: Home" -- a performance series of collaboratively-made art about the meaning of 'home' -- and taken part in many arts programs and residencies nationwide like Art-a-Hack, Chalk Hill, and VCCA. As an advisor, she has served as a grant panelist for The Pollination Project and board member for the climate podcast, Threshold. She lives with her many plants, tiny rescue dog, and husband in Brooklyn, NY.

UpRoot Design Studio (use code THANKYOU15 to get 15% off)Sustainable Superhero Society (use code SUPERHERO3MON to get 3 free months)Instagram: @uprootdesignstudio 

Two Cranky Creatives … Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico are joined by Mandy Corcoran of Amanda Grace Design. Together, they unpack the ins and outs of pitching schedules in art licensing and explain why working smarter and crankier matters. You'll also hear why small companies might be your licensing sweet spot over those intimidating big-box stores.

In This Episode, You'll Hear About:

• Why you should be designing one season ahead to stay relevant and competitive
• The benefits of designing for seasons, not holidays - timeless over timely
• Real-world experience pitching art in an ever-changin industry

Whether you're just starting out or deep into licensing, this episode will leave you feeling prepared, proactive, and just the right amount of cranky.

References Mentioned

Notion Mable Tan’s Newsletter

Mandy Corcoran…Hey there! I’m Mandy Corcoran, the creative force behind Amanda Grace Design. With a deep passion for turning art into seamless patterns, I’m here to help artists like you merge creativity with technology and transform those artistic dreams into thriving businesses. My journey in surface pattern design is all about making tech tools fun and accessible, turning the transition from sketch to digital masterpiece into an exhilarating adventure.

Through my courses, eduletters, and engaging reels, I’m dedicated to helping you streamline your processes so you can focus on what you truly love: creating. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of digital art together and manifest those wild creative visions into reality. Ready to turn your art from under appreciated to unstoppable? Let’s do this!

Website: amandagracedesign.com Instagram: instagram.com/amandagracedesign Procreate Patterns Unleashed (affiliate link for Toni)

Two Cranky Creatives …Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico are joined by Cat Coquillette. Together, they tackle the controversial “T-word” in the creative industry—trends. Is trend-chasing selling out? Can you still be considered an artist if your work aligns with market demands? Spoiler: Yes, and yes!

This week, we’re embracing the cranky side of being a surface designer in a commercial world. Carrie, Cat, and Toni explore how surface design is, by nature, commercial and why wanting to be paid for your work isn’t the betrayal of artistry some might claim. Learn how to apply your own creative voice to trends, make them uniquely yours, and stay authentic while keeping your work marketable. Because, spoiler alert: You're still an artist—even if your art pays the bills.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• Why “trend” doesn’t have to be a dirty word.
• Finding the balance between market demands and your creative identity.
• How to interpret and personalize trends in your work.
• Challenging the myth that commercial art isn’t “real” art.

Whether you're a trend trailblazer or someone who rolls their eyes at the word, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the art-meets-commerce tightrope.

References Mentioned

Pinterest Predicts 2025 Pantone Color of the Year 2025 Backblaze Cat’s Kittens & Shrooms Mug Cat’s Trend Reports Toni’s Blog

Cat’s Playlist

Sunny Sloth by Monster Rally Taxi Dancer by Dengue Fever Lebanese Blonde by Thievery Corporation

Cat Coquillette …Cat Coquillette is a nomadic artist and founder of CatCoq, a brand that draws inspiration from Cat’s travels around the world. Her artwork, ranging from tropical florals in Bali to Amazonian wildlife and Scandinavian textile patterns, offers a unique perspective to her audience. Cat’s creative courses and art workshops have helped over half a million students gain the skills and confidence to pursue their creative passions. Cat remains dedicated to delivering art, education, and value to the community she loves. www.catcoq.com

Two Cranky Creatives …Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico are joined by Janine Vangool of UPPERCASE Magazine. They tackle the myths and realities of creative confidence. Forget what you’ve heard about “imposter syndrome”—it’s time to ditch the labels and start owning your power.

They share their insights on why confidence isn’t something you’re born with but something you build by doing, how to embrace action as your superpower, and why removing self-imposed labels can unlock your creative potential. If you’ve ever doubted your abilities or felt stuck in a creative rut, this episode is your pep talk—cranky humor included.

You’ll Hear About:

• Why “imposter syndrome” is just a silly myth.
• How confidence grows when you step into action.
• The freedom that comes from ditching restrictive labels.

Whether you’re a seasoned creative or just starting out, Carrie, Janine, and Toni want you to show up boldly and unapologetically.

References Mentioned

UPPERCASE Magazine

Encyclopedia of Inspiration

6th Surface Design Guide

UPPERCASE on Instagram

 Janine Vangool …Janine Vangool is the publisher, editor and designer of UPPERCASE. Her magazine and books celebrate the process of making, the commitment to craft and the art of living creatively. Janine got her start working as a freelance graphic designer for arts and culture clients and has also taught typography and publication design at the college level. She has been a shop owner and bookseller, gallery curator, sold a line of greeting cards wholesale, made 10,000 books by hand (with lots of help!) and has sewn her own products for retail. She has four fabric collections with Windham Fabrics.

Two Cranky Creatives …Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

NOTE: We had some technical issues near the end of the show with echoes and feedback. Apologies in advance.

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, Mable Tan joins hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico to tackle one of the most soul-crushing topics for creatives: rejection. Whether it’s a politely worded email or radio silence after submitting your art, rejection is inevitable—and it can happen at any stage of your creative career!

Mable, Carrie, and Toni share personal experiences with rejection, discuss why creating for yourself is so important, and explain how stepping back to take a break can actually help you grow as an artist. If rejection makes you feel discouraged, this episode offers practical advice and solidarity to remind you you’re not alone.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• Why rejection can happen to anyone at any time.
• The importance of creating art that fulfills you first.
• How taking a break can reset your mindset and reinvigorate your creative process.
• Real talk on reframing rejection as a natural part of the artistic journey.

Whether you’re a new artist or a seasoned pro, Mable, Carrie, and Toni share insights to help you navigate rejection with grace—and maybe even a little cranky humor.

References Mentioned

The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

Mable Tan…

Mable Tan is a surface designer based in Melbourne, Australia. She is devoted to creating pretty things that brings joy and happiness to people and homes. Her work has been seen in Target Australia, Spotlight, RICE, Urban Outfitters and Lucy & Yak. Her art is very much inspired by kindness, self-care, nature and birds. 

Connect With Mable online:

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

My website for artists: https://iamanartist.today/

My surface design website:  https://mabletan.com/

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mabletandesigns

Art Licensing Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/artlicensingwithmabletan

Two Cranky Creatives …

Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico tackle creatives' complicated relationship with social media. From its highly curated content to the frustration of navigating platforms they can’t control, they get real about why social media can drive even the most patient artists to crankiness.

They share personal stories of social media crankiness and offer practical tips for using these platforms without losing your mind—or your creative spark. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the constant need to post, perform, or keep up with the algorithm, this episode is for you.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• Why the curated perfection of social media can feel so toxic.
• The reality of not owning or controlling the platforms you rely on.
• Healthy ways to balance your social media presence without burning out.
• Real talk about setting boundaries and finding strategies that work for your goals.

Whether you’re a seasoned creative or just starting to navigate the online world, Carrie and Toni share actionable advice to help you take control of your social media habits—and reclaim your sanity.

References MentionedAdobe Express

Two Cranky Creatives …Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico take on a popular piece of advice that might be doing more harm than good: the idea that you must draw every day to be successful. As two seasoned creatives who’ve found success in their own way, Carrie and Toni break down why this “rule” is more of a myth and how it often pressures artists into unrealistic expectations.

They get real about finding a balance between discipline and burnout, exploring how, sometimes, skipping a day (or several) can help your creative flow. If you’re tired of feeling guilt and shame every time you miss a day of drawing, this episode is for you.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• Why the “draw every day” rule isn’t one-size-fits-all.
• How to build a creative routine that works for you—without the guilt.
• Real talk on why artistic success isn’t defined by daily output.

Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, Carrie and Toni share insights to help you make peace with your own unique creative rhythm.

References Mentioned

100 Day Project

30 Flowers in Your Style Challenge

Victory Tattoo

Liberty Tattoo

About Two Cranky Creatives

Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.